Anxiety Psychiatrists in North Carolina

My practice focuses on medication management and incorporates insight-oriented therapy during visits. I take a patient-centered, evidence-based approach to psychiatry.

I am a board-certified psychiatrist and a graduate of the Duke Psychiatry residency program. I am originally from NC — I studied Neuroscience at NCSU and attended medical school at ECU. I am joining the Talkiatry team after working as a staff psychiatrist at the Durham VA, where I also served as a consulting professor for the Duke psychiatry residency program.

In my free time, I enjoy hiking and traveling.

Dr. Elena Perea is a board-certified psychiatrist.  She completed her undergraduate training at Wake Forest University followed by medical school and residency training at The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC).

Dr. Perea holds an adjunct academic appointment at UNC and has been involved in medical education for her entire career.  She most recently served as Residency Program Director for the Mountain Area Health Education Center (MAHEC) psychiatry residency in Asheville, NC.  She remains involved in didactic education there for both residents and medical students.

She has a genuine interest in treating a vast array of psychiatric disorders including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, post-traumatic stress disorders and obsessive compulsive and related disorders. She is a skilled psychopharmacologist and interested in the mind-body connection. She believes physical health greatly affects mental health and vice versa and loves helping patients with medical comorbidities to feel well.

Patients looking for a psychiatrist will find that Dr. Perea has a comprehensive approach to diagnosis and management of her patients. She believes in the principle that body and mind are interconnected and utilizes psychoeducation and psychotherapeutic approaches in addition to medications for total wellness.

I believe in the importance of getting to know each patient as a whole and of understanding the unique experiences that bring them to treatment. I collaborate with my patients to create personalized treatment plans and consider both medication and non-medication options. I have experience in a wide range of diagnoses and patient populations, with particular interest in anxiety, depression, PTSD, and substance use disorders, as well as the child and adolescent, college, BIPOC, and LBGTQIA+ populations.

I am a board-certified psychiatrist at Talkiatry. I am from Kentucky and completed my undergraduate studies at Murray State University. I obtained my medical degree from the University of Kentucky College of Medicine and completed my psychiatry residency training at the University of Louisville School of Medicine. Afterwards, I completed a fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry at the Medical University of South Carolina.

In my daily practice, I focus on evidence-based treatments utilizing the latest clinical guidelines and current approved treatments. In addition to medication management, I also incorporate psychotherapy in the treatment of mental health conditions. I am passionate about taking a collaborative approach with my patients to help them reach their potential.

I am a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in adult psychiatry. I completed residency training at East Carolina University in both internal medicine and psychiatry. After residency, I pursued my passion in psychiatry and stayed on as a clinical assistant professor in the department of psychiatry at East Carolina University. In this role, I specialized in treating adults with mental illness in both the inpatient and outpatient settings. I have spent a considerable amount of time teaching residents and medical students and have published several papers focusing on the neuroscience pathways of mental health conditions.

I am a Board-certified psychiatrist who completed medical training at Duke University Psychiatry Program. My practice combines medication management with insight-oriented therapy during every visit, promoting a comprehensive approach to mental health care. I advocate for my patients to engage in therapy alongside medication management, as I believe this integrated approach leads to better outcomes and sustained improvement. My practice is rooted in a collaborative, team-based approach, working closely with my patients to achieve long-term mental wellness.

I earned my medical degree from the Universidad Central del Caribe School of Medicine in Bayamon, PR. Afterward, I moved to North Carolina, where I completed my residency at Duke University Hospital. During my training, I was nominated for a fellowship in psychodynamic practice by the Psychoanalytic Center of the Carolinas. I am also a dedicated advocate against childhood sexual trauma. My diverse training includes significant experience in jail and forensic psychiatry, as well as the treatment of military veterans under the veteran affairs health care system. I have experience in medically assisted treatments (MAT) for substance use disorders, Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), and family therapy, enabling me to care for patients with complex needs. I treat patients across a wide age range, from young adults to the elderly.

