Cheryl Person, MD

Shanika is a dedicated and compassionate board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over a decade of experience in the mental health field. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, a Masters in Nursing Education, and a Post-Master’s Certificate as a Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Shanika is known for her patient-centered approach, prioritizing empathy, respect, and individualized care. She is committed to building strong therapeutic relationships grounded in trust and open communication.

New patients can expect a warm, non-judgmental environment where they feel heard and supported. Shanika collaborates closely with each patient to create personalized treatment plans, helping them feel empowered in their mental health journey.

Shanika begins with a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation to understand each patient’s history, symptoms, and goals. Her treatment may include medication management, supportive therapy, and psychoeducation. She specializes in anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, trauma/PTSD, mood disorders, and women’s mental health. Shanika has extensive experience providing care for both adolescents and adults in outpatient settings, with a particular focus on underserved communities.

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Dr. Joshua Riederman is a board-certified psychiatrist with a specialization in the treatment of adults aged 18 to 65. Dr. Riederman obtained his undergraduate degree in brain, cognition, and neuroscience from the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor. He subsequently attended medical school at Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and completed his residency training at JFK Hospital in Palm Beach, Florida.

Dr. Riederman places a strong emphasis on establishing meaningful relationships with his patients and supporting them in achieving their individual life goals through effective treatment. He actively incorporates patient preferences into all treatment plans and integrates psychotherapy with medication management. Dr. Riederman recognizes the importance of educating patients about their care and dedicates time during each appointment to address any questions or concerns they may have.

In his clinical practice, Dr. Riederman begins by facilitating an open dialogue with patients regarding their primary concerns for the appointment. During initial consultations, he conducts a comprehensive assessment, which includes gathering relevant medical, familial, and social histories that may influence the course of treatment. In subsequent appointments, Dr. Riederman engages patients by inquiring about developments that have occurred since their last visit, as well as any issues related to medications or significant life events.

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Douglas Brennan, MD, earned his medical degree from the University of Colorado School of Medicine and completed an adult psychiatry residency at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) and McLean Hospital. He also completed a forensic psychiatry fellowship at MGH. Dr. Brennan has experience in both outpatient and inpatient settings, supervising residents and mid-level practitioners, and working in emergency and inpatient facilities. He remains on staff at MGH as an instructor for Harvard Medical School and is double-board certified in adult and forensic psychiatry. His outpatient work includes several years treating patients at the Department of Veterans Affairs with post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, and anxiety.

Dr. Brennan enjoys collaborating with patients to understand their goals, set expectations, and provide education on treatment options. He offers medication management evaluations and follow-up visits while working alongside licensed therapists to provide behavioral support as needed.

Dr. Brennan begins by thoroughly reviewing each patient’s history, concerns, and goals in the initial session. He then develops individualized treatment plans tailored to the patient’s objectives, ensuring care aligns with their personal goals and needs.

Dr. Osaji is an Adult Psychiatrist who completed her psychiatry training at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, Texas. She served her program as a chief resident, which helped to build her leadership and interpersonal skills. She also dedicated herself to leading her resident team and fostering a supportive learning environment. She received the award of excellence in psychiatry knowledge during her residency training. She also has a Master's in Public Health from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center and is a Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society member.

Dr. Osaji is an adult outpatient psychiatrist who provides care via telehealth. She strives to create a supportive, collaborative space where patients can explore what's bringing them in and work together to determine the best path forward. Whether someone is new to mental health care or returning after some time away, Dr. Osaji recognizes that it's normal to feel a mix of emotions at the start. She takes a thoughtful, personalized approach to treatment that may include medication, therapy recommendations, or simply creating space to talk. While telehealth offers flexibility and convenience, Dr. Osaji is committed to building a meaningful connection with each patient. She does not provide emergency services between sessions but ensures patients can access the appropriate resources when needed. As someone early in her career, Dr. Osaji brings fresh training and a strong commitment to transparency, lifelong learning, and evidence-informed care. She values open communication and believes deeply in each person's capacity for meaningful change.

Dr. Osaji creates a supportive, collaborative space to help patients explore their mental health concerns and goals. She takes a personalized approach that may include medication, therapy referrals, or check-ins, always valuing patient input. Follow-up visits are 20 to 30 minutes, focusing on monitoring progress and adjusting care as needed. She offers convenient access through telehealth while building meaningful, transparent relationships rooted in respect and growth. Dr. Osaji also values collaborative care and often coordinates with therapists or refers patients to therapy when additional support can enhance outcomes.

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Background and credentials

Dr. Sabera Saklayen is a board-certified psychiatrist licensed in Adult Psychiatry. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Ohio State University and her medical degree from Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine. She completed her psychiatry training at Stony Brook University Hospital, where she served as chief resident and was awarded the William Turner Award for outstanding performance in psychiatry residency. She has extensive experience treating diverse populations, including vulnerable and underserved communities, having worked as an outpatient psychiatrist at Bellevue Hospital for two years.

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Treatment approach

Dr. Saklayen specializes in medication management but takes a holistic, patient-centered approach that integrates supportive therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and motivational interviewing (MI). She has extensive experience treating depression, bipolar disorder, generalized anxiety, panic disorder, social anxiety, OCD, insomnia, and substance use disorders. She is particularly skilled in treating college students and individuals navigating difficult life transitions. If more in-depth therapy is needed, she may refer patients to a therapist as part of a comprehensive care plan.

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What you can expect in a first visit

During the first visit, patients can expect a thorough and compassionate evaluation, where Dr. Saklayen carefully assesses symptoms, history, and treatment goals. She prioritizes collaboration and individualized treatment planning, ensuring that patients feel comfortable and supported in their mental health care. Follow-up visits are typically 30 minutes and focus on medication management and therapy integration, with referrals to additional therapy when needed for the best possible outcome.

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

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

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

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