Find the right psychiatrist for your needs

Dr. Juliet Nichols has been a diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology since 2002 and has been practicing psychiatry for over 25 years. While an expert in psychopharmacology, Dr. Nichols has an integrative approach to treatment and she often incorporates psychotherapeutic techniques when appropriate, tailoring every treatment to each patient's individual needs. She completed her Psychiatry residency at Stony Brook-SUNY and Geriatric Psychiatry Fellowship at the Albert Einstein School of Medicine. Over the last two decades, Dr. Nichols served as an attending psychiatrist at JT Mather Hospital in Port Jefferson, NY, where she became proficient in delivering stellar psychiatric care in a variety of settings. She specializes in treating adult and geriatric mental illnesses, including: Depression, Anxiety Disorders (eg, OCD, Panic Disorder, GAD, PTSD), ADHD, and Cognitive Disorders in the elderly. Dr. Nichols strives to help her patients gain insights into their inner conflicts, unveil their strengths, accept their limitations, and build their coping skills. Her approach is dynamic, straightforward, and empathic so patients always feel safe, understood, and at ease. She engages the patient to be an active participant in treatment decision-making, creating a strong therapeutic alliance.‍

Dr. Jacqueline Lewandowski is a board-certified physician specializing in adult psychiatry. She obtained her undergraduate degree from New York University where she studied psychology and child/adolescent mental health. Dr. Lewandowski received her medical degree from St. George's University in Grenada, before moving back to New York to complete her residency at Morningside and West Mount Sinai Hospitals. Since completion of training, Dr. Lewandowski has practiced and held teaching positions in both the Comprehensive Psychiatric Emergency Department of Harlem Hospital and the inpatient units and psychiatric emergency rooms of Morningside and West Hospitals. Dr. Lewandowski has a wide range of experience treating a diverse spectrum of psychiatric diagnoses and populations. She strongly believes in tailoring treatments through a holistic and patient-centered lens based on individual and multi-faceted histories. During 30-minute monthly sessions, Dr. Lewandowski focuses on collaborating with patients using evidence-based treatments with an emphasis on medication management in conjunction with supportive therapy. Additionally, she may recommend bringing a therapist into your care team to help facilitate a more comprehensive treatment plan. Dr. Lewandowski looks forward to working with you to help achieve and optimize your wellness and improve your quality of life.

Background and credentials

Dr. Yang is board-certified in both General Psychiatry and Addiction Psychiatry. She received her medical degree from the Medical School of Nanjing University in China and completed her Ph.D. in Neuroscience at the State University of New York in Buffalo. She conducted neuroscience research at Tufts University and Columbia University. Dr. Yang completed her residency in Psychiatry at the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston – McGovern Medical School (UTHealth) and a fellowship in Addiction Psychiatry at Baylor College of Medicine. She has held academic positions at Baylor College of Medicine, supervising medical students, residents, and physician assistant students.

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Treatment approach

Dr. Yang specializes in treating depressive disorders, bipolar disorders, anxiety, substance use disorders, ADHD, and trauma-related disorders. She employs medication management combined with supportive therapy and motivational interviewing techniques. Dr. Yang emphasizes building strong therapeutic relationships, tailoring treatment to each patient's unique goals and needs.

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What you can expect in a first visit

In the initial visit, patients can expect a detailed, personalized evaluation by Dr. Yang. She will explore symptoms, medical history, personal goals, and treatment preferences to design an individualized care plan. Patients can expect a compassionate, collaborative approach with clear communication about medication management options and supportive therapeutic strategies aimed at improving their overall well-being.