Originally from Puerto Rico, I am fluent in both English and Spanish, which allows me to connect deeply with a diverse patient population. Passionate about improving access to mental health care, I joined Talkiatry to help patients facing time or transportation challenges receive the care they need. In addition to my clinical practice, I remain involved with my alma mater's Behavioral Health Department, contributing to academic education and maintaining a connection with the next generation of medical professionals. I continue to seek ongoing improvement in my field, remaining engaged with medical associations including the North Carolina Psychiatric Association, American Psychiatric Association, and Alpha Omega Alpha national medical honor society.

I am a board-certified psychiatrist who specializes in adult psychiatry and minority mental health. My approach focuses on evidence-based medication management and incorporates supportive therapy techniques as well as psychoeducation to address presenting issues in a compassionate and competent manner. I have experience treating various psychiatric disorders including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and ADHD. Throughout my professional career, I have remained passionate about educating individuals about sustaining better mental health and eradicating the stigma of mental illness. If additional therapy is needed, I may recommend that a therapist is part of the treatment team.

I am a graduate of Morehouse College and received my medical degree from Meharry Medical College in Nashville, TN. After graduating from Meharry, I completed my psychiatry residency at the University of South Carolina/Palmetto Health in Columbia, SC and a forensic psychiatry fellowship at Tulane University. After completing my training, I entered private practice in Rock Hill, SC and served the community for 11+ years. During that time, I also served as Staff Psychiatrist at Winthrop University. Prior to joining Talkiatry, I served as an Attending Psychiatrist and Medical Director of an inpatient psychiatric unit.

I am dedicated to building a collaborative relationship with patients and their families where shared-decision making is respected and encouraged. I am passionate about providing continuity of care to my patients as they navigate life's changes and challenges. I utilize medication management and psychotherapy in my clinical practice, and my areas of interest include ADHD across the lifespan, anxiety disorders, mood disorders (depression and bipolar disorder), and OCD. I am experienced in treating children, adolescents, and adults.

I am double-board certified in General Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Originally from Delaware, I earned my medical degree from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2017. I also obtained a Master of Science in Biological Sciences from Drexel University and a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Juniata College. In 2017, I moved south and am happy to call North Carolina my home. I completed my internship at Campbell University/Harnett Health in 2018, then went on to complete a General Psychiatry Residency followed by a Fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at East Carolina University Brody School of Medicine. Prior to joining Talkiatry in 2025, I was in private practice at North Raleigh Psychiatry in Raleigh, NC.

I believe in building strong therapeutic relationships with my patients, integrating conservative psychological treatments and lifestyle modifications to enhance overall well-being and quality of life. I primarily provide medication management combined with supportive or emotionally focused therapy, and I emphasize creating individualized care plans tailored to each patient's unique needs. While medication and supportive therapy are central to my approach, I occasionally recommend involving an additional therapist to optimize treatment outcomes. I specialize in managing a broad range of psychiatric conditions, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, postpartum depression, OCD, and PTSD.

Patients meeting me for the first time can expect a thoughtful and comprehensive assessment focused on building rapport and understanding their personal and clinical needs. I emphasize creating a strong therapeutic relationship and developing an individualized care plan designed specifically to address each patient's symptoms and lifestyle. Follow-up appointments typically last around 30 minutes, during which medication management and supportive therapy are provided. Depending on patient needs, I might suggest incorporating additional therapeutic support to achieve the best possible results.

I am board-certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. I earned a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences from the University of Miami in Coral Gables, Florida, and obtained my medical degree in Osteopathic Medicine from the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine. I completed my psychiatry residency training at Palm Beach Consortium for Graduate Medical Education in Tamarac, Florida. After my training, I served as an attending psychiatrist with the Department of Veterans Affairs in Miami, Florida, and as an attending psychiatrist and mentor for psychiatry residents in training at the University of Miami, Florida International University, and University Hospital and Medical Center in Tamarac.

