OCD Psychiatrists in Maryland

Dr. Swetha Mummini earned her medical degree from SUNY Downstate Medical Center and completed her psychiatry residency at the University of Maryland/Sheppard Pratt. She has worked across various clinical settings, including inpatient units, residential treatment centers, and substance use disorder clinics. Her clinical interests include mood disorders, OCD, women’s mental health, and eating disorders.

Dr. Mummini takes a holistic approach to mental health, recognizing that there is no one-size-fits-all solution. She thoughtfully integrates medication when appropriate, alongside lifestyle changes, sleep, and stress management. She prioritizes strong therapeutic relationships and uses 30-minute follow-up visits that often include elements of psychotherapy.

In the first appointment, Dr. Mummini gathers a thorough psychiatric history, explores current symptoms, and learns about the patient’s goals. She works collaboratively to develop personalized, evidence-based treatment plans, blending integrative psychiatry with ongoing support for long-term well-being.

Dr. Alexandra ("Sasha”) Blaes is a board-certified psychiatrist. Before joining Talkiatry, she practiced consult-liaison psychiatry, seeing medically ill patients with psychiatric problems at the Department of Veterans Affairs, where she also treated veterans in nursing homes. Dr. Blaes graduated from New York University with a B.A. in philosophy and photography and worked in nonprofit marketing in New York before deciding she wanted to pursue a life in medicine. Following a post-baccalaureate, pre-medical program at Columbia University, Dr. Blaes completed medical school at The University of Maryland, followed by a psychiatry residency at The Johns Hopkins Hospital. While at Johns Hopkins, she mastered clinical assessment and treatment of general psychiatric problems. She also received specialized training in eating disorders, addiction, reproductive psychiatry, chronic pain, and geriatric psychiatry, an interest she pursued further with a fellowship at University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. In fellowship and in her subsequent experience at the VA, she developed expertise in caring for the difficulties that can accompany aging, including depression, anxiety, and memory loss, as well as the stress of medical illness. Dr. Blaes' practice focuses on medication management. She works to foster a safe and collaborative space in which patients can address psychiatric illness and other barriers holding them back from the lives they want to lead. Typically, she offers appointments for medication management coupled with supportive or emotionally focused therapy in 30-minute sessions. When Dr. Blaes feels that additional therapy is needed, she will suggest inviting a therapist to join the team for additional support and guidance. She welcomes collaborations with other clinicians, be they therapists or other physicians caring for her patients. She strives to build strong therapeutic relationships that help patients grow and meet their goals - whatever their situation, challenge, or life stage. Dr. Blaes welcomes patients from all walks of life and cultural backgrounds and is LGBTQ+ friendly. In addition to her background in geriatrics, she has experience working with peripartum women and enjoys working with patients navigating major life changes.

Dr. He is board-certified in adult psychiatry and addiction medicine. She is passionate about providing quality and accessible mental health care while considering each patient's concerns, values, and life circumstances. She received her medical doctorate degree from State University of New York (SUNY) Downstate Medical Center, and completed her psychiatry residency at George Washington University Hospital in DC. Prior to medical school, she completed a Master of Public Health from Yale School of Public Health. Dr. He has special clinical interests in providing trauma-informed and culturally competent care in the treatment of mental health conditions. She has experience working with special populations, such as minorities, immigrants, perinatal women, and LGBTQ+ communities. She holds a certificate from Harvard in Global Mental Health: Trauma and Recovery Program. She currently serves on the Board of Directors for a non-profit organization in Washington DC to prepare people recovering from mental illness to improve their quality of life. Although Dr. He's practice primarily focuses on medication management, she looks forward to getting to know you and incorporating her experiences with insight-oriented therapy in 20 or 30 minute follow-up visits.

