Ellen Grant, LCSW

Staff Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Languages
English
Conditions Treated
Talk Therapy

Education and training

  • The College of Saint Rose, BS
  • Fordham University, MSW
  • Arms Acres, Internship

Get to know

Ellen Grant, LCSW

Ellen Grant, LCSW, Eagala Certified, brings extensive experience working with adolescents, adults and families in treating mental health and substance use disorders. Ellen is a graduate of The College of Saint Rose, where she obtained a Bachelor's Degree in Social Work. She is a graduate of Fordham University, where she obtained a Master's Degree in Social Work. She obtained a post-graduate certification in Military Trauma from Adelphi University. Ellen is certified in equine-assisted psychotherapy and is learning through the Eagala model. She has been practicing in the field for 12 years. She believes in a person-centered approach to counseling and specializes in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. She is also certified in Seeking Safety.

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Dana Sommers, LCSW

Staff Licensed Clinical Social Worker

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Ian Provo, LCSW

Staff Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Ian Provo is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is also certified in Complex Trauma treatment. He has held a clinical license for 27 years, where he has worked in a number of capacities as a mental health professional, including Clinical Director, Director of Treatment, private practice, direct care services, and case management. Ian completed his Bachelor's degree from Arizona State University and his Master's Degree from the University of Illinois. Ian is passionate about his work and believes strongly in the human potential and resilience in overcoming life's obstacles and barriers. His therapeutic model focuses on multidimensional modalities, including cognitive behavioral therapy, psychodynamic model, psychoeducational approaches, and mindfulness techniques. Ian has vast experience in working with victims of sexual abuse and trauma in addition to treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD and providing couple's therapy. In addition to his professional work, Ian is actively engaged in volunteer work where he helps victims of sexual human trafficking, providing clinical assessments and engaging in public awareness campaigns. He recently composed, produced, and directed an anti-human trafficking music video for an organization.

Robin Lawson, LCSW

Staff Therapist

Robin Lawson is a LCSW with 14 years of clinical experience, who has extensive experience with adults ages 18 and older who are experiencing anxiety, depression, and grief/loss. Robin earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of North Carolina and her Master’s degree from the University of South Florida. Robin has worked in both inpatient and outpatient settings and has specialized experience with those facing chronic or serious medical illnesses. Robin finds joy in connecting with her clients and creating a safe space for them to gain insight on themselves, their strengths and their opportunities for growth.

Robin has been practicing as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for 14 years, with an emphasis on Depression, Anxiety Disorders and Grief/Loss. Robin primarily utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution-Focused Therapy in her practice as well as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.

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Staff Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Jessica Vassallo is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with extensive experience in the area of mental health. She has worked with patients of various demographics including World Trade Center responders, college students, patients with severe and persistent mental illness, dually diagnosed patients, patients who have or have had cancer, and patients with impoverished backgrounds. She received her Master's Degree at Adelphi University in 2003, became certified that year and received her license in clinical social work in 2008. Jessica has been practicing in social work for 20 years, focusing on anxiety, depression, and PTSD. She uses an eclectic approach in therapy with a foundation in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, mindfulness therapy, and supportive psychotherapy. She develops an individualized treatment plan for all patients to focus on their goals. She believes that the person is impacted by all the larger systems they are in (family, workplace, community, larger society) and is committed to providing a non-judgmental, warm, and empathetic space to help clients feel understood and comfortable exploring the roots of their issues.

Gerald Matthews, MD

Staff Psychiatrist

Background and credentials

Dr. Gerald Matthews is a board-certified adult psychiatrist. He earned his medical degree from the University of Louisville School of Medicine in Louisville, KY. Following medical school, he entered active duty service in the U.S. Army, where he completed his psychiatry residency at Tripler Army Medical Center in Honolulu, HI. After completing his training, he practiced as a staff psychiatrist at Fort Hood, TX, fulfilling his service obligation.

Treatment approach

Dr. Matthews specializes in medication management, working primarily with adult patients in an outpatient setting. While his primary focus is pharmacological treatment, he frequently collaborates with therapists to provide comprehensive care when indicated. He has extensive experience treating civilians, active-duty military personnel, and veterans, addressing conditions such as mood and anxiety disorders, psychosis, and trauma-related disorders.

What you can expect in a first visit

During the first visit, patients can expect a thorough psychiatric evaluation where Dr. Matthews takes time to understand their history, symptoms, and treatment goals. He provides a structured yet compassionate approach to care, discussing medication options and potential therapeutic interventions. For patients who may benefit from additional therapy, he collaborates with therapists to ensure a well-rounded treatment plan tailored to each individual's needs.

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.

Brianna Quirk, LMHC

Staff Therapist

Brianna Quirk is a licensed mental health counselor in the state of New York. She attended SUNY Oneonta for her Bachelor’s degree in psychology, and went on to Adelphi University where she received her Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling.


Brianna has extensive experience working with children, adolescents, and adults with a variety of different struggles. Brianna is trained in cognitive behavioral therapy, and helps her clients to recognize and change harmful and unhelpful patterns of thought and behavior, implement coping skills, and set goals for the future, leading to a happier and healthier existence. She uses techniques from CBT, solution focused therapy, psychodynamic therapy, and more to tailor each client’s sessions to their individual needs.


Brianna specializes in working with individuals from a variety of different backgrounds and mental health issues: such as anxiety, ADHD, stress, depression, trauma, school avoidance and grief/loss. She also has extensive experience working with members of
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David Weber, MD

Staff Psychiatrist

Getting to know me...
Dr. David Weber is a highly experienced psychiatrist and medical doctor with dual specialties in psychiatry and primary care medicine. His comprehensive approach integrates both disciplines, allowing him to address mental health concerns with a deep understanding of their medical and psychological aspects.


