Anxiety Psychiatrists in Texas

Dr. Jennifer Ruch is a board-certified psychiatrist who strives to understand her patients' lived experiences and aspirations to develop supportive therapeutic relationships through empathetic listening, mutual trust, and respect. She collaboratively creates individualized care plans that align with personal treatment goals in a safe and judgment-free environment. After completing her Bachelor of Science degree in Human Biology with a focus in psychology from the University of California, Merced, she earned her medical degree from Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine. Dr. Ruch completed her General Psychiatry Residency at Arnot Ogden Medical Center in New York. Her clinical experience involves treating individuals of all age groups from diverse populations and socioeconomic backgrounds suffering from anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders, neurodevelopmental disorders, and neurocognitive disorders. She has provided care in inpatient and outpatient psychiatric facilities, the Veterans Affairs Medical Center, emergency rooms, state facilities, and an inpatient chemical dependency center. She also performed pre-procedure psychological evaluations for bariatric and spinal cord surgeries, and psychiatric consult liaison services on medical units and has clinical training in inpatient and outpatient neurology. Her clinical experience incorporated treatment modalities such as pharmacotherapy and interventional psychiatry, including Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation and Spravato. Dr. Ruch integrates a wide array of psychotherapy as needed; however, her practice primarily focuses on medication management while utilizing referrals to therapists and providing collaborative care for optimal outcomes.

Bobbie Anne is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over eight years of experience providing therapy and related services. She has worked in a wide range of therapeutic settings including inpatient psychiatric hospitalization, partial and intensive outpatient care, physician family practice and private practice. She works with clients affected by depression, anxiety, grief and loss, trauma and relationship challenges. She has experience with individual, group and family therapy.

Bobbie Anne is passionate about helping people discover hope, develop resilience and increase self-awareness to promote healing. She emphasizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy but integrates interventions from a variety of therapeutic approaches to allow for a treatment plan that will meet the unique needs of each specific client and help restore balance with a positive mindset for overall improved mental health and emotional wellbeing.

Bobbie Anne emphasizes an approach that is client-centered and strengths-based and promotes self-awareness. She seeks to create a warm and supportive environment where clients can establish unique and individualized goals toward healing. Bobbie Anne may utilize a range of techniques, including cognitive-behavioral strategies, solution-focused approaches, or person-centered counseling, depending on the client's individual needs.

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Dr. Zaidi graduated residency from University Hospitals/Case Western Reserve University in 2015. After residency he worked at the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center as a staff psychiatrist. He eventually took on the role of Mental Health Lead Psychiatrist and Interim Clinic Director at the Tomball VA Outpatient Clinic. Dr. Zaidi then transferred to a telepsychiatry role at VISN 15 providing mental health coverage for rural areas in Kansas, Missouri, and Illinois. Dr. Zaidi resides in Houston, Texas and enjoys spending time with his family, being outdoors, and watching/playing sports such as Football, Basketball, and Soccer.

Dr. Zaidi has over 15 years of experience in treating different mental health conditions and is currently board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He enjoys getting to learn about patients and working collaboratively to provide the best treatment possible, be it medications or talk therapy. Dr. Zaidi has vast experience treating Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, among many others.

Dr. Zaidi's goal when working with patients is to not come to a generic diagnosis; rather, it is to get to know about the client and try and manage their symptoms in the best way possible. Overall, the process is collaborative, and both parties need to be comfortable with the decisions moving forward.

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Maria-Anne Duncan, LCSW-R holds the position of psychotherapist at Talkiatry. She has over twenty years of experience working with individuals, families, and groups addressing symptoms of anxiety, depression, and trauma. Before joining Talkiarty, Ms. Duncan worked as a Director of Clinical Services for a not-for-profit in the Hudson Valley Region of New York State. Prior to that, Ms. Duncan worked for a local hospital in the psychiatric department providing treatment to the Inpatient and Outpatient units. She has held several positions as a clinician and program director. Additionally, Ms. Duncan has taught parenting classes, Mental Health First Aid and provides training on Trauma-Informed Care. Ms. Duncan started her career as a clinician in a Crime Victims' Assistance Program funded by New York State. Through this experience she began to explore the effects of trauma on individuals, their families, and the community. Ms. Duncan has been trained in both EMDR (Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and SE (Somatic Experiencing). She utilizes these body-focused therapies to help her clients be released from years of painful energies locked in their systems. Ms. Duncan received her Bachelor's Degree from Marist College and her Master's from Fordham University. She has been trained to supervise Social Work Students in their field placements. Ms. Duncan appeared in the Vassar College student-developed training video, "He said, She said" which is used to train peer sexual assault counselors. In April of 2022, she became a trainer for LivingWorks "SafeTALK" program. Additionally, Ms. Duncan has a trained therapy dog, Monkey, who goes with her to local hospitals and nursing homes to provide comfort and affection.

