Rebecca Johnson, LCSW

Dr. Jacqueline Hong is a board-certified adult psychiatrist who takes a genuine interest in her patients and values collaborative decision-making. Over the past 4 years of practicing, she has followed a holistic model of care that accounts for the physical, mental, social, and spiritual needs of the individual. She has a down-to-earth, patient, and warm personality, and prides herself on timeliness and professionalism. Though Dr. Hong focuses on medication management, she has a passion for supportive therapy with elements of CBT, psychodynamic therapy, and mindfulness. She may also recommend that a therapist be included in your care team if more specialized therapy is required. Dr. Hong graduated summa cum laude from Grove City College, and completed medical school at UTMB at Galveston. She finished her residency at Memorial Healthcare System in FL, where she held a leadership position in Graduate Medical Education. Dr. Hong has experience in treating a wide range of disorders, including depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and addiction. She has worked with adolescent, geriatric, pregnant, and medically complex patients. Growing up in a Korean immigrant household and training in the ethnically diverse South Florida region has informed her of the unique struggles that immigrant populations face. Dr. Hong has a special interest in treating mood and anxiety disorders. Outside of the office, Dr. Hong enjoys art, cinema, and powerlifting.

Margaret Ngumi, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC, is a dual board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of experience in healthcare. She began her career as a Family Nurse Practitioner before recognizing the urgent need for accessible mental health services. This led her to pursue a post-master’s certification in psychiatry, allowing her to provide comprehensive psychiatric care. Margaret has extensive experience treating patients in both inpatient and outpatient settings, addressing conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, mood disorders, and substance use disorders.

Margaret believes in a collaborative, patient-centered approach to mental health care. She strives to create a safe and supportive space where patients feel heard and empowered to take an active role in their treatment. With a strong emphasis on holistic care, she considers all aspects of a patient’s well-being, including lifestyle, relationships, and overall health. Whether through medication management, therapy, or lifestyle modifications, she is committed to helping patients achieve meaningful and lasting improvements in their mental health.

Margaret begins with a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation to understand each patient’s history, concerns, and treatment goals. She then works closely with them to develop an individualized care plan that may include medication management, therapy, and evidence-based lifestyle interventions. She prioritizes open communication, patient education, and ongoing collaboration to ensure that treatment remains effective and evolves with each patient's needs. Through her compassionate and evidence-based approach, Margaret is dedicated to helping patients find balance and improve their overall quality of life.

Background and credentials

Dr. Agarwal is a board-certified adult psychiatrist. He obtained his bachelor's degree in Biological Sciences from the University of California at Irvine and graduated cum laude with his medical degree from the American University of Antigua. Dr. Agarwal completed his psychiatry residency training at the University of Central Florida, where he was elected chief resident.

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Treatment approach

Dr. Agarwal employs a collaborative and patient-centered approach, primarily focusing on medication management in combination with supportive therapy. He is a strong advocate of psychoeducation, believing it to be an integral part of effective psychiatric care. Dr. Agarwal specializes in treating adults experiencing depression, anxiety, PTSD, and insomnia. He is also experienced in managing patients with psychiatric conditions complicated by medical comorbidities such as obesity, hypertension, chronic pain, and diabetes.

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What you can expect in a first visit

Patients visiting Dr. Agarwal for the first time can anticipate a comprehensive evaluation conducted in a collaborative and supportive environment. Dr. Agarwal prioritizes understanding each patient's individual needs and concerns, creating a personalized treatment plan that integrates medication, supportive therapy, and psychoeducation. Follow-up visits typically last about 30 minutes, allowing time to adjust treatment and reinforce therapeutic strategies.

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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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Rebecca Benedict is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) with a background in providing mental health services across several diverse settings. She has gained invaluable experience working in two community mental health agencies and completing two internships. Rebecca holds a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Syracuse University, and has been working in the role of mental health counselor for three years. Rebecca specializes in addressing the complex interplay between neuro-divergence and mental health symptoms. Her expertise encompasses a wide range of conditions including anxiety, depression, trauma, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), dissociative disorders, and challenges with emotion regulation. Her therapeutic approach is eclectic, incorporating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), mindfulness, narrative therapy, and existentialism. Rebecca is dedicated to tailoring her treatment modalities to fit the unique needs of each client, often integrating creativity and clients' personal hobbies or interests into the therapeutic process to enhance engagement and outcomes. With a compassionate and holistic approach, Rebecca Benedict is committed to fostering a supportive and transformative environment for her clients, guiding them towards improved mental health and overall well-being.

Robert Pasley, LPC, NCC, is a licensed professional counselor with over 20 years of experience supporting individuals through life’s challenges. He is licensed in Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina, and Florida (as a telehealth provider). Robert earned his master’s degree in professional counseling from Amridge University and a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Faulkner University. His clinical background includes work in community agencies, hospitals, mental health clinics, and correctional facilities.

Robert specializes in treating depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, interpersonal conflict, chronic illness, and issues related to self-esteem and identity. His areas of focus also include anger management, crisis intervention, substance abuse, and life transitions. His approach integrates evidence-based techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, motivational interviewing, and trauma-informed care, tailored to each client’s needs.

Robert believes in creating a safe, supportive, and collaborative therapeutic environment. He welcomes clients from all walks of life and encourages open dialogue without judgment. He is committed to helping individuals discover hope, resilience, and personal growth as they navigate toward healing and empowerment.

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Cherese Allen is a Licensed Professional Counselor with extensive experience working with adolescents, teens, and adults. She completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Houston and earned her master's degree from Houston Christian University. Additionally, she completed an internship at a private practice in Texas. Upon obtaining her license, she achieved certifications in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, Shame-Informed Therapy, and Eating Disorders. With years of experience in both education and private practice, Cherese has helped individuals, couples, and families overcome a wide range of mental health challenges. Her expertise includes, but is not limited to, addressing depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, mood disorders, career changes, and major life transitions. Cherese employs a holistic approach that integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Person-Centered Therapy. She believes that with the right tools, you can conquer many obstacles and reach your desired destination. Cherese looks forward to supporting you on your journey!