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George Ellis, MD
Dr. Ellis is a graduate of Robert Wood Johnson Medical School in Piscataway, NJ. He completed his psychiatric residency at Cooper Hospital/University Medical Center in Camden, NJ, where he served as Chief Resident his senior year. Dr. Ellis has served as Assistant Medical Director of the community mental health center of Gloucester County for 28 years, providing care to a diverse population. Additionally, Dr. Ellis maintained a private practice for 15 years, treating individuals and their families with ongoing collaboration with therapists and other health care providers
Ruosi Liu, MD
Dr. Liu is board certified in Adult Psychiatry. She primarily focuses on medication management but integrates therapeutic support into her sessions. For more in-depth therapy needs, Dr. Liu encourages patients to have their own individual therapist. She received her undergraduate and medical degrees at the University of South Carolina in Columbia, SC. She then moved to Morgantown, West Virginia to complete her psychiatry residency. Dr. Liu has experience working with patients from different backgrounds in inpatient, outpatient, and partial hospitalization settings. She particularly enjoys working with young adults and in areas related to women's health, such as perinatal mental health. She welcomes people from all cultures and is LGBTQ+ friendly.
Niles Drake, MD
Dr. Niles Drake is a board certified psychiatrist skilled in prescribing medications and working in psychotherapy. He combines a warm demeanor with excellent clinical skills, and has over 15 years' experience working with adult patients of all ages and many walks of life. He has special expertise combining medication and psychotherapy to help patients reduce symptoms and grow as individuals. Dr. Drake's additional training and experience in psychological modes of treatment enhance the quality of care he provides to all his patients, to meet them where they are and prioritize their individual needs and goals. He also provides medication management-only treatments for people who aren't looking for psychotherapy or who already have therapists. Dr. Drake completed his psychiatric residency at Columbia University Medical Center in New York. He also completed psychoanalytic training at the Columbia Center for Psychoanalytic Training and Research. He went on to teach classes at the Center, educating candidates about the nuances of combining psychotherapy with other treatment modalities. In addition to providing outpatient psychiatric treatment for over 10 years in private practice, he has worked extensively in psychiatric emergency settings, supervising residents as attending physician at Columbia-New York Presbyterian Hospital and Long Island Jewish Hospital psychiatric emergency rooms. He also has special expertise treating college-aged and young adult patients, having served as staff psychiatrist at Barnard College's Furman Counseling Center and worked with many students from Barnard and Columbia in his private practice. Dr. Drake offers treatment for many psychiatric conditions, including but not limited to depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and personality disorders. He identifies helping people ease and overcome their psychiatric conditions as his calling, and approaches each patient with humility, diligence, and a collaborative spirit.
Victoria Mustovic, MD
Dr. Victoria Mustovic is a board-certified psychiatrist trained in general adult psychiatry who specializes in perinatal, postpartum, and LGBTQIA+ behavioral health. Clinical practice focuses on managing a variety of mental health conditions with particular interests in treating ADHD, OCD, anxiety, and mood disorders. A collaborative care approach is utilized to actively engage patients in treatment decisions and planning. Medication management is integrated with therapy to support a more comprehensive clinical approach. Therapy treatment focuses mainly on supportive therapy with use of additional therapy modalities based on patient needs. An evidence-based approach is combined with consideration of individual factors in order to work with patients to create a holistic, patient-centered treatment plan. Dr. Mustovic completed an undergraduate education at Allegheny College with a bachelor's degree in biology and double minor in psychology and chemistry. Dr. Mustovic went on to pursue a Medical Doctorate at Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences at the University of Buffalo, graduated Summa Cum Laude, and was inducted into Alpha Omega AlphaHonor Society for academic achievement. After medical school, Dr. Mustovic completed psychiatry residency at Allegheny Health Network. Additional experience includes both co-authoring a book chapter on women's behavioral health and presenting posters on several different topics in mental health for the Pittsburgh Psychiatric Society, including a presentation on the identification and management of complex trauma in victims of sex trafficking. Dr. Mustovic has 2 years training in outpatient perinatal and postpartum behavioral health and 6 months experience working as co-facilitator in a perinatal and postpartum intensive outpatient treatment program both through the Alexis Joy D'Achille Foundation for Postpartum Depression at West Penn Hospital. Work as a co-facilitator included assisting patient groups in understanding and developing coping skills for a variety of therapy modalities including mindfulness, behavioral activation, interpersonal, cognitive behavioral (CBT), and dialectical behavioral (DBT) therapies. Dr. Mustovic is also dedicated to serving the LGBTQIA+ community with experience in LGBTQIA+ patient care over 4 years at Allegheny Health Network in a variety of clinical settings including inpatient, outpatient, and intensive outpatient programs. Dr. Mustovic is passionate about providing a supportive treatment environment to help improve equal access to care and support patients in advocating for their needs and concerns in health care settings.