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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. Alfers is a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in adult psychiatry. He has been practicing for over 11 years. He completed his undergraduate education at Virginia Tech, graduating Cum Laude with degrees in Biology and Chemistry. Following graduation, he attended a research internship at the National Institutes of Health where he received a Post-baccalaureate Intramural Research Training Award. Dr. Alfers completed his medical degree from the Western University of Health Sciences in Pomona, CA. He completed his General Psychiatry Residency at Georgetown University, where he served as Chief Resident. After residency, he entered private practice in McLean, VA. Dr. Alfers takes a comprehensive approach to patient care. He integrates biological, psychological, and environmental factors into treatment planning. He focuses on developing a meaningful therapeutic relationship and providing medication interventions for specific treatment goals. Dr. Alfers provides interpersonal psychotherapy in conjunction with medication management services. Dr. Alfers has a special interest in the treatment of multiple mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD, and OCD. Dr. Alfers treats adults ages 18 to 65 years old. For established patients of Dr. Alfers, please call 917-634-5311 to schedule an appointment and let the care coordinator know you are an established patient.

Dr. Gulati is a board-certified adult psychiatrist who has been in practice for over 10 years. She has worked in inpatient units, private practice, and community mental health, as well as served as Chief Medical Officer of a large psychiatric hospital. In 2018 she was awarded the Charleston Choice Award for Best Psychiatrist in Charleston, South Carolina. She currently resides in South Florida. Dr. Gulati's practice centers around treating the whole patient: mind, body, and spirit. She believes the judicious use of psychiatric medications, coupled with psychotherapy and alternative treatments such as meditation and yoga, can bring about transformative changes in the lives of those suffering from depression, anxiety, and other mental conditions and life issues. Dr. Gulati graduated with Honors in Psychology from The University of Florida, received her medical degree from The University of South Alabama School of Medicine, completed a clinical postdoctoral research fellowship at Boston University School of Medicine, and completed her Psychiatry residency training at The University of North Carolina. She is currently obtaining her MBA. After residency, she worked as a psychiatric hospitalist at Trident Medical Center in Charleston and has also worked in private practice. Most recently she served as Chief Medical Officer for an 80-bed psychiatric hospital, Coral Shores Behavioral Hospital in Stuart, FL. In addition to general adult psychiatry, Dr. Gulati received extensive training in one of the nation's largest women's mood disorder programs at The University of North Carolina Chapel Hill and enjoys treating peripartum and postpartum mood and anxiety disorders. She is also well trained in addiction medicine and received additional training in buprenorphine use for opioid addiction.

Background  and credentials    

Dr. Andrew Lelin is a board-certified Psychiatrist in Adult Psychiatry. He  received his bachelor's degree from Johns Hopkins University and a master's  in Medical Humanities, Compassionate Care, and Bioethics from Stony Brook  University. Dr. Lelin earned his medical degree from Hofstra-Northwell School  of Medicine and completed his residency at Rutgers-Robert Wood Johnson School  of Medicine, where he specialized in advanced psychopharmacology with diverse  patient populations. He also has extensive training and experience in  psychotherapeutic modalities, including psychodynamic therapy,  cognitive-behavioral therapy, habit-reversal therapy, and cognitive  processing therapy. Following his training, Dr. Lelin provided inpatient  consultation and crisis intervention services in New York City.    

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Treatment approach    

Dr. Lelin employs a compassionate, humanistic approach designed to align  closely with his patients' personal goals and values. His method integrates  advanced psychopharmacology with psychotherapeutic techniques such as  psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, habit-reversal, and cognitive processing  therapies. He aims to carefully balance diagnosis, avoiding both  overdiagnosis and underdiagnosis, to ensure precise and tailored care. Dr.  Lelin’s approach is particularly effective in addressing conditions like  anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, trauma-related issues, and other  psychiatric conditions.    

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What you can expect in a first visit    

During the initial visit, patients can expect a comprehensive, detailed  evaluation designed to thoroughly understand their individual experiences and  needs. Dr. Lelin prioritizes establishing a compassionate and comfortable  environment where patients can openly discuss their concerns and goals. This  initial assessment is followed by meticulous and thoughtful follow-ups,  providing clarity and direction in the treatment process.    

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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 speciualize in  medication management and collaborate with you on a treatment plan that fits  your needs and comfort level.