Dr. Aileen Kim approaches medication management with an emphasis on shared decision-making within safe, effective options, thorough counseling about what to expect in treatment, and giving attention to the concurrent use of non-medication modalities of treatment alongside optimizing medication. She is accustomed to working with people who have more than one diagnosis. She is skilled and experienced in de-prescribing (methodically streamlining the number of medications being taken) when needed. Patients can see Dr. Kim for medication management, therapy, or both. Dr. Kim is board certified in Adult Psychiatry. She graduated from the University of Illinois College of Medicine in Chicago in 2004. She was selected for the Health Professions Scholarship Program and completed her residency in 2008 at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth in Virginia, where she was chief resident. Following residency, she deployed to Kuwait as a medical officer. She has taught and supervised residents at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. She left active duty in the Navy as a Lieutenant Commander. After becoming a civilian, she went into solo practice, then joined Potomac Behavioral Solutions in 2014, where she served as medical director. Dr. Kim is a past president of the Virginia Psychoanalytic Society. She also lectures advanced mental health professionals for Lingyu International Psychology Centre based in Toronto. For established patients of Dr. Aileen Kim, please call 833-351-8255 to schedule an appointment and let the patient care coordinator know you are an established patient from her prior practice.

Sonya R. Isler, PMHNP-BC, began her nursing journey over 30 years ago in a state psychiatric hospital in Goldsboro, NC, inspired by the poised nurse she admired at church as a child. Her path includes roles as LPN, RN, BSN, and multiple advanced practice degrees. Sonya has worked in inpatient and outpatient settings, VA clinics, and private practices. She also serves as a preceptor for PMHNP students at her alma mater, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Sonya creates a welcoming, respectful space where patients feel safe to communicate openly. She practices active listening and values patient input when setting therapy goals. Her approach is holistic—treating the whole person—and she encourages collaboration, helping patients feel seen, heard, and empowered in their care.

Sonya reviews a patient's history before each session and begins with clear introductions and goal setting. She invites open discussion of concerns and tailors' treatment plans with patient input. She often incorporates CBT, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused therapy into care, promoting growth through supportive, personalized strategies.

Dr. Tanvi Gupta, a native Marylander who recently finished her fellowship training in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry from the University of Maryland. She completed her residency in general psychiatry from San Antonio, Texas and is a Board Certified Psychiatrist. Prior to training, Dr. Gupta attended medical school at Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine in in New York. She also holds a master's in biomedical science from Rutgers University in New Jersey and a bachelor's in public health from the University of Maryland. She is on the Early Career Psychiatrist Committee for the Child and Adolescent Psychiatrists of Greater Washington Area. Dr. Gupta has worked in various settings, ranging from academic centers, schools, state hospitals and residential treatment centers. She also provided medication management and therapy to Medicaid patients in an outpatient setting, delivering care to children and adolescents with various mental health disorders. Dr. Gupta has experience in Emergency Psychiatry as well.

Dr. Gupta greatly values connecting with her patients. She is gentle yet direct in her approach. She uses a shared decision-making process to design a treatment plan that align with her patient’s goals. Dr. Gupta provides psycho education for diagnoses and medication recommendations. She has a special interest in ADHD and trauma. She appreciates a family-based approach.

Dr. Gupta uses a comprehensive biopsychosocial evaluation, psychotherapy and medication management to treat a variety of mood disorders, anxiety disorders, as well as ADHD. Dr. Gupta promotes non-pharmaceutical interventions, when appropriate, with patient-oriented lifestyle and behavioral modifications.

Dr. Mo Basith is a board-certified psychiatrist in the field of general adult psychiatry. He offers a mix of pharmacotherapy in conjunction with psychotherapy in 30-minute sessions. Dr. Basith's approach to clinical practice is rooted in fostering a safe atmosphere in which to explore biological and psychosocial factors that affect mental health. He views medication as a tool that patients can use while also engaging in psychotherapy and making lifestyle changes to optimize their mental health. He encourages patients to be actively involved in their healthcare decisions. Although he has an integrative psychotherapy style, Dr. Basith may occasionally believe additional therapy is needed and ask that you bring a therapist into your care team to provide the best outcome. Dr. Basith received his medical degree at Jefferson Medical College in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He then went on to complete a general psychiatry residency training at Penn State College of Medicine in Hershey, Pennsylvania. Since completing his training, Dr. Basith has been working with a wide variety of adults, including as a staff psychiatrist at Georgetown University's Counseling and Psychiatric Service. He has experience treating patients with a wide range of psychiatric concerns including various anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar spectrum disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and substance use disorders. Dr. Basith utilizes pharmacotherapy along with facets of cognitive behavioral therapy, psychodynamic psychotherapy, and supportive therapy as needed.