Christine Reyes, MD
Background and credentials
Dr. Christine Reyes is a bilingual Spanish-speaking adult psychiatrist with 25 years of experience. She completed her residency in Adult Psychiatry at Saint Vincent's Hospital and Medical Center in New York City and subsequently completed a Child Psychiatry fellowship at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia. Dr. Reyes has extensive experience practicing in outpatient and community mental health settings.
Treatment approach
Dr. Reyes provides compassionate psychiatric care using pharmacotherapy combined with supportive psychotherapy. She specializes in treating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and numerous other psychiatric conditions. Additionally, Dr. Reyes emphasizes nutritional counseling, assisting patients in achieving and maintaining a healthy weight as part of their overall wellness plan.
What you can expect in a first visit
Patients can expect a compassionate and thorough initial assessment aimed at understanding their psychiatric symptoms, personal health goals, and lifestyle considerations. Dr. Reyes combines medication evaluation with supportive psychotherapy and may discuss nutritional guidance as part of a holistic treatment plan. She prioritizes creating a supportive environment for bilingual (English/Spanish) patients to openly discuss their mental health concerns.
Why Talkiatry?
We’re a virtual mental health practice that makes it easy to find great care. We combine quality and convenience to help you thrive—faster. Our providers, like this one, are highly trained experts who specialize in medication management and collaborate with you on a treatment plan that fits your needs and comfort level.
Swagato Bhattacharyya, DO
Dr. Swagato Bhattacharyya has completed his residency training at Northwell and is a board certified psychiatrist. Dr. Bhattacharyya takes a holistic approach to patient care, establishing strong physician-patient relationships built on trust, respect, and communication. He primarily focuses on medication management and also provides supportive psychotherapy. Treatment sessions will be tailored to work towards a common goal to optimize one's mental well-being. Dr. Bhattacharyya graduated magna cum laude from undergraduate Binghamton University, received his medical degree from NYIT College of Osteopathic Medicine, and completed his residency in psychiatry at Northwell Mather Hospital. He has trained in various settings, including adult/adolescent psychiatric units and specialty clinics, and has experience in telepsychiatry visits. Dr. Bhattacharyya has experience in treating numerous mental conditions, including depressive disorders, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, ADHD and OCD. Dr. Bhattacharyya also has experience treating patients of diverse cultures, having worked in psychiatric settings in the NYC metro and Long Island area.
Thomas Spina, MD
Dr. Thomas Spina is an adult psychiatrist who began his practice at Talkiatry after completing his psychiatry residency at the Eastern Long Island branch of Stony Brook University, where he treated a diverse patient population. Dr. Spina received his undergraduate degree from St. John's University in Queens where he studied Philosophy. Initially interested in a career in law, Dr. Spina decided to change gears and pursue a career in medicine after watching a relative struggle with her diagnosis of Diabetes Mellitus. Dr. Spina then completed medical school at Tel Aviv University in Israel, where he fell in love with psychiatry during his clerkship at Ichilov medical center. During that rotation, he came to appreciate how each patient has his or her own unique story, regardless of their diagnosis. Dr. Spina favors a holistic and integrative approach to psychiatry, combining medication management with supportive therapy, elements of cognitive behavioral therapy, while remaining open to other treatment modalities depending on the needs of his patients. When more focused therapy is indicated, Dr. Spina may recommend that his patient work with a provider specializing in a particular modality of therapy as part of their treatment. Dr. Spina treats adult patients with mood disorders including major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder, anxiety spectrum disorders, OCD, PTSD and specific phobias. In his spare time, Dr. Spina enjoys a variety of hobbies, including Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, running, baseball, and exploring new eateries and shops.
Michael Petetit, MD
Dr. Michael Petetit has worked with people from many different walks of life in clinics, hospitals, and online, providing evidence-based treatments for a wide range of mental health conditions. His professional journey is unique—he began his career as a research chemist, later earned a Master’s degree in psychology and worked with children, before pursuing his medical degree and completing a psychiatry residency.
Dr. Petetit approaches treatment as a true collaboration. He partners with patients to clarify goals and create individualized treatment plans that reflect their priorities and values. He strives to be non-judgmental, direct, and honest in his style, building a therapeutic relationship that supports open communication and trust.
