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Dr. Chisholm has practiced General and Child Psychiatry in Atascadero since 1977. A graduate of Yale University, Tufts University Medical School, and the Los Angeles County – U.S.C. Medical Center residency programs in psychiatry and child psychiatry, he is Board Certified in both general and child psychiatry and is a Distinguished Life Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. Dr. Chisholm was the first and, for many years the only, child psychiatrist to ever have practiced in San Luis Obispo County. In addition to his clinical duties, Dr. Chisholm has been active in medical politics (e.g., California Medical Association delegate for many years, past president of San Luis Obispo County Medical Society) and community activities (e.g., youth soccer, land preservation). Married for over 40 years, he is the father of a clinical psychologist and an emergency physician. Over 40 years after graduating from medical school, he still relishes working with patients every day!

Dr. Chisholm sees patients of all ages and especially enjoys working with people with ADHD and/or mood disorders, although he is open to tackling most challenges. He works primarily on medical treatment of psychiatric illnesses but also works with patients and families on communication and family dynamic issues that affect their disorders, and he welcomes collaboration with psychotherapists.

Mary (Mimi) Meiselman CNS, NP is an experienced clinician in Psychiatry. She received a Bachelor of Science from Georgetown University and a Master’s Degree in Psychology from California East Bay. Later, she attended the University of Illinois to obtain her Master’s Degree in Nursing Practice in Adult Mental Health.

Ms. Meiselman has gained much of her expertise from clinical experience. Her roles have been administrative as well as treatment oriented.

Before moving to San Luis Obispo and working in an outpatient setting, Ms. Meiselman was on the Psychiatric Consult Liaison Service at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago. Participation in a variety of mental health settings has enabled her to be an informed clinician. She enjoys sharing treatment options with patients and providing them with the tools to participate in their recovery.

In her free time, Mimi appreciates the beauty of California with her family, friends, and dogs.

Doctor Johnson received his Bachelor of Sciences degree at Saint Mary’s College in Moraga, California. He received his Medical Degree and completed his residency at the University of California, Irvine. After completing his residency, Doctor Johnson continued to work as an Assistant Clinical Professor at the University of California Medical Center in Orange County, California where he participated in a number of clinical trials and publications.
Doctor Johnson has worked in a variety of clinical settings, including Psychiatric Consultation and Liaison, Forensics, Emergency Services, Outpatient Services, Long Term Care, and the Veterans Administration. He has also been involved in numerous successful clinical trials including the pharmacological treatment of stuttering.
Doctor Johnson has a strong dedication to educating his patients about treatment options and medication side effects. He believes this foundation is essential to patients making informed and autonomous decisions regarding their treatment.
Doctor Johnson believes that the best outcomes are obtained through the use of a multidisciplinary approach, and encourages working in conjunction with both primary care providers and other mental health professionals to achieve the most well-balanced treatment outcome.
In his free time, Doctor Johnson enjoys spending time with his family and dogs, as well as SCUBA diving and playing guitar.

Kevin White, M.D., Ph.D, is an adult psychiatrist of varied interests. He did a fellowship in student and academic health at MIT as the last year of his Harvard, Cambridge Hospital Residency. Research in residency included studies on the changing and constructed nature of psychiatric diagnoses, including the likelihood of it shifting in an individual within a year. He currently treats lots of patients with depressive to bipolar, attentional and anxiety diagnoses, with medication but also a focus on exercise, therapy and sleep. His Ph.D was in Demography from the University of Pennsylvania, with models of the American population and social networks in Kenya.  He has practiced in California as an outpatient psychiatrist for 12 years, but before then spent several years abroad, in Japan, Hong Kong, England and France. Non-psychiatric interests include Lieder singing, modern board games, frisbee and once, medieval dance. He speaks some French and Japanese, but they’re too rusty for treatment purposes.

Satoko Miyamoto, D.O. is a board certified psychiatrist. She earned a B.S. degree in Biochemistry and a Minor in Business at California State University, San Bernardino. She graduated in 2001 from the Western University of Health Sciences with a Doctor of Osteopathy degree, general psychiatry residency training at Loma Linda University Medical Center. She served as a child and adolescent psychiatry fellow at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center. She is interested in combining elements of therapy during medication management sessions and is passionate about fighting the stigma associated with mental illness.

Haley Horn, PMHNP-BC is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with more than ten years of experience working in public and private, as well as inpatient and outpatient mental health settings. She earned her Master of Science in Nursing from the University of California, San Francisco and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from John F. Kennedy University. Haley serves adults and adolescents with a variety of mental conditions and holds a particular interest in providing trauma-informed care to individuals coping with PTSD. She offers a holistic and patient-centered approach, assessing each person thoroughly and crafting individualized treatment plans that often include alternative modalities such as mindfulness-based stress reduction techniques and nutrition. She is currently pursuing additional training in nutritional and integrative medicine and is passionate about working collaboratively with patients to uncover the root causes of disease. She is well-versed in applying transpersonal psychotherapy for those struggling with identity and spiritual emergency issues and enjoys empowering patients to deepen their insights and define healing according to their own unique values. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, cross country skiing, backpacking, cooking and photographing in nature.

Dr. Allie R. Shapiro graduated Miss Porter’s School in 2004, Brandeis University in 2008 and St. George’s University School of Medicine in 2012. She then went on to complete a Triple Board Residency at the University of Utah Hospital in Salt Lake City, UT. There she studied pediatric medicine, adult psychiatry, and child & adolescent psychiatry. She is a board-certified pediatrician and board eligible in adult and child & adolescent psychiatry. She has a specific interest treating children with co-morbid psychiatric and medical conditions such as diabetes, kidney disease, and asthma. She focuses much of her efforts on treating Anxiety, Depression, Eating Disorders and Pediatric ADHD. In her free time, she enjoys baking, chocolate making, and hiking.

Kiran Gill, PMHNP-BC is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who currently serves adults at Community Psychiatry. She graduated in 2011 from UCLA with a Master of Science in Nursing with a designation in Family Nurse Practitioner. During 2018, she went on to earn a Post-Masters Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certification at Eastern Kentucky University. In addition, Kiran works at the UCLA Psychosis Clinic with a primary focus on monitoring and the management of metabolic risk factors in patients with severe mental illness and/or on antipsychotic medications. Throughout her experience, she has become a strong believer in providing a comprehensive approach to the treatment of psychiatric illnesses which includes psychotherapy and healthy lifestyle modifications. Prior to her work in psychiatry, she has worked as a nurse practitioner in hematology/oncology and bone marrow transplants for multiple years. Kiran is fluent in Punjabi and enjoys practicing yoga, hiking, traveling and reading.

Minoo Mahmoudi, M.D. is a board certified psychiatrist with the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. She is a fellow of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, and board certified in adult psychiatry, and child and adolescent psychiatry in Canada. She attended medical school in Iran and went to Canada after graduating from medical school. She joined the psychiatry residency program at the University of Manitoba, Canada in 2009, and completed her residency training in 2014. She completed a one-year fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry at the University of Manitoba. She then joined the department of psychiatry at the University of Manitoba as a staff faculty where she worked as an inpatient and outpatient psychiatrist. She then moved to Toronto and worked as a staff psychiatrist at Youthdale Treatment Centres. Dr. Mahmoudi provided care to adults as well as children and their families in Toronto. She then moved to the United States with her family. She completed 2 years of psychoanalytic psychotherapy training at New Centre for Psychoanalysis in Los Angeles.Dr. Mahmoudi is experienced in working with children and their families; not only in assessment and pharmacotherapy treatment but also providing parenting and behavioral strategies, family and individual therapy. She enjoys working with children and adults with various concerns, including but not limited to ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar, personality disorders, trauma, and schizophrenia. She believes in a holistic approach and has experience in different modalities of psychotherapy, including supportive psychotherapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), interpersonal therapy (IPT), Psychodynamic psychotherapy, and family therapy. Dr. Mahmoudi strives to provide a safe and healing environment to her patients, and their families.

In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family and working out. She likes different workouts; spinning, pilates, core training, and kickboxing.

Dr. Werner-Crohn is a Board-Certified Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist, specializing in Depression, Anxiety, Sleep Disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and Impulse Control Disorders. Her treatment model includes Medication Management, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), and Psychotherapy.

Dr. Mindy Werner-Crohn works with children, adolescents, and adults as a psychopharmacologist and psychotherapist, providing medication management and talk therapy. She works collaboratively with her patients to educate them about treatment options, ensuring that every individual and family’s unique needs and preferences are part of the solution.

“Effective treatment requires an integration of the science and the art of medicine. The science involves staying abreast of the latest research findings and innovative practices. The art requires that experience, intuition, and compassion are seen as crucial to the treatment process as the latest technological breakthrough.”

Dr. Markis is a Board-Certified Adult and Adolescent Psychiatrist, specializing in Traumatic Brain Injury, Sports-Related Concussions, ADHD, PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). He received his medical degree from Western University of Health Sciences and completed residency training at the University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix. His treatment model includes Medication Management, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), and Psychotherapy. He believes adequate treatment often involves more than just medication management and has pursued additional training in cognitive behavioral therapy for depression and anxiety and motivational interviewing. He finds it rewarding to help clients with PTSD heal from past trauma and enjoys working with athletes. He believes in a holistic which includes mindfulness, work-life balance, diet, and exercise.

