Christa DeFries, MD

Dr. Elena Volfson is a double board-certified psychiatrist in General Adult Psychiatry and Addiction Psychiatry. She earned her medical degree from St. Petersburg Pavlov Medical University, completed advanced training in the U.S., and has held leadership, teaching, and clinical roles at nationally recognized institutions. She has also been honored as a Top Doctor and named a Distinguished Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association.

Dr. Volfson believes medication can support recovery but is not a replacement for psychotherapy. Her treatment philosophy combines thoughtful medication management with evidence-based psychotherapy, creating an individualized approach that helps patients build lasting skills and achieve meaningful progress.

Dr. Volfson partners with each patient to understand their goals, concerns, and unique needs. She develops personalized treatment plans that integrate psychotherapy into every visit, using medication when appropriate while emphasizing collaboration, education, and long-term wellness.

Dr. Kokil Malik Chopra earned her medical degree from MGM Medical College in India, where she graduated with honors in medicine. She completed her psychiatry residency at Eastern Virginia Medical School, serving as Chief Resident, and went on to complete a fellowship in Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry (Psychosomatic Medicine) at the University of Washington. With more than 17 years of clinical experience, including a decade in county health systems and community psychiatry, she is also a Qualified Medical Evaluator. Dr. Chopra has contributed to psychiatric research through publications and presentations at national and international conferences and has participated in rural health camps in India in support of global health initiatives.

Dr. Chopra takes a compassionate, culturally sensitive approach to care and strives to create a supportive environment where patients feel heard and respected. Her expertise includes the treatment of depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), using evidence-based psychopharmacology while incorporating psychotherapy when appropriate. Fluent in English and Hindi, with working knowledge of Punjabi and Urdu, she is well equipped to care for patients from diverse backgrounds.

Dr. Chopra believes in a patient-centered approach built on collaboration and trust. She works with patients to develop individualized treatment goals and emphasizes a strong therapeutic alliance throughout care. Her treatment plans are grounded in evidence-based practices and may include a thoughtful balance of medication management and psychotherapy, tailored to each patient's unique needs. She is committed to improving access to mental healthcare through education, advocacy, and direct patient care.

Dr. Henry Guajardo is a psychiatrist who strives to help people overcome their challenges, not merely endure them. He earned his M.D. from UT Southwestern Medical Center and completed psychiatry residency at Baylor College of Medicine, where he served as Chief Resident of the outpatient clinic. He also trained at The Menninger Clinic, a world-renowned inpatient treatment center. He has worked with individuals facing burnout, relationship conflict, attention and focus difficulties, anxiety, attachment issues, childhood trauma, and questions of meaning and purpose.  

Dr. Guajardo’s reassuring demeanor sets patients at ease, allowing them to open up at their own pace. He uses psychotherapy as a core part of his treatment approach, drawing from motivational interviewing (helping patients find their own reasons for change) and psychodynamic psychotherapy (exploring how past experiences shape current patterns). He has ample experience managing complex cases, and is adept with advanced medication approaches for patients with refractory symptoms. He also has expertise supporting patients who are taking a closer look at their relationship with alcohol, nicotine, cannabis, or compulsive behaviors such as gambling or pornography use.

Dr. Guajardo uses the initial appointment as an opportunity to understand his patient’s background thoroughly and define treatment goals. He aims to thoughtfully interweave medication management and psychotherapy at every visit.

‍

Harshit Gupta, MD, completed his undergraduate training at the University of Texas at Austin, earned his medical degree from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), and completed his adult psychiatry residency at Baylor College of Medicine. He has experience across outpatient, inpatient, emergency, and consult-liaison psychiatry settings and is on track to become board certified in September 2026.

Dr. Gupta approaches care through a holistic, evidence-based lens that emphasizes the mind-body connection. He strives to understand each person through their physical health, lifestyle, relationships, life experiences, and mental health symptoms. His goal is to provide compassionate, nonjudgmental, personalized care through shared decision-making to help patients achieve their goals.

Dr. Gupta begins with a comprehensive evaluation to understand psychiatric concerns, medical history, life factors, and personal goals. He develops individualized treatment plans that may include supportive therapy, medication management, and psychoeducation. He meets regularly with patients to refine treatment plans, monitor progress, and has experience treating a broad range of psychiatric conditions in adults.

Brandon Ho, MD, earned a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree and a Master of Medical Science degree from Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine. He completed psychiatry residency training at LSU Health Shreveport, where he served as Chief Resident. Dr. Ho has experience providing comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and treatment planning for diverse patient populations.

Dr. Ho values building strong rapport and meaningful connections with patients to create a supportive, collaborative treatment environment. He strives to ensure patients feel heard, respected, and actively involved in their care through open communication and individualized treatment aligned with each patient’s goals and priorities.

Dr. Ho begins appointments with thorough history gathering to better understand each patient’s background, symptoms, and treatment goals. He develops individualized treatment plans focused on optimizing outcomes while minimizing side effects whenever possible, and works collaboratively with patients to monitor progress and adjust care as needed.

