
Luke Romanow, MD
I have extensive experience treating various mental health disorders including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, and ADHD. My clinical work includes assisting patients who experience mental health disorders with co-occurring substance use problems. I have training in various schools of psychotherapy including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), CBT for insomnia, motivational interviewing, and supportive psychotherapy. I incorporate treatment focusing on the importance of exercise, diet, and good sleep habits as a part of comprehensive mental health care.
I am double board-certified in Adult Psychiatry and Forensic Psychiatry. I graduated summa cum laude from the University of Pittsburgh with a Bachelor of Science degree in Sports Medicine/Athletic Training and then attended Drexel University College of Medicine. After medical school, I completed my residency in Adult Psychiatry at the University of Virginia, where I obtained a certificate in additional psychotherapy training. After residency, I completed a fellowship in Forensic Psychiatry at the University of Virginia. During my fellowship, I trained at the prestigious Institute of Law, Psychiatry, and Public Policy (ILPPP) and Western State Psychiatric Hospital, where I performed criminal and civil forensic evaluations. I also provided clinical care at a maximum security prison. Prior to joining Talkiatry, I worked at a healthcare system in Montana providing inpatient and outpatient psychiatric care involving medication management and psychotherapy. Additionally, I operate a private forensic psychiatry practice that conducts mental health evaluations for the legal system.

Luna Sanchez Rivera, MD
I have an approachable style aimed at providing a comprehensive evaluation for all age ranges and am comfortable managing various levels of diagnostic complexities. I provide supportive psychotherapy while using psychodynamic therapy skills to clarify my patients' constellation of symptoms, identify unifying themes, and provide thorough psychoeducation throughout the process to drive positive outcomes. I integrate psychodynamic medication management approaches and am adept at family therapy interventions.
I am a Staff Psychiatrist at Talkiatry. After completing residency in 2016 at the Ponce Medical School Psychiatry Residency in Puerto Rico, I moved to North Carolina to complete a subspecialty in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at Duke University Health System. There, I transitioned into an assistant professor position, focused on structuring pediatric emergency psychiatric services, and helped support the consult and liaison pediatric service. My experience has included working as an integrated care child psychiatrist within outpatient clinics at Duke University Health System, and I trained and worked as a staff psychiatrist at the Inpatient State Facility in North Carolina. I also served in the Dayton Children's Hospital outpatient clinics in Dayton, Ohio, the Appalachian Health System outpatient clinics in Linville, North Carolina, and more recently have been serving the Child and Adolescent inpatient population in Bangor, Maine.

Martha James, MD
I am an experienced, open-minded psychiatrist who prioritizes empathy and understanding in my work. I recognize that each individual's path to wellness is unique and strive to meet patients where they are in this process. I believe that while some individuals may benefit from treatment with medication management alone, psychotherapy is often important for treatment success. I encourage patients to participate in psychotherapy and believe a therapist can be a crucial part of the treatment team. I use a collaborative, patient-centered treatment approach with the goal of reducing mental pain and improving wellness so that patients are better able to pursue their unique personal and professional goals. I utilize psychopharmacology, psychoeducation, and supportive and psychodynamic psychotherapy skills when working with patients. I have experience treating adults with a variety of mental health problems including anxiety, mood disorders, trauma-related disorders, and psychotic disorders.
I am board-certified in general adult psychiatry and have more than twenty years of experience working with adults in a variety of mental health care settings including academia, inpatient psychiatric hospitals, outpatient clinics, university medical centers, VA medical centers, and community mental health settings. I received my medical degree from Duke University School of Medicine and completed my psychiatric residency at the University of California, Los Angeles Neuropsychiatric Institute.