Dr. Markis believes that everyone deserves a caring, competent psychiatrist regardless of their struggles, and helping those in difficult times is what led him to pursue a career in psychiatry. Pursuing psychiatric care can be a difficult challenge for many people, and Dr. Markis has committed himself to provide quality individualized treatment in a friendly, non-judgmental manner. He enjoys working collaboratively with his patients, empowering them to make informed decisions about their treatment in order to achieve their goals.

I practice general adult and addiction psychiatry, offering treatment for people with depression, bipolar, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), and a range of addictive disorders. I chose to specialize in psychiatry because I enjoy the art of it as much as I enjoy the science. I am fortunate to work at a facility that offers a full spectrum of services to people with psychiatric disorders. I work closely with a team of specialists that views a condition through multiple lenses before choosing–along with the client– the best, most individualized solution.

In the treatment of addiction, I use pharmacological approaches (including suboxone). I share an equal interest in psychotherapy — and incorporate psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, motivational interviewing, cognitive processing, 12-step, and existential psychotherapies into my sessions. I also offer Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), a cutting-edge, revolutionary, and non-invasive treatment for major depressive disorder in addition to multiple other mental health conditions.

An additional interest of mine is the intersection of psychiatry and spirituality. I am a meditation instructor and have found that meditation is an invaluable asset in maintaining presence, careful listening, and compassion.

It is a great privilege to walk alongside clients, to hear their stories, and to establish a close alliance and trust during vulnerable periods in life. I am excited by this work and being of service to my clients is immensely important to me.

I am friendly, compassionate, humorous, and diligent — and these qualities help me to accomplish our mutually shared goals as quickly as possible.

Dr. Carol Lynn Trippitelli is a Board Certified Psychiatrist and a Distinguished Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. She treats adults and adolescents ages 15 and older. Dr. Trippitelli has strong experience in the treatment of all general psychiatric disorders and particular expertise in the treatment of Mood Disorders (depression and bipolar disorder), Eating Disorders, and Anxiety Disorders. Dr. Trippitelli did her psychiatry residency training at The Johns Hopkins Hospital and a fellowship in Eating Disorders at The Center for Eating Disorders in Towson, MD. She received her medical degree from the Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, and a BA from Rice University.

Prior to joining Community Psychiatry, Dr. Trippitelli’s primary responsibility for eighteen years was to the clinical care of patients in her private practice in Washington, DC. She was also Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at Georgetown University Hospital where she taught medical students and residents. She has been named as one of the top doctor’s in the Washington DC, Baltimore, and Northern Virginia area in the Washington Post’s rankings based on peer review. She has also received the Vitals’ Patients Choice Award (most recently in 2019).

Dr. Trippitelli has served on the Board of Directors of The Washington Psychiatric Society and as a member of multiple committees with the American Psychiatric Association. She has published in the American Journal of Psychiatry on the topic of ethical and social issues relating to potential genetic testing for bipolar disorder. Dr. Trippitelli recently relocated to the San Diego, CA area to join Community Psychiatry and to be closer to family in the area. In her free time, she enjoys exercise, boating, downhill skiing, most outdoor activities, and cultural events.

Kathleen is a board certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner receiving her degree from Arizona State University in 2009. She also has a Master’s in Educational Counseling from Northern Arizona University. She has worked in several Child/Adolescent Centers with an emphasis on treating school aged clients dealing with anxiety, ADHD, depression, learning disabilities, and developmental disorders. She has worked collaboratively with child psychiatrists, developmental pediatricians, child psychologists, and therapists. She just finished two years at the University of San Diego providing medication management, counseling, and life skills to college students through the University’s Counseling Center. Prior to becoming a Nurse Practitioner she worked for many years as an RN in both Pediatrics and as a School Nurse providing care to grades K-12.

Kathleen’s passion is helping children, teens, young adults and their families with mental health concerns
When she is not working she loves to travel anywhere and everywhere, the movies, the ocean, and eating out.

Harpreet Kaur, M.D., is a board certified psychiatrist who has subspecialty training and certification in both Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Addiction Psychiatry. Dr. Kaur received her medical education at Government Medical College in Patiala, India and completed her residency at University of Louisville, Kentucky. She completed both her fellowships at University of Maryland Sheppard Pratt Health System.

She acquired a variety of experience during her child fellowship through her work with the ADHD/mood clinic, trauma clinic, neurodevelopmental unit at Sheppard Pratt, IOP at eating disorders clinic, child and infant studies, crisis walk-in clinic, inpatient units for children and adolescents, partial hospitalization programs, residential treatment program, tele-psychiatry (direct and consultation service), and school mental health programs.. Her training in addiction helps her to better serve patients with dual diagnosis. Her philosophy is to individualize care in order to better serve patients while judiciously using resources. Dr Kaur likes to travel , read ,workout and spend time with family and friends during her free time.

Welby Nielsen D.O. sees people of all ages as part of his with Community Psychiatry.He focuses on wellness promotion and improving the quality life for each person he helps.At some point in the course of treatment there will likely be a discussion on the ways nutrition, exercise, and sleep can help promote wellness and happiness.He also utilizes telemedicine in many of his patients to improve access to care.Many of the people he treats are on medications, but some are not.He is also very cautious with prescribing controlled medications and requires all adults to obtain objective computerized testing to receive stimulant medications; such as Adderall or Ritalin. He also views benzodiazepines; such as Ativan and Xanax, as temporary treatments or something taken infrequently and instead emphasizes other ways of improving sleep and anxiety.He enjoys hiking, gardening, time at the ocean and is always working on attaining good balance for himself in his life.

Anoopinder Singh, M.D., F.A.P.A. is a board certified psychiatrist. He practices psychiatry with a holistic health approach. He attended SGRD Institute of Medical Sciences in India for his medical education. He completed Psychiatry residency training at the Hofstra North Shore – LIJ School of Medicine in New York, where he also completed a fellowship training in Psychosomatic Medicine with a focus on patients with co-morbid medical disorders. Dr. Singh received additional training in Disaster and Trauma psychiatry at the State University of New York, New Paltz, as well specialized training in treating college track patients, Early episode mood and psychotic disorder, HIV Psychiatry, Obsessive-compulsive disorder and ADHD in adults. His research includes analyzing the evidence for the efficacy of complementary and alternative medicine. He has worked with Disaster psychiatry outreach, Medical Reserve Corps, Foreign and local governments, providing psychological first aid services in the aftermath of disasters in the United States and India. Dr. Singh sees patients over the age of 18. During time away from work, Dr. Singh enjoys spending time with his family and friends, hiking, running, nature walks, photography, restaurants, and cooking.

Julie LaFreniere, MSN, PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified child, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner seeing patients in the Chico, California office. Julie earned her Master of Science in Nursing from the University of South Alabama. Julie has experience in working with adults with mental illness. Her expertise includes the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of mood, anxiety, depression and thought disorders. She utilizes a collaborative approach to address biological, psychological and social factors impacting patient’s health. Julie specializes in medication management for patients, while incorporating a holistic approach to treatment.

Catherine Brennan, M.D. graduated from USC Medical School in 1990 and completed her adult psychiatry residency at California Pacific Medical Center in San Francisco in 1994. She practiced at the VA Medical Center in San Francisco and Sacramento specializing in the treatment of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and served on the volunteer clinical faculties of UCSF and UC Davis. She then joined the faculty of UC Davis teaching residents and medical students and providing psychiatric care for the chronically and severely mentally ill at the Sacramento County Mental Health Treatment Center. She returned to training and completed her fellowship in Child Psychiatry at UC Davis and the MIND Institute in 2004 before joining Community Psychiatry.She continues to serve as volunteer clinical faculty at UC Davis and co-leads a process group for psychiatric residents with her husband Dr. Paul Cox. Dr. Brennan has a special interest in the autistic spectrum disorders and other neurodevelopmental disorders. Her practice consists mainly of the medical management of psychiatric disorders in children and young adults with whom she likes to work collaboratively. She treats symptoms related to autism, anxiety, depression, PTSD, schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder and OCD amongst others. She is Board Certified in Psychiatry. Outside of her work as a psychiatrist, she is the mother of 3 grown children. She enjoys traveling, yoga and time with family and friends.

Paul Damian Cox, M.D. is a board certified psychiatrist. He graduated from UC Davis Medical School, which he attended as a Regents’ Scholar. Dr. Cox completed his internship and residency at UC San Francisco, where he developed several psychotherapy groups and in 1995 served as Chief Resident. His professional areas of expertise and interest include comprehensive management combining medication and therapy, as well as mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR). Dr. Cox is an experienced teacher drawing from interpersonal neurobiology and social cognitive learning theory.

Telemedicine Appointments Available

Dr. Pavan Madan is a board certified and licensed psychiatrist. He graduated from Government Medical College-Surat in India and was one of the top students in his class. He then completed a residency in psychiatry at Saint Louis University in Missouri, and a child and adolescent psychiatric fellowship at Mount Sinai St. Lukes-Roosevelt Hospital Center in New York. Dr. Madan has published several papers and presented at the 165th annual meeting of the American Psychiatric Association, an organization in which he is a current member. In 2011, Dr. Madan was nominated for the Caring Physician Award at Saint Louis University. He enjoys working with people of all ages.

