Meet our
clinical team

Eva Sleczka LCSW has a wealth of experience and a passion for integrated patient care. Eva Sleczka, LCSW brings a unique blend of expertise and compassion that is sure to benefit psychotherapy patients. Eva Sleczka, LCSW is a broadly accomplished social worker with years of experience in hospital health-based and community-based human services environments. Eva Sleczka LCSW has an impressive background in the behavioral health field, holding an MSW, LCSW from New York University and specializing in behavioral health psychotherapy with adults, children and families. They have spent 30 years working in various healthcare settings, including health and hospital systems, emergency room and screening center for psychiatric emergency services, school-based and community-based outpatient treatment settings, where they have honed their skills and gained valuable experience in patient care. Their commitment to staying abreast of the latest advancements in behavioral health science ensures that our patients receive the highest quality of psychotherapy care. One of the key strengths Eva Sleczka, LCSW, brings to our team is their expertise in integrative care and trauma-informed psychotherapy, skilled with adults and families with mental health needs. They have a proven track record of clinical supervision of social work students in the field, experience as a Clinical Director of a community mental health setting, psychotherapist for adults, children, and families with mental health needs, making them a valuable resource for both our patients and our staff. Whether it's managing complex cases, providing preventive care, or offering specialized treatments, supervision of social work students Eva Sleczka, LCSW is dedicated to delivering comprehensive and personalized care to each patient. At the core of Eva Sleczka, LCSW's practice is a patient-centered approach that prioritizes the individual needs and preferences of each patient. They believe in fostering strong clinician-patient relationships built on trust, empathy, and open communication. By involving patients in their own care decisions and providing education about their health, Eva Sleczka, LCSW, empowers patients to take an active role in their well-being. Eva Sleczka, LCSW utilizes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), focusing mainly on acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) and incorporating mindfulness into a wellness-based approach.

James "Derek" Slover, LPC-S (but just call him Derek), has been practicing counseling since 2006. He has worked in a wide range of settings, including community clinics, hospitals, and telehealth- and now helps teens, parents, and adults navigate the challenges of anxiety, mood disorders, behavior issues, and more.

Derek's approach is collaborative, practical, and rooted in evidence-based care. He brings humor, clarity, and a no-nonsense style to counseling, believing that treatment should make sense and feel useful. You won't get psychobabble or a 47-slide PowerPoint presentation- just honest conversations, thoughtful listening, and tools that work. His clinical toolbox includes CBT, Parent Management Training, Exposure & Response Prevention, and other proven approaches tailored to each person's needs.

Counseling with Derek starts with a thorough assessment to understand what’s been getting in your way. From there, you’ll work together to set goals that reflect your values and priorities. Counseling typically moves through three phases: 1) building a strong therapeutic relationship, 2) doing the deep work of change, and 3) maintaining progress and preparing for graduation- because counseling should be a launchpad, not a lifelong subscription.

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Richelle Smallwood is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 14 years of experience providing mental health services across outpatient and school-based settings, along with more than 6 years of telehealth experience. She earned her Master of Social Work from East Carolina University and her Bachelor of Social Work from Elizabeth City State University. Her diverse background supports individuals across various life stages and environments.

Richelle approaches therapy as a collaborative partnership focused on accountability and progress. She often incorporates between-session activities to reinforce growth and goal alignment. She serves as a guide, using evidence-based practices, skill-building exercises, psychoeducation, and practical strategies to support overall well-being.

Richelle emphasizes that clients are in the driver’s seat of therapy. She encourages open communication and invites feedback to ensure the approach remains effective. She supports clients in staying aligned with their goals, coming to sessions with intention, and making meaningful, sustainable progress.

Dr. Robert Smeed, DO, is a board-certified psychiatrist with a passion for healing the human mind and consciousness. He earned his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed his Psychiatry Residency at Wayne State University College of Medicine. Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN), Dr. Smeed served as an outpatient psychiatrist at Veterans Affairs for 11 years, honing his expertise in mental health care. Driven by a deep interest in consciousness and innovative treatments, he combines talking therapies, neuromodulation, and modern psychopharmacology to help patients achieve lasting wellness.

Dr. Smeed is proficient in treating a wide range of psychiatric conditions while specializing in treatment-resistant depression, neurodevelopmental disorders, anxiety and trauma disorders. His treatment style is empathic and collaborative, emphasizing family dynamics and relationships while integrating psychodynamic principles with biopsychosocial models. He approaches each patient with creativity, using open-ended discussions and innovative therapeutic and psychopharmacologic strategies to tailor care, ensuring a personalized and effective treatment experience.

Dr. Smeed begins with open-ended dialogue, allowing patients to develop their narrative, which is often therapeutic. Treatment plans are customized to patient needs and align with diagnostic standards of care. He incorporates medication reviews, mindfulness techniques, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), supportive therapy, and psychodynamic approaches. Dr. Smeed also educates patients on lifestyle factors, such as diet and exercise, to support mental health, fostering a holistic and individualized path to wellness.

Joseph Smith, LMHC, earned his Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Eastern Kentucky University in 2015 and has worked with patients in a clinical capacity for the past six years. While in graduate school, he was exposed to various clinical and research experiences, where he found his passion in examining the motivational factors of human behavior. Joseph's academic work strengthened his interest to work with individuals in a therapeutic capacity, which ultimately led to advanced experiential training in crisis interventions and the treatment of individuals with severe and persistent mental illness. Before relocating to New York City, he worked with individuals in under-served communities in the Appalachian region. Joseph subscribes to a humanistic, motivational enhancement, and cognitive behavioral framework. Understanding the benefit of therapeutic rapport, Joseph fosters an environment of self-acceptance and self-awareness while promoting intrinsic motivation for patients to act as their own catalyst of change. In addition, Joseph has a passion for working with individuals from diverse backgrounds, the LGBTQIA+ community, women with reproductive challenges, and victims of domestic violence.

Grace is a LCSW, and LISW-CP licensed in Florida, North Carolina, and South Carolina. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Family and Consumer Sciences with a specialization in Nutrition from Solusi University in Zimbabwe and a Master of Social Work in Clinical Practice from Andrews University in Berrien Springs, MI. Grace has 20 years of experience providing mental health and psychotherapy services to diverse populations in various settings, including telehealth, outpatient care, residential programs for youth and adults, Assertive Community Treatment, foster care, inpatient units, intensive in-home services, and private practice. Her approach is individualized, solution-focused, holistic, and goal-oriented, emphasizing clients' strengths and fostering a positive, affirming perspective. Grace specializes in treating individuals facing anxiety, depression, trauma, low self-esteem, mood instability, anger, unresolved emotional challenges, relationship difficulties, and life transitions. She works with adults, couples, and families. Grace's therapeutic techniques include counseling for emotional and personal growth, fostering purpose and meaning, and empowering self-esteem. Grace draws on evidence-based practices tailored to each client's needs, including Trauma-Informed Care, CBT, Trauma-Focused CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Collaborative Problem Solving, Positive Behavior Support, and Family Systems approaches.

Ernest Smith, LPC, specializes in supporting adolescents, young adults, adults, and older adults as they navigate grief, anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. With a compassionate and client-centered approach, he creates a safe, nonjudgmental space for individuals to explore their experiences and build the skills necessary for healing, growth, and resilience.

Ernest draws from a range of evidence-based modalities—including solution-focused therapy, person-centered therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). He tailors each session to meet the unique needs of his clients, whether helping adolescents manage emotional regulation and identity development or supporting older adults in coping with grief and life changes.

Ernest provides trauma-informed care and recovery-focused strategies that foster emotional safety, self-awareness, and long-term well-being. His goal is to walk alongside each person with empathy, understanding, and practical tools that promote lasting change and inner strength.

Regina Smith is a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. She has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults across outpatient, group, individual, and family therapy settings. Regina is passionate about supporting clients of all ages in improving their mental health and building the tools needed to navigate life’s challenges.

Regina values creating a supportive and welcoming environment where clients feel comfortable sharing openly and honestly. She understands that therapy is most effective when clients feel safe, respected, and empowered to explore their thoughts and experiences. Her approach is compassionate and collaborative, with a focus on ensuring that each session meets the client’s needs and goals.

Regina begins sessions by gaining an understanding of each client’s history and current concerns. Together, she and her clients establish weekly goals and create individualized treatment plans tailored to their specific struggles. Her process emphasizes collaboration, ongoing support, and practical strategies that can be applied both inside and outside of therapy to foster meaningful growth and resilience.

Taylor Smith is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in New York. She holds a Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling from Iona University and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, with a minor in Women and Gender Studies. Taylor brings a culturally responsive, compassionate, and advocacy-driven approach to care, with experience supporting clients across schools, higher education, private practice, and comprehensive rehabilitation settings. She is certified in suicide prevention and in identifying and reporting child abuse and maltreatment.

Taylor works with adolescents, young adults, adults, couples, and families. She supports individuals navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, trauma, bipolar disorder, addiction, and relationship challenges. Her practice emphasizes women’s mental health, LGBTQIA+ affirming care, identity development, and recovery-oriented support. Taylor strives to create a grounded, empathetic space where clients feel heard, respected, and supported in their growth.

Taylor’s therapeutic style is collaborative and individualized. She integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, client-centered and solution-focused approaches, trauma-informed and strength-based techniques, and mindfulness practices. Together with clients, she helps clarify goals, build practical tools, and foster meaningful, lasting change at a pace that feels supportive and empowering.

Erin Snider, PMHNP, brings more than seven years of experience as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse at Lindner Center of HOPE, a full-service psychiatric facility affiliated with the University of Cincinnati and Cincinnati Children’s Hospital. Her work has spanned the full spectrum of psychiatric care, including inpatient crisis intervention, partial hospitalization, and outpatient services. She holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Kentucky and both a BSN and MSN from Wright State University. Erin also recently earned a Mindfulness and Yoga-Studies Certificate from the University of Cincinnati.

Erin prioritizes building a strong therapeutic relationship and values open communication to create a supportive environment for healing. She views psychiatry as a holistic practice, integrating evidence-based approaches that address mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being. Patients working with Erin can expect compassion, respect, and a collaborative partnership in their care.

Erin begins each appointment with open conversation to better understand each individual’s story and experiences. She works with patients to identify their concerns, explore barriers to growth, and highlight strengths. Together, she collaborates on a treatment plan that aligns with the patient’s personal goals, ensuring care is both personalized and empowering.

Dr. Jennifer Snowden completed medical school at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in Little Rock, Arkansas in 1995. She then completed a residency in general psychiatry at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia, followed by a fellowship in forensic psychiatry also at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia from 1995-2000. She spent ten years practicing forensic psychiatry at a state hospital in Atlanta. She then decided that she wanted to travel and spent eighteen months as a locum tenens psychiatrist primarily practicing in New England. During this time, she met her future husband and they decided together that they eventually wanted to live in the New England area. In 2013, she officially became a telepsychiatrist, which eventually provided her with the opportunity to move to Rhode Island and practice out of the home she and her husband bought there. She initially saw patients via telepsychiatry at a community mental health center in rural Georgia and later took a position as a remote consultant telepsychiatrist at Acadia Hospital in Bangor, Maine. Dr. Snowden uses a practical and realistic approach with patients to assist them in identifying small, attainable goals and then motivating them to achieve those goals. She prefers to work with adults and relishes the opportunity to work with patients who are highly motivated for change.

Background and credentials

Dr. Faujia Sobhan is a psychiatrist with over 20 years of clinical experience practicing psychiatry in Nebraska and South Florida. She completed her Adult Psychiatry Residency Training at Creighton-Nebraska University.

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Treatment approach

Dr. Sobhan is emphasizes compassionate, comprehensive psychiatric care. Her practice integrates medication management, supportive therapy, and psychoeducation. Dr. Sobhan specializes in treating Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, Social Anxiety, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and ADHD. She emphasizes treating each patient as a whole person, considering life stressors, personal goals, and overall functioning, all within a nurturing and non-judgmental environment.

