Anxiety Psychiatrists in Texas

What has motivated Dr. Wheatley over the course of her career as a caregiver? Dr. Wheatley is a native Houstonian who grew up in a working-class community. Through curiosity and hard work, she was able to attend a university that included people of vastly different life experiences. She was molded by both communities to appreciate the commonalities of humanity. That broad exposure extended her empathetic spectrum to grasp the needs of the American diaspora.

Dr. Wheatley uses a biopsychosocial approach to evaluate the patient. She gathers patient history with a mindset that considers the neuroscience that chemically shapes mood, thoughts, and behavior. She is able to uncover factors that can inhibit psychological growth and development. She has experience in seeing how the social conditions of the “then” can influence the resiliency of the “now”. Dr. Wheatley appreciates, and is proficient in, advances in technology, but prioritizes the analog relationship between doctor and patient.

Meeting people where they are. It is an old trope, but describes how one allows a patient to set the path forward. An open-ended interview is conducted with an open mind towards resolution. When being evaluated and treated by Dr. Wheatley, a patient can expect to be met in a cordial but professional manner. Treatments are discussed and considered based on the mental state of the patient and the clinical efficacy and scientific evidence of benefit. The patient is invited to ask questions and consider whether they wish to pursue the suggested treatment plan.

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Dr. Ayanna Swinton Jamison is a board-certified psychiatrist with over 18 years of experience in general, as well as child and adolescent psychiatry. She has extensive experience in counseling, and medication management. Dr. Jamison is committed to educating her patients about their illness and providing personalized care for each patient. Dr. Jamison received her undergraduate degree from Jackson State University. She graduated from Saint Louis University Medical School and completed her residency training in general psychiatry and child and adolescent psychiatry at the University of South Carolina. Dr. Jamison is a proud mom of four who enjoys spending time with her family, and attending her kids' sports events.

LaJoya McDonald is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with extensive experience across outpatient, telehealth, and managed care settings. She holds a Master’s degree in Social Work and specializes in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, and life transitions.

LaJoya is dedicated to creating a safe, supportive, and collaborative environment where clients feel heard and empowered. Her treatment style is integrative and person-centered, utilizing evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), trauma therapy, Motivational Interviewing (MI), Solution-Focused Therapy, Interpersonal Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, supportive therapy, goal-oriented therapy, and mindfulness-based techniques.

LaJoya helps clients explore their thoughts, emotions, and patterns while developing practical tools for coping, healing, and growth. She believes in tailoring each treatment plan to the unique goals, strengths, and values of the individual, and takes pride in walking alongside her clients through life’s challenges with compassion and respect.

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Dr. Osman Athar is board certified in General Psychiatry and board eligible in Consult-Liaison Psychiatry. He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in English from Rice University and McGovern Medical School for his medical doctorate, and went on to complete a psychiatry residency at the University of Texas-Houston, where he served as a chief resident. Afterward, he completed a fellowship in Consult-Liaison Psychiatry at Louisiana State University - Ochsner Medical Center in New Orleans. Dr. Athar has experience in treating a wide variety of conditions, including Major Depression, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Eating Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, PTSD, Substance Use Disorders, Delirium, Dementia, and Mental Disorders due to Another Medical Condition. Dr. Athar primarily focuses on medication management in his practice but will typically also use supportive therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy skills with his patients in order to maximize wellness and recovery. Dr. Athar held an academic appointment at the University of Mississippi Medical Center where he was an assistant professor of psychiatry. He served as the clerkship director for the Medical Neuroscience and Behavior Course during his appointment, which required a six-week course for third-year medical students, which included four weeks of psychiatry education. During his appointment, Dr. Athar was also very active in resident education, focusing on topics related to consult-liaison psychiatry. Dr. Athar has experience in treating a wide variety of conditions, including Major Depression, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Eating Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, PTSD, Substance Use Disorders, Delirium, Dementia, and Mental Disorders due to Another Medical Condition. Dr. Athar primarily focuses on medication management in his practice.

Background and credentials

Dr. Jessica Matthews is a board-certified general psychiatrist. She earned her medical degree from the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio and completed her psychiatry residency at Tripler Army Medical Center in Honolulu, HI. After her training, she was stationed at Fort Hood, TX, where she worked as a staff physician in the inpatient unit at Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center and later became the inpatient medical director. She subsequently transitioned to outpatient care, serving as a staff physician and later as clinic chief in the outpatient embedded behavioral health clinics. She continued working as a staff physician after leaving the military.

