Robert Werner, MD

Background and credentials

Dr. John Whittier is a board-certified psychiatrist. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology from the University of Colorado at Boulder and went on to obtain a master’s degree in Medical Science from Loyola University Chicago. He completed his medical training at the Robert Larner, M.D. College of Medicine at The University of Vermont and returned to Colorado for his psychiatry residency at the University of Colorado School of Medicine. While in residency, he specialized in the Psychotherapy Scholars Program and has since gained four years of experience treating psychiatric conditions through telehealth.

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Treatment approach

Dr. Whittier primarily focuses on medication management for general psychiatric conditions. His approach is individualized, ensuring that each patient receives a treatment plan tailored to their unique needs. He integrates supportive therapy, medications, and evidence-based alternative therapies to provide a flexible and comprehensive approach. In addition to his general practice, he maintains a psychodynamic psychotherapy panel where he helps patients explore developmental and relational patterns that contribute to their symptoms. His specialties include treating depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, PTSD, insomnia, bipolar disorder, and ADHD.

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What you can expect in a first visit

During the first visit, patients can expect a one-hour comprehensive intake during which Dr. Whittier thoroughly evaluates their symptoms, medical history, and personal goals. He provides treatment options that prioritize flexibility, allowing patients to take an active role in their care. Follow-up visits typically last 20 to 30 minutes, focusing on assessing treatment progress and making necessary adjustments. For those engaged in psychodynamic psychotherapy, longer one-hour sessions are available for in-depth exploration of underlying psychological patterns.

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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. Kerry O'Leary is a board-certified adult psychiatrist who joined Talkiatry after she completed her psychiatry residency. Dr. O'Leary provides patient-centered care and understands the importance of actively involving patients in their treatment journey. She believes that every patient deserves personalized care tailored to their unique needs and circumstances. She utilizes evidence-based treatments combined with a comprehensive approach to address not only the symptoms but also the underlying factors contributing to her patients' distress. Although her practice focuses on medication management, she also provides supportive therapy and may recommend more intensive therapy when indicated. Dr. O'Leary approaches each patient with empathy and understanding, fostering a supportive and nonjudgmental environment. Dr. O'Leary completed her undergraduate training at The University of Texas at Austin and pursued her medical degree at The University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston. She also graduated with a Master's in Public Health from Columbia University in New York. She went on to complete her general adult psychiatry training at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston. Dr. O'Leary focuses on treating the adult population from ages 18+. She utilizes both pharmacological and psychotherapeutic treatment interventions and has experience in treating a variety of diagnoses including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, insomnia, PTSD, OCD, and psychotic disorders.

Dr. Jennifer Yen is a double board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist who has practiced in a variety of settings, including private, community, and academic medicine. She obtained her medical doctorate and general psychiatry residency at the University of Texas Medical School at Houston before completing her child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at Baylor College of Medicine. She is currently a Clinical Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Baylor College of Medicine and has authored multiple peer-reviewed publications on pediatric mental health. Dr. Yen is also a Distinguished Fellow of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and has been on the editorial board of Clinical Psychiatry News. Dr. Yen believes in a collaborative treatment approach that includes use of pharmacology, therapeutic interventions, and support networks. While versed in a broad range of mental disorders, she is most passionate about anxiety, depression, minority mental health, and acculturation and intergenerational conflicts. She enjoys finding creative ways to address ongoing treatment issues, and utilizes digital media in the treatment setting.

Nicole Powers is an accomplished Autonomous Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of nursing experience and 6 years as a Nurse Practitioner. She holds a Master's degree in Nursing, specializing in psychiatric mental health, and is certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Throughout her career, Nicole Powers has cultivated a deep commitment to mental health care, focusing on patient-centered approaches that empower individuals to achieve optimal well-being.

Before joining Talkiatry, Nicole worked in various healthcare settings, including inpatient psychiatric facilities and outpatient clinics, inpatient critical care units where she honed her skills in diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental health disorders. Her specialties include anxiety, depression, and trauma-related conditions, and she is particularly passionate about integrating holistic practices into her treatment plans.

Nicole Powers treatment style emphasizes collaboration and open communication, ensuring that her patients feel heard and understood. She believes in utilizing evidence-based practices while incorporating patients' personal experiences and preferences into their care. By fostering a supportive and compassionate environment, she aims to help her patients navigate their mental health journeys with confidence and resilience.

As a dedicated advocate for mental health awareness, Nicole Powers also engages in community outreach and education, striving to reduce stigma and promote access to mental health resources. Her commitment to excellence in psychiatric care makes her a valuable asset to the Talkiatry team.

Dr. Latori Griffin is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 10+ years' experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, intimacy related issues, and personality distress. Her specialty areas include seeing clients from underserved backgrounds with challenging life circumstances, racial/cultural traumas, substance use/abuse, career and educational planning, and relational traumas. Her goals are to offer a holistic approach to therapy that is concerned with the whole person and is conducive to growth and healing. Considering the spiritual, emotional, physical, psychological, social, and societal aspects of a client's experiences are of the utmost importance in creating an environment of warmth and support. Dr. Griffin works with clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment, and she will tailor the treatment plan to meet the clients' unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. Dr. Griffin is here to support & empower clients on that journey.

Nakia is a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor and Certified Sex Therapist with a Master of Education in Counseling and Development from Sam Houston State University. With extensive experience in education and private practice, she has helped individuals and couples navigate life's challenges and create meaningful change. Her expertise includes issues related to sexual health, intimacy, relationships, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, life transitions, and grief and loss. Specializing in working with individuals and couples, Nakia creates a warm and supportive environment where others feel heard and empowered. She guides them in making choices to change hindering situations and gain clarity through clinical tools to interpret and respond differently to life's challenges. Her approach is collaborative and tailored, ensuring therapy meets the unique needs of each person while celebrating progress. Nakia uses a holistic approach that integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, and Person-Centered Therapy. She is also trained in Gottman Levels 1 and 2, providing evidence-based techniques to strengthen relationships and improve intimacy and communication. She believes change happens when individuals are honest with themselves and willing to do the work. As Carl Rogers said, "One must accept themselves as they are before change can occur.” Nakia considers it a privilege to support others as they heal, grow, and embrace life's possibilities.