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What you can expect in a first visit

Patients can expect their first visit with Dr. Sobhan to be thorough, compassionate, and patient-centered. She takes time to actively listen and fully understand each individual's symptoms, stressors, goals, and personal needs. Dr. Sobhan emphasizes creating a trusting, non-judgmental environment and collaborates closely with patients to develop tailored treatment plans that support them in achieving their optimal mental health and 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. Solomon is a double board-certified psychiatrist in Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. He completed medical school in his home state at Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine, where the focus on mind-body connection now fits seamlessly into holistically minded patient care. Dr. Solomon then completed General Psychiatry residency and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry fellowship at the University of Colorado, where he was Chief Fellow focused on improving resident/fellow experiences and ensuring all medical students took a firm grasp of psychiatry into their futures. Having worked with patients across their lifespans allows Dr. Solomon to take a well-rounded approach to identifying issues with his patients, especially in family settings. Prior to joining Talkiatry, Dr. Solomon worked in a residential treatment center for teenagers with eating disorders, gaining significant experience with challenging patients and their families. Dr. Solomon uses a variety of therapeutic approaches (supportive, CBT, DBT, psychodynamic) in combination with medication management to help patients identify and develop treatment plans towards their own unique goals. No problem too big nor too small, Dr. Solomon looks forward to helping you get there!

Dr. Solomon’s presence at Talkiatry brings her career full circle and back to her greatest joy as a psychiatrist—working directly with patients one‑on‑one to help them integrate the complexity of their feelings, beliefs, and personal reality in the context of an increasingly complicated world around them.

Her qualifications include a B.A. in biology from Harvard University and an M.D. from Tufts School of Medicine. She completed psychiatry residencies at Mt. Sinai and Brown and is board certified in both Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. Her four decades of practice have exposed her to an eclectic range of cultures, ethnicities, and pathologies in a wide variety of settings, from solo practice to regional medical centers to academic institutions. Her breadth and depth of clinical and life experience have helped her transcend cultural biases and institutional conventions and to more clearly see each patient as a uniquely complex and lovable individual.

Dr. Solomon takes a compassionate, individualized, and pragmatic approach to treatment, beginning in the first visit with a full history and discussion with the patient of their symptoms, challenges, and goals. Follow‑up visits are tailored to the patient’s evolving needs and combine shared insights and tools such as medications and behavioral practices to support them as she guides them on their unique journey toward their best life, on their terms.

Pronouns: she/her/hers

Before graduating from the NYU Silver School of Social Work, Dana worked in international human rights and educational settings. She has over 15 years of experience as a clinical social worker and previously worked with formerly homeless adults in supportive housing as a social worker, supervisor, and assistant program director.

Dana views therapy as a meaningful act of self-investment - an opportunity to approach oneself with curiosity, courage, and compassion. She strives to create a warm, validating, culturally responsive, and trauma-informed space where clients feel seen and supported.

Her approach is collaborative, relational, and evidence-based, integrating Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), mindfulness, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), psychodynamic, and cognitive-behavioral techniques. Dana helps clients cultivate emotional flexibility, resilience, and self-awareness while clarifying their values and taking meaningful action in alignment with what matters most to them.

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Katrine Sorum is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with extensive experience in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatry. Her interest in mental health began during her undergraduate studies, where she earned degrees in Social and Behavioral Sciences and Nursing Science. After working on a medical psychiatric unit at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, she completed her Master of Science through the Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner track at the College of Saint Scholastica. Her work as a psychiatric nurse practitioner has become her life’s passion.

Kate prioritizes understanding each patient’s unique reasons for seeking care. She creates a supportive, collaborative environment where patients feel heard and respected. Her approach focuses on building trust and developing individualized treatment plans that align with each patient’s goals and needs.

Kate works closely with patients to develop comprehensive care plans tailored to their goals. She incorporates psychotropic medication management alongside supportive psychotherapy to help patients return to their baseline level of functioning. She specializes in treating anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, mood disorders, and ADHD.

Kristen Soukup, LCSW is a mental health therapist at Talkiatry. Kristen completed her undergraduate degree at the University of Rochester where she studied Psychology and Brain & Cognitive Science. She then went on to pursue her Master's degree in Social Work at the State University of New York at Buffalo. After completing her Master's degree, Kristen began working at an outpatient cancer center where she provided care coordination and therapeutic support to patients and their families enduring cancer diagnoses, treatments, and end of life. She then worked to pursue her clinical license in working with adults with significant and persistent mental illness in an outpatient setting. Kristen functioned not only as a primary therapist but also as the crisis team leader, providing supervision to other clinicians and assisting clients both in the clinic and the community. Kristen believes in looking at the whole person in their environment when working with her patients. She comes from a nonjudgmental and empathetic standpoint and genuinely wants to put the patient's goals and values first. Kristen has experience in treating patients with anxiety, depression, OCD, Bipolar disorder, and personality disorders. Kristen is trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and tends to utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques in treatment. She has knowledge and interest in human motivation and performance related issues, and utilizes Motivational Interviewing and mindfulness skills to assist her patients with these concerns. Kristen also has training in treating anxiety and Obsessive Compulsive disorders and uses exposure therapy to assist patients in overcoming these struggles.‍

Dr. Thomas Spina is an adult psychiatrist who began his practice at Talkiatry after completing his psychiatry residency at the Eastern Long Island branch of Stony Brook University, where he treated a diverse patient population. Dr. Spina received his undergraduate degree from St. John's University in Queens where he studied Philosophy. Initially interested in a career in law, Dr. Spina decided to change gears and pursue a career in medicine after watching a relative struggle with her diagnosis of Diabetes Mellitus. Dr. Spina then completed medical school at Tel Aviv University in Israel, where he fell in love with psychiatry during his clerkship at Ichilov medical center. During that rotation, he came to appreciate how each patient has his or her own unique story, regardless of their diagnosis. Dr. Spina favors a holistic and integrative approach to psychiatry, combining medication management with supportive therapy, elements of cognitive behavioral therapy, while remaining open to other treatment modalities depending on the needs of his patients. When more focused therapy is indicated, Dr. Spina may recommend that his patient work with a provider specializing in a particular modality of therapy as part of their treatment. Dr. Spina treats adult patients with mood disorders including major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder, anxiety spectrum disorders, OCD, PTSD and specific phobias. In his spare time, Dr. Spina enjoys a variety of hobbies, including Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, running, baseball, and exploring new eateries and shops.

Dr. Chuck Stanfa is a board-certified psychiatrist who genuinely enjoys helping people.  He has practiced in a wide range of settings, including both outpatient and inpatient during the past 10 years.  He studied medicine at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey.  He completed his psychiatry residency training at Drexel University College of Medicine in Philadelphia.  He went on to complete a Community Psychiatry Fellowship at the University of Pennsylvania and has continued to serve the greater Philadelphia area.  

Dr. Stanfa tries to take a person-centered approach to psychiatry.  He spends time getting to know each person and is easy to talk to.  He takes a collaborative approach to medication management and provides supportive therapy.  He believes that the relationship is one of the most important aspects of treatment.  He is open to working with most diagnoses including Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, PTSD, ADHD, Personality Disorders, and others.  He will work with each person to develop a treatment plan that works for them.

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Andrea Stang-McKeough is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) with experience supporting adults navigating anxiety, life transitions, academic and professional stress, and relational challenges. She has worked in outpatient private practice settings, providing individual therapy and serving in leadership roles. In addition to clinical work, she presents and educates on mental health topics within community and professional spaces.

Andrea uses a goal-oriented approach focused on growth, clarity, and practical change rather than labeling strengths and weaknesses. She values direct, open communication and collaborative treatment planning. She creates a warm, structured space where clients feel supported and gently challenged. Insight is important, but she emphasizes action and accountability. She integrates mindfulness and nervous system awareness and views therapy as a trusted partnership.

Andrea begins with a comprehensive intake to understand history, stressors, patterns, and goals. Together, she and the client define realistic, meaningful objectives. Sessions are structured and include reflection, skill-building, and practical strategies. She integrates mindfulness-based tools, cognitive and behavioral strategies, and relational processing as needed. Progress is reviewed regularly to ensure treatment remains collaborative and tailored.

Dr. Stansberry holds the position of staff psychiatrist at Talkiatry. He is board-certified in Adult Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Stansberry's practice focuses on medication management and also incorporates supportive therapy techniques, typically in 30-minute follow-up visits. In some cases, Dr. Stansberry may believe that additional therapy is also needed and ask that you bring a therapist into your care team. Dr. Stansberry received his medical degree from the Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center in New Orleans. He completed his residency training through the Louisiana State University/Ochsner Health Foundation Psychiatry Residency program. He has experience working in inpatient, emergency, and consult-liaison psychiatry but particularly enjoys the opportunity to work longitudinally with patients in the outpatient setting.**THIS PROVIDER CANNOT PRESCRIBE CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES FOR LOUISIANA PATIENTS**

Meet Alex Starmer, LMHC, your friendly mental health counselor here at Talkiatry. She's not just a counselor; she's your partner on your mental health journey. Alex earned her Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling from Syracuse University in 2020 and has been in the field since January 2021, working closely with clients facing mental health and substance use challenges. Alex believes in the power of the mind-body connection, and she loves to share polyvagal exercises and mindfulness techniques to help you better understand yourself. She's always learning and growing, with ongoing training in Internal Family Systems (IFS) and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR). Her go-to tools for therapy are Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). With her, you can expect a compassionate and comprehensive approach to your mental well-being. You're in good hands with Alex.‍

Richard "Rick" States is a Licensed Professional Counselor, with broad and varied professional work experience in behavioral health (inpatient and outpatient, individuals and families, children and adults, direct service and program administration). Rick earned his B.A. in Psychology at Gannon University and his M.A. in Clinical Psychology at Edinboro University of Pennsylvania.

He's earned a Post-Master's Certificate in General Psychology from Northcentral University and has completed many doctorate credits in Psychology. Since 1999, Rick has taught university courses in Psychology, Sociology, and Human Services, most recently at Gannon University and Penn State University.

Rick's greatest area of clinical interest and skill centers around self-regulation or "how we manage" our thoughts, feelings, emotions, behaviors, etc. Rick appreciates the challenges related to anxiety, stress, depression, substance use, and trauma, and he employs various tools to help folks manage (e.g., cognitive behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy, humanism, mindfulness/somatic psychology, etc.).

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Dr. James “Jim” Staudenmeier is a physician with a distinguished career in military and civilian psychiatry. A retired Colonel in the U.S. Army, he has served as a plenary and invited speaker at national and international conferences on topics including addiction, electroconvulsive therapy, hypnotherapy, and quality improvement. He is a Certified Healthcare Executive, holds a master’s degree in preventive medicine and biometrics, and has published in peer-reviewed journals. His clinical background includes pain management, addiction psychiatry, child and adult psychiatry, and academic appointments at multiple universities.

Dr. Staudenmeier values collaboration and encourages patients to ask questions, clarify expectations, and identify their primary concerns from the start. While medication management is part of care, he emphasizes insight, goal setting, and skill building. He integrates hypnotherapy, guided imagery, relaxation, and meditation to support wellness, pain management, sleep, anxiety, and addiction, tailoring treatment to each patient’s needs.

Dr. Staudenmeier takes a flexible, whole-person approach, combining medication management with evidence-based therapies such as CBT, CPT, motivational interviewing, and family-based interventions. He works comfortably with children, adults, families, service members, Veterans, and individuals facing life transitions, including end-of-life concerns. His goal is to help patients develop practical tools for lasting mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being.

Sherra St. Clair is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of experience supporting individuals with a wide range of mental health concerns. Her areas of expertise include attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), depressive and anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), bipolar disorder, and trauma-related conditions.

She completed her advanced nursing degree at the University of Wyoming, where she was recognized for her compassionate and welcoming approach to patient care. Before becoming a nurse practitioner, Sherra was inspired to pursue further education while working as part of an inpatient treatment team that included psychiatrists, psychologists, patients, and their families. Witnessing the profound improvements patients experienced after a crisis motivated her to transition toward outpatient and preventative care.

