Anxiety Psychiatrists in Washington

Dr. David Wait, MD is American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology certified and a fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. A skilled psychopharmacologist and psychotherapist, he has over 30 years’ experience successfully helping people overcome a diverse range of emotional, psychiatric, and addiction challenges.

David was born in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and is a graduate of Augustana College. He obtained his MD at the USD School of Medicine. His residency was at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) in Little Rock where he was trained in both psychotherapy and biological management of psychiatric challenges.

Following residency training, Dr. Wait continued to work with UAMS and the State of Arkansas in research and program development focusing on implementing and then teaching novel strengths focused care for people with severe mental illness for the first 12 years of his career.

Later, Dr. Wait moved with his wife and three children to Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. He has since been in clinical practice and leadership roles in inpatient, outpatient, and telehealth psychiatric care settings.

Rather than focus primarily on illness or problems, Dr. Wait’s approach is to first evaluate his patients comprehensively, then utilize what’s learned from this to treat and empower them to make and then practice choices that lead to improved health and well-being, using an integrative model that recognizes that mental, physical, social, and spiritual health are one.

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Alana Ward is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP). Alan has been practicing since 2018 and has experience with individuals of all ages. Prior to becoming a PMHNP, Alana worked as a registered nurse in critical care and psychiatry. As a PMHNP, she has experience working on inpatient adult and geriatric psychiatric units, as well as providing psychiatric evaluations and consultations to individuals on medical units and emergency rooms at hospitals. Alana is very experienced working in outpatient settings managing various psychiatric diagnoses. She has also helped manage individuals in long term care facilities and assisted living facilities. When Alana is not providing direct patient care, she will on occasion help with instructing future nurses at Kent State University. Alana graduated with her Master's of Science in Nursing from Kent State University, and is board certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner through the American Nurse Credentialing Center. Alana enjoys treating a variety of mental health diagnoses including depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, mood disorders such as bipolar disorder, and various psychotic disorders. She believes in client-centered care, where clients get a say in their treatment in order to help make them feel their best. Alana truly believes that therapy is a crucial part of successfully treating any mental health diagnosis, in combination with medication management when warranted. Alana likes to add mindfulness and cognitive behavioral therapy techniques to her medication management appointments to help individuals receive effective, quality care.

Deora Johnson, PMHNP, is a board-certified adult psychiatric nurse practitioner with 24 years of experience. He is passionate about providing clients with a holistic approach to mental health care, incorporating both pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic interventions. Deora works with adult and senior populations, focusing on the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health conditions. He collaborates closely with clients to guide them through understanding and selecting the most effective interventions and medication management options for their needs. Supportive therapy, solution-focused therapy, and motivational interviewing are integral components of his medication management sessions.

Deora earned his Master of Science in Nursing from Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tennessee, and completed a nursing practice degree at the University of Alabama in Birmingham. He has experience treating patients in a variety of outpatient and inpatient settings.

His areas of specialty include the treatment of major depressive disorder, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD, and insomnia. His research focused on non-pharmacologic interventions for insomnia in individuals with depression.

Deora also has experience working with military veterans. At the VA Outpatient Clinic in Baltimore, Maryland, he treated veterans returning from Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, as well as those from the Vietnam and Korean War eras. His clinical work focused on PTSD, major depressive disorder, anxiety disorders, and bipolar disorder.

Deora believes the therapeutic relationship offers a unique opportunity to work collaboratively through life’s challenges. He views medication management as an important part of a comprehensive treatment plan that also includes therapy.

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Dr. Tim Kelly is a board-certified psychiatrist who specializes in adult psychiatry. His practice focuses primarily on medication management but often incorporates aspects of supportive, psychodynamic, and cognitive behavioral therapies into his 30-minute follow-up visits. Dr. Kelly also strongly believes in working in conjunction with therapists to achieve the best possible outcomes for his patients. He feels it is important to create strong therapeutic relationships with his patients in order to help patients achieve their treatment goals. Dr. Kelly received his undergraduate degrees in Human Biology and Spanish from Michigan State University. He then completed his medical education and a master's degree in medical humanities and bioethics at Northwestern University. He completed his adult psychiatry residency at the University of Washington. He has authored papers in medical education and LGBTQ advocacy. Dr. Kelly now lives in Pennsylvania with his husband, Kevin, and three dogs: Taquito, Fergie and Mimi. While Dr. Kelly treats adults of all backgrounds, he has a particular interest in working with young adults, students, and LGBTQ individuals.‍

Dr. Melody Stupey is a board-certified psychiatrist with over 26 years of experience treating adults in both inpatient and outpatient settings. She earned her medical degree from Oregon Health Sciences University and completed her residency at the University of Texas at San Antonio. Dr. Stupey is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology.