Dr. Elaine Kwok is a board-certified Adult Psychiatrist who has been practicing for 9 years. She specializes in depression and anxiety and believes in a holistic approach to the wellness of both the mind and body. Dr. Kwok conducts a comprehensive and individualized assessment for each patient utilizing a combination of medication management, lifestyle changes, and coping skills, creating a safe and therapeutic environment to facilitate healing and growth .Dr. Kwok received her undergraduate degree from New York University and her medical degree from St. George's University. She then completed her residency training at Seton Hall University. After training, she worked in the inpatient and outpatient units at Capital Health Medical Center in Trenton, New Jersey. She was a voluntary faculty member and trained residents and medical students from Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School. She has training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. She actively participates in her local community to provide education and training for mental health providers. Dr. Kwok strives to collaborate and address hindrances that may interfere with an individual's best self. She focuses on creating a strong therapeutic relationship to support and facilitate balance, lifestyle enhancement, and emotional well-being. She looks forward to getting to know you and embarking on this journey together.

Background and credentials

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

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Treatment approach

Dr. Seicarescu employs a collaborative, supportive, and patient-centered approach to psychiatric care, integrating medication management with therapy tailored specifically to each patient. She utilizes supportive therapy along with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), adjusted according to individual patient needs. Her specialty areas include the treatment of depression, bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders, PTSD, and a broad range of mental health conditions.</p>

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What you can expect in a first visit

Patients can expect an initial appointment with Dr. Seicarescu to include a thorough evaluation focusing on their unique psychiatric symptoms, personal experiences, and treatment goals. She offers a supportive and compassionate atmosphere, carefully combining medication management with individualized therapy recommendations. Her patient-centered approach ensures the creation of a personalized treatment plan to effectively address each patient’s specific needs.</p>

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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.</p>

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Dr. Kahlon is an experienced Psychiatrist who spent the last 24 years of his career working in Veterans Affairs, where he was able to treat a wide variety of patients. Dr. Kahlon provides medication management along with supportive therapy. In some cases Dr. Kahlon may refer you to a counselor or therapist for further care and collaboration. He has experience treating a wide range of conditions, including major depressive disorder, panic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and PTSD. Dr. Kahlon utilizes a well-rounded approach to treat the whole person, through medication, active listening, and recommending talk-centered counseling programs. Dr. Kahlon was trained in the VA system associated with Chicago Medical School (Finch University), which is located in North Chicago, Illinois. At the conclusion of his training, he was hired at the VA in Danville, Illinois until 2021. He also had a part-time private practice, which enhanced his experience in adult psychiatry. Dr. Kahlon graduated from a prestigious medical school that has consistently held a high position (4th) among the top 100 medical schools in the world.‍

Dr. Cheryl Person is the National Director of Clinical Quality at Talkiatry. She is board certified in general adult psychiatry and has been in practice for 20 years. Dr. Person focuses on medication management but believes that is only part of successful treatment. She will spend her time providing motivational interviewing or supportive therapy, and believes it is often critical to have a therapist as part of the treatment team. Dr. Person received her medical degree from Tulane University School of Medicine. She completed her psychiatric residency at Johns Hopkins and a psychiatric epidemiology fellowship at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health with a focus on disaster mental health. After relocating to Texas in 2010, she worked as Director of Psychiatric Services of a large safety-net hospital in Houston. Prior to Talkiatry, she most recently was the executive director/chief physician of a large university student health center and campus pharmacy. In addition to adult psychiatry, Dr. Person has worked extensively with victims of acute trauma and her primary focus is on working with patients who have anxiety and mood disorders.