Specialties: Mood disorders, anxiety (OCD, GAD, PTSD, social anxiety, etc), trauma, developmental disorders, psychosis, sleep problems and substance use.

Dr. Ajay Singh is board certified in child and adolescent psychiatry. Dr. Singh attended the Dayanand Medical College and Hospital (DMCH) in Ludhiana, India for his medical education. He came to the United States to attend the University of Toledo College of Medicine for his psychiatry residency and fellowship training (adult, adolescent, & child) and served as Chief Resident during his fellowship in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. Dr. Singh is Board Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology. Dr. Singh sees patients of all ages.

Luke Michels, M.D. is a board certified psychiatrist. He attended the Uniformed Services University Medical School where he was commissioned as an officer.  He went on to psychiatry residency at Wilford Hall Medical Center in San Antonio, Texas. He served as the chief resident in his final year of residency. Upon graduation, Luke was stationed at the United States Air Force Academy and deployed to Kuwait. He and his family were also stationed in Florida and California where he finished his military career. Luke also graduated from Airborne School and finished his career as a Lieutenant Colonel. He is raising three kids with his wife and enjoys running.

Eleanor Curry, MD grew up in Davis and attended medical school and residency at UCLA. After graduating in 2011, she opened a medication and psychotherapy practice in Los Angeles, and served on the volunteer clinical faculty at UCLA, supervising psychiatry residents in psychotherapy. During this time, she also worked in community mental health, most recently by starting and developing the psychiatry program at the Southern California Counseling Center, where she provided care for low-income and other underserved patients. She enjoys working with all adults, and has a special interest in maternal mental health and reproductive psychiatry.

Erin Grimes, Ph.D. has practiced in San Diego as a licensed clinical psychologist for 11 years. Dr. Grimes has a special interest in working with clients on their relationships and identity. She specializes in working with women with PTSD, as well as in working with people who suffer from chronic health problems, including cancer, pain conditions, and neurological disorders.

Dr. Grimes has a background in working at hospitals and in classrooms at the University of California in San Diego (UCSD), as well as teaching and supervising doctorate students at UCSD.

Dr. Grimes earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and English from the University of California, Los Angeles in 2001 and her doctorate degree in Psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology in 2008.

My Approach: Dr. Grimes’ approach to therapy focuses on using compassion and education and the belief that clients have the ability to independently create change. Dr. Grimes works with clients to improve well-being. Dr. Grimes offers individual, couples, and family therapy.

Three core treatment approaches are used in her practice, these are discussed below: Parenting Education and Communication Skill Building Coaching and skills to help parents to more successfully manage their roles as parents and meet the needs of their children.

Family of Origin work: This theoretical approach focuses on understanding how early-life experiences can contribute to one’s feelings, thoughts and behaviors.In developing insight into these areas, one can create change by creating new meanings and breaking old patterns of beliefs and behaviors.

Managing Traumas: Acceptance, letting go, and grief work as an ongoing process and one that promotes growth and moving forward while decreasing depression.This work involves CBT and processing feelings of guilt, shame, and sadness associated with trauma and loss. Specialty Areas Include: • Depression and Anxiety • Family and Couples Therapy • Grief Work • Chronic Health Problems • Post Traumatic Stress Disorder • Addiction

Steven P. James, M.D. has an enduring interest in helping patients with mood and sleep complaints. These dual areas may appear complex and involve multiple medical and psychiatric conditions. Finding solutions requires understanding the patient and the impact of these problems on their quality of life and satisfaction. Compassion for suffering, engagement of the whole individual, and up-to-date medical knowledge are the elements of successful treatment.

He has appeared on ABC’s Good Morning America and local television, presented at medical congresses in North America and Europe, and published in scientific journals on the topic of mood and sleep disorders.

Dr. James trained in Psychiatry at The New York Hospital/Cornell University/Westchester Division followed by a Psychopharmacology fellowship at Stanford University and Research fellowship at the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). Upon completion of training, he held research and teaching positions at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine and the University of Southern California Medical School. After leaving his academic career, he pursued his interest in research and psychopharmacology within the pharmaceutical industry for over 20 years at several companies including Eli Lilly and Company, Merck Serono, and Allergan.

Steven P. James is a Fellow of both the American Psychiatric Association (APA) and the American Board of Sleep Medicine (ABSM)

Areas of Expertise:

• Mood and Sleep Disorders
• Treatment-Resistant Depression
• Neuropsychiatry
• Psychobiology Research

Kristin Lulich, DNP, PMHNP-BC is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, providing care to children, adolescents, and adults. She received her BSN at Washington State University, MSN from the University of San Diego and is currently a Doctor of Nursing Practice candidate at the University of San Diego. Her experience has encompassed a variety of settings and specialties including inpatient, outpatient, crisis stabilization, consult-liaison psychiatry, and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). She has a strong belief in holistic care and creates individualized treatment plans using combinations of pharmacotherapy and individual therapy as well as complementary and alternative approaches such as mindfulness, meditation, and nutrition.

Ruth McKercher, PH.D. is a licensed psychologist practicing in San Diego. She received her Ph.D. in 2003 from the San Diego campus of California School of Professional Psychology. Ruth has been working in the field of mental health since 1989. Her work has included, residential treatment facilities for teenagers, crisis centers, psychiatric hospitals, community clinics, and clinical trial research coordination. Her primary practice has been in the treatment of mood disorders; depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorders. Dr. McKercher uses experienced based practices, whenever possible, when working with individuals in therapy. She is familiar with the 12-steps and works with those committed to their recovery. She has received training in Cognitive Therapy, Contemporary Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy, Sand Tray Therapy, Family Therapy, and holds a certificate in Older Adult Mental Health.

She works with adults of all ages and some older adolescents,

Dr. McKercher is a member of the San Diego Psychological Association and American Psychological Association.

Joyce Prince, LMFT, is a graduate from California State University Fullerton and aLicensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Although she specializes in working with addictive behavior, she has a diversified background. She works with individuals, couples, seniors, and children age 10 and older.

Joyce has been working as a therapist 25+ years. In therapy her treatment modalities include CBT, DBT, and insight-oriented therapy. She employs behavioral therapy to help stop the negative, destructive behaviors and then combines DBT and insight therapy to examine and resist the impulse to act negatively toward oneself or others.

Joyce has 8 years’ experience tutoring and teaching in special education.Her years of working as a tutor/teacher unique perspective on working with children and families.

Areas of Expertise: Anxiety, Depressive Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, Psychotic Disorders, Co-Dependency, Trauma, Substance Abuse, Social Anxiety, Eating disorders, Grief and Loss, Self-Harm, ADHD, Chronic pain or illness, Dual Diagnosis, Blended Families, and LGBTQ issues.

Art Rosengarten, Ph.D. has over 30 years of experience in North County San Diego working in private and group practice settings. His approach with individuals and couples is eclectic, warm, penetrating, and illuminating. He is grounded in many mainstream therapeutic philosophies, and additionally, has training and experience in Jungian psychology and active imagination, as well as mindfulness and various awareness approaches to personal and interpersonal problems, stemming from many years of Buddhist study and meditation practice. He received his doctorate at the California Institute of Integral Studies in 1985, and also has a Master’s degree in Integral Counseling from the California Institute of Asian Studies. As an undergraduate he was a double English major.

Dr. Rosengarten is the author of three books on spirituality and Jungian psychology, and has been an Adjunct Psychology Professor at a number of Universities in the area. Additionally, he has expertise in the areas of addiction and recovery, marriage & family therapy, as well as in-patient and residential treatment experience with young adults suffering major mental illness. Dr. Art did his Post-doctoral Fellowship at Alvarado Parkway Institute in La Mesa where he received advanced training in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Chemical Dependency, Men’s and Women’s Issues. He now lives in Solana Beach, and has two children who have recently graduated from the University of California.

Dr. Sheila Cai graduated from Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine. She practiced as a pediatrician for a few years in Shanghai, China before moving to the US to attend graduate school at Arizona State University for a Master of Science in Nutrition. After graduate school, Dr. Cai completed a general psychiatry residency at Maricopa Integrated Health System (MIHS), and then a two-year fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry in the same institution. She is board certified in both general psychiatry and child & adolescent psychiatry.

Dr. Cai has worked in various clinical settings throughout her career. She served as the medical director for a residential treatment center and worked in an adult inpatient psychiatric hospital as well as psychiatric consultation services for a medical facility. She was a faculty member of MIHS Child & Adolescent Psychiatry Training Program, where she taught psychopharmacology and supervised fellows for over 12 years. Dr. Cai is a Clinical Associate Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Arizona College of Medicine, Phoenix Campus, and Clerkship Director of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. Before Dr. Cai relocated to San Diego, she was the Medical Director for Behavioral Health at the Children’s Rehabilitation Services in Phoenix, an integrated pediatric multi-specialty clinic. She has extensive and diverse experience in treating patients with complex medical and psychiatric conditions.

It is her belief that the essence of psychiatric treatment should focus on therapeutic alliance, integrated biological, psychosocial, and wellness approach to achieve optimal function for her patients.

Steven B. Alden, PmhNP is a Board Certified Advanced Practice Nurse Practitioner (PmhNP). He graduated with honors (STTI) with his Master’s degree in Nursing Science from California State University San Marcos and his Bachelor’s degree from Loma Linda University. His career has spanned over a decade with experience in managing the critically mentally ill as well as emergency patients throughout the lifespan with a focus on mood and psychotic disorders including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.