Florence (Flossy) Eddins-Folensbee, M.D. is board certified in general and child and adolescent psychiatry, with 43 years of clinical practice. Most recently, she served as lead psychiatrist for two Texas state hospital forensic units. She semi-retired from leadership positions in medical education and administration in 2021/2022 (deanships in admissions, student affairs, curriculum development and medical school accreditation), but continues consultation in medical education and accreditation for new and developing medical schools. She is a member of Alpha Omega Alpha Medical Honor Society, has received multiple teaching and educational leadership awards, and is a peer-reviewed published author. Outside of medicine, she is the mother of four adult children, enjoys time with her first grandchild, and is the proud parent of Mork, a Yorkshire Terrier named in honor of Robin Williams.

Dr. Eddins is considered an expert in anxiety and depression and emphasizes helping patients, especially children and adolescents, build a healthy developmental trajectory despite emotional and behavioral challenges. Her professional interests include human development, physician professionalism and mental health, and the provision of compassionate, transparent care grounded in developmental psychiatry and individualized goals.

Dr. Eddins begins with a comprehensive developmental and psychiatric assessment integrating history, family context, and functional goals. She develops an individualized, evidence-informed treatment plan that may include therapy; medication management; and coordination with families, schools, and other supports.

‍

Dr. Joel Barrett is a board-certified psychiatrist who treats children, adolescents, and adults. He earned his medical degree and completed his psychiatry residency at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, serving as chief resident, and later completed fellowships in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Forensic Psychiatry at LSU Health Shreveport. Dr. Barrett also completed advanced training in trauma-focused care, developmental assessment, cognitive evaluation, and forensic risk assessment.

Dr. Barrett takes a whole-person approach to care, considering biological, psychological, social, family, and cultural factors rather than focusing only on symptoms. He works to create a respectful, nonjudgmental environment where patients and families feel safe sharing their experiences. His treatment style combines evidence-based medication management with structured psychotherapy tailored to each patient’s needs.

Dr. Barrett begins with a thorough biopsychosocial evaluation that reviews history, functioning, past treatment, and current concerns before making recommendations. He then collaborates with patients and, when appropriate, families to develop individualized treatment plans with clear goals and measurable progress. Care may include medication management, psychotherapy, and coordination with therapists, schools, primary care providers, and other clinicians as needs evolve over time.

Dr. Nikita Dixon is a double board-certified psychiatrist in General Psychiatry and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. She has significant outpatient telepsychiatry experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. Dr. Dixon completed her Psychiatry Residency at Harvard Longwood, her Child & Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at the University of California San Diego, and earned her medical degree from Southern Illinois University. She also has advanced training in Perinatal Mental Health and Geriatric Mental Health.

Dr. Dixon values conducting comprehensive evaluations to develop holistic, personalized treatment plans tailored to each individual’s needs. She strives to create a collaborative and supportive environment where patients feel heard and understood. Her approach integrates multiple therapeutic modalities, when appropriate, to help patients achieve meaningful and lasting progress.

Dr. Dixon begins by gathering information from all areas of a patient’s life to gain a thorough understanding of their background, experiences, and concerns. Based on this assessment, she develops individualized treatment plans that incorporate multiple evidence-based approaches and presents options that align with each patient’s goals, preferences, and overall well-being.

Dr. Shailen Patel earned his medical degree from McGovern Medical School at the University of Texas in Houston and completed his psychiatry residency at John Peter Smith Psychiatry Residency, where he served as Chief Resident for two years. He has presented at case conferences and journal clubs and is committed to providing thoughtful, evidence-based psychiatric care.

Dr. Patel fosters a supportive environment where patients can openly discuss their concerns. He takes a collaborative, patient-centered approach and values treating the whole person through holistic care that integrates medication management and psychotherapy to help patients achieve their treatment goals.

Dr. Patel begins with a thorough assessment of each patient’s concerns, including an evaluation of potential medical and psychiatric factors contributing to symptoms. Treatment plans are developed collaboratively using evidence-based approaches tailored to individual needs. Follow-up visits focus on monitoring progress, reassessing symptoms, and making appropriate adjustments to treatment to support continued improvement.

Dr. Tasha Vazquez is a psychiatrist with expertise in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), psychodynamic psychotherapy, and integrative psychiatry. She is passionate about helping individuals improve their mental health through a thoughtful combination of psychotherapy, lifestyle wellness, nutrition, and evidence-based treatment. Dr. Vazquez works with patients experiencing anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and life transitions, and has a special interest in supporting LGBTQ+ individuals, women’s mental health, and college-age young adults.

Dr. Vazquez believes effective psychiatric care begins with trust, collaboration, and meeting patients where they are. She takes a warm, supportive, and holistic approach, tailoring treatment to each patient’s unique goals and needs. Depending on the individual, treatment may include psychotherapy, lifestyle and wellness strategies, medication management, or a combination of these approaches.

Dr. Vazquez begins with a thorough evaluation to understand each patient’s experiences, concerns, and priorities. Together, they develop an individualized treatment plan grounded in three core principles: talk therapy, evidence-based medication treatment, and lifestyle medicine. Her goal is to create a personalized path forward that supports lasting mental wellness and meaningful progress.