Dr. Weber earned his Doctor of Medicine (MD) from Southern Illinois University School of Medicine and pursued advanced training at Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Harvard University, and Georgetown University Medical Center. He is Board-Certified in General Psychiatry and Fellowship-Trained in Forensic Psychiatry and Occupational Medicine, equipping him with the expertise to diagnose and treat a broad spectrum of mental health conditions, considering both medical and psychiatric factors.

What should a new patient know about working with you?
Believing that each patient is more than a diagnosis, Dr. Weber takes a personalized approach, collaborating closely with individuals to develop tailored treatment plans. He views himself as an advisor and facilitator, empowering patients to take charge of their recovery.


Areas of Focus:
ADHD (Focus & Cognitive Function)
Anxiety & Depression (Mood, Sleep, & Energy Concerns)
Stress & Brain Fog (Cognitive & Emotional Well-Being)

What is your typical process for working with patients?
Dr. Weber is an experienced, compassionate, and dedicated advocate for his patients' mental and physical health. He strongly believes in a collaborative, patient-centered approach to treatment, helping individuals achieve their personal and professional goals.
Committed to a well-balanced life, Dr. Weber is married and has two married daughters, two grandsons and three dogs. His wife, a clinical psychologist, helps ground his therapeutic approach, emphasizing the importance of integrating therapy with medication to enhance overall well-being. Guided by the ethos, "Treat them like you would your own family," he is dedicated to providing compassionate, high-quality care.

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Staff Psychiatrist

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.

Alexandra Dodd, MD

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Dr. Dodd, a Board-Certified psychiatrist, graduated from the University of Georgia Honors Program with a B.S. in Chemistry, and earned her M.D. from the Medical College of Georgia. During her psychiatry residency in Greenville, SC, she was chief resident and gained extensive experience through moonlighting. She joined the faculty of Gateway’s Savannah residency program in 2021, where she served as Assistant Program Director, and continues to teach residents and students as an Assistant Professor at Mercer University and the Medical College of Georgia. In her community psychiatry practice, she specialized in Assertive Community Treatment, worked with First Episode Psychosis programs, a forensic Diversion-Reentry clinic, telehealth, and outpatient psychiatry, particularly serving graduate students, professionals, and their families in the Savannah area.

Dr. Dodd fosters a comfortable environment for patients at any stage of treatment. As a passionate educator, she enjoys providing psychoeducation and supportive therapy to help patients understand themselves, their relationships, and their motivations.

Dr. Dodd tailors treatment to each individual’s goals, preferences, and strengths. She uses her expertise in diagnosis and pharmacology to optimize care, monitor treatment success, and maintain progress, with the ultimate goal of helping patients feel and function at their best.

Myrtle Davenport, PMHNP

Staff Nurse Practitioner

Myrtle Davenport is a dual certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 12 years of experience in healthcare. She completed her Masters of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree with a concentration in Family Nurse Practitioner at Chamberlain University and a Post Master’s in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Valdosta State University. Myrtle is skilled in assessing and treating a variety of mental health disorders including but not limited to anxiety, major depression, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, and other mood disorders across the life span. She is trained in psychiatric diagnosis, medication management, and supportive therapy. Over the past 7 years, she has gained valuable experience in a number of settings, including outpatient, inpatient, and residential facilities, community mental health clinics, and private practice.

Myrtle is dedicated to providing a safe and nonjudgmental environment where patients can expect to be heard, emotionally validated, and supported. She will ensure that patients are well-informed, empowering them to be active participants in managing their care. By fostering a strong therapeutic relationship, she will support her patients in achieving long-term mental wellness and resilience.

As a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Myrtle provides comprehensive mental health care to individuals across the lifespan, helping them navigate through their mental health challenges with a holistic, compassionate approach. Her clinical practice involves conducting a thorough assessment and gathering relevant information from patients about their medical, psychiatric, and social history. Through open and empathetic communication, she will ensure a deep understanding of their symptoms, challenges, and goals. Based on the assessment, she will work closely with her patients to develop an individualized treatment plan and lifestyle recommendations. She will offer education on mental health conditions, coping strategies, and self-care techniques. She also provides referrals to therapists and other support services, helping patients develop the skills they need to thrive. She also believes in providing psychoeducation to patients, families, and caregivers. Myrtle's approach to patient care is grounded in empathy, respect, and evidence-based practices, and she is committed to fostering a supportive, collaborative environment where patients feel empowered to achieve their mental health goals.

Darius Robinson, MD

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Dr. Darius Robinson is a board-certified psychiatrist who is passionate about providing patient-centered, evidence-based mental health care. He specializes in diagnosing and treating a wide range of psychiatric conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Dr. Robinson combines evidence-based medication management with supportive psychotherapy to help his patients thrive. Dr. Robinson earned his undergraduate degree from Southern University at New Orleans. He later completed a Master's of Medical Science degree at Mississippi College in Clinton, MS. He went on to obtain his medical degree from Louisiana State University in Shreveport and completed his psychiatry residency at Louisiana State University in New Orleans. Dr. Robinson is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and is licensed to practice medicine in Louisiana, Michigan, Tennessee, and Kansas. Dr. Robinson believes in fostering a collaborative approach to care, partnering with his patients to create tailored treatment plans that honor their unique needs and goals. Dedicated to lifelong learning, he stays at the forefront of advancements in psychiatric care to ensure his patients receive the best possible outcomes. Above all, he is committed to empowering individuals to achieve lasting mental health and well-being.

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