Matthew Richter, MD
I foster a safe, non-judgmental space where patients can explore their feelings and experiences freely, met with unconditional positive regard. I prioritize active listening and deep empathy, ensuring each patient feels heard, understood, and valued as a unique individual throughout their treatment journey. Initial sessions focus on a collaborative exploration of a patient's history, current challenges, and core values, forming the foundation for a personalized treatment plan. I emphasize shared decision-making, integrating therapeutic modalities (including medication when appropriate) while honoring patient autonomy and aligning with their vision for well-being.
I earned my medical degree from the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences and completed a psychiatry residency at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, followed by a forensic psychiatry fellowship at the National Capital Consortium. I have experience practicing in outpatient and inpatient settings, as well as with military and confinement populations.
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Megan Freeman, MD
My Talkiatry practice will mostly focus on medication management in conjunction with support or acceptance-based therapy during 30-minute follow-up visits. I hope to collaborate with my patients to help set treatment goals and ways to track progress in between appointments. I enjoy seeing patients with a wide variety of diagnoses including, but not limited to, major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and generalized anxiety disorder, and I enjoy combining medication management with various therapy techniques.
I am board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in Adult Psychiatry. I completed my residency training at Vidant Medical Center at East Carolina University in Greenville, North Carolina in 2021, where I was the chief resident. Since then, I have worked as an attending physician at an inpatient adult psychiatric unit in Burlington, North Carolina. As a resident and attending, I have treated adults of all ages and in all areas of mental health.

Meghan Hebishi, DO
I am dedicated to building a collaborative relationship with patients and their families where shared-decision making is respected and encouraged. I am passionate about providing continuity of care to my patients as they navigate life's changes and challenges. I utilize medication management and psychotherapy in my clinical practice, and my areas of interest include ADHD across the lifespan, anxiety disorders, mood disorders (depression and bipolar disorder), and OCD. I am experienced in treating children, adolescents, and adults.
I am double-board certified in General Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Originally from Delaware, I earned my medical degree from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2017. I also obtained a Master of Science in Biological Sciences from Drexel University and a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Juniata College. In 2017, I moved south and am happy to call North Carolina my home. I completed my internship at Campbell University/Harnett Health in 2018, then went on to complete a General Psychiatry Residency followed by a Fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at East Carolina University Brody School of Medicine. Prior to joining Talkiatry in 2025, I was in private practice at North Raleigh Psychiatry in Raleigh, NC.

Melody Santos, MD
I value open and clear communication, creating a safe, non-judgmental space where patients feel heard and respected. I blend traditional and innovative approaches, including metabolic psychiatry and dietary strategies, to support wellness. My care is culturally sensitive and patient-centered, always tailored to each individual's needs and values. Through empathy and education, I empower patients and foster resilience. I begin with a thorough assessment of each patient's medical, psychiatric, and lifestyle history, then collaborate with patients to build personalized, evidence-based treatment plans that reflect their goals and preferences. My holistic care model considers social, cultural, and environmental influences, and I ensure consistent follow-up to adjust care as needed, promoting informed, long-term wellness.
I am dual-trained in Internal Medicine and Psychiatry, with experience in both outpatient and inpatient settings. I served as Chief Resident and Deputy Chief Resident in East Carolina University's combined residency program, where I led academic and clinical initiatives. I have published research on topics including adult ADHD and metabolic psychiatry, with presentations at national conferences. I earned my MD from the American University of the Caribbean and a BS in Biology with a minor in Jazz Piano from the University of Tampa.
A native Spanish speaker, I am active in community service and church-based outreach.

Michael Kim, DO
I am an accomplished attending psychiatrist dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health care. I am passionate about employing supportive and psychodynamic therapy approaches, tailoring treatment plans to meet each patient's unique needs. Embracing a holistic approach to psychiatry, I integrate medication management with a focus on nutrition, diet, and lifestyle factors to foster overall well-being, reflecting my belief in treating the whole person and ensuring optimal mental and physical health for each individual I serve.
I earned my medical degree from Liberty University College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed my residency at HCA's The Medical Center of Aurora North. With a diverse clinical background, I have honed my expertise across various settings including inpatient, outpatient, PHP/IOP, and specialized areas such as geriatrics, eating disorders, addiction, and child and adolescent psychiatry. I am also proficient in innovative treatments like Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS).
Outside of my professional commitments, I am an advocate for personal health and wellness. I enjoy enhancing my fitness and nutrition, engaging with enlightening podcasts, and exploring the great outdoors.