Dr. Charlena Melnyk is a compassionate psychiatrist specializing in adult mental health care for patients ages 18–64. She has experience in academic, consultation and liaison, and outpatient psychiatry, with expertise in diagnostic evaluation and individualized treatment planning. Dr. Melnyk values trauma-informed, nonjudgmental care and enjoys getting to know each patient’s unique goals. Outside of work, she enjoys reading, cooking, Zumba, spending time outdoors, and playing with her dog, Nezzy.

Dr. Melnyk believes strong therapeutic relationships are built through empathy, collaboration, and open communication. She integrates supportive therapy, behavioral activation techniques, and pharmacotherapy to create personalized treatment plans. She treats conditions including depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, and bipolar disorders, while focusing on each patient’s overall wellness and quality of life.

Dr. Melnyk begins by learning about each patient’s history, concerns, and mental health goals while considering biological, psychological, and social factors that may affect wellbeing. She works collaboratively to develop thoughtful treatment plans, adjust care as needed, and provide ongoing support throughout each patient’s mental health journey.

Dr. David Schlager is a board-certified psychiatrist with extensive experience across inpatient, outpatient, and telemedicine settings. He specializes in treating depression and bipolar disorders, anxiety and sleep disorders, ADHD, and mental health issues associated with complex medical conditions or co-occurring substance use concerns. Dr. Schlager earned his medical degree from Tufts University School of Medicine, completed his psychiatry residency at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City, and completed a research fellowship at Columbia University/New York State Psychiatric Institute, where he later conducted research focused on seasonal depression and sleep disorders.

Over long years of practice Dr. Schlager has witnessed, and so in every new case aims for, marked improvement in both emotional distress and day to day function. He is known for being attentive, compassionate, and nonjudgmental and eagerly supports Talkiatry's mission to provide expert mental health care by reducing geographic and insurance obstacles that traditionally limited access.

Dr. Schlager begins by listening openly to each patient's story, including any past experiences of trauma that may be contributing to their current distress. Interviews progress from conversational overview to more specific and problem focused discussion. Diagnosis and treatment response are often best determined by what patients report rather than by conventional blood testing or imaging. As such, he takes care at every stage to help patients articulate their condition and specific concerns, to recognize their meaning in a psychological and social context, and to regularly update goals of care.

Darius Stephens, MD, is a psychiatrist trained at Morehouse School of Medicine with residency at Howard University Hospital in Washington, D.C. He has experience across adult inpatient and outpatient settings, including acute care, medication management, and administrative psychiatry alongside hospital leadership. His work centers on general adult outpatient care with a focus on evidence-based treatment, patient education, and shared decision-making. He is a member of the APA, AMA, and ASAM.

Dr. Stephens takes a direct, collaborative approach, offering honest conversations about diagnoses, options, and expectations. He creates a respectful, nonjudgmental space where patients feel comfortable discussing sensitive topics. Dr. Stephens prioritizes understanding the whole person, incorporating cultural background and life context, and is committed to serving minority and underserved communities.

Dr. Stephens begins with a thorough psychiatric evaluation to understand history, concerns, and goals. He develops individualized plans that may include medication, lifestyle strategies, and therapy referrals. He explains the reasoning behind decisions so patients stay informed and engaged, and he adjusts care collaboratively based on progress and feedback.

Dr. Ruth Graupera-Frain earned her medical degree from Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. She completed a Pediatric residency at UNC Children’s Hospital and a Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatry residency at University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center at Case Western Reserve University. She practiced as a pediatrician for about 10 years and has since worked as a psychiatrist across outpatient, inpatient, residential, and college health settings. She has also cared for military members and their families and has provided telehealth services since March 2020.

Dr. Graupera-Frain takes a comprehensive and practical approach to care. She creates a supportive, nonjudgmental space where patients can feel comfortable sharing openly. She values clear, honest communication and is committed to helping patients feel heard, understood, and actively involved in their care.

Dr. Graupera-Frain begins with a foundational first visit focused on building rapport and gathering key information. She works collaboratively with patients to understand their concerns, identify contributing factors, and establish meaningful goals. Together, they develop a tailored treatment approach to improve well-being and daily functioning.

Dr. Stacyann York is a psychiatrist with experience treating children and adults across outpatient, inpatient, residential, PHP, and IOP settings. She earned her medical degree from the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, completed residency training at the Baylor College of Medicine Menninger Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, and pursued fellowship training at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine. She also holds a Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience and Behavioral Biology.

Dr. York provides a safe, supportive space where patients feel heard, respected, and cared for as individuals. She is attentive, proactive, easy to communicate with, and takes an empathetic, personalized approach to care. Her holistic approach to mental health may include consideration of nutritional health, spiritual wellness, and other support systems while addressing each patient’s questions and concerns.