Dr. Petetit begins with a thorough evaluation to understand each patient’s circumstances and challenges. From there, he works with patients to set and prioritize goals, review treatment options, and select a plan that feels both comfortable and practical. As treatment progresses, he regularly revisits and refines the plan, ensuring it remains effective and aligned with the patient’s evolving needs.
Stephen Geisler, MD
Dr. Stephen Geisler is a board-certified adult psychiatrist and has been practicing for over 37 years. His practice focuses on medication management, and typically offers this in conjunction with supportive therapy in 30-minute follow-up visits. If Dr. Geisler feels you would benefit from working with a therapist in conjunction with medication management, he welcomes collaboration with your therapist to make for the best outcome. Dr. Geisler is a graduate of the New York University School of Medicine. He completed a fellowship in Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy at the Zucker Hillside Hospital of Northwell Health after finishing his residency training there. He is currently an Assistant Clinical Professor at the Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell. Over the years Dr. Geisler has received a number of awards including NAMI Exemplary Psychiatrist Award, The APA Irma Bland Certificate of Excellence in Teaching Residents, the Zucker Hillside Hospital Department of Psychiatry Recognition Award for Education, and twice received the Outstanding Teacher of the Year Award from the graduating residents' class. Dr. Geisler is a member of the American Psychiatric Association, the Nassau Suffolk District Branch of the APA and the American Society of Clinical Psychopharmacology. Through the years, Dr. Geisler has participated in many clinical research projects, has been the co-author of many papers, and has made many presentations. Dr. Geisler specializes in psychopharmacology, especially tailoring individualized treatment to serve the needs of patients with a variety of conditions. He has a lot of experience in treating patients with depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, ADHD, and OCD.
Alexandra Dunn, MD
Dr. Alexandra Dunn is a board-certified adult psychiatrist who completed her medical training at the University of California Irvine School of Medicine. She then moved to New York to complete her psychiatric residency training at Mount Sinai Beth Israel. During training, Dr. Dunn gained extensive clinical experience in psychiatric inpatient, outpatient, and emergency settings, allowing her the opportunity to treat patients of all ages and backgrounds. In addition, she co-led a mindfulness group at the outpatient clinic, worked with students at Baruch College, and rotated with the Assertive Community Treatment team at MSBI. Ultimately, Dr. Dunn chose outpatient care, focusing on treating patients with mood and anxiety disorders. While her practice primarily emphasizes medication management, she also incorporates supportive and cognitive behavioral therapy techniques in her sessions with patients. If appropriate, Dr. Dunn will refer you for psychotherapy and collaborate with your therapist to support your care. She looks forward to meeting and working with you to help you feel better.
Nirupama Natarajan, MD
Dr. Natarajan is a Psychiatrist at Talkiatry providing psychiatric services to adults ages 18 and older. In her practice, Dr. Natarajan focuses on medication management and psychoeducation, often along with supportive therapy. She is committed to providing evidence-based and patient-centered quality care for her patients. She is dedicated to working collaboratively with patients as a team in order to help patients to the best of her ability. Dr. Natarajan received her medical degree from Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson in NJ. She then completed her psychiatry residency at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson as well, where she served as Chief Resident. Dr. Natarajan has a vast array of clinical interests in psychiatry and behavioral health, including anxiety and mood disorders as well as wellness. In her free time, she enjoys traveling to new places, and spending time with her family and friends.
Molly Fels, MD
Dr. Molly Fels is a board-certified psychiatrist. She completed her undergraduate education at Barnard College followed by medical school at Rutgers-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School. Dr Fels then completed her psychiatry residency training at Mount Sinai Beth Israel. She has previously worked in the Mount Sinai health system in the psychiatric emergency department and inpatient psychiatric unit. Dr. Fels has an interest in treating patients with a wide variety of psychiatric disorders including depression, anxiety, ADHD, and in working with patients who have experienced trauma. She believes in addressing holistic and lifestyle factors with her patients, including nutrition and sleep, in addition to pharmacology. Dr. Fels combines medication management and supportive psychotherapy to provide well-rounded and comprehensive care to her patients and prioritizes involving patients actively in each step of their psychiatric treatment.
Theresa Colberg, MD
Dr. Theresa Colberg is a board certified adult psychiatrist. She offers guidance with navigating difficult and painful emotions that may result from stressful life situations, such as the loss of or separation from a loved one, work related stressors, burn out, adult and childhood trauma, OCD and mood disorders including major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, and various anxiety disorders. Within a safe, and supportive working relationship, Dr. Colberg will strive to reach an understanding of your unique situation, identify the issues that are interfering with progress, and develop a plan to better identify and achieve your goals.