Michele Kerbow, MD
I believe strongly in the interconnectivity of mental and physical health, especially as it relates to trauma. I have a particular interest in the treatment of Veterans' issues and trauma, and my most recent work saw me caring for both Veterans and Active Duty military through the Fayetteville VA Medical Center in Jacksonville, NC and the Naval Hospital Jacksonville in Florida. I place an emphasis on the importance of both therapy and medication management in the treatment of mental health, and have a strong history of collaboration with therapists and counselors in order to enact the best treatment plan possible.
I am a board certified psychiatrist with more than 20 years of clinical experience. I completed my undergraduate training at Clemson University before continuing to the University of South Carolina School of Medicine in Columbia, SC. From there, I completed my General Psychiatry Internship and General Adult Psychiatry Residency through the University of Virginia in Roanoke. Though I have a wide array of experience in psychiatric care and psychological assessment, my clinical focus has centered on Veterans' issues and trauma.
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Michele Schaefer, MD
My practice primarily focuses on medication management, which I offer in conjunction with supportive therapy and elements of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). I take a patient-centered and collaborative approach, ensuring that treatment is tailored to each individual's needs. If additional therapy is required, I may recommend working with a therapist as part of a comprehensive care plan. My primary focus areas include depression, anxiety disorders, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist with over 16 years of experience. I earned my medical degree from the University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha, NE, and completed my adult psychiatry residency at Oregon Health and Science University in Portland, OR. I then specialized further by completing a forensic psychiatry fellowship at Yale University. I have worked as a staff psychiatrist at Atrium Health System for over 16 years.
During the first visit, patients can expect a thorough psychiatric evaluation, where I carefully assess their symptoms, treatment history, and mental health goals. I work collaboratively with patients to develop a personalized treatment plan, which may include medication management and therapy recommendations. Follow-up visits are typically 30 minutes and focus on monitoring progress, adjusting treatment as needed, and ensuring the best possible patient outcomes.

Michelle Ferrara, MD
My path into medicine was inspired by a desire to care for patients in a compassionate and comprehensive way. I was drawn to psychiatry because it focuses on the whole person rather than only the illness. In my work, I take a holistic view of mental health, considering medical conditions, personal history, social determinants of health, support systems, and life goals when guiding care.
I strive to create a supportive environment where patients feel heard, respected, and comfortable communicating openly. I believe effective mental health care is built on collaboration and trust. My approach centers on understanding each patient's unique experiences and values so that treatment aligns with what matters most to them. I work collaboratively with patients to establish clear treatment goals and develop individualized care plans.
With training in adult psychiatry and additional training in addiction psychiatry, I provide evidence-based care and current pharmacologic treatments. I value partnering with patients on their path toward recovery, recognizing that each person's journey is unique.