My practice primarily focuses on medication management, which I offer in conjunction with supportive therapy and elements of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). I take a patient-centered and collaborative approach, ensuring that treatment is tailored to each individual's needs. If additional therapy is required, I may recommend working with a therapist as part of a comprehensive care plan. My primary focus areas include depression, anxiety disorders, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).

I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist with over 16 years of experience. I earned my medical degree from the University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha, NE, and completed my adult psychiatry residency at Oregon Health and Science University in Portland, OR. I then specialized further by completing a forensic psychiatry fellowship at Yale University. I have worked as a staff psychiatrist at Atrium Health System for over 16 years.

During the first visit, patients can expect a thorough psychiatric evaluation, where I carefully assess their symptoms, treatment history, and mental health goals. I work collaboratively with patients to develop a personalized treatment plan, which may include medication management and therapy recommendations. Follow-up visits are typically 30 minutes and focus on monitoring progress, adjusting treatment as needed, and ensuring the best possible patient outcomes.

I wholeheartedly believe that treating patients holistically is of high importance, with a focus on their physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being. I have expertise in treating patients with mood disorders, anxiety, and PTSD, and I incorporate psychopharmacology when needed, as well as psychodynamic and supportive psychotherapy.

I completed my psychiatry residency training at Harvard University in Boston, Massachusetts. I have enjoyed treating patients for over 25 years in a variety of settings such as inpatient, outpatient mental health clinics, emergency room, and multidisciplinary clinics.

I am board-certified in adult psychiatry with experience in a wide variety of psychiatric disorders including depression, anxiety, women's mental health, and ADHD. My practice is focused on medication management with supportive therapy offered in 30-minute follow-up visits. I enjoy treating patients across the lifespan from young adulthood through senior care, and I see each patient as a unique individual, working together with them to develop a treatment plan specific to their needs and goals.

I received my medical degree from the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas, Texas, where I received the North Texas Society of Psychiatric Physicians' Award for outstanding medical student in Psychiatry. I pursued my residency in adult psychiatry at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island, with particular interest and training in child, adolescent, and young adult Psychiatry. After completing training, I worked with children and adults in a variety of treatment settings including Community Mental Health Centers and hospitals, providing inpatient, residential, and outpatient services. Prior to joining the Talkiatry team, I participated in psychiatric research developing new treatment methods for complex psychiatric disorders.

I have extensive experience treating various mental health disorders including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, and ADHD. My clinical work includes assisting patients who experience mental health disorders with co-occurring substance use problems. I have training in various schools of psychotherapy including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), CBT for insomnia, motivational interviewing, and supportive psychotherapy. I incorporate treatment focusing on the importance of exercise, diet, and good sleep habits as a part of comprehensive mental health care.

I am double board-certified in Adult Psychiatry and Forensic Psychiatry. I graduated summa cum laude from the University of Pittsburgh with a Bachelor of Science degree in Sports Medicine/Athletic Training and then attended Drexel University College of Medicine. After medical school, I completed my residency in Adult Psychiatry at the University of Virginia, where I obtained a certificate in additional psychotherapy training. After residency, I completed a fellowship in Forensic Psychiatry at the University of Virginia. During my fellowship, I trained at the prestigious Institute of Law, Psychiatry, and Public Policy (ILPPP) and Western State Psychiatric Hospital, where I performed criminal and civil forensic evaluations. I also provided clinical care at a maximum security prison. Prior to joining Talkiatry, I worked at a healthcare system in Montana providing inpatient and outpatient psychiatric care involving medication management and psychotherapy. Additionally, I operate a private forensic psychiatry practice that conducts mental health evaluations for the legal system.

I take a collaborative approach to psychiatric care, integrating medication management with supportive therapy to provide well-rounded treatment. My primary focus is on treating adults with mood and anxiety disorders, PTSD, and ADHD. I prioritize patient involvement in treatment decisions, ensuring that care plans align with individual needs and goals.