Dr. Mendez obtained his medical degree from the University of Texas Medical School in Houston. He subsequently completed his Psychiatry residency training at the same institution, UT Medical School in Houston. Dr. Mendez has extensive training in the field and is board certified in Adult Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. After professional training, Dr. Mendez has had vast experience of 15 years primarily in the outpatient setting including ample experience with telemedicine services to patients. He has extensive experience in diagnosing and treating adult patients dealing with attention deficit disorders and a wide spectrum of adjustment and anxiety disorders. Dr. Mendez has a special interest in the treatment of mood disorders from Major Depression to Bipolar spectrum disorders. Dr. Mendez prioritizes the development of great communication, mutual understanding and trust with his patients as he finds these elements to be key to a successful treatment. He establishes his treatment plans upon evidence-based guidelines and encourages a holistic approach for optimal well-being. Through effective medication management and supportive psychotherapy, Dr. Mendez leads his patients to optimal mental health. He encourages patients to strive to develop fulfillment and optimal functionality in their life's roles.

Dr. Ruchir Arvind is an Adult General psychiatrist. He is a Diplomat of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He has been practicing for 4 years.

Dr. Arvind believes in collaborative and educational approaches to address his client’s needs. He believes that therapy is a foundational part in building a long term therapeutic relationship with his clients. He tries to put some educational part in helping his client’s to have a deeper understanding about their illness and related struggles and needs. He likes to follow up closely regarding progress towards his client’s goals. He integrates psycho education in all sessions into explaining his reasoning behind the choice of treatment options based on evidence based medicine. He also provides a brief supportive psychotherapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to aid in treatment for depression, anxiety and insomnia.

Dr. Arvind received his medical degree from PramukhSwami Medical College in India and completed his residency training at University of Texas Health Science Center in his Hometown of Houston, Texas. He held an academic position as a faculty with University of Texas Health Science Center – McGovern Medical School in Houston as assistant professor and enjoyed teaching opportunities.

During his pursuit for residency training in psychiatry Dr. Arvind had been extensively involved in clinical research understanding neurobiological and psychological aspects of development of different anxiety disorders and bipolar disorders as early as in childhood populations. He has had Publications for several peer-reviewed articles and manuscripts and presentations at annual conferences.

Dr. Arvind has experience in treating versatile patient populations. His areas of focus have been anxiety disorders, Acute stress and Post traumatic stress disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder( ADHD ) and Attention Deficit Disorder ( ADD ) , Tics  and Tourette Syndrome ,Insomnia and depression. He has also worker with adults with Bipolar illness and pregnancy related anxiety and depression and helping clients with any psychiatric illness due to underlying neurological issues like Seizures, Multiple Sclerosis and NeuroCognitive Issues along with addressing Caregiver Burden for some clients.

Patients looking for a psychiatric provider will find Dr. Arvind’s approach in a gentle, friendly and educational way with a composed demeanor. He tends to approach Individualized treatment plans based on different needs for different clients and will always welcome any questions regarding the plan to reach Client’s Goals.

Dr. Chelsea Karson is a board-certified psychiatrist who completed her residency training at Advocate Lutheran General Hospital where she was Chief Resident of her program. Dr. Karson is passionate about patient care, believing in caring for the whole person. While completing her residency training, she led an interprofessional team to bring miniature-therapy horses to the inpatient psychiatry unit and thereby forge a relationship between the organization and all of Advocate Aurora Healthcare. Dr. Karson partnered with a mental health counselor to create a virtual therapy program of resources, the Bridge Project, to close the gap between inpatient and outpatient care that is now used throughout the Advocate Aurora network. At graduation Dr. Karson received the 2024 Advocate Lutheran General Hospital Ruggie Humanitarian Award. The Ruggie Award selects and honors a graduating resident or fellow who displays academic excellence, commitment to the education of others, professional bearing, and a concern for the patient within the light of Human Ecology. Dr. Karson attended undergraduate at Elmhurst University, a biology major with minors in chemistry and medical humanities. She went to medical school at Rosalind Franklin University and was chosen to join the Gold Humanism Honor Society for her dedication to compassionate patient care.

Background  and credentials    

Dr. Christa DeFries is a board-certified Adult Psychiatrist. She earned her  medical degree from UT Southwestern Medical School in Dallas, Texas, and  completed her residency in Adult Psychiatry at Baylor Scott & White in  Temple, Texas. Following residency, Dr. DeFries gained additional experience  treating homeless and formerly homeless populations in New York City,  particularly focusing on individuals with histories of trauma and substance  addiction, prior to joining Talkiatry.    