Prior to her nursing career, Sherra worked as a medical illustrator and animator, having studied at the University of Michigan’s medical school. She enjoyed creating educational materials for patients, physicians, and attorneys.

Sherra is passionate about working with individuals of all genders and socioeconomic backgrounds. She uses a collaborative, strengths-based approach that incorporates evidence-based medication management, psychotherapy, and patient education. She believes each person is the expert in their own life and strives to empower individuals to build on their self-worth, progress, and potential.

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Brittany Stef is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in New York and a National Certified Counselor (NCC). With extensive experience in education and various clinical settings, she has supported individuals and families of all ages in overcoming diverse mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, mood disorders, self-esteem issues,   and significant life changes.

Brittany is passionate about therapy and employs empowerment-driven, holistic approaches. Her techniques include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Person-Centered Therapy.

Background and credentials

Dr. Stefan is a psychiatrist with extensive experience in outpatient care, inpatient care, and assertive community treatment. She has served as a medical director for large institutions, overseeing the treatment of individuals with complex mental illnesses. Born and raised in Puerto Rico, she is fluent in both English and Spanish. She earned her medical degree from the University of Puerto Rico School of Medicine and completed her psychiatry residency at the University of Florida, where she received recognition for her skills as a psychotherapist.

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Treatment approach

Dr. Stefan is deeply committed to patient-centered care, adapting her role to the individual needs of each patient. She believes in treating the whole person, rather than just a diagnosis, recognizing that each patient has unique psychosocial circumstances. She has a strong foundation in psychotherapeutic interventions and is dedicated to providing engaging, compassionate, and meaningful therapy in every patient interaction. With over 10 years of experience as a psychiatrist, she has worked extensively in telemedicine since 2013, ensuring that remote care is as effective and personal as in-person visits.

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What you can expect in a first visit

Patients meeting Dr. Stefan for the first time can expect a comprehensive and holistic evaluation that considers their symptoms, personal history, and life circumstances. She takes the time to build strong therapeutic relationships, fostering a caring and engaging environment where patients feel understood and supported. Whether through telemedicine or in-person care, she prioritizes personalized treatment plans that integrate medication management and psychotherapy, ensuring the highest quality of care tailored to each patient’s needs.

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Why Talkiatry?

We’re a virtual mental health practice that makes it easy to find great care. We combine quality and convenience to help you thrive—faster. Our providers, like this one, are highly trained experts who specialize in medication management and collaborate with you on a treatment plan that fits your needs and comfort level.

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Dr. TreSina E. Steger (Dr. Tre) is a licensed professional counselor (LPC) who has practiced as a mental health therapist for several years. She received a Bachelor of Science degree from Mount Olive College, in NC, a Master of Science in Psychology and Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Capella University, in MN, and a Doctorate in Education, in Higher Educational Leadership from Liberty University in VA. She has worked in business, outpatient mental health, non-profits, in private practice, and with the military. She is a National Certified Counselor (NCC), a Board Certified Tele-Mental Health Provider (BC-TMH), Certified Dialectical Behavioral Therapist (CDBT), and Certified Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (C-TFCBT). Dr. Tre uses person-centered, solution-focused, DBT, CPT, CBT, motivational interviewing, mindfulness, psychodynamic, and other approaches to assist clients. She strides in aiding clients work on attachment issues, relationship problems, ADHD, self-esteem, self-worth, gender identity, boundary issues, trauma, depression, and anxiety. Dr. Tre has worked with clients from a variety of backgrounds, populations, and identities and takes pride in being a LGBTQIA+ affirming, a gender-affirming, BIOPC therapist who has worked with clients who have experienced various types of traumas. Clients will find she has a conversational tone, direct, non-judgmental approach when addressing their therapeutic goals and provides a safe space for them to do their work.

Dr. Mary Stephenson is a board-certified Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist with more than 25 years of clinical experience working with this population. Dr. Stephenson's practice focuses on medication management. She believes that the support and involvement of the family are an integral part of the treatment of the client. Additionally, more therapy support may be needed on occasion, and the recommendation to bring a psychotherapist on the care team may occur to provide an optimal outcome. She received her medical degree from Wright State University in Dayton, Ohio. She completed her psychiatry residency at the University of Louisville School of Medicine, and her child and adolescent training at the Bingham Child Guidance Center, also part of the University of Louisville, in Louisville, Kentucky. After completion of her training, she moved to Colorado where she worked at The Cleo Wallace Center, in Westminster, CO, providing care for hospitalized youth, and clients in the Day Treatment and Residential setting. In 2000, Dr. Stephenson became the primary Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist on the outpatient team at Denver Health Medical Center in Denver, Colorado. Her role was providing diagnostic evaluations, and medication management in Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs), and the hospital clinic, working closely with residents, child fellows, and other trainees. She had an academic appointment through the University of Colorado School of Medicine. She treated a varied demographic and had a wide range of diagnoses in the child and adolescent population. From 2016-2021, she worked at Intermountain Health Center in Tucson, AZ providing care in the outpatient setting of the community mental health center. The care was a hybrid model of "in-person” and Telehealth treatment of children and adolescents with various disorders, with an emphasis on diagnostic evaluations of Autism and Autism spectrum disorders.‍

Valerie Stern, LCSW, has extensive experience in hospital outpatient settings, nonprofit agencies, and private practice. She is trained in CBT, ACT, DBT, MI, and IP, and is certified in equine-assisted psychotherapy, having led groups for veterans, at-risk youth, and individuals in recovery. Valerie holds a bachelor’s degree in computer science and a master’s degree in clinical social work. She began her career working with Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals and co-founded the Hearing Loss Association of Los Angeles, serving as its first president. Fluent in English, French, and American Sign Language, she brings a deep cross-cultural understanding from her time living in Europe and Asia.

Valerie approaches therapy with curiosity, kindness, and a commitment to creating a supportive, open environment. She helps clients challenge misconceptions and develop healthier thought patterns while fostering honesty, respect, and open communication. When appropriate, she uses humor to build connection and lighten moments in the therapeutic process.

In the first session, Valerie takes time to fully understand each client’s history and experiences to determine the best level of care. She collaborates with clients to create realistic, achievable treatment plans focused on positive behavioral and emotional change. She may incorporate homework, videos, and handouts for later reference, and uses appropriate self-disclosure to strengthen rapport and trust.

Lindsey Stewart, PMHNP, holds three Bachelor’s degrees in Biology, Medical Technology, and Nursing, as well as a Master of Science in Nursing. She began her nursing career in 2011, working in inpatient psychiatry, and later expanded her experience to community mental health and home health for patients with behavioral health needs. In 2018, she earned her PMHNP certification from the University of Missouri–Kansas City and has since spent six years providing behavioral health medication management at an FQHC, treating patients across the lifespan.

Lindsey is passionate about her work and values each patient’s unique life story. She focuses on meeting patients where they are and creating customized treatment plans that align with their goals. Her care is rooted in a patient-centered approach, ensuring collaboration and respect throughout the treatment process.

Lindsey’s process blends structure with flexibility, tailoring care to each patient’s needs. She begins by establishing a diagnosis and treatment plan, integrating medication management, therapy, collaborative goal-setting, and ongoing progress monitoring. This holistic approach supports both mental health and overall well-being.

Dr. Stoddard earned his medical degree from the University of Arizona College of Medicine - Tucson and completed his residency at the University of Arizona College of Medicine - Phoenix. He is board-certified in psychiatry and provides care for adult patient populations. Prior to his career in medicine, he proudly served in the U.S. Air Force.

Although Dr. Stoddard specializes in medication management of psychiatric conditions, supportive psychotherapy is often incorporated into his visits, as he believes a combined approach leads to a more robust treatment response. Additionally, he aims to enhance wellness through discussion of lifestyle modifications that emphasize quality sleep, a healthy diet, and regular exercise.

Initial appointments consist of a psychiatric evaluation and discussion of evidence-based treatment options. If telehealth is deemed to be an appropriate modality and pharmacotherapy is recommended, discussion will consist of selecting a suitable medication to address target symptoms while minimizing adverse effects. Follow-up visits focus on assessing treatment response and adjusting regimens to optimize outcomes.

Janee Stokes is a highly experienced and dual-certified nurse practitioner, specializing in adult gerontology and psychiatry. With over 20 years of experience as a registered nurse, she brings a comprehensive background in healthcare, having worked with diverse patient populations ranging from young children to older adults.

In 2015, she earned her Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and became certified as an adult gerontology nurse practitioner. She later expanded her expertise by obtaining certification in psychiatry, enabling her to provide holistic care for individuals with mental health needs. Her leadership roles have included serving as lead nurse practitioner and associate director of psychiatry at a federally qualified health center, where she played a key role in guiding healthcare teams and delivering quality care to underserved communities.

Janee emphasizes education as a core component of her care approach. She builds strong rapport through clear communication and trust, incorporating techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing to support her patients’ needs. This approach empowers individuals to take an active role in their treatment journey.

Her care process is guided by each patient’s goals, integrating evidence-based practices to ensure personalized and effective support that aligns with their unique needs and aspirations.

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Dr. Clayton Stone (he/him) is a native of the Tennessee mountains who specializes in treating both children and adults. He completed a fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at Washington University in St. Louis and a general psychiatry residency in San Antonio, Texas. Dr. Stone has worked in academic medical centers, public schools, state hospitals, a transgender health clinic, and a residential eating disorder center. He is experienced in caring for LGBTQIA+ individuals and underserved rural communities.

Dr. Stone offers a friendly, nonjudgmental space where patients feel supported and empowered. His collaborative style emphasizes respect, transparency, and shared decision-making. He is especially passionate about helping people navigate stress, build self-esteem, and develop healthy relationships. Depending on patient needs, he uses tools like talk therapy, lifestyle changes, parent coaching, and medication management to support healing.

Sessions begin with a detailed review of each patient's history, current concerns, and goals. Dr. Stone then works together with the patient to create a personalized care plan that may include therapy techniques, medications, psychoeducation, or coping strategies. When treating children or teens, he often includes family involvement or parent coaching to promote meaningful progress.

Justin Stone is a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with experience in both outpatient and inpatient psychiatric settings, including in-person and telehealth care. He completed his undergraduate and master’s programs at Southern Adventist University in Collegedale, Tennessee. Justin is committed to providing compassionate, patient-centered care that addresses the whole person—mind, body, and environment.

Justin works collaboratively with patients to reach personal goals and support a more fulfilled life. He strives to create an open, judgment-free relationship where patients can be completely themselves. His aim is to provide a safe space for vulnerability without fear of judgment, fostering trust and partnership in the therapeutic process.

Patients can expect a thorough initial evaluation to ensure the correct diagnosis is addressed from the start. Justin prioritizes safety and evidence-based best practices while tailoring treatment plans to individual goals. His approach is focused on developing personalized strategies that help patients achieve meaningful improvements in mental health and overall well-being.

Katherine Strasburger, LCSW, grew up in Colorado and moved to Waco in 2013 to attend Baylor University, where she later earned her MSW. She has extensive experience supporting children and adolescents ages 4–19, as well as their caregivers, across juvenile detention, PK–12 schools, and homeless outreach. She is completing full EMDR training and holds ADHD certification. Kat enjoys integrating nutrition-focused psychoeducation and creative expression through play and art-based strategies. She is also training her dog, Odin, for Therapy Dog certification.

Kat recognizes the stigma surrounding mental health and views seeking therapy as an act of resilience. She creates a safe, comfortable, and nonjudgmental space where clients can be themselves. She values autonomy, supports increased self-awareness, and genuinely celebrates each client’s progress and healing.

Kat begins by building rapport and gaining a thorough understanding of each client’s history, concerns, and goals. She collaborates with clients to create individualized treatment plans that reflect their needs and priorities. She feels honored to walk alongside clients as they grow, heal, and build skills for lasting well-being.