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Treatment approach

Dr. Matthews specializes in medication management, often incorporating supportive and cognitive-behavioral-focused therapy into treatment. Follow-up visits typically last 30 minutes, during which she evaluates progress and adjusts treatment as needed. She takes a collaborative approach and may recommend additional therapy when she believes it will optimize patient outcomes. Her primary areas of focus include treating adults with depression, anxiety, and stress/trauma-related disorders.

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What you can expect in a first visit

During the first visit, patients can expect a comprehensive evaluation where Dr. Matthews takes the time to understand their symptoms, history, and treatment goals. She prioritizes a structured yet patient-centered approach, discussing medication management options while considering therapeutic interventions tailored to individual needs. If necessary, she may recommend additional therapy as part of a well-rounded treatment plan.

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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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David Arabie is a licensed professional counselor and certified tobacco treatment specialist with extensive experience working in the mental health field. David has worked directly with clients from various demographics and in various clinical settings, from inpatient hospitals, outpatient clinics, private practice, to working with the incarcerated. David has a long history of working with clients with an array of mental health conditions and challenges, from mood disorders, adjustment-related issues, addiction, family dynamics, relationship issues, emotional trauma, behavioral issues, anger management, and clinical anxiety and depression. He has a working knowledge of psychotropic medications to help with med-compliance and treatment barriers. David obtained undergraduate and graduate degrees from the University of Houston Clear Lake in Houston, Texas. David has been practicing as an LPC for 19 years but has also worked as a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor before obtaining his LPC. Working with David, treatment is tailored to the individual, so the goals of therapy can be met, and the client can experience a sense of vested interest in their own emotional contentment and growth. David uses an eclectic approach to therapy, with a strong foundation in Solution-Focused Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, and Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy. Personally, David is a musician, community theater actor, educator, coach, and swim official.‍

Dr. Nidhi Sharoha is a double board certified psychiatrist in Psychiatry and Consultation Liaison Psychiatry. She completed her undergraduate training at Stony Brook University followed by medical school at New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine. She has completed both a Residency in Psychiatry and Fellowship in Consultation Liaison Psychiatry at Nassau University Medical Center.

Dr. Sharoha has held academic appointments at Stony Brook University Hospital, practicing as a consultant psychiatrist and Associate Director of Consultation Liaison Psychiatry Fellowship. “Dr. Sharoha has accrued experience and expertise in Perinatal Psychiatry through her training in CL psychiatry. Currently, Dr. Sharoha is serving as President Elect of Long Island District Branch  of APA. She  has formerly served as Associate Director of Clinical Education here at Talkiatry.” She has contributed to education, training and supervision of trainees and physicians throughout her career.   She continues to stay up to date with current psychiatric knowledge.

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 also has experience in treating patients with medical comorbidities and has training in issues related to women's health. Patients looking for a psychiatric provider will find that Dr. Sharoha has a gentle approach to diagnosis and management of her patients. She believes in the principle that body and mind are interconnected, which allows her to provide comprehensive care to all of her patients.

Dr. Mouneimne is a Board-Certified bilingual psychiatrist specializing in general adult psychiatry, bringing extensive experience from her residency training in the underserved area of East Texas. She earned her medical degree from the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine in Fort Worth and has received broad exposure to child/adolescent, geriatric, and adult inpatient and outpatient psychiatry. With a background in Engineering from Texas A&M University, Dr. Mouneimne employs an analytical approach to diagnose and treat mental health issues through personalized and collaborative care. Her training has included both in-person and virtual encounters to extend care across larger geographic areas. She has experience managing psychiatric care in acute behavioral health units as well as long-term facilities and has focused training in applied Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Dr. Mouneimne prioritizes maintaining strong patient-provider relationships, ensuring that patients feel heard and seen to optimize treatment outcomes. She is committed to de-stigmatizing mental health services and providing culturally competent care. Her practice incorporates medication management as part of a comprehensive treatment strategy, emphasizing a deep understanding of the underlying etiology rather than merely addressing symptoms. Known for her compassionate and open bedside manner, she values each patient's unique story as essential to their care. ‍In addition to medication management, her practice includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and supportive psychotherapy to effectively address complex mental health needs. Dr. Mouneimne strives to promote overall well-being and encourage active patient engagement in their care, ensuring that treatment plans support patient goals, comfort, and meaningful outcomes.