Dr. Stupey believes in a collaborative approach to treatment, emphasizing active listening, compassion, and respect. She strives to create a warm, supportive environment where patients feel safe and empowered to speak openly without fear of judgment.

Her treatment process is holistic, considering physical, emotional, and lifestyle factors. She evaluates diet, physical activity, sleep habits, and thought patterns alongside medication needs. Dr. Stupey prioritizes using the lowest effective dose of medication to meet treatment goals while supporting the patient’s overall well-being.

Dr. Tamoria is a California native whose career has taken him around the country. As a medical student at Temple School of Medicine in Philadelphia, PA he worked in a culturally diverse, urban community. He was Chief Resident at the “President’s Hospital” in Washington DC and spent the first part of his career serving as an active-duty Navy psychiatrist helping servicemembers and veterans. After the Navy, he returned west to WA whereas a Medical Director he led one of the state’s most successful behavioral health programs through COVID and into the telehealth revolution. Now he serves as Talkiatry’s first West Coast Chief leading and supporting psychiatrists across the western US.

Dr. Tamoria works with adults to diagnose and treat a wide variety of mental health conditions including Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, and more. He uses a combination of medication management and psychotherapy treatment to help patients improve and thrive. He is well experienced in caring for patients with complex histories or co-morbid medical conditions.

In the first appointment with Dr. Tamoria he completes a comprehensive evaluation of mental health symptoms, medical history, social supports, and stressors. He works collaboratively with patients to develop a treatment plan that may include lab tests, managing medications, initiating psychotherapy, or referring to other specialists. Over time he builds on the patient’s strengths and resilience to lead to recovery.

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Dr. McGowan is a board-certified adult psychiatrist with over 14 years of experience, during which time he primarily treated active-duty US Navy sailors, their family members, and military retirees in the outpatient setting. His practice focuses on medication management in addition to supportive and cognitive-behavioral therapy in 30-minute follow-up visits. He is a strong advocate of multiple treatment modalities and, in certain situations, may suggest that therapy and/or regular physical exercise be included in your treatment plan to provide the best outcome. He received his B.S. in Physics from the United States Naval Academy. After serving as an Intelligence Officer in the Navy for eight years, he transitioned to medicine and earned his medical degree from the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences in Bethesda, MD. After completing an intern year in Family Medicine, Dr. McGowan completed residency training in Psychiatry at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, VA, where he remained on staff for the next ten years and was primarily involved in resident training and education. He held academic appointments at the Uniformed Services University and Eastern Virginia Medical School and served as the Psychiatry Residency Program Director for six years. He served his final four years in uniform running the behavioral health department at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, WA. He recently retired from the Navy after a 30-year career. Dr. McGowan has extensive experience in outpatient psychiatric care. In addition to the full spectrum of mood and anxiety disorders, he has treated a very large number of patients with PTSD stemming from combat, natural disasters, and sexual trauma. He believes that, like his service to the country, working alongside others in their journey to better mental health is an incredible privilege.

Dr. Lauren Miller earned her medical degree from Loma Linda University and completed her psychiatry residency at the University of Miami. She has experience working in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatry, caring for individuals from diverse backgrounds and with a wide range of clinical needs. Dr. Miller has a special clinical interest in lifestyle and integrative psychiatry, particularly the role of nutrition, exercise, sleep, and mind-body practices in supporting mental health.

Dr. Miller strives to create a warm, collaborative, and non-judgmental environment where patients feel truly heard and supported. She values whole-person care, addressing not only mental and emotional health, but also physical and spiritual well-being. She believes in partnering with patients to create treatment plans that reflect their values, goals, and strengths. Her approach emphasizes accessibility, practicality, and empowerment, providing patients with tools they can integrate into daily life.