Steven is trained in a variety of psychotherapeutic and pharmacological treatment modalities with the ultimate goal of achieving balance, harmony, and a return to a previous high functioning level in the community and home setting.

Steven also treats opioid and alcohol use disorders with Suboxone and other evidenced-based practice methods to achieve current and future sobriety, a return to health and wellness and improved daily life.

Carly Blalack, LCSW graduated from the University of California Irvine receiving her BA degree in Psychology and minor in Education in 2005. In 2007, she graduated with honors from the University of Southern California with her Masters of Social Work, School Social Work Credential, and Pupil Services and Attendance Credential. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker.

Carly has experience working in a variety of settings including schools, hospitals, and community agencies. She specializes in working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. She believes in providing a comfortable space where clients of all ages can feel valued, respected, and acknowledged. Carly finds joy in helping others to see their own strengths and using those strengths to find a better sense of self. She believes that working in conjunction with the client to create and understand their own life goals is the purpose of the therapeutic process. “When you walk into my office, I want you to feel like you can be yourself without judgment. This is where your true work can begin.”

Carly has experience treating a variety of issues including:

• Life Transitions
• Depression
• Grief/Loss
• Bipolar
• Addiction
• Trauma
• Anxiety
• Issues in School or Work environments
• ADHD
• Parenting
• Behavioral Challenges

Carly utilizes tools from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Play Therapy, and Family Therapy.

” Together we will start where you are and get you to where you want to be.”

April L’Heureux graduated from the Phillips Graduate Institute with a graduate degree in Family Counseling Psychology and has been a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist for more than 20 years. She began her career as a Case Manager for the Los Angeles County Department of Children & Family Services. She then joined a Private Shelter Care Facility as their Program Director and oversaw the operations and delivery of services to a specialized client population. She has subsequently held leadership and therapist roles in several community-focused organizations, as well as maintaining a private practice for many years. She has continued her training during her entire career, earning a Certification in Plant-based Nutrition from Cornell University, Certificate in Ericksonian Hypnotherapy, and Certificate as an RTT Therapist from Marissa Peer. Outside of work she expanded on her personal skill set through the study of music and opera at the University of North Texas, which led to performing with the Riverside Opera, Los Angeles Master Chorale, and Danny Daniels Dance America.

Maria Sadeghi, Ph.D., is a licensed clinical psychologist with expertise in behavioral medicine, women’s issues, addictive disorders, and family therapy. Dr. Sadeghi has over a decade of experience working as a clinical director at various outpatient and residential programs. Previously, she worked as the clinical director for an eating disorder program in Carlsbad, California, as a program director for a dual diagnosis residential program in Berkeley CA, as a clinical director for a health-based psychological services agency in Auckland, New Zealand, as a chief of psychology for the state of Idaho, and as an assistant professor at Central Washington University.

Dr. Sadeghi has been described as a master therapist due to her ability to connect with clients, conceptualize problems, and offer strategies to overcome those problems. She graduated from the University of Idaho with a Ph.D. in counseling psychology in1998 and a master’s degree in clinical psychology in 1993. Dr. Sadeghi’s clinical experience has focused on working with clients who have a variety of persistent mental health issues as well as addictive behaviors. Dr. Sadeghi helps her clients to work through the emotional difficulties that underlie the problems they are experiencing. She is also skilled at psychological assessment, diagnosis, and crisis intervention. Her approach to therapy integrates a variety of modalities including existential, interpersonal, humanistic, and cognitive-behavioral therapy. Dr. Sadeghi is committed to providing comprehensive and personalized care that optimizes the discovery of self and recovery from emotional and behavioral dysregulation.

Stephanie Carter, LCSW graduated from Columbia University with her Master’s in Social Work (MSW) in 2001 after receiving her Bachelor’s degree in Social Work (BSW) from San Francisco State University in 2000. She received her LCSW in 2003 and has worked with a variety of individuals across the life span to facilitate their growth and happiness. Stephanie assists adolescents, adults, couples and families navigate the areas in life that are impeding them from living their best life.
Over the course of her 19-year career she has been privileged to work with clients to overcome and minimize the effects of trauma, substance abuse, anxiety/depression/mood disorders, adjustment disorders, and behavioral or relationship challenges, among many other areas.

She believes in helping every person go from surviving to thriving in their lives focusing on an integrative, holistic, whole person wellness approach. Together you will custom tailor your therapy to meet your needs to live your best life.
Common focus of therapy includes:
• Depression, Anxiety, and other mood disorders
• Grief/Loss/Bereavement
• Sexual health and Intimacy/ Sexual dysfunction / Sexual trauma
• Addiction (substance use/abuse, internet/gaming, sex/pornography, etc.)
• Trauma / PTSD
• School or Work stressors
• ADHD
• Parenting / Divorce / Blended families
• Life Transitions (engagement, marriage, new baby, retirement)
• Medical Crisis / New Diagnosis / Family Illness

Ann Massion, M.D. is board certified in and practices adult psychiatry with a particular interest in mind-body approaches, mindfulness-based stress management, anxiety disorders, and spiritual issues in healing.

She graduated from medical school at Mayo Medical School (part of the Mayo Clinic) in Rochester, Minnesota and completed her psychiatry residency at the University of Massachusetts in Worcester, Massachusetts where she also trained and did research with Jon Kabat-Zinn, Ph.D. who pioneered the development of mindfulness-based stress reduction programs in mainstream medical settings.

After completing her residency, she joined the University of Massachusetts faculty where she worked for over 20 years doing clinical work, teaching and research. She has worked with a wide range of people in different settings, both outpatient and inpatient.

“My approach is to try to meet people where they are, to foster wholeness by looking at the ways in which we exile parts of ourselves, and the ways in which we can call ourselves home. My hope is that this work will enable people to enlarge the possibilities for being alive.”

Kristen Clayton, LCSW graduated from UMASS Amherst with a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology in 2006 and Master’s Degree in Social Work in 2009 from San Diego State University. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a member of the National Association of Social Workers.

Kristen believes everyone can find happiness, love, and balance in their lives. Her approach is compassionate, yet direct and tailored to comfort. She promotes an environment of shared learning and safe communication.

Kristen’s focus is helping children, adolescents, adults, and families achieve their highest level of functioning by offering education, strategies, and perspective to assist in personal growth. Throughout her career as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, she has had the privilege of working with a variety of clients. She offers couples work and individual therapy for mild to persistent symptoms. Kristen is experienced in relieving challenges with depression, anxiety, behavioral challenges, OCD related behaviors, ADHD and substance abuse. She works in both inpatient and outpatient mental health facilities, hospitals and schools. Her diverse background allows her to extend a unique approach. Her backpack of tools includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Family therapy. Kristen’s certification in EMDR for those struggling with trauma will occur within this year.

Preeti Mathur, M.D. is a board certified Adult Psychiatrist. She has completed her residency at Westchester Medical Center, New York Medical College, NY. She was appointed to the position of Chief Resident, during the final year of her residency.

Dr. Mathur has worked at the San Diego County Psychiatric Hospital for three years and has a rich experience in managing a wide range of complex psychiatric disorders. Her philosophy is to treat her patients in a comprehensive manner and integrate various issues like family dynamics, abuse, relationship problems, physical health, cultural, sexuality, and substance abuse issues. It is extremely rewarding for her to see her patient’s progress and reach their full potential. She is also fluent in Hindi and Urdu.

She enjoys spending quality time with her family and friends. Her hobbies are singing, cooking, traveling, and being involved in community activities.

Dr. Mathur’s patients describe her as considerate, empathetic, and dedicated doctor who goes above and beyond to ensure the best patient care. It is extremely rewarding for her to see her patient’s progress and reach their full potential.

Ramin Shahla, M.D. is married with 2 children. After finishing medical school, Dr. Shahla completed his first two years of training in psychiatry at the University of Maryland, and the last two years at Louisiana State University. Dr. Shahla completed his training in 1998 from Maryland and Louisiana State universities.

From 1998 till 2003, Dr. Shahla worked as an outpatient psychiatrist, with the last three years as one of nine regional medical directors of the Louisiana Office of Mental Health. After one year of experience in Canadian mental health, Dr. Shahla returned to New Orleans and had a busy practice, which was interrupted by Hurricane Katrina. As a result, he moved to San Diego.

Dr. Shahla’s practice philosophy is helping his patients reach their fullest potential. He has found a combination of the following activities most beneficial for optimum integrative mental health:

• Healthier lifestyle including a healthy relationship,
• Diet, exercise, etc
• Addressing drug and alcohol abuse
• Medications and exploring maladaptive coping skills and behavior

Dr. Shahla is licensed and regulated by the Medical Board of California.

Scott Cologne, M.D., is a board-certified psychiatrist and sleep specialist. He completed his psychiatry residency at Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri, followed by a sleep medicine fellowship at Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He is particularly interested in insomnia, as well as underlying depression and anxiety disorders. He has co-authored a book chapter on insomnia for physicians. Dr. Cologne uses a comprehensive approach to psychiatric well-being, incorporating psychotherapy and medication that is tailored to the individual.