Dr. York begins with a comprehensive history and biopsychosocial assessment using clinical interviews, rating scales, and laboratory testing when appropriate. She reviews treatment options thoroughly, including non-medication and medication-based approaches, and encourages patients and families to participate in healthcare decisions. She also welcomes collaborative care coordination and ongoing monitoring to support progress and adjust treatment as needed.

Dr. Tarasha Lloyd, DSW, LCSW, is a doctoral-level licensed clinical social worker with over 20 years of experience across behavioral health, healthcare, and community-based settings. She has provided therapy in both in-person and telehealth environments, supporting children, adults, families, and military populations. Her background includes leadership roles focused on serving diverse and underserved communities.

Dr. Lloyd creates a supportive, nonjudgmental space where patients feel heard, respected, and understood. She values open communication and collaborates with patients to establish meaningful goals. Her approach balances empathy with accountability while offering practical strategies that help patients manage challenges in realistic, sustainable ways.

Dr. Lloyd begins by learning each patient’s history, concerns, and goals to build a strong foundation for care. She develops individualized treatment plans tailored to each person’s needs and circumstances, while using ongoing sessions to monitor progress and adjust care as needed. Her work focuses on building insight, coping skills, and strategies that improve daily functioning and overall well-being.

Dr. Jacqueline Ann Fenn earned her medical degree from the University of Illinois College of Medicine and completed her psychiatry residency at Baylor College of Medicine, where she served as chief resident. She pursued subspecialty training in Reproductive Psychiatry and Clinical Education and completed a fellowship in Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry with experience in transplant and reproductive psychiatry. She also holds a doctorate in neuroscience from Michigan State University and is a member of the Gold Humanism Honor Society.

Dr. Fenn values the mind-body connection and creates holistic treatment plans that may include medication, supportive therapy, and lifestyle changes. She prioritizes building strong rapport and providing a welcoming, collaborative environment. She emphasizes open dialogue and shared decision-making, and may recommend additional therapy when helpful. She has experience treating diverse psychiatric conditions, with a focus on women’s mental health and perinatal care.

Dr. Fenn begins with a comprehensive evaluation of symptoms, history, and lifestyle, followed by setting personalized goals. Treatment plans are flexible and refined over time, sometimes requiring multiple visits for clarity. She uses screening tools to track progress and incorporates medication management, supportive therapy, and psychoeducation to empower patients.

Jaime Loebner, PMHNP, is a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in outpatient and telepsychiatry care. She holds a Master of Nursing from Vanderbilt University, a Master of Education in Counseling Psychology from Rutgers University, and a B.A. in Academic Psychology from the University of Tennessee. Jaime has provided psychiatric care across the lifespan in child and adolescent clinics, residential programs for women with co-occurring disorders, and community behavioral health teams. Since 2020, she has focused on telemedicine-based outpatient psychiatry, offering evaluations, medication management, and supportive therapy. She is licensed in multiple states and is committed to compassionate, evidence-based, whole-person care.

Jaime understands that seeking care can feel vulnerable and works to make each visit comfortable and supportive. She listens actively, provides clear, evidence-based guidance, and creates a safe space where patients feel heard and respected. She promotes a balanced lifestyle, including healthy sleep, nutrition, exercise, and meaningful social connections.

Jaime begins with a thorough biopsychosocial assessment to understand each patient’s history, concerns, and goals. She collaborates closely with patients to develop personalized treatment plans aligned with their needs and preferences.

Deborah Gross, MD, earned her medical degree from the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio and completed her psychiatric residency at the University of Washington. She is board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and has extensive experience treating mood and anxiety disorders, trauma, addiction, disordered eating, and personality disorders in both outpatient and inpatient settings. She is also ASAM-certified in addiction medicine and holds a lifetime certificate from the American Board of Addiction Medicine. Dr. Gross is the author of a three-book series supporting women with disordered eating.

Dr. Gross creates a warm, supportive environment where patients feel heard and respected. As a writer, she values each patient’s story and uses it to better understand their challenges and guide treatment. She prioritizes open communication and collaborates closely with patients to establish clear, meaningful goals.

Dr. Gross begins with a comprehensive understanding of each patient’s history, concerns, and goals. She develops individualized treatment plans aligned with those goals and remains attentive as care progresses, adjusting strategies as new insights emerge.

As a psychiatrist, I work mostly with adults navigating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, and the aftermath of trauma. I came to psychiatry from a longstanding interest in both medicine and the humanities, and this field lets me hold both at once. Over the years I've practiced across a wide range of settings, including inpatient, outpatient, consultation-liaison, residential, and emergency psychiatry, and that range has taught me to slow down and understand a person before reaching for a plan.

I take a thorough approach. I spend real time learning your history, your daily life, your strengths, and what's actually getting in the way right now. Appointments with me tend to be calm and attentive; my aim is that you leave each one feeling heard and well-informed rather than talked at. I think psychiatric care works best when you're an active participant in the decisions, so we build treatment together and keep it medically sound, realistic, and something you can actually sustain. When medication has a role, I'll explain the reasoning and we'll weigh it alongside practical strategies, not treat it as the whole answer. What I'm after is steady, meaningful progress toward stability and a better quality of life.