Dr. Adela Stroescu is a board-certified psychiatrist with seven years of clinical experience treating adults in both outpatient and inpatient settings. She specializes in mood disorders, psychosis, anxiety, PTSD, and ADHD. Dr. Stroescu earned her medical degree from St. George’s University School of Medicine and completed her psychiatry residency at the University of Maryland/Sheppard Pratt. She speaks English and conversational Romanian.

Dr. Stroescu fosters a respectful, non-judgmental space where communication is clear, and care is recovery oriented. She prioritizes building a therapeutic relationship grounded in empathy and trust to support each patient’s unique path to wellness.

Dr. Stroescu begins with a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation to create a personalized treatment plan aligned with the patient’s goals. She uses evidence-based medication management and offers supportive psychotherapy and psychoeducation to empower patients throughout their treatment journey.

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Dr. Andrew Stubbs is a board-certified psychiatrist who earned his medical degree from UT Southwestern in Dallas and completed his psychiatry residency at UTHealth McGovern in Houston. His clinical experience has focused on telepsychiatry, and he has held medical licenses across the United States, allowing him to serve a diverse patient population.

Dr. Stubbs believes in empowering patients through psychoeducation and emphasizes honest, constructive communication. He values collaboration and works to ensure patients feel informed, comfortable, and involved in their care decisions.

Dr. Stubbs takes a comprehensive approach to evaluations, considering both medical and psychosocial factors unique to each patient. He develops individualized treatment options based on patient preferences and maintains regular follow-up to support ongoing needs and adjust care as necessary.

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.

Seth Sultan, LCSW, earned his Master of Social Work degree from California State University, Northridge. He is a practitioner of Somatic Experiencing; a psychobiological treatment focused on resolving trauma and stress. Seth also has specialized training in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) for the treatment of OCD. He integrates these modalities with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness, and Attachment Theory to provide a holistic and individualized therapeutic experience.

Seth believes therapy is a space where individuals should feel heard, seen, and understood. He offers a supportive and nonjudgmental environment that encourages self-discovery and personal growth. His goal is to help clients move toward their best selves while building stronger, healthier relationships.

Seth utilizes a collaborative and compassionate approach, empowering clients to challenge old patterns and create meaningful change. He strives to establish a sense of safety within the therapeutic relationship, exploring emotional, physical, cognitive, and spiritual dimensions to help each person live a more authentic and fulfilling life.

Dr. Lanier Summerall attended Yale University, where she studied philosophy in the Great Books Program. She later studied Molecular Biology at the University of Colorado, where she and her husband moved after getting married. She received her medical degree from the University of Colorado Health Sciences Program, and completed her residency at Dartmouth Medical School. She also trained at Massachusetts General Hospital with Dr. Theodore Stern in his area of expertise (Consult Psychiatry) and learned from his immense skill at building strong rapport with all patients.

Dr. Summerall has experience in inpatient, and outpatient settings, along with teaching and research. She has worked in hospital administration, government entities, most importantly the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee.

Dr. Summerall values transparent communication and will work with you to create the change. She treats patients as unique individuals and treatment is put into place with individualized plans in mind. Her approach to patients, which emphasizes holistic, patient centered, strength based treatment built on a foundation of strong doctor-patient alliance and evidence based medical knowledge.

Your appointment with Dr. Summerall will be a conversation. She is there to work towards goals together and is a good translator of "medical-ese". She enjoys working with patients on all aspects of their health and caters treatment plans to you.

Diana Sun, LMHC, is a licensed mental health counselor with over five years of counseling experience in outpatient settings. She earned her Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling from Nyack College Alliance Graduate School of Counseling in 2020. Diana has experience working with Asian Americans, Christians, LGBTQ+ individuals, and young adults ages 18 and older. Her clinical interests include inter-generational trauma, women’s issues, stress, anxiety, and depression.

Diana believes communication is essential when setting goals and boundaries within the counseling relationship. She uses fun ice-breaker questions to help patients feel comfortable and to build a strong therapeutic connection. Diana strives to create a safe and supportive environment where patients feel heard, seen, and understood, and she welcomes feedback as an important part of the healing process.

Diana begins by understanding each client’s presenting concerns, personal history, and goals during the initial session. She then collaborates with patients to develop a treatment plan tailored to their individual needs. Her work is grounded in core counseling values such as active listening, self-awareness, and unconditional positive regard to support growth and change.

Dr. Mark Sundahl is a board-certified adult psychiatrist. He was born and raised in the suburbs of Kansas City, Kansas. He has always been fascinated by the natural world and received a bachelor’s degree in biology at Kansas State University where he was active in a research lab investigating protein function in the human body. He completed medical school training and residency at the University of Kansas School of Medicine in Kansas City, Kansas along with Wichita, Kansas. Dr. Sundahl has experience working with a broad range of mental health symptoms and a diverse patient population

Dr. Mark Sundahl is a board-certified adult psychiatrist. He was born and raised in the suburbs of Kansas City, Kansas. He has always been fascinated by the natural world and received a bachelor’s degree in biology at Kansas State University where he was active in a research lab investigating protein function in the human body. He completed medical school training and residency at the University of Kansas School of Medicine in Kansas City, Kansas along with Wichita, Kansas. Dr. Sundahl has experience working with a broad range of mental health symptoms and a diverse patient population

Dr. Sundahl understands the importance of collaboration and the therapeutic alliance when working with patients. He will clearly explain his findings and discuss treatment options he feels are reasonable. Dr. Sundahl thinks it is important for patients to have all the necessary information to make informed decisions when it comes to their psychiatric treatment.

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Dr. Suneja practices psychiatry through a collaborative, integrative, disability and healing justice-informed lens. He rejects oversimplified binaries, recognizing that healing requires embracing complexity. His training includes Columbia, Johns Hopkins, and a global mental health fellowship at UCSF. His clinical interests include anxiety, OCD, women’s reproductive mental health, climate stress, intergenerational trauma, immigrant and refugee mental health, and substance use concerns. Based in Tucson, he enjoys desert life, reading, baking, making art, and spending time with his two dogs.

Dr. Suneja provides a healing space that prioritizes each service user’s goals and lived experiences. His approach integrates psychiatric and psychotherapeutic practices with complementary, alternative, and natural therapies, as well as harm reduction. His approach is neurodivergence-, queer-, and gender-affirming as well as trauma-informed. Rejecting the binary of “mentally ill” vs. “mentally healthy,” he recognizes the mind, body, and soul’s inherent complexity.

Dr. Suneja tailors care to each service user. The first session explores goals, treatment options, and optimal meeting frequency. In many cases, visits are more frequent at the beginning of treatment and spaced out over time. He prefers visits at least every 4-6 weeks and integrates psychotherapy into all treatment plans, with many service users benefiting from ongoing deeper therapeutic work.

Snathalia Supreme, LMHC-D, has over four years of experience in the mental health field. She earned a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling and has extensive experience practicing in outpatient settings. She is passionate about supporting adults in navigating challenges such as depression, anxiety, and life transitions.

Snathalia values open communication and works collaboratively with patients to set clear treatment goals that foster meaningful change. She creates a warm, supportive environment where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered. Drawing from cognitive behavioral therapy, she helps clients build coping skills and gain insight while emphasizing the potential for healing and personal growth.

In the first session, Snathalia thoroughly explores each client’s history, concerns, and goals. She gathers information about prior therapy experiences to understand what has or hasn’t been helpful. She partners with clients throughout their journey, encouraging courage, resilience, and ongoing growth as they work toward their personal goals.

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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.

Dr. Faizan Syed is a board-certified attending psychiatrist who graduated from St. George's University School of Medicine in 2012. He completed his residency in adult psychiatry at Creedmoor Psychiatric Center, an affiliate of Columbia University, in June 2016 .Dr. Syed was born in Karachi, Pakistan, and has lived transnationally in the United States, the Caribbean, the United Kingdom, and the Middle East throughout his life. He is currently based in Queens, NY, and alongside his professional development in his career as a psychiatrist, he has also worked to develop himself personally through writing. As a poet, essayist, and author, he has been published numerous times, and he maintains connections with his community through his participation in a group known as the Queens Poetic Alchemy Collective. He has spoken out publicly against the cultural stigma against mental health that has become a barrier to seeking and finding help. He has also been featured on Humans of New York. Dr. Syed believes strongly in the power and importance of psychotherapy as part of the therapeutic process. As such, he integrates individualized psychotherapy for each patient he sees and tailors various techniques to suit each patient's needs. He believes in an integrative, holistic approach that borrows from and blends various schools of psychology, philosophy, and neuroscience, including mindfulness, existentialism, cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical therapy, psychodynamics, genetics, and psychopharmacology. In addition, he is a great believer in the therapeutic power of the arts, whether it is visual arts, music, bibliotherapy, or expressive writing. Dr. Syed focuses on exploring the role of meaning in every patient's life so they can define and fulfill their potential in many areas of life. He has experience working with patients of all ages who have struggled with trauma, relationship or attachment issues, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, psychosis, and personality disorders.

Dr. Shahan Syed is a Board-Eligible Psychiatrist who offers personable, compassionate, and empathetic care. Before completing his residency in psychiatry, Dr. Syed graduated from International American University College of Medicine and recently completed his residency at Bergen New Bridge Medical Center in Paramus, NJ. He gained experience as a clinical researcher, emergency medical technician, and a registered nurse in both psychiatric and emergency departments prior to his formal training. This diverse background equipped him with valuable tools to deliver empathetic care to a wide range of patients with experience treating anxiety disorder, traumatic disorders, depressive and bipolar disorders, substance use disorders, ADHD, OCD, and psychotic disorders. During his residency, Dr. Syed also took on the role of chief resident, demonstrating a remarkable ability to educate both his patients and colleagues. Throughout his residency, Dr. Syed actively pursued additional training opportunities at various safety net hospitals in New Jersey to care for underserved populations.

Dr. Syed places significant importance on collaborating with patients and all relevant parties to gain a comprehensive understanding of the factors affecting the patient's life before making treatment recommendations. Additionally, Dr. Syed emphasizes the importance of lifestyle, sleep, mindfulness, and nutrition, and their impact on overall mental health. He has experience in utilizing interpersonal and supportive psychotherapy, along with principles of motivational interviewing and cognitive-behavioral therapy, to foster resilience and meaningful change in partnership with other mental health professionals involved in patient care.

Dr. Syed employs a range of therapeutic methods alongside medication management to ensure a thorough and holistic approach for every patient. His goal is to create a safe environment that encourages healing and wellness, enabling individuals to remain motivated and live their lives to the fullest.

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Dr. Emily Sykes is a board-certified adult psychiatrist. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree with Magna Cum Laude distinction from Carleton College, where she majored in biology. Dr. Sykes completed her Doctor of Medicine degree from the University of Toledo. She completed her psychiatry residency at the University of Cincinnati and was the outpatient chief resident physician. Dr. Sykes' specialty interests include mood disorders, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), obsessive-compulsive and related disorders, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and holistic wellness. She is a certified Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) provider for PTSD. Dr. Sykes provides compassionate, evidence-based, individualized, holistic care for patients suffering from a variety of mental health diagnoses and concerns. She incorporates supportive therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy and solutions-focused therapy into her sessions.

Dr. Peter Szeibel is board certified in adult psychiatry and has been practicing for over 36 years. His practice has focused primarily on medication management within the context of a supportive psychotherapeutic relationship. He also utilizes cognitive behavioral techniques. If the patient requires more intensive psychotherapy, Dr. Szeibel refers the patient to a therapist and collaborates with the therapist. Dr. Szeibel has experience in treating Depressive Disorders, PTSD, Panic Disorder, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, and many other conditions. He feels his personal strengths include his inquisitiveness, scientific curiosity, and his desire to understand his patients better. Dr. Szeibel was born in Hungary, just a few months before the Hungarian Revolution against the Soviets broke out in 1956. He and his family fled under difficult circumstances and immigrated to the United States. Dr. Szeibel grew up in New York City. He attended The Bronx High School of Science, followed by Columbia University for his B.A., where he took a double major in chemistry and music. After obtaining his M.D. from S.U.N.Y in Syracuse, he returned to New York City for residency and fellowship training. During this time he won the Bendheim Fellowship Award at Cohen Children's Medical Center for his research study which examined the effects of background music on the academic performance of children with ADHD. His current areas of interest include adult ADHD, psychiatric and medical co-morbidities, and the LGBTQ population.