Nancy Abdelmalak M.D. is a board certified general psychiatrist who received her medical degree from Weill Cornell Medical College in Qatar. She went on to do her internship and residency training at New York Presbyterian Hospital / Weill Cornell Medical College. She specializes in treating adults and enjoys treating all psychiatric conditions. She has specific expertise in assessing and treating women through the process of pregnancy, from the planning stages all the way through to the post-partum period. Dr. Abdelmalak prides herself in finding creative ways to challenge individuals to push their boundaries and overcome the mental hurdles that can keep anyone from achieving their potential.

Vishal Patel M.D. is a board certified general psychiatrist who received his medical degree from the University of Pennsylvania. He went on to do his internship and residency training at New York-Presbyterian Hospital / Weill Cornell Medical College. He specializes in adult psychiatry and has extensive experience in various community settings including mental health clinics, dual diagnosis programs, supported residences, shelters, prison, and has cared for mentally ill homeless on the street. Dr. Patel also maintained a psychotherapy private practice guided by psychodynamic and mindfulness-based approaches. He is a firm believer in collaboration and client-centered treatment planning, as well as finding the right balance between acceptance and the desire for change. Dr. Patel enjoys treating individuals from all walks of life and feels comfortable treating almost all psychiatric conditions.

Telemedicine Appointments Available

Dr. Garrett is a board eligible psychiatrist who was born and raised in Ogden, Utah where he earned his undergraduate degree from Weber State University. He then received a Doctor of Optometry degree from the University of California at Berkeley. He attended the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio, Texas where he received his medical (M.D.) degree. He furthered his ophthalmology education with residencies in Galveston, Texas and Kansas City, Missouri. After practicing in the eye care field for almost 15 years, he decided to fulfill a passion for study and treatment of human behavior by returning to a residency at the University of Louisville in psychiatry where he earned multiple awards in psychodynamic theory, group therapy, emergency psychiatry, and treating our nation’s veterans. Dr. Garrett believes that true healing encompasses the body, the mind, and the spirit and employs theories of treatment for each including meditation, mindfulness, psychotherapy and psychopharmacological support.

Telemedicine Appointments Available

Pegah Pajouhi, M.D., is board certified in Psychiatry and a diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. She received a B.A. in Molecular and Cell Biology from UC Berkeley, where she earned multiple academic, leadership, and research awards. She attended UC Davis for medical school and was honored with the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences Award. Dr. Pajouhi trained and completed her residency at the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Stanford University. Throughout her education, she has volunteered at free community clinics and written several medical articles for publication. Prior to joining Community Psychiatry, she worked at Kaiser Permanente in San Jose. Dr. Pajouhi provides medication management and takes a compassionate, evidence-based approach that accounts for the unique biological, psychological, and social factors that impact each individual patient’s mental health. She also believes that engaging in psychotherapy, building healthy coping skills, and making necessary lifestyle modifications are often an integral part of treatment success. Dr. Pajouhi enjoys supporting, collaborating with, and empowering her patients, towards improved self-efficacy and optimal mental health. Outside of work, she loves spending time with her family & friends, playing with her dog Vida, going to the gym, staying active outdoors, traveling, reading, and watching her favorite NBA teams.

Amanda Horrocks, DNP, NP is a board certified Family Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who has been practicing since 2010. Amanda completed her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree in May of 2017 from the California State University, Northern California Consortium, Doctor of Nursing Practice Program. Amanda specializes in medication management for children, adolescents, and young adults. She completed her master’s degree at the University of California, San Francisco in 2010, and has spent her career as an NP working in rural upstate New York and in the greater Sacramento area. During this time, Amanda has gained experience working with children, adolescents, and young adults with an array of mental health concerns including, but not limited to: mood disorders, attention deficit with hyperactivity disorder, depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, Asperger’s and autism spectrum. She enjoys working as a collaborative partner with the patients and families that she journeys with.  Prior to becoming a nurse practitioner, Amanda worked for 8 years as an RN in various capacities. Amanda enjoys swimming, gardening, and reading as hobbies and is a perpetual learner. Amanda spends a lot of her free time volunteering with the teens of her church community. Amanda warmly welcomes new patients at this time!

Telemedicine Appointments Available

Dr. Priyanka is a board certified psychiatrist. She attended medical school in India and came to the United States in 2006 to continue her education. She first attended Nutrition and Dietetics program at Syracuse University and then joined the psychiatry residency program at the University of Rochester Medical Center in Rochester, New York. She joined Community Psychiatry after finishing her residency in 2012. Her approach to psychiatric treatment is to consider the overall health of her patients and bring them along on a journey to understand the role of eating habits, exercise, self-care and mindfulness in their well being. She has strong interest in using telepsychiatry in her practice.

Stuti Bhandari, M.D. is board certified in adult psychiatry and board eligible in child and adolescent psychiatry. After receiving her bachelors in Molecular Genetics and Microbiology from University of Toronto, she graduated from medical school at American University of Antigua, College of Medicine in 2013. Dr. Bhandari received her residency training at Creighton University School of Medicine / University of Nebraska Medical Center Psychiatry Residency Program. She then moved to California to pursue further training at Harbor UCLA Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship program, serving as a chief fellow in her final year.

Dr. Bhandari enjoys working with children, adolescents, and adults, however has special interest in the Transitional Age Youth Population. She has thorough knowledge of psychopharmacology and stays up to date with current literature on new treatments.

In her spare time, Dr. Bhandari enjoys running, hiking, cooking, travelling to exotic places, and spending time with family and friends.

Deena Hassan, M.D. is board certified in adult psychiatry and board certified in child and adolescent psychiatry. She received her bachelors in neurosc ience from Baylor University and graduated from medical school at Ross University. Dr. Hassan received her training as an adult psychiatry resident at the University of Southern California where she advanced into their Child and Adolescent Fellowship, serving as chief fellow in her final year.

Dr. Hassan has worked extensively with many patients during her career, treating a variety of mental health conditions. She brings warmth and her personal touch to each case, investing much of her own energy in cultivating others’ inner strength and personal growth. Dr. Hassan has a particular passion for integrative psychiatry utilizing her skills to help develop lifestyle changes, strengthen patient meditative and mindfulness practices, as well as exploring alternative treatments with patients. Her characteristic holistic approach to mental health has been effective in improving patient wellness. She is adept at discussing psychopharmacology options while concurrently engaging all of her patients in psychotherapy. Dr. Hassan hopes to be able to help her patients accomplish their mental health goals and looks forward to continue serving those living in the Los Angeles area.

Dr. Geraldine Dugan is a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who completed her doctoral degree from U.S. News and World Report’s #1 ranked PMHNP-DNP graduate school program, Rush University in Chicago. She practiced for 8 years as an ANCC certified psychiatric registered nurse III at a large academic medical center in Chicago, IL.

As a nurse practitioner, Dr. Dugan has predominantly treated adults with a wide range of mental health disorders including depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, and bipolar disorder. Dr. Dugan provides psychiatric evaluations and medication management with special attention to individual needs, personal history, and stressful or traumatic life experiences. You will find that Dr. Dugan strives to create an environment of collaboration, warmth, comfort, empathy, and trust in her practice.

In her spare time, Dr. Dugan enjoys healthy eating, yoga, strength training, hiking, walking her dog, traveling, and spending time with family/friends.

Jhaurel Johnson White is a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner board-certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center. In 2012, she completed her undergraduate studies at Prairie View A&M University and The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston. She was also awarded a Doctorate of Nursing Practice by the University of South Alabama after successfully implementing the treatment-initiation and participation (TIP) program for adults diagnosed with treatment-resistant depression. In addition to an extensive background in caring for the adult, geriatric, and veteran populations in outpatient, acute and emergency care settings, she also has experience treating patients diagnosed with concurrent substance use and other psychiatric disorders.

Professionally, I am a physician and a psychologist. Personally, I am also a husband, parent, brother and friend. I listen to people and use all I’ve learned in my formal education and life experiences as well as some common sense and a dash of humor (when appropriate) to help them. Most people seeking help are able to tell their story, even if painful when they feel safe, respected and not judged. By nature and training, I tend to be analytical when approaching a problem but I’ve learned to balance this with empathy and understanding.

Although I work with all ages I find working with children and teens particularly rewarding. My years of training have prepared me to understand them while my years as a parent help me understand what their families may be experiencing. My leisure hours are often spent with my wife horseback riding locally and horse camping throughout California. I also train regularly in Asai Shotokan karate. Balancing the physical side I enjoy reading books that stimulate my mind as well as books that are pure entertainment. For maximum chill out, I spend time with my big red Golden Retriever, Taz.

Dr. Foran is an adult psychiatrist with over 20 years of experience treating patients with a wide spectrum of psychiatric diagnoses, including PTSD, depression, OCD, anxiety, psychotic disorders, adult ADHD, and relationship issues. She strives to provide an emotionally and physically safe environment where her patients can feel supported to achieve their wellness goals. Her treatment philosophy embraces a holistic and multifaceted approach. Melding medication management with mindfulness, meditation, psychodynamic techniques, relaxation, as well as health and wellness principles, Dr. Foran customizes each patient’s treatment to meet their unique and individual needs. She looks forward to working collaboratively with each of her patients to improve their overall well-being, functioning, and quality of life. Dr. Foran is sensitive to her patient’s cultural needs and an untiring advocate for reducing stigma in mental health.
In her spare time, Dr. Foran enjoys playing and listening to music, cooking world cuisines, travel, and spending time with family.