Deciding to look for a psychiatrist takes something, and reading this far means you've already started. When you're ready to take the next step, I'll be glad to help you figure out where to begin.

Taylor Brown, PMHNP, brings over four years of experience in outpatient, group, and community mental health settings. They earned a Master of Science in Nursing from UCSF and are board-certified by the ANCC as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Taylor’s diverse clinical experience informs a holistic, patient-centered approach to mental health care.

Taylor provides trauma-informed, evidence-based care while emphasizing that clients know themselves and their bodies best. They prioritize building a trust-based therapeutic alliance, approaching each patient with openness and without assumptions based on gender, race, sexuality, age, or ability. Patients can expect a collaborative, respectful, and individualized care experience.

Taylor begins by helping clients feel comfortable and inviting questions about their care. They gather personal, medical, and psychiatric history, identify psychosocial supports, and develop a structured framework to achieve patient goals. Potential diagnoses are discussed with patients and integrated into a tailored treatment plan, which may include therapy and medication options.

Marina Lewis, NP is a Board Certified Adult Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of outpatient experience supporting people through anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, and the complexities of modern life. She earned her Master of Science in Nursing from California State University, Long Beach, and completed an Interprofessional Integrative Health Fellowship with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, strengthening her commitment to whole-person, team-based care.

Your first session with Marina is a real conversation—no judgment, no cold clinical distance. She prioritizes understanding your experiences, what brought you here, and what you hope to feel differently. Patients can expect empathy, collaboration, and a safe space to discuss their mental health openly.

Marina believes mental health is inseparable from the rest of life. She considers sleep, nutrition, relationships, identity, and environment alongside symptoms and diagnoses. Whether through therapy support, lifestyle changes, medication, or all combined, she builds individualized treatment plans tailored specifically to each patient’s needs.

I'm a psychiatrist, and most of what I see is anxiety, depression, OCD, and trauma in adults trying to make sense of what they're carrying. I trained in psychiatry at the University of Miami and went on to focus on addiction psychiatry, drawn there by how deeply addiction affects individuals and whole communities, especially people who are managing a mental health condition at the same time. That work shapes how I think about the person in front of me even when addiction isn't the reason they've come in.

I try to treat the person, not the chart. That means I spend real time getting to know you, your history, and what's actually going on before I decide anything about treatment. A first appointment with me looks like a thoughtful, unhurried interview: I ask questions, I listen closely, and I want to understand your specific concerns and what you're hoping to change. From there, we build a plan that fits your situation rather than a generic protocol. When medication makes sense, it's one part of that plan, not the whole of it.

I think most people simply want to feel heard and respected, and I take that seriously in every visit. If any of this resonates, the beginning is straightforward: we talk, we get clear on what matters to you, and we sort out the next steps together from there.

I'm a psychiatrist, and I treat adults dealing with ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD and trauma, panic, and substance use. Over the years I've worked in a range of settings, outpatient and inpatient, in both government and private hospitals and clinics, and that range has shaped how I think about each person who sits across from me. No two histories are alike, and I try to keep that in mind rather than reaching for a formula.

Open and honest communication matters a great deal to me. I want the people I work with to feel genuinely listened to and respected, because the work goes better when there's real trust between us. Our first visit is fairly straightforward: I listen closely to what's brought you in, take a careful history, and ask enough questions to understand the full picture before we settle on anything. From there we build a plan that fits your goals, not one I've decided for you. When medication has a place, it's one part of a broader approach, never the whole answer.

I tend to move at a steady, thorough pace rather than rushing to conclusions, and I'd rather be clear with you than tell you what's easy to hear. Bring whatever's been on your mind to a first appointment, and we'll work through it together and decide on the next steps as a team.

I'm a psychiatrist, and most of what I see is women and families navigating the reproductive stretches of life: pregnancy, the postpartum months, and the mental health questions that come with them. I completed a Reproductive Mental Health Fellowship at the University of Illinois at Chicago, and that focus shapes a lot of my practice. That said, I care for adults of all genders and backgrounds, not only patients arriving with a reproductive concern.

I tend to start by learning the full picture, your history, what's bringing you in now, the symptoms you're living with, and what you're actually hoping to change. I think treatment works best when you feel informed and genuinely part of the decisions, so I'll explain my reasoning and expect us to build a plan rather than hand you one. Depending on what you need, that plan might involve medication, supportive therapy, education about what you're experiencing, and steady follow-up, with adjustments as we go. Sensitive concerns are welcome here; I'd rather you say the difficult thing out loud than carry it into the next appointment unspoken.

What matters to me is that the care fits your particular experience, not a generic template of what pregnancy or postpartum is supposed to look like.

Reaching out for this kind of support takes some nerve, especially during a season of life that already asks a lot of you. If you've gotten this far, you've already done part of the hard part.

I'm a psychiatrist, and I treat anxiety, depression, ADHD, and the mood shifts that can come with pregnancy and the postpartum months. A lot of my attention goes to people who are managing a mental health concern alongside a medical one, whether that's cancer, diabetes, or heart disease, and to those navigating the transitions of reproductive life or aging. I don't see mental health as separate from the rest of a person's health; it's tied to the body, to relationships, and to the particular season of life someone is in.