Mona Ismail, MD
I am passionate about integrative medicine, which combines evidence-based alternative therapies with conventional treatments to optimize outcomes. My approach focuses on promoting overall wellness, keeping both the body and mind in harmony. During the diagnostic evaluation, I will review your medical history and past treatments to develop a comprehensive, personalized treatment plan that prioritizes your overall wellness. In addition to medication management, I incorporate supportive, cognitive, or psychodynamic psychotherapy during follow-up visits, as time allows. When appropriate, I may also recommend referrals to specialized psychotherapists to address your individual needs as part of a holistic treatment approach.
I am double board-certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in both Adult Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I earned my medical degree from Cairo University, where I also completed my neurology residency at Cairo University Hospitals. Following this, I pursued psychiatric training at New York Medical College at St. Vincent's Hospitals, where I was appointed Chief Resident and recognized as Resident of the Year. I further specialized with a fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at UMDNJ/Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School.
My career includes multiple leadership roles, notably serving as Chief of the Child and Adolescent Partial Hospital Programs (PHP) at Rutgers University in Newark, NJ, where I provided direct care to young patients. I have also held Medical Director positions across various clinical settings, including child and adolescent inpatient units, outpatient programs, and intensive outpatient services for both adolescents and adults with mental health and co-occurring substance use disorders. As an active educator, I have served as a teaching faculty member, delivering lectures and providing supervision and evaluations for medical residents and child and adolescent psychiatry fellows, and I have served as a principal investigator on multiple studies. Throughout my career in leadership and teaching, I maintained an integrative private practice in New Jersey, serving residents of the NJ and NY metropolitan areas before relocating to North Carolina.
Find a psychiatrist in Charlotte, NC
Waiting weeks for a psychiatry appointment in Charlotte is common, and it can feel like the hardest part of getting care. Talkiatry connects you with a psychiatrist licensed in North Carolina, so you can be seen from anywhere in the Charlotte area by secure video. Because visits happen online, you are not limited to the few practices taking new patients near you, and there is no commute or waiting rooms.
Online psychiatry for Charlotte residents
You start with a short online assessment, then get matched with a psychiatrist licensed in North Carolina who fits your needs. Your first appointment lasts 60 minutes, which gives you time to talk through your symptoms, ask questions, and build a treatment plan together. Follow-up visits are usually about 30 minutes.
Every visit happens over secure video from home, so anyone in Charlotte can see a psychiatrist without driving across the city. Your psychiatrist is licensed in North Carolina, which means you can be seen from anywhere in the state.
What a psychiatrist can help with
Talkiatry psychiatrists are medical doctors who treat a wide range of mental health conditions and can prescribe and manage medication when it fits your care. Depending on your needs and what is available, therapy may also be part of your plan.
Common reasons Charlotte residents reach out include:
- Anxiety, including panic, social anxiety, and constant worry that interferes with daily life
- Depression, such as low mood, loss of interest, or trouble functioning that lasts for weeks
- ADHD, including trouble focusing, restlessness, or difficulty following through
Your psychiatrist listens first, works toward an accurate diagnosis, and personalizes care rather than defaulting to any single treatment.
Does insurance cover a psychiatrist in Charlotte?
Talkiatry is in-network with major insurers, and your coverage is verified during the free assessment before you schedule a visit. What you pay out of pocket depends on your plan, so it is worth confirming the details with your insurer. You will know where you stand before your first appointment.
Mental health care in Charlotte
Finding timely care in the Charlotte area reflects a wider gap across the state. North Carolina has 218 designated mental health professional shortage areas covering about 4.27 million people, and only about 12.5% of the need for psychiatric care is currently met (KFF). For you, that shortage often shows up as long waits and few openings nearby. Online care helps by connecting you with a licensed psychiatrist anywhere in the state, rather than limiting your options to the providers in your immediate area.
Psychiatry across North Carolina
Charlotte is one part of the care Talkiatry offers statewide. To see the full list of psychiatrists licensed across the state, visit our North Carolina psychiatry page.
Start with a free assessment
Ready to get started? Answer a few questions online, get matched with a psychiatrist licensed in North Carolina, and schedule your first video visit. Take our free online assessment.
Can I see a psychiatrist online in Charlotte?

Yes. Talkiatry matches you with a psychiatrist licensed in North Carolina, and you meet by secure video from anywhere in Charlotte. There is no office to travel to and no need to search for an opening near your home.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist in Charlotte?

No. You can start on your own by taking the free online assessment. A referral from your primary care provider is not required to be matched with a Talkiatry psychiatrist.
Is a psychiatrist or a psychologist right for me?

Psychiatrists are medical doctors who can diagnose mental health conditions and prescribe and manage medication. Psychologists focus on talk therapy and testing and do not prescribe. If medication may be part of your care, a psychiatrist is a good place to start.
Does insurance cover online psychiatry in Charlotte?

Talkiatry is in-network with major insurers. Your coverage is checked during the free assessment before you schedule, and your out-of-pocket cost depends on your plan, so confirm the specifics with your insurer.
Can I get a prescription from an online psychiatrist in Charlotte?

Your psychiatrist can prescribe and manage medication when it is clinically appropriate and legally permitted. Medication is one possible part of a treatment plan, not a guaranteed outcome, and your psychiatrist will talk through the options that fit your situation.
How quickly can I see a psychiatrist in Charlotte?

Many patients are seen within days rather than months. Timing depends on your schedule and match, but online care usually means a shorter wait than searching for a local opening.