Previous to joining Talkiatry, Dr. Colberg served as a clinical psychiatrist for the VA Healthcare System, providing care for veterans with a predominant focus on treatment of post traumatic stress disorder. She has also worked collaboratively as an integrated psychiatrist for a primary care FQHC, treating primarily trauma and stressor related disorders within a primary care setting.
Dr. Colberg completed her Psychiatry Residency from Mount Sinai-Beth Israel in New York City and obtained her medical degree from Temple Medical School in Philadelphia. She offers 60-minute initial appointments and 30-minute follow-up appointments, and she won't hesitate to collaborate with other mental health experts as necessary to better support your needs.
Tahira Akbar, MD
Dr. Tahira Akbar specializes in adult psychiatry, she completed her four years of residency training at Bergen New Bridge Medical Center in Paramus NJ and additional two years of geriatric psychiatry fellowship from SUNY Downstate Medical Center in Brooklyn, NY. During her final year of the of residency training, she was appointed as the chief of research. She utilized her extensive research experience to guide and mentor her fellow residents. Under her supervision the program submitted maximum number of research papers and presented medical posters to various psychiatric platforms including American Psychiatric Association.
Dr. Akbar was introduced to tele-psychiatry during the second year of her fellowship due to the COVID-19 pandemic. She appreciated that tele-psychiatry allowed her to continue to serve her patients in the comfort of their own homes. During the challenging times of social distancing, she recognized the importance of collaborative care involving family members, social workers, medical team, and therapist to work together in the best interest of her patients while protecting their privacy and individuality.
Dr. Akbar has excellent communication skills, she believes that an open communication is essential for any relationship to prosper especially that of doctor-patient relationship. She provides a comforting environment for her patients to be able to express their needs and encourages feedback while preparing their individual treatment plan. She is experienced in providing psychiatric care to all age groups while her clinical interest focuses on taking care of adults and geriatric population. Dr. Akbar emphases on medication management utilizing a multidisciplinary methodology when treating each patient based on their requirements and tailoring treatment appropriately.
Shilpika Varma, MD
Dr. Varma grew up in an immigrant family surrounded by aspiring doctors, and her passion for understanding the human mind and behavior blossomed early. This curiosity led her to pursue extensive medical training abroad, beginning at Kasturba Medical College in Southern India, followed by clerkships at the University of the West Indies in Trinidad and Tobago. She completed her Adult psychiatry residency at the University of Florida in Gainesville and specialized further with a child/adolescent fellowship at Brookdale University Hospital in Brooklyn, NY.
Dr. Varma believes in a holistic, integrative approach to mental health. Her philosophy centers on identifying the root causes of ailments rather than merely addressing symptoms. She views mental health care as a partnership, where the mind, body, and spirit work together to achieve wellness. Dr. Varma is committed to fostering a safe, confidential therapeutic alliance to help you explore your potential for healing.
Dr. Varma embraces integrative psychiatry, which combines the best of conventional Western medicine with complementary approaches. This involves a comprehensive biopsychosocial assessment tailored to each individual, incorporating psychopharmacology alongside lifestyle adjustments in diet, movement, and breathwork. She collaborates with therapists and other professionals to create a well-rounded treatment plan that honors your unique journey.
Alexander Wittenberg, DO
Background and credentials
Dr. Alexander Wittenberg is a board-certified adult psychiatrist. He received his undergraduate degree from Cornell University, majoring in Human Biology, Health, and Society. He earned his medical degree from the New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine, where he was a member of the Psi Sigma Alpha Osteopathic Honor Society. As chief resident at Mount Sinai Beth Israel, he gained extensive experience working in outpatient settings and managing patient care at one of New York City's busiest clinics. Dr. Wittenberg has expertise in treating a wide range of mental health conditions, including depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, trauma and stressor-related disorders, and OCD.
Treatment approach
Dr. Wittenberg offers highly individualized and empathic treatment, primarily focusing on medication management. He frequently recommends integrating therapy into treatment plans and may suggest collaborating with a therapist. Dr. Wittenberg prioritizes a holistic approach, emphasizing overall well-being alongside symptom relief. He encourages the incorporation of mindfulness, self-compassion, exercise, nutrition, and attention to interpersonal relationships into his treatment strategy.
What you can expect in a first visit
During an initial visit with Dr. Wittenberg, patients can anticipate a collaborative, patient-centered, and non-judgmental environment designed to foster a meaningful therapeutic relationship. He will thoroughly discuss individual concerns and treatment goals, exploring potential therapeutic interventions, including medication management and holistic strategies to support mental health and overall wellness.
Why Talkiatry?