My approach is thorough and unhurried. I start by getting a real understanding of your psychiatric history, your medical background, what's happening now, and what you're actually hoping for. Because I consider the whole picture, that sometimes means paying attention to medical conditions, lab values, and vitamin levels alongside how you're feeling. A plan might include medication, supportive counseling, and practical coping tools, and I'll check in with you regularly so we can adjust as your needs change. I value clear communication, and I want you to feel comfortable speaking openly with me. Much of the work is about helping you reconnect with joy, meaning, and some sense of balance.

There's no timeline you have to meet before reaching out. When you feel ready to begin, I'll be here.

As a psychiatrist double board-certified in adult and child & adolescent psychiatry, I work mostly with young professionals, students, and people trying to steady themselves through a big life transition. That often means someone managing ADHD or anxiety while starting a demanding job, working through depression or OCD during school, or sorting out a bipolar diagnosis alongside everything else a full life asks of them. I completed my medical degree, general psychiatry residency, and child and adolescent fellowship at UT Health San Antonio, and much of what drives me is improving access and equity in care that too often feels out of reach.

I treat patients as active partners, not passengers. My visits are meant to be efficient and respectful of your time while still feeling personal and thorough, so we can get through the practical parts and still have room for what's actually on your mind. When medication is part of the plan, I use it as one tool inside a fuller picture of your life, your stressors, and where you're trying to go. I also care a great deal about continuity, so you feel supported between appointments and not only during them.

I've served as a medical director overseeing outpatient care, and I bring that same standard of evidence-based, individualized planning to every person I see. Reach out when you're ready to start.

I've spent years as a psychiatrist treating people across just about every setting there is: inpatient units, the ER, forensic work, and outpatient care, working with both severely mentally ill patients and those who are functioning well and simply want to feel better. That range taught me how to sit with someone in crisis and how to walk alongside someone building a longer, steadier relationship with a doctor they trust. A lot of what I do centers on PTSD and trauma, substance use, and thoughtful medication management, and I care deeply about advocacy for my patients, particularly women, LGBTQIA+ folks, immigrant communities, and patients of color.

I think of medicine as both a science and an art, and I try to honor both. We'll start with a real conversation about your history, your goals, and what has or hasn't worked before, and I'll take time to explain my reasoning so decisions genuinely feel like yours. My approach draws on supportive and psychodynamic work, and when medication has a role, it's one piece of a plan built around the whole person, not a shortcut. I lean toward clarity over jargon, and I'll coordinate with other specialists when your care calls for it.

Good rapport isn't a nicety to me; it's part of what makes treatment work. Curious whether the two of us would fit? That's exactly what a first visit is for.

I'm a psychiatrist, and I treat adults who are managing anxiety, whether it's a long-standing pattern or something that's recently started to interfere with daily life. Many of the people I see are looking for someone who will actually listen before making recommendations, and who can help them find clarity about what treatment should look like for them.

My training took me through both inpatient and outpatient settings, including time caring for veterans at the Michael DeBakey VA Medical Center in Houston, and I served as chief resident during my residency in North Chicago. Those years working with very different patient populations shaped how I practice: I stay patient-centered, I keep the tone collaborative, and I want every person to feel heard, respected, and understood.

Our first session is mostly about getting the full picture. I'll ask about your history, what's bringing you in now, your strengths, and where you actually want to end up. From there we build a plan together that fits your values and the outcomes you're hoping for, rather than one I've decided in advance. When medication is part of that plan, it's one piece of the larger picture, not the whole of it.

My aim is to help you move toward your own goals with clarity and confidence, at a pace that feels workable. Reach out when you're ready to get started.

Most of my work as a psychiatrist is with adults living with the after-effects of trauma and PTSD, along with anxiety, OCD, ADHD, and mood disorders that have made day-to-day life harder to steady. Before I came to outpatient practice, I served as a psychiatrist in the United States Navy and later cared for patients as a civilian on an Army base, in inpatient units, and at a state-run mental health clinic. That range shaped how I listen. I feel a particular affinity with veterans and military families, with LGBTQIA+ patients, and with people whose minds are wired a little differently, and I try to bring an open, unhurried attention to whoever is in front of me.

I think of treatment as a partnership, so honesty and clear communication matter to me. I want you to understand the reasoning behind any recommendation, because informed patients make better decisions about their own care. Our first session is mostly about your history and what brought you in; by the second, we sketch out the goals worth aiming for. From there we build an individualized plan and adjust it as your life and needs change. Medication may be part of that, but it's one piece of a fuller picture, never the whole answer.

There's no rush to any of this. Reach out when the timing feels right for you, and we'll begin from there.

Dr. Harman Singh earned his bachelor’s degree in political philosophy and premedical sciences at the University of California, Davis, exploring how ideas shape cultures and institutions. Philosophy and science taught him that human experience is influenced by our past, beliefs, and biology. After graduation, he worked as a therapist for neurodivergent individuals, helping them process challenges and develop skills to reach their goals.