Dr. Absar Tahir is an adult psychiatrist double-boarded in psychiatry and internal medicine who specializes in evidence-based, holistic, and individualized care. He graduated from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, where he earned both his undergraduate and medical degrees. Dr. Tahir completed sequential residency training in both internal medicine at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, followed by psychiatry at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia. Dr. Tahir integrates his knowledge of psychiatry and internal medicine to address the complex interplay between mental and physical health, ensuring a comprehensive and thoughtful approach to diagnosis and treatment. Throughout his career, he has helped patients from all walks of life, from diverse backgrounds, with a compassionate and empathetic treatment style. He strives to ensure his patients feel their voice is heard while working collaboratively towards achieving their treatment goals. As a psychiatrist, he specializes in the treatment of depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). He is also highly experienced in treating psychiatric problems in patients with medical comorbidities.

Dr. Andrew Luy Tan is a board-certified adult psychiatrist at Talkiatry. He has experience treating a wide range of psychiatric conditions including depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma-related disorders, and substance use disorders in both inpatient and outpatient settings.

Dr. Luy Tan takes a collaborative, patient-centered approach to care and values open communication and shared decision-making. He integrates supportive psychotherapy with evidence-based medication management as part of a comprehensive treatment approach.

In initial sessions, Dr. Luy Tan focuses on gaining a thorough understanding of each patient’s history, symptoms, and goals. He works with patients to develop individualized treatment plans and provides ongoing medication management with regular reassessment as needs and goals evolve.

Background and credentials

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

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Treatment approach

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

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What you can expect in a first visit

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

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Why Talkiatry?

We’re a virtual mental health practice that makes it easy to find great care. We combine quality and convenience to help you thrive—faster. Our providers, like this one, are highly trained experts who specialize in medication management and collaborate with you on a treatment plan that fits your needs and comfort level.

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Dr. Mustafa Taquee is a board-certified Adult Psychiatrist. After receiving his undergraduate degree from Wayne State University in Detroit, he completed his medical degree at Oakland University William Beaumont in Rochester, MI. He is a graduate of the Adult Psychiatry Residency Program at St. Mary Mercy Hospital in Livonia, MI. As a testament to Dr. Taquee's desire to help patients reach their full potential, he has also completed a psychotherapy fellowship through the Michigan Psychoanalytic Institute. Dr. Taquee believes that every patient brings their own mosaic of experiences embedded in a unique story. He understands that building a strong therapeutic relationship through empathy, compassion, trust, and respect is essential. He enjoys taking time to understand his patient's goals, offer psychoeducation, and create a collaborative plan for treatment with the patient. He believes in a holistic approach to mental health treatment, which includes medication management, supportive and cognitive behavioral therapy techniques, as well as mind-body medicine techniques. He also has a special interest in psychodynamic therapy, an in-depth therapy modality, which he incorporates in all patient interactions and sessions. Due to the diversity and richness of culture in southeast Michigan, Dr.Taquee has experience working with patients from varied backgrounds. He enjoys the challenge such a heterogeneous environment brings and is particularly fond of working with young adults experiencing life transitions. He also has experience working with patients from lower socioeconomic backgrounds, as well as adolescents and geriatric populations.

Dr. Tetyana Tarnavsky is a board-certified psychiatrist trained in Adult Psychiatry. She attended Dnipropetrovsk State Medical Academy in Ukraine where she received her M.D., M.S. and Ph.D. degrees in Psychiatry. Dr. Tarnavsky completed her residency at Harvard South Shore Psychiatry Residency Training Program in MA, where she was elected chief resident. Dr. Tarnavsky has an extensive research experience in Ukraine and the USA. She had studied computer addiction for her dissertation; had multiple abstracts and presentations; published several articles in peer-reviewed psychiatric journals as well as a book entitled Computer Addiction: Formation, Diagnosis, Correction and Prophylaxis. She has helped organize international conferences with the goal of improving access to and quality of healthcare in Dnipropetrovsk, Ukraine, and providing a national model for health care reform. Dr. Tarnavsky has worked with a variety of patients with diverse backgrounds in a Community Health Center and in the Partial Hospitalization Program as well as supervised medical students, psychiatry residents, and nurse practitioners. She has been a lecturer on psychiatry at Harvard Medical School and was involved in the training of psychiatry residents in the Harvard South Shore Psychiatry Training Program. Her primary focus has been on treating adults with depression, anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder, adjustment disorder, ADHD and other disorders. Dr. Tarnavsky strives to provide quality and compassionate treatment to individuals and their families.‍

Dr. Pallavi Tatapudy, MD, earned her medical degree from the Renaissance School of Medicine at Stony Brook University, where she was inducted into the Gold Humanism Honor Society. She completed Stony Brook’s combined residency in Adult Psychiatry and fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, along with the Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental Disabilities Fellowship. Board certified in adult psychiatry and board eligible in child and adolescent psychiatry, she has worked across inpatient, emergency, outpatient, and school settings. Her training includes expertise in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, and Motivational Interviewing, and she incorporates principles from Supportive Psychotherapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Family Systems Therapy.

Dr. Tatapudy’s warm, approachable style values each patient’s lived experience. She practices attunement to align with her patients and prioritizes cura personalis—care for the whole person. She is skilled in medication management for a wide age range and integrates therapeutic skill-building. Outside of work, she enjoys nature, visiting national parks, water activities, Indian Bhangra dance, music, and reflecting on meaningful quotes.

Dr. Tatapudy sets a collaborative agenda, listens attentively, and thoroughly reviews patient history. She includes perspectives from support systems when appropriate, offers psychoeducation with creative examples, and encourages open questions and feedback. She shares credible resources, supports learning together, and helps patients define realistic goals and measurable benchmarks for progress.

Chaniece Taylor is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker/Therapist in Michigan (LCSW) and South Carolina (LISW-CP). Chaniece studied at the University of Michigan to obtain her B.A. in Gender and Health and her Master's degree in Social Work from Wayne State University. Chaniece has experience working with adolescents and adults in various practice settings including nonprofit organizations, community mental health, and outpatient agencies.

Chaniece specializes in working with individuals challenged with Anxiety, Depression, Grief and Loss, Stress, Relationship challenges, Life transitions, and Coping Skills.

As a therapist, Chaniece provides a personalized and evidence-based approach. She has experience utilizing Solution Focused Therapy, Mindfulness Techniques, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.

Chaniece's approach is empowering, compassionate, collaborative, and solution focused. She will meet you where you are at and work with you at your pace.

Chaniece aims to help individuals gain a new perspective and lead them toward a future that fills them with hope and excitement!

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Ashlyn Tellers is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She earned her nursing degree with an emphasis in psychiatry in 2020 from the University of Arizona. With over twelve years of experience, she has cared for mental health patients across long-term care, inpatient, residential, and outpatient settings.

Ashlyn specializes in treating adults with depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and OCD through medication management and supportive therapy. She emphasizes patient education and works collaboratively to build therapeutic and safe treatment plans. She encourages open discussions about past mental health history and current stressors to help identify root causes and develop healthy coping strategies. When appropriate, she refers patients to therapists for more specialized care.

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Dr. Telonis is a board-eligible adult psychiatrist who had been in practice for four years. Her focus is on using a collaborative approach and shared-decision making to help patients achieve their treatment goals. Dr. Telonis typically provides monthly 30-minute follow-ups with a focus on medication management and supportive therapy. In some instances, she may recommend a separate therapist to help facilitate the best care possible. Dr. Telonis earned her bachelor's degree in History of Art from Johns Hopkins University and then completed her master's at King's College London in international development with a focus on climate change. She received her medical degree from St. George's University School of Medicine and completed her psychiatry training at Mount Sinai Morningside and West Hospitals. Dr. Telonis has worked with a diverse patient population while training at Mount Sinai Morningside.‍

Julia Teytelbaum, MD, is a board-certified psychiatrist providing outpatient psychiatric care through telehealth. She earned her medical degree from the Florida State University College of Medicine and completed her psychiatry residency at UF Health Jacksonville, where she served as Chief Resident. She has experience working with adults facing mood disorders, anxiety, trauma-related concerns, ADHD, and perinatal mental health challenges.

Dr. Teytelbaum believes that feeling heard, understood, and respected is the foundation of effective mental health care. She takes a collaborative and supportive approach, helping patients set goals that feel realistic and meaningful. With a special interest in women’s mental health, including perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, she strives to create a calm, nonjudgmental space and approaches medication management thoughtfully, with close attention to patient preferences and well-being.

Dr. Teytelbaum begins with a comprehensive initial visit focused on understanding each patient’s history, concerns, and goals. She works collaboratively to develop an individualized treatment plan and checks in regularly about progress, side effects, and life changes. Her approach emphasizes continuity, clear communication, and steady support over time.

Bryce Thacker grew up in a rural community, where he learned the value of helping others achieve their best selves to support overall community health and well-being. With a passion for helping people live their best lives, he earned his undergraduate degree in biology from the University of Nebraska and completed his nursing education at Creighton University. He went on to earn a Master of Science in Nursing, specializing as a Family Nurse Practitioner and in Community Health, from Creighton University, and later completed a nursing practice degree at the University of Colorado with a focus on population and community health. He also holds a post-graduate certification in psychiatric mental health from Washburn University.

Bryce practiced family medicine for 18 years before transitioning to psychiatric mental health in 2022. His background in both physical and mental health gives him a holistic perspective on care. Since shifting his focus, he has helped individuals improve their quality of life through medication management for mood disorders, PTSD, anxiety, ADHD, and other mental health conditions. He continues to live in a rural community with his family and remains committed to helping people become their best selves.

Bryce believes that each person’s “best self” is unique and that mental health care should meet individuals where they are. He emphasizes a collaborative, client-centered approach, always keeping the individual’s goals at the heart of care. He is dedicated to helping clients identify and overcome the symptoms and stressors that interfere with their well-being, and he works to dismantle limiting beliefs or labels that may have been placed on them.

By taking the time to understand each person’s challenges and aspirations, Bryce helps clients find sustainable, holistic paths to wellness. His care is grounded in empathy, respect, and a deep commitment to supporting each person’s journey toward a fulfilling and balanced life.

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Dr. Cheryl Thomas' experience spans nearly two decades working with many who struggle to find their way through different life challenges. She will collaborate with you to identify and attain goals. Getting to know you is the first step and that is achieved through a variety of approaches that are grounded in family systems, cognitive behavioral therapy, and understanding any types of trauma that may have been experienced. Many have had trauma and what she has learned is that talking about the details of the trauma is not always helpful. It may be a component of healing, but there may be other ways to make progress. Dr. Thomas utilizes a combination of approaches to be helpful in working with clients. Some may include person-centered, solution focused, motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing. She has experience in different treatment settings in Ohio and enjoys working with those who have mental health and substance use disorders. Dr. Thomas works with ages 18 and up that include mental health issues like depression, anxiety, grief, stress management, trauma, communication, and relationship issues. She enjoys seeing a client shift perspectives and report feeling more at peace as they reach their goals. Dr. Thomas completed her doctorate degree in Counselor Education & Supervision in Counseling and Marriage and Family Therapy in 2012.

Dr. Upton Thomas is a board-certified psychiatrist who takes a warm, collaborative, and evidence-based approach to care. With a focus on treating mood disorders, anxiety, OCD, and substance use, he integrates psychopharmacology and psychotherapy to support patients in achieving meaningful change. He brings curiosity, creativity, and a deep respect for each individual’s story to his clinical work.