We’re a virtual mental health practice that makes it easy to find great care. We combine quality and convenience to help you thrive—faster. Our providers, like this one, are highly trained experts who specialize in medication management and collaborate with you on a treatment plan that fits your needs and comfort level.
Find the right fit fast
Our process was built to help you get the care you’re looking for quickly, with personalized matches and easy online booking.
What psychiatry shouldn’t be
What you get with Talkiatry
Go from searching to scheduled in minutes
Tell us about you
Enter your location, insurance details, and what kind of care you’re looking for.
Get in-network matches
We’ll show you clinicians who take your insurance, specialize in your concerns, and have availability.
Get seen quickly
Great care shouldn’t mean a long wait. Our average time to a first visit is 6 days, not weeks or months.
FAQs
How does Talkiatry work?
Is there a cost to my health system?
Talkiatry is an online psychiatry practice designed to make high-quality mental health care more accessible. We’re 100% virtual, in-network with major insurance plans, and first appointments are typically available in days.
To get started, you’ll complete a quick online assessment to tell us what you’re looking for. We’ll match you with psychiatrists who are licensed in your state, in-network with your insurance, and experienced in treating your concerns. You’ll choose the clinician you’d like to work with.
Your first visit is an in-depth evaluation where your psychiatrist will listen, provide a diagnosis, and work with you to create a treatment plan tailored to your goals and preferences. You’ll continue seeing the same clinician over time, adjusting your plan as your needs evolve. Our team is always here to help with scheduling, insurance, and questions about your care.
Do you provide therapy?
Is there a cost to my health system?
Care at Talkiatry starts with psychiatry. If you already have a Talkiatry psychiatrist, they can refer you to one of our therapists if you’ve decided together that therapy is the right next step. However, you can’t see a Talkiatry therapist if you aren’t already seeing one of our psychiatrists.
What should I do if I’m having an emergency?
Is there a cost to my health system?
Talkiatry does not provide emergency care. If you or someone you know is in crisis, please visit your nearest emergency room, call 911, or call or text the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988.
How much will my visit cost?
Is there a cost to my health system?
The majority of our visits cost patients $25 or less after insurance*, but your exact out-of-pocket cost depends on your plan. The best way to get a clear estimate is to contact your insurance provider directly. Here’s what to ask them:
- Do I have mental health benefits that include outpatient psychiatry?
- Is Talkiatry in-network for my plan?
- What’s my copay or coinsurance for outpatient psychiatry visits?
- Do I have a deductible? If so, how close am I to meeting it?
- Do I have an out-of-pocket maximum? If so, how close am I to reaching it?
- Are virtual or telehealth psychiatry visits covered the same as in-person care?
- Is prior authorization required for outpatient psychiatry?
- Can you provide a cost estimate for an in-network psychiatry visit using CPT code 99204?
- Can you provide a cost estimate for an in-network psychotherapy visit using CPT code 90833?
*Includes all patient costs from 9/24-9/25: copayment, deductible, coinsurance, and $0 payments. Excludes missed appt. fees. Your medical visit costs can vary depending on insurance coverage.
What if I don’t want to take medication?
Is there a cost to my health system?
Psychiatrists are medical doctors, and medication is often part of how they treat mental health conditions. At Talkiatry, your psychiatrist will start by listening and discussing your options with you. Medication is always your choice, but if it’s not something you’re open to considering, we may not be the best fit for ongoing care at this time.
How do I know if Talkiatry can help me?
Is there a cost to my health system?
Talkiatry provides virtual, in-network psychiatric care for people struggling with mild to moderate mental health issues. Here’s what we can help with:
- Anxiety
- ADHD (attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder)
- Bipolar disorder
- Child & adolescent care
- Depression
- OCD (obsessive-compulsive disorder)
- Pregnancy & postpartum care
- PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder)
- Substance use disorder
Our goal is to connect you with the best possible care for you. At your first visit, your doctor will confirm whether Talkiatry is the right fit. If they recommend in-person or higher-level care, they’ll guide you to the appropriate resources.
What if my insurance changes from Aetna?
Is there a cost to my health system?
Insurance changes are common, and we’re here to help. Talkiatry is in-network with thousands of plans. If your insurance changes, reach out to a Care Coordinator to update your information and confirm your coverage by calling 833-351-TALK (8255).
Do I still take the assessment if I’m already diagnosed with bipolar disorder?
Is there a cost to my health system?
Yes. Our online assessment is an important part of how we match you with the right psychiatrist. Your first visit will include a thorough evaluation so your psychiatrist can confirm your diagnosis and tailor your treatment plan to your current needs.