Dr. Singh studied holistic patient care at Touro University College of Medicine, focusing on mind, body, and spirit. He completed his psychiatry residency at Riverside University Health System in Southern California, serving diverse patients with varied mental health conditions. As chief resident, he trained future physicians in evidence-based approaches while emphasizing the therapeutic and humanistic foundations of psychiatry.

Dr. Singh diagnoses and treats conditions including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD, and psychosis. He offers medication treatments and partners with patients to explore how their experiences, values, and goals shape their identity. By addressing maladaptive patterns and life challenges, he provides personalized, comprehensive care to help patients reach their full potential.

Dr. Akshar Brahmbhatt, DO, attended the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, where he majored in Economics before earning his medical degree from Lincoln Memorial University. He completed his psychiatry residency at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center in Memphis. He has experience in both inpatient and outpatient care and brings expertise in ADHD, depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, bipolar depression, OCD, and a wide range of psychiatric conditions.

Dr. Brahmbhatt creates a warm, collaborative environment where patients feel heard and respected. He values open communication and works with patients to set meaningful, realistic goals at a pace that feels comfortable. Using evidence-based treatments, he explains the reasoning behind each approach so patients feel informed and empowered throughout their care.

In the first session, Dr. Brahmbhatt takes time to understand each patient’s history, concerns, and goals. Together, they identify key areas of focus and build an individualized treatment plan. Follow-up sessions build on progress, address challenges, and adjust the plan as needs evolve. He works at the patient’s pace, helping them explore patterns, gain insight, and develop a sustainable path forward.

I trained as a clinical social worker, and I mostly work with adolescents, adults, couples, and families who are moving through trauma, anxiety, depression, questions of identity, relationship strain, or a life transition that has knocked things off balance. I hold licenses in Alabama and California, I'm board-certified in transgender-affirming care, and I'm currently pursuing a PhD in Clinical Sexology, so identity development is work I take seriously rather than treat as an afterthought.

I'll be honest with you: I value direct communication, and I'll encourage the kinds of conversations that feel uncomfortable but tend to be the ones that actually move something. My approach is structured and goal-oriented, but I don't confuse structure with coldness. We start with a thorough intake so I understand your history, your strengths, your stressors, and where you actually want to end up. From there we set clear, measurable objectives, and I build a plan that lines up with your values rather than mine. Expect practical tools you can use between sessions, regular check-ins on progress, and adjustments when something isn't working. I draw on CBT, ACT, and trauma-focused and EMDR-informed methods when they fit, and I coordinate with your other providers when that supports steadier, longer-term change.

Everything I do is grounded in dignity, respect, and cultural humility. Reach out when you're ready to get to work.

Tammi Schrager, LCSW, CCBT, is a bilingual (Spanish-fluent) therapist licensed in Texas and Illinois with over 20 years of experience. She earned her MSW from Loyola University Chicago and her BA in Human Services from Kendall College, receiving the Distinguished Student Award. She completed intensive Spanish language study in Mexico and Costa Rica. Her career spans Alzheimer’s care (Distinguished Service Award), Director of Social Services in skilled nursing, discharge coordination at Schwab Rehabilitation Hospital, police liaison and crisis responder, and community mental health serving diverse and underserved populations.

Tammi provides a safe, confidential, HIPAA-compliant space grounded in cultural humility and respect. She works with individuals, couples, and families facing trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, ADHD, ASD, mood disorders, and work or collegiate stress. Her style is collaborative, compassionate, and systems-oriented, integrating CBT, EFT, IFS, attachment work, and ABA. She values measurable progress and uses tools such as PHQ-9 and GAD-7 to guide care.

Tammi begins with a comprehensive assessment of personal, cultural, and environmental factors. She develops individualized, evidence-based treatment plans with clear goals and regular progress reviews. Sessions combine cognitive restructuring with skills training and mind-body techniques such as progressive muscle relaxation and paced breathing to reduce anxiety and trauma responses.

Brian F. Lann, MA, LPC, LPC-S, LAC, is a licensed mental health professional with over 23 years of experience across outpatient, inpatient, and telehealth settings. He specializes in substance use disorders and complex conditions including OCD, anxiety disorders, and Major Depression. Brian is trained in CBT, ERP, HRT, DBT, and trauma-focused therapies, and has completed extensive specialized training in evidence-based interventions for OCD and related disorders.

Brian provides a structured, compassionate, and collaborative approach to care. He believes in meeting patients where they are while offering practical tools that create meaningful change. He emphasizes accountability, skill-building, and measurable progress, particularly in treating addiction, OCD, anxiety, and trauma-related concerns.

Brian begins with a comprehensive assessment to clarify goals and develop an individualized treatment plan. He integrates evidence-based modalities such as CBT, ERP, and trauma-focused therapies, with ongoing evaluation of progress. Treatment includes clear goal setting, skill practice between sessions, and coordinated care when appropriate.