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Treatment approach    

Dr. DeFries practices Adult Psychiatry, employing an integrative treatment  approach combining medication management, psychotherapeutic methods, and  lifestyle modifications. She recognizes that each patient benefits from a  personalized mix of these three aspects of care. Dr. DeFries specializes in  treating diverse psychiatric conditions, including those related to trauma,  substance addictions, and various mental health disorders.    

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What you can expect in a first visit    

In a first visit with Dr. DeFries, patients can expect a comprehensive  evaluation aimed at understanding their individual mental health history,  specific concerns, and overall treatment goals. Dr. DeFries emphasizes an  individualized approach, carefully exploring the best combination of  medication, therapy, and lifestyle adjustments tailored specifically to each  patient's needs. Patients can anticipate an empathetic and collaborative  environment focused on their personal experiences and goals.    

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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.

Dr. Coy Bolton was born and raised in South Texas, and was a teacher before becoming a physician. He completed medical school training and residency at Texas Tech Health Sciences Center in Lubbock, TX. Dr. Bolton has wanted to be a Psychiatrist for as long as he could remember. He will do his best to thoroughly and carefully work with his patients to determine the most accurate Psychiatric diagnosis/diagnoses possible.

While working together, Dr. Bolton may ask sensitive questions, but will do so in a nonjudgmental way with the only goal of helping his patients. He will also work in psychotherapy techniques during the sessions together. Dr. Bolton takes a holistic approach when working with patients, that focuses on multiple aspects of their lives.

Dr. Bolton prides himself on creating a safe and nonjudgmental space where the focus is simply on helping patients. He strives to work collaboratively with his patients, to ensure that he and the patient are both on the same page when it comes to their mental healthcare.

Background and credentials

Dr. Nilesh Tannu is a board-certified psychiatrist by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He earned his medical degree from B.J. Medical College in Pune and completed his adult psychiatry residency at the University of Texas Medical School at Houston, where he served as chief resident. During his training, he received awards from the Society of Biological Psychiatry, the American Academy of Addiction Psychiatry, and the American Psychiatric Institute for Research and Education. He has been practicing General Psychiatry and Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry for the past seven years at Texas Medical Center in Houston, Texas. Additionally, he has served as an assistant professor of psychiatry at the Texas Medical Center, working at UT Physicians Clinics and Memorial Hermann Hospital. He is also a member of the Editorial Board for BMC Genomics Journal.

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Treatment approach

Dr. Tannu follows the bio-psycho-social model to provide evidence-based psychopharmacologic treatment. He integrates supportive therapy and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) modalities into his practice to create personalized and comprehensive treatment plans. He is committed to mental health care, education, and helping patients achieve optimal functioning in their personal and professional lives. His clinical expertise includes ADHD, anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders, insomnia, eating disorders, and complex medical comorbidities.

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What you can expect in a first visit

During the first visit, patients can expect a comprehensive assessment where Dr. Tannu takes the time to understand their symptoms, treatment history, and personal goals. He employs a collaborative approach to develop a tailored treatment plan that may include medication management and therapy interventions. His focus is on evidence-based care, ensuring that patients receive treatments that are scientifically backed and aligned with their individual needs.

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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. Cecilia Fitz-Gerald is a board-certified psychiatrist trained in adult psychiatry and consultation-liaison psychiatry, formerly known as psychosomatic medicine. She has been practicing for over five years and has extensive experience working in a variety of clinical settings, including inpatient, outpatient, and emergency psychiatry. In addition, she specializes in working with patients with acute and chronic medical conditions that may be affecting their mental health, such as cancer, stroke, or a heart condition. She provides patient-centered care utilizing a collaborative approach to help her patients reach their goals. She is a native of Louisiana and a graduate of the LSU School of Medicine in Shreveport. She was elected to the prestigious medical honor society, Alpha Omega Alpha, during her fourth year of medical school and was awarded the John W. Bick Excellence in Psychiatry award. She completed her psychiatry residency training at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center where she served as Chief Resident and was a PRITE Fellow. Afterwards, she completed a fellowship in consultation-liaison psychiatry at Yale-New Haven Hospital. Dr. Fitz-Gerald has multiple scholarly publications, particularly in the fields of emergency psychiatry and hospital delirium and has presented at the annual conference for the Academy of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry. She is passionate about academic medicine and enjoys teaching medical students and residents. Her other areas of clinical interest include ICU delirium and cardiac psychiatry.