Stephanie Carter, LCSW graduated from Columbia University with her Master’s in Social Work (MSW) in 2001 after receiving her Bachelor’s degree in Social Work (BSW) from San Francisco State University in 2000. She received her LCSW in 2003 and has worked with a variety of individuals across the life span to facilitate their growth and happiness. Stephanie assists adolescents, adults, couples and families navigate the areas in life that are impeding them from living their best life.
Over the course of her 19-year career she has been privileged to work with clients to overcome and minimize the effects of trauma, substance abuse, anxiety/depression/mood disorders, adjustment disorders, and behavioral or relationship challenges, among many other areas.

She believes in helping every person go from surviving to thriving in their lives focusing on an integrative, holistic, whole person wellness approach. Together you will custom tailor your therapy to meet your needs to live your best life.
Common focus of therapy includes:
• Depression, Anxiety, and other mood disorders
• Grief/Loss/Bereavement
• Sexual health and Intimacy/ Sexual dysfunction / Sexual trauma
• Addiction (substance use/abuse, internet/gaming, sex/pornography, etc.)
• Trauma / PTSD
• School or Work stressors
• ADHD
• Parenting / Divorce / Blended families
• Life Transitions (engagement, marriage, new baby, retirement)
• Medical Crisis / New Diagnosis / Family Illness

Dr. Mawhinney did his undergraduate work at Georgetown University. He went on to St. Louis University Medical School with a special interest in psychi atry. Upon graduating in 1967, he entered the Air Force Flight Surgeon program and did his internship at Travis AFB. He served in Taiwan as the Base Medical Director. Dr. Mawhinney completed his Community and General Psychiatry residency in San Mateo County at Chope Hospital and his Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles.

Coming to San Diego in 1975, he was Chief of the Children’s Inpatient Services for San Diego County Department of Mental Health for three years. During those years, he consulted with the Probation Department, Juvenile Court and the Department of Social Services.

He has been in private since 1979. During his career, Dr. Mawhiney has been involved with many community-based programs, including residential and day treatment programs. He has extensive experience with hospital treatment. Most recently, he has worked with two eating disorders programs in San Diego and done research on methamphetamine addiction with a UCLA/NIDA project.

As an Associate Professor of Psychiatry at UCSD, he has supervised residents in the General Psychiatry and Child Psychiatry programs.

He is a past president of the:

California Psychiatric Association
California Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
San Diego Psychiatric Society
San Diego Society for Adolescent Psychiatry
Currently, he is serving on the American Psychiatric Association Assembly Executive Committee.

He has had experience in dealing with most major psychiatric disorders as well as developmental disorders, autism spectrum, and Tourette’s disorder.

Steven B. Alden, PmhNP is a Board Certified Advanced Practice Nurse Practitioner (PmhNP). He graduated with honors (STTI) with his Master’s degree in Nursing Science from California State University San Marcos and his Bachelor’s degree from Loma Linda University. His career has spanned over a decade with experience in managing the critically mentally ill as well as emergency patients throughout the lifespan with a focus on mood and psychotic disorders including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.

Steven is trained in a variety of psychotherapeutic and pharmacological treatment modalities with the ultimate goal of achieving balance, harmony, and a return to a previous high functioning level in the community and home setting.

Steven also treats opioid and alcohol use disorders with Suboxone and other evidenced-based practice methods to achieve current and future sobriety, a return to health and wellness and improved daily life.

Dr. Zainab Al-Dhaher is a board certified psychiatrist. After completing her undergraduate and master’s degrees at McGill University, she graduated medical school in 2011 from St. George’s University. Dr. Al-Dhaher trained at Long Island Jewish-Northwell Hospital, New York for her adult residency, where she fulfilled the role of chief resident. She then trained at New York University and Bellevue Hospital for her child and adolescent fellowship.

Dr. Al-Dhaher integrates psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, and family-based therapy modalities into her practice. When working with children and teenagers she is passionate about empowering the entire family unit, and strengthening school and community supports. She believes mindfulness, healthy lifestyle, and strong social connections are crucial to improving mental health and treating the person, not the illness.

In her spare time, Dr. Al-Dhaher enjoys traveling and spending time with her family and friends.

Poonam Deshmukh, M.D., is a board-certified Adult psychiatrist and board eligible Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist. Dr. Deshmukh completed her medical school training at D. Y. Patil Medical School, Pune, India. In 2018, she graduated as an adult psychiatrist from Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center, North Carolina. It was during her training that Dr. Deshmukh became motivated to pursue child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center. She graduated as a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist in 2019. Dr. Deshmukh is also a member of various professional associations – APA, AACAP, NAMI. In addition, she is interested in clinical research and this led her to earn a Master’s degree in Public Health- Epidemiology from the University of Texas, Houston.

At Community Psychiatry, Dr. Deshmukh’s practice will include treating children, adolescents, and adults. Her aim is towards providing comprehensive patient and family-centered clinical care. She addresses bio-psycho-social determinants affecting mental health along with delivering evidence-based mental health care. Her efforts to create and promote mental health awareness and fight the stigma associated with mental health illnesses will continue during her practice. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with friends, family and she is an enthusiastic traveler.“I am not what happened to me, I am what I choose to become.” Carl Jung.

Anissa Brown, PMHNP-BC is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She received her MSN at Regis College in Weston, MA. She started her career in community mental health settings in the greater Washington D.C. area. She has experience treating a diverse group of people.

Her primary focus is to provide medication management, education, and supportive counseling. She likes to work with her clients to create individual treatment plans that include medication, lifestyle changes, and other recommendations based on their needs. She believes in creating a safe therapeutic space for individuals to receive treatment.
In her free time she enjoys going for walks with her family, reading, and cooking.

Sean Tai, D.O., is a board certified psychiatrist with the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He originally hails from the L.A. area but attended medical school at the Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine in Blacksburg, Virginia. While in medical school, Dr. Tai co-founded the LGBT Medical Alliance of the New River Valley, a community organization aimed at educating the public in rural Appalachia on LGBT-related health issues. In recognition of his work with LGBT patients, Dr. Tai received the LGBT Health Service Award from the American Medical Student Association/Gay and Lesbian Medical Association (AMSA/GLMA). Dr. Tai subsequently underwent his residency training in psychiatry at the University of Arizona in Tucson, AZ, during which he was honored with the resident professionalism award as well as the role of chief resident. As a resident, Dr. Tai pursued specialized training in psycho-oncology through the Arizona Cancer Center and sports psychiatry, working with both college and professional athletes. He strongly holds to a biopsychosocial model of psychiatric treatment, and believes that medication, psychotherapy, and social policy are necessary for mental wellness. He has a love for dining out, cooking, and live theatre.

Haiyan Wang, M.D. is a board certified Adult, Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist. She holds a master’s degree from the University of Connecticut in Physiology and Neurobiology and received her Medical Degree from Wuhan University School of Medicine in China. Dr. Wang completed the first three years of her adult psychiatry residency at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital in Washington D.C. and then moved on to complete her child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at New York University, one of the nation’s leading institutes in children’s mental health. She has also received psychoanalytical training from Washington Baltimore Psychoanalytic Institute. Prior to her residency and fellowship, Dr. Wang invested years in psychiatric and neuroscience research and published journal articles. She is particularly passionate about diagnosing and practicing evidence-based treatments in children, adolescents and young adults who have anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), depression, mood disorder, PTSD, disruptive behavior, and psychosis as well as providing parenting and behavioral strategies. She has a thorough knowledge of the neuroscience that is related to psychiatric illnesses and stays up to date with current research on those topics.

Dr. Wang speaks both English and Mandarin. She enjoys hiking and golf!

Edward B. Nino MSN, RN, PHN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC is Dual Board Certified as both a Family Nurse Practitioner and as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Across the Life Span) with more than twenty years of experience. He has full prescriptive authority in several states, including California, Nevada, Arizona, Iowa, Tennessee, and Virginia. He earned his Master’s degree in Nursing with a sub-specialty in neuropsychiatry from the University of California at Los Angeles followed by a Post-Master’s Certificate in Psychiatry from Azusa Pacific University. He is fluent in English, Spanish and Tagalog.

Edward’s medical approach is evidence-based and guided by his knowledge of both traditional and holistic psychiatry, and grounded in scientific studies in the growing fields of epigenetics, nutrient-based psychiatry, and the gut-brain connection.

Ed’s treatment approach is based on his recognition that each patient is a unique human being with a vast array of individual experiences, the sum of which have shaped our inner self to create the person that we are today. His treatment approach focuses on the goal of helping each patient function comfortably and joyfully in both their personal and work lives.

“Life presents all of us with daily challenges that may occasionally cause pain and difficulty. Some patients may have a hidden genetic predisposition that makes it difficult to deal competently with such daily stressors, and they can develop medical symptoms directly related to those underlying psychiatric conditions. This is where I can help.

My approach is one based on a wellness model that includes the entire person. While it is necessary to focus immediately on the symptoms that lead a patient to seek treatment, I think it is a disservice to focus solely on a person’s symptoms and illness. In reality, people are much more than the symptoms that they may be experiencing. Each person is a human being with strengths, talents, interests, a vast array of experiences, and a support network of friends and family. I think that the most effective way to help a person begin to heal is by focusing long-term on their strengths, harnessing their available resources while promptly treating the symptoms that led them to seek treatment.