Patients often find Dr. Thomas easy to talk to and appreciate his calm, thoughtful demeanor. He emphasizes shared decision-making and believes that treatment works best when the patient’s values and voice are at the center. Dr. Thomas aims to create a safe space for honest dialogue and ongoing reflection as treatment evolves.

Dr. Thomas begins with a comprehensive evaluation to understand each patient’s mental health history, current concerns, and goals. He then develops an individualized treatment plan that may include medication, therapy, or both. He prefers to use the lowest effective dose of medications and often integrates psychotherapeutic strategies such as CBT, DBT, or insight-oriented work into his sessions.

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Dr. Jaime Thomas, DO, earned her Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences and completed her psychiatry residency at Einstein Medical Center in Philadelphia. She is dedicated to providing culturally sensitive, holistic mental-health care, supporting patients through life’s most challenging moments by addressing the whole person—mind, body, and environment.

Dr. Thomas emphasizes understanding each patient’s unique story and identifying meaningful avenues for change. Her approach integrates lifestyle modifications, nutrition, spirituality, physical activity, community, and medication when appropriate, ensuring care is thoughtful, personalized, and collaborative.

Treatment begins with comprehensive sessions to explore a patient’s life story, concerns, and goals. Follow-up visits focus on fostering growth, maintaining stability, and supporting long-term well-being, creating a safe space for sustainable mental-health improvement.

Barbara Thomas is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with 8 years of experience in outpatient and in-home settings. She earned her Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy from Seton Hall University and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Pennsylvania State University. Licensed in Pennsylvania for 5 years and recently in North Carolina, Barbara provides trauma-focused, culturally competent care for Anxiety, Depression, Mood Disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and LGBTQ+ issues.

Barbara offers systemic, client-centered, and cognitive behavioral therapy for children, adults, couples, and families. She tailors each session to individual needs, incorporating family systems and relational dynamics. She creates a safe, open environment that fosters collaboration and growth, helping patients explore new perspectives, achieve goals, and strengthen personal fulfillment.

Barbara begins with an intake session that includes a psychosocial assessment and discussion of the client’s history and goals. She develops individualized treatment plans in collaboration with patients and begins sessions with open-ended prompts to focus on client priorities. Through ongoing assessment, dialogue, and adaptable session structure, she builds trust, promotes change, and ensures each patient’s needs are met.

Dr. Katelyn Thompson is board certified in Adult Psychiatry.  

Patients looking for a psychiatric provider will find that Dr. Thompson has a gentle and approachable style.  She believes that each patient was created on purpose and for a purpose.  

The brain is deeply wired for resilience and Dr. Thompson is blessed to witness that while supporting that in her patients.  She focuses on medication management with supportive psychotherapy as she treats a wide variety of psychiatric diagnoses.

Marie Thompson, PMHNP, has over a decade of experience practicing in outpatient settings. She earned her undergraduate, graduate, and post-graduate degrees from Ursuline College in Pepper Pike, Ohio. Marie is dual certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, allowing her to provide well-rounded, holistic care to her patients.

Marie uses a team-based approach to help patients meet their treatment goals. She is dedicated to creating a trusting, non-judgmental environment where individuals feel safe, heard, and supported. Her goal is to enhance daily functioning and improve each patient’s overall quality of life.

Marie creates individualized treatment plans to meet each patient's unique needs. She works collaboratively to develop patient-centered goals and uses a thoughtful, compassionate approach to guide treatment. Her process prioritizes open communication, shared decision-making, and long-term wellness.

Erin Thompson, PMHNP, has been working in outpatient mental health care since December 2020. She earned her Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner certification from the University of Cincinnati after five years of experience as a Family Nurse Practitioner. Her background allows her to approach care with both medical and mental health insight, supporting patients in a well-rounded, compassionate way.

Erin Thompson prioritizes collaboration and transparency in care. She conducts a thorough intake to understand symptoms, history, and goals, and emphasizes using the least amount of medication necessary for the greatest benefit. She avoids unnecessary polypharmacy and ensures patients are fully involved in treatment decisions. Open, honest communication is encouraged to build trust and achieve the best outcomes.

Erin Thompson regularly assesses key symptoms at each visit to track subtle changes over time. She discusses medication options in detail, including potential side effects, so patients feel informed and confident. Her approach focuses on understanding each patient’s starting point, current progress, and long-term goals to guide personalized, effective treatment.

Dr. Caitlin Tillberg (she/her) is a board-certified psychiatrist. She has a BA in musicology and cognitive science from Oberlin College, an MD from Quinnipiac University in Connecticut, and completed general adult psychiatry residency at Duke University. Dr. Tillberg practices patient-centered and trauma-informed care, valuing patient autonomy and collaborative decision-making, acknowledging the burden many people carry from intersecting oppressions. She believes therapy is important � often equally important as medication, or more � and will work together with you to make a realistic treatment plan that will fit into your life. Dr. Tillberg also has a niche working with people with complicated relationships with their bodies, whether due to disordered eating, gender dysphoria, chronic illness/disability, or trauma. She welcomes LGBTQ+ patients, including trans and non-binary adults. She also enjoys working with patients with OCD, as well as autistic/neurodivergent adults (including those seeking adult autism evaluation). Please note Talkiatry is most appropriate for autistic patients with Level 1 (or case-by-case Level 2) support needs and who are verbal. Regarding eating disorders: Please note that for patient safety, per Talkiatry policy, Dr. Tillberg is unable to work with patients with current active anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa (or significant relapse in the last 6 months), or with patients requiring current regular medical or lab monitoring for complications of binge-eating disorder or ARFID. Bariatric surgery patients are welcome if medically stable. Patients with current disordered eating that does not rise to the level of a formal diagnosis of anorexia or bulimia, or with a past history of anorexia or bulimia in sustained remission, will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis at the first appointment. Dr. Tillberg looks forward to meeting you.

Dr. Bryce Toburen is a board-certified psychiatrist dedicated to compassionate, collaborative care across the lifespan. His training includes an MD from the Medical College of Wisconsin, residency at The Ohio State University where he served as Chief Resident, and a fellowship in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry at Nationwide Children's Hospital. Outside the clinic, he enjoys sports, tennis, exploring nature, traveling, and spending time with loved ones.

Each patient brings a unique story, and he strives to create a safe, respectful space where you feel heard and supported. His interest in psychiatry stems from a desire to maximize the well-being of patients and their families through strong therapeutic relationships. Compassion and curiosity guide his work, along with a strong belief in the power of connection and collaboration. You can expect open communication and a focus on your personal goals throughout your time together.

Treatment is personalized using evidence-based approaches that include psychotherapy, medication management, and lifestyle strategies. He specializes in addressing anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, and trauma-related concerns. Collaboration and trust are central to his approach, with an emphasis on empowering patients to take an active role in their healing and well-being.

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Dr. Agnes Tolentino is a board-certified adult psychiatrist with over 20 years of practice experience.  She obtained her undergraduate degree at the University of the Philippines and completed medical school at the University of the East.  She finished her psychiatry residency at the Harvard South Shore program as chief resident in her final year.  She has a strong background in psychotherapy as an adjunct to medication management.  She has extensive experience in treating PTSD, medically ill patients, elderly patients and those with terminal illnesses. She spent the last 15 years treating the geriatric population and those adjusting to co-morbid medical problems.  

She is an empathic listener and collaborative clinician, focused on treating the whole person.  She emphasizes the need to use healthy coping mechanisms as well as lifestyle changes to complement medication management.  In keeping with the “whole person” focus, the role of physical well-being is important. A thorough medical history will be obtained on your initial appointment.  

Gathering a thorough psychiatric and medical history is paramount in a successful therapeutic relationship.  And with time, a trusting therapeutic environment should be fostered.

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Venus Tombakoglu, MBA, MS, LPCC, is a licensed professional clinical counselor who provides therapy in English, Farsi, and Turkish. She specializes in anxiety, life transitions, emotional wellness, and cultural identity concerns. Venus uses CBT, DBT, mindfulness, and compassionate client-centered care to support individuals in building confidence, resilience, and healthier coping skills.

Venus creates a supportive and compassionate environment where patients can feel heard and understood. She values collaboration and tailors care to each individual’s needs, helping patients develop practical tools for managing emotions, stress, and life challenges.

Venus uses an integrative approach that combines evidence-based techniques such as CBT, DBT, and mindfulness with client-centered care. She works with patients to identify goals, strengthen coping strategies, and foster emotional wellness and personal growth.

Karen Tonner, MSN, PMHNP-BC is an ANCC board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over eight years of experience providing psychiatric care in outpatient and community mental health settings. She works with patients across the lifespan and treats a broad range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety disorders, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Karen primarily provides medication management in conjunction with supportive therapy, using evidence-based practices to help patients achieve symptom relief and improved functioning. Her approach to care is holistic, person-centered, and collaborative, emphasizing shared decision-making and individualized treatment planning. She strives to create a welcoming, approachable, and supportive environment where patients feel comfortable being themselves and actively participating in their care. She believes that understanding each patient’s unique experiences, goals, lifestyle, and strengths is essential to effective mental health treatment.

Karen earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Kennesaw State University and her Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. She is dedicated to continuing education to remain current with psychiatric research and is committed to delivering compassionate, high-quality care that helps patients feel heard, respected, and empowered.

Anne Tormos, LCPC, LPC-MHSP, believes that every person has the ability to live a happy, healthy, engaging life, but at times individuals need an objective observer to help uncover what that life looks like. She treats clients ages 15 and up struggling with a variety of challenges, including mood disorders, anxiety, and life transitions. Anne is a National Board-Certified Counselor. She is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the State of Illinois and a Licensed Professional Counselor � MHSP in the State of Tennessee. Anne earned a BA in Psychology from North Central College and an MS in Clinical Psychology from Benedictine University. Her experience includes working at an inpatient psychiatric hospital and outpatient group practice, which allowed her to utilize different types of care with people from all backgrounds with many different life stressors. She also has experience working within PHP and IOP settings. Anne is trained to utilize many therapeutic techniques, including CBT and DBT.‍Anne is prepared to join you on your journey to self-fulfillment. She believes that everyone has their own story to tell, and her approach is client-centered, strength-based, and solution focused. She cherishes all client relationships and devotes her time and energy to the healing process.

Kimberly Tornberg is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) licensed in Massachusetts and New Hampshire. She earned her Master of Arts degree from Lesley University in Expressive Therapies and Mental Health Counseling. Kimberly has worked with adults across a variety of settings, supporting individuals as they navigate life transitions, emotional concerns, and a wide range of mental health symptoms.

Kimberly strives to create a safe, welcoming, and supportive space where clients feel comfortable being themselves. She takes an eclectic, strengths-based approach, helping clients develop deeper insight into their experiences while fostering self-compassion and acceptance. Kimberly values collaboration and respects each client’s unique background, goals, and pace.

Kimberly is a dedicated and engaged listener who takes time to understand each client’s current challenges and personal history. She works collaboratively to gather information about past treatment experiences and establish meaningful treatment goals. Through thoughtful exploration of thoughts and feelings, Kimberly supports clients in working toward greater balance, insight, and satisfaction in their lives.

Beverly Toussaint is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker actively licensed in the District of Columbia and Virginia. She earned a B.A. in Psychology from UMBC and a Master of Social Work from the University of Maryland School of Social Work. Beverly has over 15 years of independent clinical experience in the DMV, providing care in private practice, nonprofit, medical, federal, and military settings. Her background includes working with individuals, families, and military members, as well as offering clinical supervision, leadership support, and professional development services.

Beverly takes a collaborative and goal-focused approach to therapy. Sessions are centered on identifying personal goals and creating practical action steps to support meaningful change. She works alongside clients to help them build momentum in areas of concern while offering consistent guidance, encouragement, and accountability. Her priority is supporting each client’s individual goals and progress.

Beverly works with clients to identify needs, strengths, and motivation for change. She uses a variety of talk therapy approaches, including CBT, SFBT, DBT, and Narrative Therapy, to develop achievable treatment plans. Her style emphasizes motivation, accountability, and partnership, adapting support to meet each client’s unique needs.