Dr. Meena Shah is a board-eligible psychiatrist and has been practicing for over 16 years. She specializes in child and adolescent psychiatry. Dr. Shah's practice focuses on medication management in conjunction with supportive and emotionally focused therapy in 30-minute follow up visits. Dr. Shah believes in the importance of building a therapeutic relationship with her patients and families to help achieve their emotional goals. Dr. Shah completed her residency training through Richmond University Medical Center with NY Medical College and completed her fellowship at Brookdale University Medical Center in Brooklyn, NY. Dr. Shah has extensive experience with the child and adolescent population and worked with foster care programs as well as juvenile residential facility programs .Dr. Shah served as Children's Associate Medical Director at Directions for Living Mental Health Clinic and went on to become Medical Director at Sequel Care of Florida. In addition, Dr. Shah also received her Master's degree in Hyperbaric Medicine. She completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Florida with a major in psychology. Dr. Shah's primary clinical focus has been treating children, and young adults with ADHD, mood disorders, anxiety, and helping them establish coping skills to overcome any life obstacle.

Dr. Monica Badillo is double board-certified in child and adolescent psychiatry and adult psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. She received additional training and certification in Psychodynamic Psychotherapy at the New York Medical College Psychoanalytic Institute. Dr. Badillo is bilingual and speaks Spanish and English to deliver quality care for patients and parents. She provides medication management while incorporating psychoeducation, supportive, and psychodynamic psychotherapies. Generally, she employs 30-minute follow up sessions, and she may request a psychotherapist to participate in treatment. She listens and builds rapport with patients and families, while utilizing a trauma-informed, patient-centered, comprehensive, and collaborative approach. She completed her undergraduate degree at Fordham University in New York, and subsequently received her medical degree from Ross University School of Medicine in Dominica. She then completed general psychiatry residency and child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, BronxCare Health System. She excelled in her program and was awarded honors as Chief Fellow in achievement and professionalism. After completing training, Dr. Badillo continued to work at the institution as an attending psychiatrist in the Child and Adult Outpatient Services, Pediatric Comprehensive Psychiatric Emergency Program (CPEP), and Pediatric Consultation Liaison services. She has held leadership roles, and instructed medical students, fellows, and resident physicians. Dr. Badillo has treated patients of all age ranges and diverse backgrounds in community mental health settings. Her primary focus is treating children, adolescents, and young-early adults for depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, ADHD, trauma-related disorders, disruptive behavior disorders, and other psychiatric conditions.

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.

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. Panchal is a board-certified adult psychiatrist who works with motivated adults to navigate and discover the root of their mental health struggles. Since working in private practice, Dr. Panchal knows that discovering the root of difficulties allows clients to find healthy perceptions of themselves and strengthen their relationships so they can know themselves as a whole. She is trained in multiple therapeutic modalities as well as medication management, implementing individually tailored treatment. Her educational background includes training in psychodynamic psychotherapy with the Psychoanalytic Association of New York. She has completed her psychiatry training at Delaware Psychiatry Residency Program in New Castle, Delaware.

Dr. Patricia Klaine is an attending physician working at Talkiatry. She is board certified in adult psychiatry. After completing her training in adult psychiatry, she continued her education by completing a fellowship in consultation-liaison psychiatry, which enables her to treat patients with a variety of medical comorbidities confidently. Dr. Klaine focuses on medication management. She offers this in addition to supportive psychotherapy in 30-minute follow up visits. For some patients, it may be important to bring in additional psychotherapy for well-rounded care. Dr. Klaine received her medical degree from St. George's University in Grenada, and after that, she completed her training in general adult psychiatry at Maimonides Medical Center in Brooklyn, New York. She went on to complete a fellowship in consultation-liaison psychiatry at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York. After completing her training, she worked on an inpatient psychiatric unit before deciding to transition into outpatient psychiatric care. She looks forward to a collaborative relationship with her patients.

Dr. Ellis is a graduate of Robert Wood Johnson Medical School in Piscataway, NJ. He completed his psychiatric residency at Cooper Hospital/University Medical Center in Camden, NJ, where he served as Chief Resident his senior year. Dr. Ellis has served as Assistant Medical Director of the community mental health center of Gloucester County for 28 years, providing care to a diverse population. Additionally, Dr. Ellis maintained a private practice for 15 years, treating individuals and their families with ongoing collaboration with therapists and other health care providers

Background  and credentials    

Dr. Christine Reyes is a bilingual Spanish-speaking adult psychiatrist with  25 years of experience. She completed her residency in Adult Psychiatry at  Saint Vincent's Hospital and Medical Center in New York City and subsequently  completed a Child Psychiatry fellowship at the University of Pennsylvania in  Philadelphia. Dr. Reyes has extensive experience practicing in outpatient and  community mental health settings.    