Dr. Holly Shiao is a psychiatrist who has worked extensively with medically complex patients, including a special focus in psycho-oncology with cancer patients. She is double board-certified in Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Adult Psychiatry. She has been practicing for over 7 years. Before Talkiatry, Dr. Shiao worked as an Assistant Professor at the University of Washington and Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center. She also worked as an Assistant Professor and was Director of Emergency Psychiatry at the University of Chicago. She has presented nationally at the Academy of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and written a book chapter about psycho-oncology. Dr. Shiao attended medical school at John P. and Kathrine G. McGovern Medical School at the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston. She then completed an Adult Psychiatry residency at the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, followed by a Consultation-Liaison fellowship at Dell Medical School at the University of Texas at Austin. Dr. Shiao is interested in the mind-body connection in overall emotional and mental well-being. She likes to integrate therapy modalities, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, supportive therapy, mindfulness and meditation with medication management to optimize a patient's mental health.

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.

Eyerusalem Mulatu practices as a Licensed Professional Counselor, Chemical Dependency Counselor, and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. She has provided over a decade of experience in treating clients with mental health, trauma, and substance abuse addiction in a residential, PHP and IOP level of care. Eyerusalem's passion is providing education on how childhood trauma impacts daily life, coping skills to maintain sobriety, confronting the past, and living a healthy life. Eyerusalem's goal is to ensure clients feel heard, safe, and secure with their right to confidentiality. She has identified creative ways to build therapeutic rapport in a telehealth platform to strengthen the virtual care experience. Eyerusalem is qualified in caring for the family as a whole and identifying underlying issues such as unresolved trauma that exacerbate feelings of depression and anxiety. She empowers individuals on their road to healing. Eyerusalem is a Master's level clinician with over a decade of experience in treating Adults and Adolescents. Eyerusalem is also a post-induction therapist trained in the Meadows Model. In addition, Eyerusalem is a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional specializing in treating childhood trauma. Eyerusalem uses a variety of modalities to help treat patients from CBT, Narrative, and DBT.

Dr. Ruiz is a compassionate psychiatrist specializing in adult and maternal mental health. She develops personalized treatment plans to address anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, PMDD, and perinatal conditions. Her goal is to help patients reconnect with their values and live balanced, fulfilled, and meaningful lives.

Her passion for medicine began in childhood, inspired by curiosity about the mind and body. She earned an Honors Chemistry degree with  magna cum laude and completed her medical training and psychiatry residency at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center. With a strong scientific foundation, Dr. Ruiz understands the role of medications, and embraces holistic healing through connection, gratitude, and spirituality.

Dr. Ruiz has experience in diverse clinical settings and has received national awards including the AWP International Fellowship and ADMSEP Innovations Award. She is dedicated to advancing maternal mental health screening and treatment through clinical care and education.

Dr. Ruiz combines pharmacotherapy (medication) with psychotherapy to create individualized treatment plans. Therapy provides powerful tools to manage thoughts, emotions, and behaviors that support balanced brain chemistry. Research shows that medication helps restore this balance more quickly and effectively, especially in moderate to severe cases.  

Dr. Ruiz likens medication for the brain to fertilizer for a garden. Imagine your mental health as a vibrant garden—when well-nourished, it can thrive with resilience, beauty, and balance. But when symptoms like depression, anxiety, ADHD, or mood instability take hold, they act like invasive weeds, crowding out healthy growth and making it hard to enjoy the space. Medication acts like fertilizer, strengthening the garden’s natural systems so the healthy parts can reclaim their place and flourish. Just as some gardens need only seasonal care while others require more consistent tending, medication plans are personalized to support each person’s long-term mental wellness. When the garden is healthy, there's more room to grow, connect, and fully enjoy life.

With a strong background in chemistry and pharmacology, Dr. Ruiz prioritizes educating her patients about how medications work and why they can be helpful. She believes patients should take an active role in understanding their diagnosis and treatment. Her approach emphasizes diagnostic clarity, medication management, patient education, and brief psychotherapy based on cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT).

Your first appointment is a supportive, in-depth conversation to share your story, challenges, and goals. Dr. Ruiz will review your medical and psychiatric history and assess symptoms using a whole-person approach that considers biological, psychological, and social factors.

Together, you’ll develop a personalized plan that may include lab work, medication, and therapy. Initial visits last 60 minutes for thorough evaluation; follow-ups typically last 20–30 minutes, focusing on medication management and brief therapy. If needed, Dr. Ruiz can refer you to in-house or community therapists for add-on therapy support.  

Throughout your care, Dr. Ruiz prioritizes shared decision making to ensure you feel informed, empowered, and supported.