Asmita Neupane is a board-certified Post Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). She received her bachelor’s in nursing degree from Metropolitan state university, master’s in nursing degree from Texas Women’s University which specializes in Adult Geriatric Nurse Practitioner and completed her post-master’s degree as PMHNP from Wilkes University. Asmita Neupane has 20 plus years of experience as a Registered Nurse and almost 10 years of experience as Nurse Practitioner. Asmita Neupane is licensed to practice in Maryland and District of Columbia.

Asmita Neupane has professional interests in treating a wide range of psychiatry conditions including depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and eating disorders. She provides psychiatric assessments and medication management along with brief supportive psychotherapy. She focuses on holistic approaches to treatment and believes in keeping her patients healthy rather than only addressing illness. Asmita Neupane is fluent in Nepali, Hindi and English.

Abdulhafiz Ahmed, MD

Staff Psychiatrist

Languages

English, Arabic

Conditions treated:

Anxiety, Depression. Bipolar Disorder, OCD, PTSD/Trauma, ADHD

Education and training:

University of Maryland at College Park, BS

Georgetown School of Medicine, MD

University of Maryland Medical System at Baltimore (UMMS), Residency

and fellowship.

Dr. Abdulhafiz Ahmed is a board-certified adult psychiatrist with over 25 years of clinical experience across community hospitals, university teaching hospitals, the Veterans Administration (VA) medical system, and private practice. He has served as the inpatient medical director at MedStar Harbor Hospital in Baltimore and outpatient medical director at the University of Maryland Upper Chesapeake. Dr. Ahmed has extensive expertise diagnosing and treating a wide range of psychiatric conditions including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, adjustment disorders, phobias, thought disorders, trauma, and PTSD.

Dr. Ahmed approaches each patient with empathy, attentiveness, and respect, fostering an environment of safety and trust. He recognizes the importance of cultural diversity and is dedicated to understanding each person’s unique background, values, and life circumstances. His patient-centered philosophy ensures that individuals feel heard, validated, and actively involved in their care.

Dr. Ahmed combines evidence-based psychopharmacology with supportive psychotherapy to provide comprehensive and individualized treatment. He collaborates closely with patients to develop a plan that targets their specific symptoms and goals, focusing on improving functioning, resilience, and overall well-being. His approachable and compassionate demeanor helps patients feel comfortable and confident throughout their journey toward recovery.

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Mu Xu, MD is a Psychiatrist at Talkiatry. He obtained his medical doctorate degree from the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine and PhD from New York University. He completed his psychiatry residency at New York University. Dr Xu is licensed to practice in California, New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, and Maryland. Dr. Xu provides both medication management for a variety of psychiatric conditions. Dr. Xu is fluent in English and Mandarin. Dr. Xu is a general adult psychiatrist specializing in medication management. He values building strong connections with patients from all walks of life and tailoring treatments to their unique needs. His working style is characterized by attentive listening, detailed follow-up questions, and straightforward communication, fostering a collaborative and empathetic environment.

Jaime Sather, PMHNP is a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 20 years' experience in the mental health field. Specialty areas include ADHD, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, substance abuse, PTSD, and women’s health. Clinical experience with inpatient, outpatient, detoxifications rehab, psychiatric emergency department, IOP, and PHP.

Comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and brief psychotherapy are provided. Besides medication management with psychotherapy, individual therapy may be recommended for the best possible patient outcome.

Patients feel comfortable discussing their concerns in a non-judgmental therapeutic environment. Education is provided about diagnosis and treatment options with the patient being empowered to be an active part of their treatment plan.

Background and credentials

Dr. Puja Kumar is trained in adult, child, and adolescent psychiatry and is a board-certified pediatrician. She earned her Bachelor of Science from the University of Calgary and her medical degree from St. George’s University in Grenada. She completed her pediatrics residency at Maimonides Medical Center in New York and practiced pediatrics with MedStar Shah Medical Group in Maryland before transitioning to psychiatry. She later trained in child and adult psychiatry at University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center.