As a result, after a thorough medical and psychiatric assessment, I collaborate with my patients to formulate a plan to target first the symptoms that led them to seek treatment. At the same time, I also begin to address other areas of the patient’s life. Together we talk about their human relationships, work life and career, health, including diet, exercise, and any underlying medical conditions, personal development, and spiritual life. After that review, we develop a comprehensive plan together to identify specific goals in each of these areas. By addressing the whole person, and not just the current problem or symptom, we can work together effectively to improve the overall quality of their life.”

Alex Hartzler, M.D., M.Ac. is a board certified adult psychiatrist and integrates conventional psychiatric and complementary modalities including medication management, psychodynamic and somatic psychotherapy, mind-body interventions, and mindfulness and self-compassion cultivation. Alex attended medical school at The University of Washington School of Medicine and psychiatry residency at California Pacific Medical Center. Undergraduate studies in psychology were at Barnard College, Columbia University. Alex also earned a Master’s degree in Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine from the Northwest Institute of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine and studied massage therapy and natural therapeutics at the New Mexico School of Natural Therapeutics prior to traditional medical training.

Warmth, presence, and deep listening are central in Alex’s work as is welcoming each individual’s complex of experiences and sociocultural backgrounds. While treating a range of common conditions including ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and bipolar disorder, Alex has particular interests in supporting adults motivated to deeply explore and befriend themselves, to cope better and become more resilient, and find more freedom through cultivating emotional-intelligence, self-compassion, and presence. Additionally, Alex enjoys supporting transgender, nonbinary, and other LGBTQIQA people to live more fully and freely.

Jonathan Strohl, PMHNP-BC is a board certified adult Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. He has been helping clients in psychiatric settings for almost two decades. Jonathan promotes mental health wellness by combining talk therapy, medication management, diet, exercise, and understanding your life’s narrative/story. He recognizes the importance of working against the stigma tied to mental illness and strives to provide a supportive setting for individuals regardless of gender, orientation, culture, race or religion. After he completed his undergraduate work at the University of Virginia and Guilford College, he received his adult psychiatric mental health education from the University of California, San Diego. While at the University of Virginia, Jonathan co-founded the International Healthcare Outreach Organization with trips to El Salvador. He has also participated in multiple Habitat for Humanity projects.

Telemedicine Appointments Available

Anissa Brown, PMHNP-BC is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She received her MSN at Regis College in Weston, MA. She started her career in community mental health settings in the greater Washington D.C. area. She has experience treating a diverse group of people.

Her primary focus is to provide medication management, education, and supportive counseling. She likes to work with her clients to create individual treatment plans that include medication, lifestyle changes, and other recommendations based on their needs. She believes in creating a safe therapeutic space for individuals to receive treatment.
In her free time she enjoys going for walks with her family, reading, and cooking.

Poonam Deshmukh, M.D., is a board-certified Adult psychiatrist and board eligible Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist. Dr. Deshmukh completed her medical school training at D. Y. Patil Medical School, Pune, India. In 2018, she graduated as an adult psychiatrist from Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center, North Carolina. It was during her training that Dr. Deshmukh became motivated to pursue child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center. She graduated as a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist in 2019. Dr. Deshmukh is also a member of various professional associations – APA, AACAP, NAMI. In addition, she is interested in clinical research and this led her to earn a Master’s degree in Public Health- Epidemiology from the University of Texas, Houston.

At Community Psychiatry, Dr. Deshmukh’s practice will include treating children, adolescents, and adults. Her aim is towards providing comprehensive patient and family-centered clinical care. She addresses bio-psycho-social determinants affecting mental health along with delivering evidence-based mental health care. Her efforts to create and promote mental health awareness and fight the stigma associated with mental health illnesses will continue during her practice. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with friends, family and she is an enthusiastic traveler.“I am not what happened to me, I am what I choose to become.” Carl Jung.

Summer Thompson, PMHNP-BC is an ANCC Board-Certified, Family Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.  She has been working in mental health for well over a decade helping members of the general public, veterans and active duty military personnel to achieve their best possible selves.  Summer encourages mental health by treating the “whole ” person, not simply symptoms and disease.  She achieves this in partnership with her clients through shared decision making, medication management, diet, and exercise. She strives to provide a supportive setting to achieve wellness for all individuals regardless of age, gender, orientation, culture, race or religion. Summer completed undergraduate degrees from both Gonzaga University and Johns Hopkins University and received her graduate education as a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from U.C. San Francisco where she continues to teach as a Professor in the School of Nursing.

Languages: English/Spanish

Tamara completed a Bachelor’s degree in Psychobiology with a minor in Psychology from UC Santa Cruz in 1986.  She then went on to complete a BSN in Nursing from University of New Hampshire in 1994, being recognized as a Presidential Scholar and graduating Summa Cum Laude. She earned a dual MSN from UC San Francisco in 1998, and is board certified both as a Primary Care and Psychiatry/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.  She is a member of Sigma Theta Tau, nursing honors society.

Since becoming a nurse in 1994, her primary focus has been to work with individuals with mental health needs. She strives to recognize each person for his or her strengths and challenges. She believes in the primacy of caring, and that through listening and learning about each person she that she works with, she can then partner with that person to decide on a treatment plan that works for them. There are many ways of knowing. Tamara makes an effort to keep up with the ever-evolving scientific understanding of the brain and body, and how best to support a person’s optimal ability to function. With the goal of achieving health and well-being, she embraces a bio/psycho/social /spiritual approach to symptom management. And, because health is a daily practice that requires commitment, Tamara believes in the importance of educating and empowering each person she works with to understand the identified health concerns, what treatment options there may be, and the rationale for these.

Tamara enjoys spending time with her husband, children and friends outside of work.  She volunteers several hours annually to support her daughter’s high school’s athletic and choral booster clubs. She loves spending time in the mountains, and enjoys skiing, hiking, swimming and biking.

Priyanka Baweja, M.D. is a board certified adult psychiatrist. Dr. Baweja received her medical education at Government Medical College in Patiala, India and completed her psychiatry residency at the Cleveland Clinic in Cleveland, Ohio. Dr. Baweja specializes in treating adults and has a wide range of interests including depressive and anxiety disorders, ADHD, psychosis, OCD and other chronic mental illnesses. She has always had a unique passion for women’s health. She has experience in treating pregnant and nursing mothers who need assistance with postpartum depression or management of psychiatric care during pregnancy.

Alice L. Del Rosario, M.D. is a board certified child and adult psychiatrist who has been in practice for over twenty years. After finishing her adult psychiatry training at Napa State Hospital, she completed her child and adolescent fellowship at St. Mary’s Hospital and Medical Center in San Francisco. Dr. Del Rosario has extensive and varied experience treating adults, children and adolescents both on the inpatient and outpatient settings. In addition to her private practice, she dedicates her time to a non-profit agency helping children with emotional and learning difficulties.

Dr. Parmar is a double board certified psychiatrist in Adult and Child Psychiatry. She earned her medical degree at Terna Medical College & Hospital in Mumbai, India. Thereafter, she completed general psychiatry training at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center program, TX, followed by Child & Adolescent Psychiatry fellowship training at Hofstra Northwell Health program, NY. Her training has equipped her to comfortably manage a diverse array of patients from all age groups with a wide range of psychiatric conditions. Her treatment philosophy involves making the patient/ families feel heard and understood while helping them tailor their treatment goals. She educates her patients to make well-informed treatment choices and believes in achieving overall well-being of an individual rather than targeting just the illness itself. She is well attuned to her patient’s cultural needs and tries her best to reduce stigma and prejudice related to mental illness.

In her spare time, Dr. Parmar enjoys reading, cooking, traveling and spending time with family/friends.

Dr. Magavi is a native Californian and Hopkins-trained psychiatrist committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care to individuals of all cultural, political, religious, sexual and socioeconomic backgrounds. Dr. Magavi is a board certified adult psychiatrist and board certified child and adolescent psychiatrist. She completed her adult psychiatry residency at Georgetown University Hospital, during which time she also had the invaluable experience of caring for veterans at the Washington, D.C. VA. As a resident, she was awarded the String of Pearls teaching award. She subsequently completed her child psychiatry fellowship at Johns Hopkins Hospital, where she served as the chief fellow and published a manuscript on transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS).

Dr. Magavi strives to create a safe, comfortable atmosphere for patients and their families in their journey toward recovery. She has a holistic approach and integrates various treatment modalities (lifestyle changes, including mindfulness and meditation, pharmacological agents, as well as individual, couples and family therapy) to provide comprehensive, effective care. She enjoys working with people of all ages (pediatric, adult, geriatric) with various concerns including but not limited to ADHD, anxiety (GAD, PTSD, OCD, panic disorder, separation anxiety), depression, bipolar disorder, postpartum illnesses, sleep disorders and schizophrenia. She partners with her clients and individualizes treatment depending on each client’s unique life story and goals to maximize their quality of life.

In her free time, Dr. Magavi enjoys spending time with her loved ones, trying different cuisines, watching movies, and embracing the beauty and diversity of California. She looks forward to helping as many individuals as possible and playing her part in eliminating the stigma surrounding mental health.