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Dr. Garrick Gaffney is board certified in psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN). He earned his medical degree from Kansas City University and completed his psychiatry residency at John Peter Smith Hospital in Fort Worth, Texas. A combat veteran, he served in the U.S. Marine Corps, including a tour in Iraq, and was honored with the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal and a Certificate of Commendation for exemplary leadership.

During medical school, Dr. Gaffney pursued advanced training as an Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine fellow. As a resident, he served as Chief Academic Resident and earned accolades such as Intern of the Year and Outstanding Educator of the Year twice consecutively.

Dr. Gaffney specializes in treating complex psychiatric conditions, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorder, and insomnia. He has presented case studies and quality improvement projects at national conferences, including the American Psychiatric Association (APA), Academy of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry, and Association for Academic Psychiatry.

A proponent of holistic care, Dr. Gaffney integrates psychotherapy into medication management and emphasizes lifestyle modifications and evidence‑based integrative medicine.

New patients receive comprehensive evaluations to rule out medical causes of symptoms, followed by tailored treatment plans combining therapy, medication, and lifestyle adjustments. Follow‑up visits focus on symptom management through supportive, brief dynamic, or cognitive behavioral therapy, with frequent appointments until stabilization is achieved.

Dr. Gaffney is committed to collaborative, patient‑centered care that addresses both mental and physical well‑being.

Amy Bichsel Pacheco Piña is a compassionate and experienced psychotherapist dedicated to helping individuals navigate the complexities of life with resilience and confidence. Amy holds a Master's in Social Work from the University of Nebraska-Omaha in 2008 and is licensed as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). With 16 years of experience in the mental health field, Amy specializes in anxiety, depression, trauma (including Narcissistic Abuse), and grief. Amy prides herself on creating a non-judgmental and healing environment that allows for self-discovery and assists clients in identifying their authentic selves. She has experience in many methods and techniques, ensuring that her approach integrates evidence-based practices with experiential techniques which are tailored to each client's unique needs to allow for nervous system regulation and a sense of safety within themselves. She believes in fostering a collaborative therapeutic relationship where clients feel empowered to set and achieve meaningful goals. From a holistic perspective, Amy incorporates techniques such as identifying strengths, mindfulness, polyvagal techniques, challenging core belief systems, early childhood, and attachment types to heal the mind, body, and spirit. When not working with clients, Amy enjoys being outdoors, reading, and spending time with her husband, son, and two dogs.

Dr. Farias is a board-certified physician in both adult and child & adolescent psychiatry, with a focus on the diagnosis and treatment of depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma- and stressor-related disorders, and ADHD. Dr. Farias graduated magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Houston, majoring in Biology with a minor in Chemistry. She then pursued her medical education at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, earning her Doctor of Medicine degree. Dr. Farias completed a three-year psychiatric residency at TTUHSC, followed by fellowship training in child and adolescent psychiatry. She completed her first year of fellowship at the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston and her second year at TTUHSC. With a diverse clinical background, Dr. Farias has gained experience in a variety of settings, including academic psychiatry, consult liaison psychiatry, intensive outpatient programs (IOP), partial hospitalization programs (PHP), emergency psychiatry, and outpatient psychiatry. This broad range of experience allows her to provide comprehensive, individualized care to patients at all stages of life. Dr. Farias takes a holistic approach to treatment, incorporating both medication management and psychotherapy. She utilizes principles from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and supportive psychotherapy, recognizing that a combined approach leads to better outcomes for patients.

Background and credentials

Dr. Agarwal is a board-certified adult psychiatrist. He obtained his bachelor's degree in Biological Sciences from the University of California at Irvine and graduated cum laude with his medical degree from the American University of Antigua. Dr. Agarwal completed his psychiatry residency training at the University of Central Florida, where he was elected chief resident.

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Treatment approach

Dr. Agarwal employs a collaborative and patient-centered approach, primarily focusing on medication management in combination with supportive therapy. He is a strong advocate of psychoeducation, believing it to be an integral part of effective psychiatric care. Dr. Agarwal specializes in treating adults experiencing depression, anxiety, PTSD, and insomnia. He is also experienced in managing patients with psychiatric conditions complicated by medical comorbidities such as obesity, hypertension, chronic pain, and diabetes.

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What you can expect in a first visit

Patients visiting Dr. Agarwal for the first time can anticipate a comprehensive evaluation conducted in a collaborative and supportive environment. Dr. Agarwal prioritizes understanding each patient's individual needs and concerns, creating a personalized treatment plan that integrates medication, supportive therapy, and psychoeducation. Follow-up visits typically last about 30 minutes, allowing time to adjust treatment and reinforce therapeutic strategies.

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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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