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Treatment approach

Dr. Kumar provides medication management combined with supportive therapy, typically in 30-minute follow-up visits. She takes a holistic approach to treatment, considering the impact of lifestyle, parenting practices, and family dynamics on mental health. She emphasizes integrative care, ensuring that treatment plans are tailored to each patient’s unique needs and circumstances.

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What you can expect in a first visit

During the first visit, patients can expect a thorough and compassionate evaluation, where Dr. Kumar takes time to understand their symptoms, medical history, and environmental influences. She prioritizes collaborative decision-making, working closely with patients and, when applicable, their families, to develop a comprehensive and personalized treatment plan. Follow-up visits typically focus on medication adjustments, supportive therapy, and lifestyle recommendations to optimize mental health outcomes.

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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.

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Dr. Yaejin Park is a board-certified adult psychiatrist at Talkiatry. She received her medical degree from the University of Illinois at Chicago School of Medicine and completed her psychiatry residency training at Mount Sinai Morningside West.

Dr. Park has professional interests in treating a wide range of psychiatric conditions including depression, anxiety, PTSD, and eating disorders.  She strives to provide compassionate and holistic care with the integration of supportive psychotherapy and medication management.

Dr. Tammara Davis is a board-certified adult psychiatrist with over 15 years of experience treating patients across inpatient, outpatient, emergency, and telepsychiatry settings. She earned her medical degree from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center, completed her psychiatry residency at St. Elizabeths Hospital in Washington, DC, and holds a B.S. from Xavier University of Louisiana.

Dr. Davis previously served as a Primary Care–Mental Health Integration psychiatrist at the Veterans Health Administration, where she helped expand access to care in community-based clinics. She is an active member of the Black Psychiatrists of America, where she advances advocacy and equity in mental health care. While she has treated a wide variety of patients from all walks of life, her clinical focus has been on improving access to quality mental healthcare for historically marginalized communities.

Dr. Davis specializes in mood and anxiety disorders, including depression, PTSD, and perinatal mental health. Her approach is holistic, integrative, and patient-centered—grounded in cultural humility and collaborative care. She does not prescribe benzodiazepines, focusing instead on evidence-based strategies that support long-term wellness. While treating a wide variety of patients, Dr. Davis’ clinical focus has been on adults from marginalized and/or minoritized communities.

Dr. Davis begins care with a consultation to ensure a strong fit and shared treatment goals. Dr. Davis is committed to creating a safe, trusting space where patients feel empowered and in control of their healing. She recognizes that not all patients require medication and integrates culturally affirming support when therapy and education are more appropriate.

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Dr. Kothari's treatment approach begins with establishing a good therapeutic rapport with her patients and listening to her patients so that they feel heard. Dr. Kothari likes to spend time providing psychoeducation on medications when discussing the treatment plan. Dr. Kothari's practice focuses on medication management primarily, but may incorporate supportive psychotherapy during medication visits. Dr. Kothari may recommend additional psychotherapy if she feels a patient may benefit from this. Dr. Kothari's current practice does not include the use of any controlled substance medications, such as stimulants, benzodiazepines, and certain sleep aids.

Dr. Santos is a highly experienced, Board-Certified Adult Psychiatrist with over 10 years of clinical experience in English and Spanish. He graduated from the Universidad Autónoma de Guadalajara School of Medicine and completed a rigorous 4-year psychiatric residency training in NYC at Lincoln Medical and Mental Health Center.

In his residency and post-residency practice, Dr. Santos has provided high-quality care to culturally diverse communities, and has extensive experience helping patients with Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, and other mental health conditions. He understands that choosing and seeing a psychiatrist can be stressful and is committed to providing a welcoming and non-judgmental environment where patients can feel free to discuss their concerns.

Dr. Santos takes a personalized approach to treatment, considering the unique psychology, biology, and lifestyle of each individual patient when determining the best course of action. His practice focuses on medication management in conjunction with supportive therapy, and he conducts follow-up visits in 30-minute increments. He believes that the most successful treatments integrate physical health, therapy, mindfulness, and medication, when necessary, to provide the most effective solutions for his patients.

If you are looking for a compassionate and experienced psychiatrist who is fluent in both English and Spanish, schedule an appointment with Dr. Santos today. His dedication to his patients and his extensive experience makes him an excellent choice for those seeking to improve their mental health.