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Treatment approach    

Dr. Reyes provides compassionate psychiatric care using pharmacotherapy  combined with supportive psychotherapy. She specializes in treating anxiety,  depression, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and  numerous other psychiatric conditions. Additionally, Dr. Reyes emphasizes  nutritional counseling, assisting patients in achieving and maintaining a  healthy weight as part of their overall wellness plan.    

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What you can expect in a first visit    

Patients can expect a compassionate and thorough initial assessment aimed  at understanding their psychiatric symptoms, personal health goals, and  lifestyle considerations. Dr. Reyes combines medication evaluation with  supportive psychotherapy and may discuss nutritional guidance as part of a holistic  treatment plan. She prioritizes creating a supportive environment for  bilingual (English/Spanish) patients to openly discuss their mental health  concerns.    

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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.

Background and credentials

Dr. Jenny Joseph is a board-certified adult psychiatrist. She earned her medical degree from St. George's University School of Medicine and completed her adult psychiatry residency at New York Medical College at Metropolitan Hospital Center. She has experience working with diverse patient populations and treating a range of psychiatric conditions.

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Treatment approach

Dr. Joseph specializes in medication management for various psychiatric conditions, including mood, anxiety, and psychotic disorders. She employs a patient-centered approach that emphasizes empathy, open communication, and collaboration. In addition to pharmacological treatment, she incorporates psychoeducation and supportive therapy to help patients better understand and manage their conditions. When beneficial, she may recommend additional therapy and coordinate care with a therapist to ensure comprehensive treatment.

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What you can expect in a first visit

During the first visit, patients can expect a thorough evaluation that explores their symptoms, treatment history, and personal goals. Dr. Joseph takes the time to listen and understand each patient's needs, ensuring that their treatment plan is tailored to their specific concerns. She provides a compassionate and structured approach to medication management while fostering a collaborative environment where patients feel supported in their mental health journey.

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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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Background and credentials

Dr. Nereida Gonzalez-Berrios is a general psychiatrist fluent in English and Spanish. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Microbiology from the University of Puerto Rico and her medical doctorate from Ponce School of Medicine (now Ponce Health Sciences University). She completed her General Psychiatry Training Program at the University of Puerto Rico Medical Sciences Campus, graduating in 2008. After practicing privately in Puerto Rico, she relocated to Texas, where she worked for over five years at the Michael E. DeBakey VA Health System, providing mental health care to veterans. She has also gained extensive experience in telemedicine, working both within the VA system and as a locum tenens provider.

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Treatment approach

Dr. Gonzalez-Berrios has extensive experience treating a wide range of psychiatric conditions, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, intellectual impairment, ADHD, eating disorders, PTSD, and personality disorders. She integrates traditional psychiatric treatment with a holistic wellness approach, drawing on her background as a motivational speaker, wellness coach, certified personal fitness trainer, nutrition coach, and weight-loss specialist. Her approach emphasizes improving overall mental and physical well-being through personalized treatment plans that incorporate psychiatric care, wellness strategies, and lifestyle modifications.

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What you can expect in a first visit

Patients can expect a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation where Dr. Gonzalez-Berrios carefully assesses their symptoms, medical history, and personal wellness goals. She takes a collaborative and patient-centered approach, ensuring that treatment is tailored to each individual’s mental and physical health needs. As an experienced telemedicine provider, she offers accessible and flexible mental health care, combining medication management and holistic wellness strategies to help patients achieve lasting well-being.