Dr. Miller begins with a thorough, compassionate evaluation, taking into account both medical and psychiatric history as well as personal goals. She develops personalized treatment plans that may include a blend of medication, psychotherapy, and lifestyle approaches. Dr. Miller encourages small, sustainable steps in areas such as nutrition, sleep, movement, and stress management, with the goal of not only reducing symptoms but also building resilience and long-term wellness.

Dr. Regina Fu is a board-certified psychiatrist who began her interest in Psychiatry while studying Psychobiology at UCLA. After completing her General Psychiatry residency at University of Rochester, she emphasizes a holistic approach to mental health treatment using the biopsychosocial foundation. Her approach to patient care combines evidence-based medicine while recognizing the individual factors that can influence well-being. She has a special interest in Cultural Psychiatry and prioritizes providing personalized and effective care to a diverse patient population.

Angelica Luciano, PMHNP, has been dedicated to health care for over 22 years. Her journey began in 2003 when she enlisted in the Air Force as a medic and later served as a nurse in the Department of Defense. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Nursing from Indiana State University, was commissioned as a Nurse Officer in the U.S. Public Health Service, and went on to complete her master’s at Gonzaga University. Inspired by her work as a psychiatric RN, Angelica pursued her calling in mental health and became board certified as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in 2017.

Angelica provides care through a warm, direct, and nonjudgmental style. She takes a biopsychosocial approach, recognizing the interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors in mental health. By combining psychopharmacology, patient education, and brief supportive therapy, she offers care that is accessible, collaborative, and authentic. Patients can expect to feel heard, respected, and actively involved in their treatment decisions.

Angelica begins with a comprehensive consultation to understand each patient’s history, concerns, and goals. This may take several appointments before finalizing a treatment plan. Plans may include lab work, collaboration with a patient’s broader health care team, and involvement of supportive family members if desired. Her goal is to create individualized care tailored to patient needs while ensuring comfort, advocacy, and trust. She emphasizes that patients are never defined by a diagnosis but valued as whole individuals.

Background and credentials

Dr. Phillip Azouz is a board-certified general adult psychiatrist. He earned his medical degree from the University of Michigan Medical School, where he was awarded the Albert M. Barret Award for Distinguished Performance in Psychiatry. He completed his psychiatric residency at Florida Atlantic University. Prior to medical school, he obtained his undergraduate degree in economics with honors from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. His background includes research at the Heinz C. Prechter Bipolar Research Center and the Benson-Henry Institute for Mind-Body Medicine at Massachusetts General Hospital. Additionally, he worked as a Mental Health Specialist at McLean Psychiatric Hospital.

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Treatment approach

Dr. Azouz provides a relaxed, conversational, and non-judgmental space for patients to reflect on and integrate all aspects of their lives. He believes that vulnerability is key to healing and growth and works with individuals seeking to improve mood, reduce anxiety, enhance sleep, boost attention, or heal from trauma. His approach blends the latest research in medical treatment with insights from psychotherapy and coaching. He specializes in treating major depression, anxiety disorders, ADHD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, addiction, and personality disorders.

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What you can expect in a first visit

During the first visit, patients can expect a comprehensive and collaborative evaluation where Dr. Azouz takes the time to understand their symptoms, challenges, and goals. He fosters an open and supportive environment, ensuring that treatment plans are personalized and aligned with each patient’s unique needs. His approach integrates evidence-based medication management, psychotherapy techniques, and coaching strategies to help patients achieve their full potential.

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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. Ocean Workman, MD, has experience in outpatient, inpatient, and psychiatric emergency settings. They earned their medical degree from the University of Maryland School of Medicine and completed residency in psychiatry at the University of Washington, where they served as Outpatient Chief Resident and completed an area of distinction in psychotherapy. Dr. Workman also holds a Master of Science in Nutrition and Human Performance from Logan University and is a 500-hour Registered Yoga Teacher trained in Rishikesh, India. They have a special interest in serving LGBTQIA+, kink/sex-positive, and non-monogamous communities.

Dr. Workman’s style is warm, collaborative, and grounded in respect for each patient’s individuality. They combine evidence-based and personalized treatments that may include medication management, psychotherapy (ACT, DBT, CBT, psychodynamic, and supportive modalities), and holistic wellness approaches. Dr. Workman strives to create a safe, affirming space where patients can explore and grow in ways aligned with their values.