Dr. Duy Tran is a board-certified adult psychiatrist. He received his medical doctorate degree from the University of Texas Southwestern Medical School and completed his residency training in general psychiatry at the University of Michigan. Dr. Tran aims to provide mental health care that helps patients live more fulfilling lives. In his training, Dr. Tran gained extensive experience treating psychiatric disorders in diverse populations, including college students, LGBTQ+ individuals, perinatal women, veterans, and those with socioeconomic disadvantages. He has worked with experts on cases of treatment-resistant depression and provided consultations for patients considering procedural interventions, such as transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), and ketamine infusion therapy. Although Dr. Tran's practice primarily focuses on medication management, he uses a holistic approach in developing individualized treatment plans. He typically incorporates elements of various psychotherapy modalities, including supportive, cognitive behavioral (CBT), dialectical behavioral (DBT), and insight-oriented therapy, in 30- or 45-minute follow-up visits. Occasionally, Dr. Tran may believe that more intensive therapy is needed and recommend that you bring a dedicated therapist into your care team for an optimal outcome.

Dr. Anh Tran completed undergraduate studies, medical school, and psychiatry residency training at Saint Louis University. Following training, Dr. Tran joined the Department of Veterans Affairs, where they provided care in an outpatient setting with both telehealth and in-person services. With this experience, Dr. Tran brings a strong clinical background and a dedication to supporting patients through accessible and personalized psychiatric care.

New patients can expect Dr. Tran to respect their time and autonomy while working together to establish shared treatment goals. Dr. Tran values open candor and punctuality, aiming to create a therapeutic relationship grounded in mutual trust, transparency, and collaboration.

During the first visit, Dr. Tran takes a comprehensive history and background to determine if the therapeutic relationship is the right fit for both patient and provider. Ongoing care typically involves monthly appointments for medication management until stability is achieved, after which visits may shift to quarterly follow-ups. This structured yet flexible approach supports continuity and long-term well-being.

Lauren is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who earned her Master of Science in Nursing from Kent State University in 2020. She has experience treating a wide range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, psychotic disorders, bipolar disorder, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, and substance use disorders.

Lauren’s approach combines medication management with psychotherapy to create a well-rounded, individualized treatment plan. She takes time to listen to her patients’ concerns, fostering a safe and open environment for dialogue. Her therapeutic methods include supportive therapy, motivational interviewing, and cognitive behavioral therapy. Recognizing that medication alone may not fully address the root causes of distress, she incorporates talk therapy, lifestyle changes, stress management, self-care strategies, supplements, and social health into her care plans.

With a laid-back, non-judgmental, and empathetic style, Lauren collaborates closely with patients to ensure their treatment aligns with their unique needs and goals. Every decision is grounded in evidence-based practices and patient-centered care.

Lauren begins with a comprehensive initial assessment, gathering detailed information about each patient’s mental and physical health history, lifestyle, symptoms, concerns, and goals. This assessment informs a potential diagnosis and serves as the foundation for a personalized treatment plan. Regular follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor progress, make adjustments as needed, and provide ongoing support.

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Robert Trujillo is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas, practicing since 2020. He brings diverse experience from working in jails, behavioral health hospitals, and private clinics, which allows him to understand and support clients from many different backgrounds. Trained in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and other evidence-based approaches, Robert tailors' treatment to meet the unique needs of each individual.

Robert creates a supportive and conversational environment where clients feel heard and respected. He strongly advocates for each client’s well-being and works to empower them to take control of their symptoms. Open communication is central to his approach, and he believes therapy is most effective when clients and counselor collaborate to set clear, achievable goals together.

In the first session, Robert introduces coping skills rooted in CBT to provide immediate support. He partners with clients to identify their concerns and build individualized treatment plans that fit their lives. Throughout therapy, he guides clients in restructuring unhelpful thoughts, balancing emotions with rationality, and practicing new skills. His ultimate goal is to equip clients with tools they can confidently use long after therapy ends.

*THIS PROVIDER CANNOT PRESCRIBE CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES FOR NH PATIENTS* Dr. Peter Truong is a board-certified psychiatrist trained in Adult Psychiatry. He received his medical degree from FIU Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine in Miami, Florida, and completed his residency training at Cambridge Health Alliance – Harvard Medical School.

Dr. Truong treats each patient with a holistic, evidence-based approach that incorporates psychopharmacological and psychotherapeutic best practices. His priority is to build a safe and trusting working relationship with each patient, keeping in mind their unique biological, psychological, social, and spiritual contexts.

Dr. Truong has extensive experience treating depression, anxiety, ADHD, and trauma-related disorders. He incorporates therapy modalities such as supportive, psychodynamic, CBT, and EFT. Other professional interests include LGBTQIA and college mental health, mindfulness, and interventional psychiatry. He has worked with individuals with diverse backgrounds from all walks of life.

* THIS PROVIDER CANNOT PRESCRIBE CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES FOR MN PATIENTS * Dr. Dung ("Young”) Truong is board-certified in both psychiatry and family medicine. Prior to joining Talkiatry, he worked in a busy Minneapolis emergency room for 20 years. He cared for patients presenting in mental health crisis, treating their acute presentation and helping find solutions to their concerns, ranging from starting and adjusting medications to identifying and addressing contributing factors such as medical illness, substance use, and life stressors. Dr. Truong has extensive experience and can comfortably manage a wide range of illnesses and problems. He sees patients of all ages and ethnicities, including LGBTQ+ populations. He has interests in mood disorders during and after pregnancy, and immigrant and refugee mental health. Dr. Truong's approach is to help you ultimately feel better and move forward with a hopeful plan involving medication management, education about your illness, and therapy to manage your emotional and environmental stressors. He is known for his calm demeanor and his excellent instincts. He strives to meet your expectations. Recognizing the challenges and complexities of the mental health condition, he also encourages input from your established care provider, therapist, and loved ones who want to be involved in your care. He feels such collaboration provides optimal treatment .Dr. Truong has also worked as a psychiatrist in an integrated primary care clinic. He has taught and supervised medical students, psychiatric residents/fellows and family medicine residents. He has collaborated extensively with social workers, therapists, and other health care providers to achieve the best outcomes for his patients. He works on staying current with the latest evidence-based care and mental health treatments.

Dr. Tsujimoto-Ryzewski is a board-certified adult psychiatrist. She received her medical degree from the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine. She completed her residency at the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, where she served as a chief resident during her last year of training. Dr. Tsujimoto-Ryzewski has treated patients with a wide variety of diagnoses both during her residency and after her training while working at a busy private practice clinic as well as for the Veterans Administration. Dr Tsujimoto-Ryzewski focuses on medication management and supportive psychotherapy. If she feels that additional therapy is needed, she will ask that you bring in a therapist as part of the treatment team. Dr. Tsujimoto-Ryzewski will work collaboratively with you in a caring environment to assist you in reaching your goals.

Dr. Tony Tu is a board certified adult psychiatrist who emphasizes patient education and a psychodynamic approach to outpatient psychiatry. His passion for empowering patients with knowledge stems from his academic experience in psychiatry residency training. Dr. Tu's practice focuses on blending medication management together with psychotherapy. He also prioritizes collaboration with your therapist and encourages working together as a team. Dr. Tu is a graduate of the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine where he completed an MD and PhD combined program which helped develop his "doctors as teachers” style of practice. Dr. Tu completed his psychiatry residency training at Loyola University Medical Center in Illinois. Dr. Tu served as an Associate Program Director of Loyola's Psychiatry residency training program for two years, and now maintains an Affiliate Assistant Professor of Psychiatry role with Loyola. He continues to contribute to residency training, as well as mentorship of medical students and psychology externs. Over the years, Dr. Tu has received several awards that demonstrate his affinity for teaching, including the Educator of the Year Award in 2022 from the Loyola Psychiatry Residency Program. Areas of specialization include psychopharmacology, patient-centered medicine, and combination treatment of psychiatry and psychotherapy. Dr. Tu understands that medications are not the end-all-be-all of treatment, but just the beginning. For trauma and acute stress, he understands that the journey starts at the tip of the iceberg, with much to explore as you feel more ready.

Stephanie Tubbs, LCSW, is a Licensed Clinical Master Social Worker from Mississippi and a graduate of The University of Southern Mississippi. She has experience working with veterans, adolescents, older adults, and the LGBTQIA+ community. Stephanie is passionate about helping people feel seen, heard, and supported. She uses evidence-based approaches including CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution-Focused Therapy through a trauma-informed, culturally sensitive lens, bringing warmth, authenticity, and humor into her work.

Stephanie Tubbs creates a relaxed, safe, and nonjudgmental space where patients can be themselves. She believes therapy can include laughter, real conversations, and genuine connection. She meets patients where they are, values trust, and ensures they feel understood. Stephanie offers support while gently challenging growth, empowering patients to feel confident and capable of creating meaningful change.

Stephanie Tubbs begins by learning each patient’s story and identifying meaningful goals together. She integrates CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution-Focused Therapy, always using a trauma-informed, culturally aware approach. She provides practical tools for daily life, monitors progress, and adjusts care as needed. Her focus is on building confidence, resilience, and independence while offering consistent support.

Cherie Tubeileh, PMHNP-BC, is a compassionate Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing personalized, evidence-based mental health care. Cherie earned her master’s degree from the Medical College of Ohio and her post-master’s certification from Rush University. Outside of work, she enjoys hiking, yoga, and meditation, reinforcing her belief in the importance of balance and self-care.

With expertise in diagnosing and treating various conditions, she empowers patients through psychopharmacology and therapeutic interventions. Cherie embraces a holistic approach, recognizing the vital connection between mind, body, and spirit in the journey to mental wellness.

Her approach integrates evidence-based practices with a holistic understanding of everyone’s unique needs, ensuring personalized and effective care. Cherie has worked extensively with diverse populations, including individuals managing anxiety, depression, trauma, and mood disorders. She is skilled in psychopharmacology, therapeutic interventions, and patient education, fostering a supportive environment that empowers individuals on their journey to wellness.

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Scott Tuckman is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who arrives with a robust set of backgrounds across several fields of interest, with immersion among numerous cultures and diverse ways of life. He has worked in multiple capacities in a variety of settings around the U.S., ranging from correctional to educational to inner-city community-based to corporate. With an eye on what influences the ever-present connections between body and mind and emotional states, Scott works well with those struggling with mood disorders, depression, a range of anxiety disorders, relationship problems, esteem issues, adjustment concerns, emotional dysregulation, and more. While Scott is psychodynamically oriented, he blends attachment theory application, mindfulness, selections from CBT and DBT modalities, or other treatment mechanisms tailored to meet each client's needs and complement any assigned psychopharmacological undertaking. Considering it an honor to join someone on their journey, he takes a direct yet compassionate approach so as to establish a comfortable co-owned therapeutic relationship. Ultimately, he strives to help clients gain a more comprehensive understanding of how they can move themselves forward and collaboratively develop the readiness to step towards it. When goals have been met and it's time to finally part ways, Scott hopes each client's tool belt is fortified with newly acquired techniques to overcome the inevitable obstacles on the road ahead.

Dr. Micah Turpeau, is a board-certified psychiatrist with experience in both outpatient and inpatient settings. She earned her medical degree from Meharry Medical College and completed her psychiatry residency and child & adolescent psychiatry fellowship at the University of Florida College of Medicine – Jacksonville. Her training and practice reflect a commitment to supporting patients across the lifespan with individualized, evidence-based care.

Dr. Turpeau strives to create a safe, judgment-free space where patients can share their experiences openly. She encourages honest dialogue so patients feel supported, understood, and fully involved in every decision. Her approach emphasizes evidence-based medication management to reduce symptoms and improve functioning, while maintaining flexibility to adapt strategies as needs and goals evolve.