Cassandra Lozano, LPC, LCDC is located in Texas. She graduated with her bachelor's degree in psychology from the University of Texas-Brownsville. Following obtaining her master's degree in counseling and guidance from the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. She has 10 years of experience in the addictions field and 7 years in mental health, working with her local mental health authority for the past 8 years. She has dedicated her career to specializing in addictive disorders, ADHD, individuals struggling with mood disorders such as depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, and life transitions. Cassandra works with both adults and adolescents and is a strong ally of the LGBTQ community and Latinx communities. Her therapeutic approach is eclectic in nature, and client-centered. She collaborates with her clients, meeting them where they are and helping them find personalized solutions to achieve their goals and become their best selves. She utilizes a combination of Motivational Interview approaches, CBT, Solution-Focused counseling, and DBT. She ensures that clients are fully aware of their treatment goals and will work collaboratively to facilitate meeting their needs, finding meaning in life, and finding solutions to their current issues. In her personal life, Cassandra is the proud mother of two boys and enjoys tending to their Kuk Sool Won (martial arts) events. She loves relaxing on the beach and is very family oriented. She enjoys fishing, hunting, and off-roading in her jeep.

KaShunda "Shun” Davis is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas. She received her Master of Science in Counseling at Amberton University and postgraduate studies in Professional Counseling and Development at Lamar University. Shun has worked in various settings in the mental health field including community-based counseling centers, private practice, and large group practices providing counseling services to adults, couples, and adolescents. Her professional experience has focused on mood disorders (depression, bipolar disorder, persistent affective disorder), anxiety, trauma, personality disorders, self-esteem and confidence, gender identity and LGBTQIA+ concerns; relationship concerns, and life transitions. Shun's integrative therapeutic style provides an emotionally safe space that supports self-exploration, empowerment, and authenticity. Specializing in cognitive behavior therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, trauma-focused therapy, narrative therapy, and mindfulness; she tailors her approach to meet the unique needs of each individual. She is dedicated and passionate about assisting individuals to work through barriers to create the lives and relationships that they desire and to develop a sense of personal strength and self-acceptance. She celebrates and welcomes the diversity of all clients and strives to create an affirming, inclusive, and non-judgmental space to explore individual needs and therapeutic goals.

Tulsie Patel is a board certified psychiatrist who treats adults. She graduated Cum Laude from Drexel University and attended medical school at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. She completed her psychiatry residency at the University of Texas Southwestern (UTSW) and was elected to serve as Chief Resident during her final year of training. She has worked as an outpatient psychiatrist in California and Florida and has experience in medication management, individual and group therapy, and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). She is dedicated to constantly learning and has previously published numerous articles and book chapters on various topics in the fields of psychiatry, dermatology, and psychodermatology. She is also very passionate about education and medical journalism. During her residency training, she worked at ABC News in New York City as a member of their medical unit. She provided consultation on medical stories for programs including Good Morning America and World News with David Muir. She has published a number of articles on the websites for ABC News and Good Morning America. She also has experience presenting as an on-air expert for ABC News and for mental health podcasts. She is committed to continuously evolving as a provider in order to provide the best care for her patients. Her focus is always to provide patient-centered care by prioritizing open communication and collaboration with her patients. She has experience providing care for a variety of psychiatric illnesses. The conditions she treats include but are not limited to depression, anxiety, panic disorder, OCD, PTSD, and ADHD.

Nakia is a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor and Certified Sex Therapist with a Master of Education in Counseling and Development from Sam Houston State University. With extensive experience in education and private practice, she has helped individuals and couples navigate life's challenges and create meaningful change. Her expertise includes issues related to sexual health, intimacy, relationships, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, life transitions, and grief and loss. Specializing in working with individuals and couples, Nakia creates a warm and supportive environment where others feel heard and empowered. She guides them in making choices to change hindering situations and gain clarity through clinical tools to interpret and respond differently to life's challenges. Her approach is collaborative and tailored, ensuring therapy meets the unique needs of each person while celebrating progress. Nakia uses a holistic approach that integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, and Person-Centered Therapy. She is also trained in Gottman Levels 1 and 2, providing evidence-based techniques to strengthen relationships and improve intimacy and communication. She believes change happens when individuals are honest with themselves and willing to do the work. As Carl Rogers said, "One must accept themselves as they are before change can occur.” Nakia considers it a privilege to support others as they heal, grow, and embrace life's possibilities.

Nisha Saintelus Deratus, LPC, is a proud HBCU graduate of Prairie View A&M University with a Master’s in Counseling and over eight years of experience in the mental health field. She has provided care in inpatient psychiatric hospitals, partial and intensive outpatient programs, community mental health, and private telehealth practice. Nisha supports clients facing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, bipolar disorder, life transitions, anger management, and relationship challenges.

Nisha offers a warm, approachable, and nonjudgmental space where clients feel seen and supported. She believes in a collaborative approach to therapy, working alongside clients to identify the root of their struggles and develop a personalized plan for growth and healing. Her personable nature and tailored care help clients feel comfortable and empowered throughout the process.

In the first session, Nisha reviews teletherapy expectations and confidentiality, and conducts a psychosocial assessment to better understand your background and goals. Together, you’ll explore current challenges, create a vision for your future, and build a practical plan. Using CBT and ACT, she helps you develop tools and insights to apply between sessions for continued progress.