In the initial sessions, Dr. Workman conducts a comprehensive assessment of the patient’s goals, values, history, and concerns. Together, they develop a tailored treatment plan that reflects the patient’s unique needs, emphasizing shared decision-making and ongoing collaboration.

Severine Dondina, PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with licensure in Washington and Florida. She holds a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Alabama at Birmingham and graduated summa cum laude with dual bachelor’s degrees in nursing and biomedical science. Her background spans outpatient, community, forensic, and crisis psychiatry, including leadership roles with Florida’s Assertive Community Treatment (FACT) and Multi-Disciplinary Forensic Teams.

Currently serving patients in Washington, Severine treats adults with ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and bipolar disorder. She brings a trauma-informed, strengths-based approach to care and is deeply committed to creating affirming spaces for LGBTQ+ and gender-diverse individuals. Her clinical style combines evidence-based medication management with warm, collaborative support.

Trilingual in English, French, and Spanish, Severine is known for her cultural sensitivity, clinical rigor, and authentic presence. She approaches each patient with curiosity, humility, and respect—believing healing begins with connection.

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Amber Gordon, PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated to providing personalized mental health care. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration from the University of Memphis, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Union University, and a nursing practice degree from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center.

With over a decade of clinical experience, Gordon has worked in a variety of settings, including psychiatry, intensive care, and dialysis. Her psychiatric experience spans inpatient and outpatient care, as well as residential and correctional facilities. She has served diverse populations, addressing a wide range of mental health conditions such as mood disorders, anxiety disorders, substance use disorders, trauma- and stressor-related disorders, and perinatal psychiatric conditions.

Gordon’s approach to mental health emphasizes the complex interplay between mental and physical well-being, lifestyle choices, and environmental factors. She integrates conventional medicine with alternative therapies, recognizing the importance of medication while also advocating for therapy, nutrition, and lifestyle changes. This holistic philosophy reflects her belief in each patient’s unique journey to mental wellness. Her therapeutic style is described as warm, empathetic, and empowering, with a strong focus on building a trusting and connected therapeutic relationship.

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Dr. Emily Hutchison is a psychiatrist who earned her medical degree at the University of Washington School of Medicine. She brings over 20 years of experience treating patients with chronic illnesses and integrates whole health practices into her clinical approach. In addition to her medical training, she holds a master’s degree in Adult Fitness and Cardiac Rehabilitation, which informs her focus on the connection between physical and mental health. Dr. Hutchison’s practice is grounded in promoting well-being through a holistic lens that considers the whole person.

Dr. Hutchison prioritizes creating a collaborative relationship with every patient, tailoring treatment to meet the unique needs and goals of each individual. She believes in the importance of open communication, mutual trust, and shared decision-making as the foundation for effective care. Patients can expect a supportive and respectful environment where their experiences are valued, and treatment is approached as a partnership.

In her work, Dr. Hutchison begins by exploring each patient’s personal experiences and symptoms in depth, with the goal of understanding the whole picture of their health. She develops holistic treatment plans that integrate both medical and lifestyle considerations to support long-term wellness. Known for her punctuality, excellent communication, and genuine regard for every patient, Dr. Hutchison strives to ensure that care is not only effective but also compassionate and individualized.

Dr. Catherine Shim is a board-certified psychiatrist and completed her training at the University of Washington, where she received additional certifications in Psychotherapy and Community Psychiatry.  Prior to joining Talkiatry, she spent years serving the mental health needs of underserved communities as well as our Veteran population.  Dr. Cat is excited to bring that same dedication and selfless service to her Talkiatry patients!

Dr. Cat is experienced in managing a multitude of mental health conditions, but her specialty is providing behaviorally oriented trauma-informed care.  Her approach is to treat primarily through psychotherapy and behavioral change, with medication management serving as an important (and often essential) adjuvant to optimizing mental health.

Dr. Cat tends to have a very casual engagement style, so expect a frank but open conversation during your first meetings with her.  Following that initial screening, anticipate a candid discussion about her approach to your condition and an initial treatment plan.  Please feel free to bring up any questions or concerns at any time during this process, and note-taking is highly encouraged!

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