I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist. I earned my medical degree from Ross University School of Medicine and completed my residency in Adult Psychiatry at the University of Central Florida, affiliated with North Florida Regional Medical Center. After completing my training, I remained at North Florida Regional as an adult psychiatrist and supervising physician, gaining experience treating patients in inpatient, outpatient, partial hospitalization, and intensive outpatient program (IOP) settings.

Patients meeting me for the first time can expect a thorough evaluation where I assess their symptoms, treatment history, and personal goals. I foster a supportive and collaborative environment, working closely with patients to create a personalized treatment plan that incorporates medication management and therapeutic interventions tailored to their specific needs.

I combine both psychotherapy and medication treatment to provide holistic care that addresses not only your mental health but also the parts of your life that surround and are deeply intertwined with your mental health. When more intensive psychotherapy is warranted, I collaborate with an experienced psychotherapist to serve you better. With my experience in internal medicine, I am also comfortable navigating complex medical issues that may interact with your mental health.

I am board-certified in both adult psychiatry and internal medicine. I am a graduate of St. George's University School of Medicine and completed a combined Psychiatry & Internal Medicine residency training program at East Carolina University. Following residency, I completed a fellowship in Clinical Informatics at Oregon Health & Science University, learning how to use modern digital technologies and patient data to improve patient care. Since graduation from residency, I also gained specialized experience in treating veterans with terminal illness, specifically Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (aka Lou Gehrig's Disease), at the VA Medical Center in Portland, OR.

My academic activities include a presentation I have given multiple times on Illness Identity, teaching other clinicians how having an illness can change how we perceive our place in the world and how to help patients manage their relationship with illness.

I employ a collaborative, supportive, and patient-centered approach to psychiatric care, integrating medication management with therapy tailored specifically to each patient. I utilize supportive therapy along with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), adjusted according to individual patient needs. My specialty areas include the treatment of depression, bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders, PTSD, and a broad range of mental health conditions.

I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist with over 12 years of experience. I received my medical degree from Carol Davila University of Medicine in Romania and completed my psychiatry residency at Wayne State University in Detroit. Following residency, I gained extensive clinical experience practicing psychiatry in diverse outpatient settings, including a multi-specialty center in North Dakota and community mental health centers in Ohio and Michigan. I have also served as an assistant professor at the University of North Dakota and Michigan State University, where I taught and supervised medical students and residents.

Patients can expect an initial appointment with me to include a thorough evaluation focusing on their unique psychiatric symptoms, personal experiences, and treatment goals. I offer a supportive and compassionate atmosphere, carefully combining medication management with individualized therapy recommendations, to create a personalized treatment plan that effectively addresses each patient's specific needs.

I practice patient-centered and trauma-informed care, valuing patient autonomy and collaborative decision-making, and acknowledging the burden many people carry from intersecting oppressions. I believe therapy is important, often equally important as medication, or more, and will work together with you to make a realistic treatment plan that will fit into your life. I also have a niche working with people with complicated relationships with their bodies, whether due to disordered eating, gender dysphoria, chronic illness/disability, or trauma. I welcome LGBTQ+ patients, including trans and non-binary adults. I also enjoy working with patients with OCD, as well as autistic/neurodivergent adults (including those seeking adult autism evaluation). Please note Talkiatry is most appropriate for autistic patients with Level 1 (or case-by-case Level 2) support needs and who are verbal.

Regarding eating disorders: please note that for patient safety, per Talkiatry policy, I am unable to work with patients with current active anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa (or significant relapse in the last 6 months), or with patients requiring current regular medical or lab monitoring for complications of binge-eating disorder or ARFID. Bariatric surgery patients are welcome if medically stable. Patients with current disordered eating that does not rise to the level of a formal diagnosis of anorexia or bulimia, or with a past history of anorexia or bulimia in sustained remission, will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis at the first appointment.

I am a board-certified psychiatrist with a BA in musicology and cognitive science from Oberlin College, an MD from Quinnipiac University in Connecticut, and I completed my general adult psychiatry residency at Duke University.