Amanda Sager is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with experience working in group practice settings and Post-Traumatic Stress retreat environments. She works with individuals who have experienced trauma and significant life stressors. Amanda earned a master’s degree in Counseling from Concordia University Irvine, as well as an additional master’s degree in Coaching and Athletic Administration.

Amanda is a compassionate and dedicated therapist who specializes in helping individuals navigate profound life challenges, build resilience, and move toward meaningful healing. She provides a safe, non-judgmental space where patients can process pain, reconnect with inner strengths, and reclaim their personal narratives. Her therapeutic approach is integrative, collaborative, and trauma-informed, with an emphasis on creating a strong, trusting relationship where patients feel truly seen and understood.

Amanda begins treatment by developing a thorough understanding of each patient’s history, concerns, and goals during the initial session. From there, she works collaboratively with patients to create individualized treatment plans that align with their personal goals and support sustainable growth and healing.

Most of my work as a therapist is with adults and couples, though I also enjoy sitting with children and teens when they need someone in their corner. Over more than fifteen years in community mental health, I've supported people through anxiety, depression, eating disorders, stress at work or school, friction with peers, and questions around sexuality. As a first-generation Latina, I know something about navigating a bicultural identity and the weight that gets passed down through generations, and I bring that understanding into the room.

I think of my clients as the experts on their own lives, and my job is to partner with you toward some balance and clarity. I'm firm but friendly, honest, and pretty down-to-earth, and I'll bring humor in when it fits. I adapt how I talk to match what actually works for you. Early on, I focus on connection: understanding what led you to put your mental health first, building trust, and figuring out goals that are meaningful and genuinely reachable. From the first session, I want you to feel heard and seen. I'll give you respectful, honest feedback and I like to celebrate the progress and wins along the way, because I see therapy as a journey we take together, not a race.

Bring whatever's on your mind to a first visit, and we'll start sorting through it side by side.

Dr. Denise Zusman is a board-certified psychiatrist with over 15 years of experience providing care in acute and outpatient settings. She earned her medical degree from the University of Florida College of Medicine and completed her General Adult Psychiatry residency at the University of California, San Francisco. Dr. Zusman has practiced in psychiatric emergency services and outpatient clinics including The Permanente Medical Group, San Francisco Department of Public Health, and The Tenderloin Outpatient Clinic. She is credentialed in New Zealand and has provided public mental health and early psychosis care internationally. She also offers services in Spanish when requested.

Dr. Zusman works collaboratively with patients to establish clear treatment goals from the beginning. She values open communication and prioritizes a trauma-informed, culturally sensitive approach. Her style is warm and supportive, creating a space where patients feel heard, respected, and actively involved in their care.

Dr. Zusman begins with a comprehensive evaluation to understand each patient’s history, concerns, and goals. She develops individualized, holistic treatment plans that may include medication and non-medication options, guided by evidence-based best practices. Ongoing collaboration and open communication are central to her approach.

I'm a therapist who focuses on talk therapy with adults, including older adults, who are working through anxiety, depression, grief, and the kind of life transitions that quietly reshape how a person sees themselves. Some of the people I meet are navigating strained relationships; others are managing severe mental illness and want a steady partner in that work. I've spent time in both inpatient and outpatient settings, and earlier in my training I worked in an emergency room and specialty clinics, which taught me to stay calm and present when things feel far from calm.

The way I work is collaborative. Early on, I want to understand what's actually going on and what you're hoping will be different, so we can sketch out a roadmap for growth together rather than my handing you a plan. My first session tends to be conversational: we talk through what brought you in, a bit of your history, and how sessions and confidentiality work, and then we start naming goals. After that, our time centers on exploring your thoughts and feelings, noticing the patterns underneath them, and practicing skills you can use outside the room. I draw on DBT, CBT, mindfulness, and solution-focused approaches, but I fit the method to the person, not the other way around. We check in on progress along the way.

Deciding to start therapy takes something. If you've gotten this far, you've already begun.

I'm a psychiatrist who focuses on the conditions that often make people feel like their moods, their memories, or their sense of self are working against them: bipolar disorder, PTSD and trauma, self-harm, personality disorders, and ADHD. I completed medical school in Des Moines, my clinical rotations in Chicago, and my internship and residency at VCU School of Medicine in Richmond. I'm also finishing a forensic psychiatry fellowship in Dallas, which has sharpened how carefully I think through a person's history before drawing any conclusions.

My style is conversational, and I mean that literally. I want you to ask me any and all questions, even the ones you assume are too small to matter, because understanding your own symptoms is part of how you start to feel less at their mercy. I genuinely enjoy hearing people's stories, and I try to stay analytical without ever losing the thread of who's actually sitting in front of me. A first appointment with me is a thorough walk through your history, your concerns, and what you're hoping to change, and from there we shape a plan built around your goals rather than a template. Medication may be part of that, but it's one piece of a larger picture we work out together.

I especially connect with patients of color, second-generation Americans, and parents balancing care for others with care for themselves. There's no rush to this. Reach out whenever the timing feels right for you.