Dr. Turpeau begins with a collaborative exploration of symptoms, personal history, and goals to establish a clear treatment direction. She tailors care to each individual, balancing medication management with supportive therapy when appropriate. Through shared decision-making, She ensures patients remain active participants in their treatment. By closely monitoring progress and adjusting as needed, She provides care that is both responsive and effective.

Matthew Twomey, PMHNP, earned his BSN and MSN from the Massachusetts General Hospital Institute of Health Professions School of Nursing. He began his career as an adult psychiatric nurse practitioner in community health centers before commissioning as an officer in the U.S. Army Nurse Corps. After five years of active duty, he continued caring for service members and families at Fort Bliss as a civilian provider for nearly six years. He now practices in the private sector, bringing broad clinical experience to diverse patient populations.

Matthew is skilled in psychopharmacology, evidence-based practice, and telehealth delivery. He combines strong clinical expertise with a patient-centered approach to improve outcomes and streamline care. Patients can expect thoughtful collaboration, clear communication, and treatment planning grounded in the latest research and tailored to their individual goals.

He specializes in psychopharmacology and precise medication management tailored to each patient’s unique needs. He also integrates supportive psychotherapy, motivational interviewing, psychoeducation, and cognitive behavioral therapy. Through active listening and mutual respect, he fosters a safe, supportive environment where patients feel heard, engaged, and empowered in their care.

Angelique Umutesi is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience in outpatient mental health, school-based settings, and crisis intervention. She earned her Master of Social Work from the University of Texas at San Antonio and is completing her Doctor of Social Work at the University of Kentucky, focusing on Military Behavioral Health. She is a Certified Clinical Trauma Specialist with additional training in grief, global mental health, and refugee trauma.

Therapy with Angelique is relational, grounded, and collaborative. She offers a space where clients feel safe, seen, and supported—free from pressure to have it all figured out. She values transparency and cultural humility, bringing warmth, curiosity, and gentle honesty to each session. Whether facing trauma, loss, identity shifts, or faith questions, Angelique walks with clients as they reclaim their voice and story.

Angelique begins by building a strong foundation—exploring your history, goals, and values. She collaborates with clients to create personalized treatment plans, drawing from IFS, ACT, and narrative therapy through a trauma-informed lens. Integrating spiritual and cultural frameworks when relevant, she ensures therapy stays connected, meaningful, and sustainable throughout the journey.

Dr. Michael Underriner is an adult psychiatrist. His approach to treatment is holistic, taking into account the entire person, and emphasizes the importance of the therapeutic bond to help people reduce suffering and achieve their goals. He is a member of the Gold Humanism Honor Society. Dr. Underriner's practice focuses on a mix of medication management, offered in conjunction with supportive therapy in 30-minute follow-up visits, and insight-oriented psychotherapy offered in weekly 45-minute visits. He works with people struggling with ADHD, depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive and related disorders, and difficulties with self-esteem and relationships. Occasionally Dr. Underriner may believe that additional therapy is warranted and recommend a separate therapist to provide the best outcome. He received his medical degree from the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine and completed his residency training at New York University. During training, he gained experience treating patients with various psychiatric illnesses in several different clinics and hospital-based settings. He worked with experts in the field of depression and provided consultations for patients considering transcranial magnetic stimulation. He also published a review article on long-term injectable medications for psychosis. Dr. Underriner has maintained an interest in teaching and remains connected to the psychiatry department at NYU. He has supervised and taught junior residents and medical students. Additionally, he is interested in global health and disparities in access to care and has traveled to Ghana to teach medical students rotating through psychiatry at the university there.

Deborah Unger, LCSW, earned her Master’s Degree in Social Work from Yeshiva University Wurzweiler School of Social Work and her Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education/Psychology from Hofstra University. Her background in education and psychology informs her thoughtful, developmentally attuned clinical perspective.

Deborah’s counseling style is warm and interactive. She treats each individual with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, creating a safe and supportive space for growth. She believes meaningful change begins with feeling heard, understood, and empowered.

Deborah integrates Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic therapy, and Problem-Solving Therapy (PST), tailoring treatment to each client’s unique needs. She collaborates with patients to develop personalized goals and practical strategies, supporting them as they take courageous steps toward a more fulfilling life.

Dr. Onah Uwagbai is a board-certified psychiatrist who earned her medical degree from St. George’s University School of Medicine. She completed her psychiatry residency at the University of Kansas Medical Center, where she served as Chief Resident at the Kansas City VA hospital and was recognized for Excellence in Scholarship. Most recently, she worked at the North Texas VA Healthcare System, caring for individuals with treatment-resistant depression and complex psychiatric needs.

Dr. Uwagbai has a passion for supporting individuals with mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, and women’s mental health. She believes healing is best achieved through compassion, collaboration, and respect. Patients can expect a warm, supportive environment where they feel heard and understood, with treatment tailored to their unique history and goals.

Dr. Uwagbai begins with a comprehensive evaluation to understand each patient’s needs and then develops an individualized treatment plan. She draws on evidence-based practices, including expertise in complex cases, and may incorporate both therapy and medication management. Her goal is to empower patients to take an active role in their care while fostering resilience, stability, and long-term wellness.

Dr. Justin Uzl is double board-certified in adult and consultation liaison psychiatry. His fellowship training helped him gain greater insight into the interface between medicine and mental healthcare. He has been practicing for seven years and has worked closely with individuals with co-occurring chronic medical issues, specifically organ transplantation. Dr. Uzl takes a holistic approach to mental healthcare combining medication management, psychotherapy, and lifestyle modifications to help his patients achieve a quality of life that allows them to pursue their goals. He sees the position of the psychiatrist as helping to educate and guide patients, allowing them to take an active role in their own recovery. Dr. Uzl believes diversity is a strength and embraces providing high quality services that affirm the dignity, worth and value of all individuals including the LGBTQ+ community. Dr. Uzl takes an evidence-based approach in his treatment of individuals suffering with depression, anxiety, trauma, difficulty focusing and concentrating, sleep issues, and interpersonal problems. He utilizes insight-oriented care, believing that gaining understanding of a person's feelings, thoughts, and actions will provide them the knowledge needed to make the positive change they desire. Therapy may be a key part of a person's treatment, and if greater frequency is needed outside of sessions with Dr. Uzl, he will refer and collaborate with a psychotherapist to help maximize a patient's success.

Elizabeth Vah, LCSW, graduated from the University of Texas at Austin in 2008 with a master’s degree in clinical social work. She completed her internship at Seton Medical Center, gaining experience in the emergency room and specialty clinics. Elizabeth has worked in both inpatient and outpatient settings and has training in DBT, CBT, mindfulness, solution-focused, and person-centered counseling.

Elizabeth takes a collaborative approach, partnering with patients to clarify goals and create a roadmap for growth. She has supported individuals from diverse backgrounds facing anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, interpersonal challenges, and severe mental illness. Her approach blends evidence-based therapies with individualized care, emphasizing a trusting, supportive relationship and a safe, nonjudgmental environment.

In the first session, Elizabeth creates a welcoming space to discuss challenges, goals, and personal history, reviewing confidentiality and treatment structure. Together, she and the patient develop a personalized plan. Ongoing sessions focus on exploring thoughts and feelings, identifying patterns, and practicing skills to support meaningful change, with regular goal review and reflection on progress.

Dr. Ahmed Valdes is a board certified adult psychiatrist and burgeoning Geriatric Psychiatrist. After completing his undergraduate education at Florida State University, he attended medical school at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine where he graduated with a combined M.D./M.S. in Genomic Medicine. He subsequently completed psychiatry residency at Jackson Health System/University of Miami and further subspecialized with a fellowship in Geriatric Psychiatry. Dr. Valdes has had the opportunity of working with a diverse array of patients including veterans, inmates, the severely mentally ill, geriatric, and cancer patients across three distinct hospital systems. Dr. Valdes has had varied clinical experiences in specialty inpatient psychiatry units (detox, geriatric, mood disorder), emergency psychiatry, consultation liaison psychiatry, psycho-oncology, and outpatient specialty clinics (HIV, dementia, integrative and collaborative care) via telemedicine and face to face interactions .Dr. Valdes has experience working with adults of all ages, particularly those with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, substance use disorders, PTSD, and more. Dr. Valdes employs empathic listening, supportive psychotherapy techniques, and a comprehensive and methodological approach to his visits. Given his broad and diverse training experiences, he enjoys problem solving and working collaboratively with patients to navigate their complex issues and jointly focusing on simple solutions to work towards improving their mental health.

Dr. Vanessa Valdes is an adult psychiatrist specializing in medication management and psychotherapy, with a strong focus on nutrition, wellness, and mindfulness. She earned her combined MD/MPH degree from the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine and completed her psychiatry residency at the University of Miami/Jackson Health System, one of the nation's leading public healthcare systems.‍During her residency, Dr. Valdes gained broad experience in diverse areas of psychiatry, including inpatient psychiatry, emergency psychiatry, outpatient care, psychotherapy, hypnosis, child and adolescent psychiatry, consultation-liaison psychiatry, psycho-oncology, and addiction psychiatry.‍Dr. Valdes primarily provides supportive psychotherapy and acceptance and commitment therapy to help patients better understand and address their stressors. She takes a holistic approach to care, emphasizing the emotional, spiritual, and physical well-being of her patients. Her goal is to inspire meaningful, sustainable changes in patients' lives through compassionate, comprehensive treatment.

Dr. Dennis Valerstain is a board-certified Adult and Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist. After completing his undergraduate education at Emory University, he attended medical school at the Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine. He subsequently completed psychiatry residency at University of Miami/Jackson Health System and further sub-specialized at University of Miami/Jackson Health System with a fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Dr. Valerstain has had the opportunity of working with a diverse array of patients including children, adolescents, the severely mentally ill, veterans, and cancer patients across three distinct hospital systems. Dr. Valerstain has had varied clinical experiences in specialty inpatient psychiatry units, emergency psychiatry, consultation liaison psychiatry, psycho-oncology, and outpatient clinics via telemedicine and face to face interactions. Dr. Valerstain has experience working with patients of all ages, particularly those with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, Tic disorders, substance use disorders, and more. Dr. Valerstain's practice focuses on medication management and also employs empathic listening, supportive psychotherapy techniques, and a comprehensive and methodological approach to his visits. Given his broad and diverse training experiences, he enjoys problem solving and working collaboratively with patients (and their families) to navigate their complex issues and jointly focusing on simple solutions to work towards improving their mental health.

Dr. Alexander Van-Den-Ende is a board-certified adult psychiatrist who earned his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree from Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences. He completed his psychiatry residency training at Authority Health in Detroit, Michigan. Beyond his proficiency in medication management, Dr. Van-Den-Ende has training in talk therapy and interventional treatments like Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation. He is pleased with the increase in access to mental healthcare that comes through telemedicine and is committed to providing high-quality care to his patients. Dr. Van-Den-Ende's approach emphasizes patient insight and mindfulness, guiding individuals on a journey toward self-awareness and mental well-being. He takes extra time to work with his patients that are specifically looking to minimize the use of higher risk medications.

Barb VanHouten, LCSW, provides a safe, non-judgmental atmosphere where clients feel heard and supported. She brings a wealth of personal and professional experiences that have shaped her insight, knowledge, and empathy, enabling her to walk alongside others during their most difficult times. Barb believes that everyone has a story, and that life’s challenges can sometimes become overwhelming, leading to feelings of hopelessness, helplessness, and despair.

Barb specializes in treating a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, anger management, addiction, bipolar disorder, antisocial behaviors, family relationships, grief and bereavement, life transitions, job and employment issues, medical and physical health concerns, PTSD, somatic symptom disorders, learning disorders, stress, and trauma. Her goal is to create a therapeutic space where clients feel empowered to explore challenges and build resilience.

Barb uses a variety of evidence-based approaches tailored to each individual’s needs. Her methods include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Mindfulness, Family Systems, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Trauma-Informed Care, Behavioral Modification, Internal Family Systems, Strength-Based approaches, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). She collaborates with clients to develop practical, effective solutions for growth and healing.