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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. Jillian Saad is a board-certified adult psychiatrist who specializes in patient-centered care. She has been practicing for over 8 years in private practice and academic medicine .Dr. Saad focuses on medication management in 30-minute follow-up visits in conjunction with supportive and emotionally focused therapy. She takes a patient-centered approach that acknowledges all the psychosocial aspects of each individual to ensure they receive the most effective treatment possible. She received her medical degree from UMDNJ Robert Wood Johnson Medical School in Piscataway, NJ, then moved to Pennsylvania to complete her residency at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia. Upon completion of training, Dr. Saad went into private practice for 5 years in southern NJ where she treated children, adolescents, and adults with a wide array of psychiatric disorders. She then went into academic medicine at Cooper University Hospital in Camden, NJ, where she served as the Associate Program Director of the Psychiatry Residency Program supervising and teaching both residents and medical students .Dr. Saad has experience working with a broad range of psychiatric disorders including mood disorders, PTSD, OCD, and ADHD. She also has a strong interest in Women's Mental Health and alternative treatment options.

Dr. Jonathan Hertz is board-certified in adult psychiatry. He completed fellowships in child and adolescent and public psychiatry and has been practicing psychiatry for over 18 years. Dr. Hertz's practice focuses on medication management which is offered with supportive and/or dynamic psychotherapy within 30-minute follow-up sessions. If patients have individual psychotherapists, Dr. Hertz will work collaboratively with these providers within a treatment-team approach to patient care delivery. Dr. Hertz received his medical degree from Tufts University School of Medicine in Boston. He remained in Boston to complete a residency in adult psychiatry at Cambridge Health Alliance and a fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry at Children's Hospital Boston. Dr. Hertz subsequently returned to his hometown of NYC and completed a fellowship in public psychiatry. Dr. Hertz has clinical and administrative experience in the field of psychiatry. These positions include ACT Team community psychiatrist, director of adult outpatient clinic, and medical directorship in behavioral health within community hospitals. With training in child/adolescent, adult, and public psychiatry, Dr. Hertz has a developmental approach to mental health care. That is, he collaboratively explores the bio-psychosocial factors that may have influenced the development of mental disorders. Dr. Hertz believes an ecological approach enables a broader view of the multip

Background and credentials

Dr. Diane Lewis is board-certified in general psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. She earned both her undergraduate and medical degrees at Texas A&M University (College Station and Temple, TX) before completing her general psychiatry residency at UT Southwestern - Austin Programs (now Dell Medical School residency programs). After her residency, she practiced for eight years as a staff psychiatrist at the University of Texas' student counseling center. She also has experience working in hospital admissions and emergency department settings.

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Treatment approach

Dr. Lewis employs a medication-management-focused approach typically paired with supportive therapy during 30-minute follow-up visits. She strongly values a collaborative treatment approach, frequently encouraging patients to incorporate additional therapy for the best outcomes. Her primary specialty is college mental health, treating patients aged 18-45 with a range of mental health conditions from mild to complex. Dr. Lewis emphasizes authenticity, compassion, and recognizing patients beyond their diagnoses, providing care tailored to individual circumstances and goals.

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What you can expect in a first visit

During a first visit, patients can expect Dr. Lewis to conduct a thorough evaluation, carefully listening to their concerns, and considering their symptoms within the broader context of their lives. Her patients appreciate her down-to-earth and compassionate communication style. She aims to create an environment where patients feel understood, respected, and actively involved in shaping their personalized treatment plan, often recommending additional therapy support when beneficial for achieving optimal 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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Background and credentials

Dr. Edelman is Board Certified in Psychiatry and Board Eligible in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. She completed her psychiatry residency training at the Medical College of Georgia and SUNY Downstate, followed by a fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at SUNY Downstate. Throughout her career, Dr. Edelman has practiced in various clinical environments, including inpatient child and adolescent psychiatric units, academic outpatient treatment clinics for adults and children, emergency psychiatric settings, and community psychiatry. She has over seven years of experience.

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Treatment approach

Dr. Edelman utilizes a collaborative, supportive, and patient-centered approach, combining pharmacotherapy with therapeutic modalities such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy, supportive therapy, and interpersonal therapies. She treats a wide variety of conditions, including depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, ADHD, learning disorders, substance use disorders, PTSD, and schizophrenia. Her goal is to partner closely with patients to meet their specific needs, achieve their personal goals, and enhance their overall quality of life.

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What you can expect in a first visit

Patients can expect their initial visit with Dr. Edelman to include a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, during which she takes the time to understand each patient's individual concerns, goals, and history. She emphasizes collaborative planning of treatment, carefully integrating medications and tailored therapeutic interventions. Patients will experience a compassionate and supportive atmosphere designed to set clear expectations and foster progress toward their personal mental health 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.

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Dr. De Paz received his medical degree from the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston, TX, and has been practicing for 9 years. He completed his psychiatric residency and child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship training at the University of Texas Medical Branch. After completing training, he worked at the Center for Health Care Services in San Antonio, TX. He worked with special needs children and adults who required the highest level of care both behaviorally and medically. He then continued his treatment of children and young adults at CommuniCare Health Center also in San Antonio. He served as Director of Behavioral Health for CommuniCare for 4 years. Dr. De Paz completed his undergraduate studies in Psychology and Biology at the University of Houston in Houston, TX. While having treated a wide variety of patients, his primary clinical focus has been the treatment of ADHD in children and adults, and working with special needs children and adults who may have Autism Spectrum Disorder or other Intellectual or Developmental Disabilities. Dr. De Paz's practice focuses on medication management. He offers medication management evaluations and follow-up visits. If the need arises, he works with licensed therapists to provide behavioral support.

Background and credentials

Dr. John Whittier is a board-certified psychiatrist. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology from the University of Colorado at Boulder and went on to obtain a master’s degree in Medical Science from Loyola University Chicago. He completed his medical training at the Robert Larner, M.D. College of Medicine at The University of Vermont and returned to Colorado for his psychiatry residency at the University of Colorado School of Medicine. While in residency, he specialized in the Psychotherapy Scholars Program and has since gained four years of experience treating psychiatric conditions through telehealth.

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Treatment approach

Dr. Whittier primarily focuses on medication management for general psychiatric conditions. His approach is individualized, ensuring that each patient receives a treatment plan tailored to their unique needs. He integrates supportive therapy, medications, and evidence-based alternative therapies to provide a flexible and comprehensive approach. In addition to his general practice, he maintains a psychodynamic psychotherapy panel where he helps patients explore developmental and relational patterns that contribute to their symptoms. His specialties include treating depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, PTSD, insomnia, bipolar disorder, and ADHD.

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What you can expect in a first visit

During the first visit, patients can expect a one-hour comprehensive intake during which Dr. Whittier thoroughly evaluates their symptoms, medical history, and personal goals. He provides treatment options that prioritize flexibility, allowing patients to take an active role in their care. Follow-up visits typically last 20 to 30 minutes, focusing on assessing treatment progress and making necessary adjustments. For those engaged in psychodynamic psychotherapy, longer one-hour sessions are available for in-depth exploration of underlying psychological patterns.

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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. Peckover is a Staff Psychiatrist at Talkiatry. He is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in Adult Psychiatry. He has been practicing for three and a half years. Dr. Peckover provides patient-centered care with an emphasis on medication management, psychoeducational, and lifestyle adjustments. He typically provides supportive or integrative therapy along with medication management, but some cases will require the addition of a therapist to the treatment team. Dr. Peckover received a Bachelor's of Medical Science from the University of Western Ontario in Canada and received his Medical Degree from Ross University. He completed his residency at Metropolitan Hospital in Manhattan, where he served as chief resident in his final year. He then worked as a psychiatrist in the outpatient department at Kings County hospital, where he also supervised residents from SUNY Downstate. As an outpatient psychiatrist, Dr. Peckover has an extensive history of treating patients of all ages with a wide variety of psychiatric disorders, with an emphasis on mood and anxiety disorders. He treated patients remotely during the COVID-19 outbreak, helping to manage the increase in stress that came with the pandemic.