Dr. McNamara is a board-eligible general adult psychiatrist with the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He is a strong proponent of the evidenced-based use of psychotropic medications with psychotherapy but believes that the ultimate determination of the best, most appropriate treatment regimen is to be determined by the patient’s own personal preferences under the guidance of the treating psychiatrist. This philosophy influences the care of all of his patients. The treatment plan is ultimately designed and created by working collaboratively with the patient at each clinic appointment.

He graduated from the University of California at San Diego with a degree in General Biology with an additional emphasis on Physiological Psychology. After completing his undergraduate degree, he chose to complete a year-long post-baccalaureate study in Molecular Biology with the Department of Biology at the same highly prestigious biological research university for more in-depth exposure to the Biological Sciences, especially as it pertains to the field of Immunology. He earned his medical degree from Ross University School of Medicine, completing his senior year clinical medical school clerkship rotations in New York City with high honors. During his first year of post-graduate medical education, he was at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center with the Department of Internal Medicine. Afterward, he completed his general adult Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences residency program at the East Tennessee State University with him completing his residency training program with an emphasis on the care of adult treatment-resistant depression patients. Currently, Dr. McNamara has a research paper in-press which highlights how the potential roles of inflammation created by a dysregulated immune system may have a vital and substantive role in the propagation of depression for a select patient population.

As a senior resident physician at the Mountain Home Veterans Administration Hospital in northeast Tennessee, Dr. McNamara cared for patients with post-traumatic stress disorder along with various types of anxiety, mood, substance abuse, psychotic disorders and the medication management of adult attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Treatment of these disorders included the use of various types of psychotropic medications with the concomitant employment of psychotherapy to improve the quality of life of both for the patient he was caring for and their immediate loved ones. Dr. McNamara’s main focus is on the care of patients eighteen years old and older. In his spare time, he enjoys going to the beach or park to play frisbee with his family or visiting local neighborhood cafes.

Dr. Garro is Board Certified in Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine. She is originally from Puerto Rico and completed medical school at Autonomous University of Guadalajara and New York Medical College. Following a year of internship in general surgery, Dr. Garro found a passion for psychiatry and went into residency program at SUNY Stony Brook University Hospital in Long Island, NY. Dr. Garro was chief resident in Consultation Liaison service as a 4th year resident. She then completed a fellowship in Psychosomatic Medicine at Long Island Jewish/North Shore Health Care System in NY. Dr. Garro has worked in addiction medicine with veterans in Northport, NY, and later was recruited to join the Comprehensive Psychiatric Emergency Program (CPEP) at Stony Brook Hospital, where she was an attending psychiatrist caring for psychiatric emergencies. Dr. Garro was also Clinical Assistant Professor with SUNY Stony Brook Residency program and collaborated with residents and medical students. Dr. Garro enjoys teaching.

Dr. Garro moved with her family to Southern California. She worked with chronic persistent mentally ill patients at the Orange County Health Care Agency. In recent years, Dr. Garro worked with the underserved community at numerous locations with St. Jude, St. Joseph, Hoag, and Mission Hospitals, providing psychiatric assessment and treatment to patients that could not access care elsewhere. She has been a guest speaker at NAMI and has collaborated with families of mentally ill patients.

Dr. Garro believes in a holistic approach in caring for her patients; which includes things like mindfulness, good sleep hygiene techniques, balanced diet, counseling, and medication management. Dr. Garro has experience (but not exclusive) in women’s health, anxiety, mood, psychotic, ADHD, trauma related, and sleep disorders.

Dr. Garro is fluent in English and Spanish, she is bicultural, and has a passion for providing cultural sensitive psychiatric services.

Dr. Garro enjoys spending time with her family; the outdoors, live music, and traveling.

Elisabeth “Liz” Collins, PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified child and family psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with more than fifteen years experience working in mental health. She earned her masters from the University of California, San Francisco in 2012 and has been working as a community mental health nurse practitioner since. Previously she provided skills training, substance use treatment, and individual and group therapy to children and adults. These past experiences help her provide a rich and integrated approach to medication management, focusing on the wisdom and goals of her patients. She makes it a priority to hold a supportive and safe space for individuals of all races, religions, genders, orientations, cultures, and abilities. Her treatment style is to collaborate with the patient in creating a wellness plan that integrates medications and support from non-pharmaceutical interventions such as exercise, sleep hygiene, spiritual practices, social involvement, and psychotherapy with a therapist.

Treatment focuses include: depression, trauma and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), attention deficit disorders (ADHD, formerly ADD), affective disorders (Bipolar Disorders), substance use disorders (alcohol, benzodiazepines, tobacco, harm reduction) and managing anxiety and panic disorders without benzodiazepines. Due to the evidence* of the risks of benzodiazepines (Xanax, Klonipin, Ativan, Valium, and others) she does not use these medications to manage symptoms but works with patients to find effective alternatives and then slowly, gently, discontinue dependence or use of benzodiazepines and controlled sedative medications.

Telemedicine Appointments Available

For your first appointment with Lis, please:
– Arrive 20 minutes before your scheduled appointment to complete paperwork that will be used during the assessment.
– Parking is limited in downtown Oakland and the 12th street BART station is conveniently located just below our building.
– Bring medications, medical records, and some notes on what is bothering you and your goals for treatment.
– During the assessment, Lis will ask about current mental health symptoms, previous psychiatric symptoms and treatment, past medical and social history, and your goals for treatment.
– If started on time, with the intake paperwork completed, the appointment allows 50 minutes to meet.

Summer Savon, M.D., Ph.D, has always been interested in what makes living joyful and meaningful and to that end has trained in both molecular science and western medicine and additionally has a background in the musical and visual arts. Her PhD in biochemistry enables her to consider the importance of nutrition and epigenetics in health, and her MD has trained her in the gifts of psychotherapy and pharmacology to help heal the mind. Her belief that optimal mental health requires addressing social and spiritual needs as well as physical and psychological issues has led her to offer a broad treatment perspective which increasingly includes complementary modalities. Known to be very open and caring, Dr. Savon is very responsive to individual patient situations and works actively with her patients to help them reach their treatment goals.

Candice Rugg, BSN, RN-BC, MSN, PMHNP-BC is a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, who received her undergraduate degrees from Mills College and Samuel Merritt University and her advanced practice education from the University of California, San Francisco. Her specialty training was provided by the San Francisco Department of Veteran’s Affairs with a focus on complex medication management and substance use disorders. Since 2011, she has worked extensively in community mental health since in both assertive community treatment outpatient and inpatient settings, providing individual therapy and medication management.

She is especially interested in working with patients who may struggle with substance use disorders approaching treatment from harm reduction model, utilizing trauma-informed care and considering a holistic whole-person focus when considering treatment options with her patients. Care offered is client-centric and non-judgmental.

Other areas of interest include sexual health/sex positivity and is passionate about providing culturally sensitive care that is gender-affirming, body positive, Alt sex/Alt relationship-affirming, LGBTQIA informed (+ally). Candice loves offering up book recommendations and podcasts to her patients, and loves receiving recommendations back as well. In her spare time, she’s likely to be getting lost in Mexico City.

PRONOUNS: SHE / HER

Sean Tai, D.O., is a board certified psychiatrist with the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He originally hails from the L.A. area but attended medical school at the Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine in Blacksburg, Virginia. While in medical school, Dr. Tai co-founded the LGBT Medical Alliance of the New River Valley, a community organization aimed at educating the public in rural Appalachia on LGBT-related health issues. In recognition of his work with LGBT patients, Dr. Tai received the LGBT Health Service Award from the American Medical Student Association/Gay and Lesbian Medical Association (AMSA/GLMA). Dr. Tai subsequently underwent his residency training in psychiatry at the University of Arizona in Tucson, AZ, during which he was honored with the resident professionalism award as well as the role of chief resident. As a resident, Dr. Tai pursued specialized training in psycho-oncology through the Arizona Cancer Center and sports psychiatry, working with both college and professional athletes. He strongly holds to a biopsychosocial model of psychiatric treatment, and believes that medication, psychotherapy, and social policy are necessary for mental wellness. He has a love for dining out, cooking, and live theatre.

Elizabeth (Beth) is a Masters-level Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and is currently completing her doctorate degree in Psychiatric-Mental Health as a DNP. Beth brings years of experience in multiple facets of healthcare to our team. She practiced for 10 years as an emergency medicine/trauma RN in a Level 2 Trauma/Emergency Center in the largest medical facility in North Dakota. While there, she specialized in assessing & caring for those with severe mental illness. Beth also provided SANE care for sexual assault patients of various ages including the collection of forensic evidence, assessments, and follow-up care. Beth has also served as a forensic death investigator for the county coroner which included collecting relevant information at homicide, suicide, natural or accidental death scenes.

Further psychiatric experiences for Beth were completed at a Veterans hospital and a local, yet sizable, psychiatric hospital; inclusive of inpatient/outpatient experience and caring for the adult population with varying degrees of mental illness. Care included medication management and follow up evaluations to patients of varying severity, from traumatic/acute to stabilized/chronic populations.

Originally from ND, Beth enjoys traveling, music, and spending time with her loved ones; especially her nieces and nephews. She loves the innovative and unrefined creativity that California and the West Coast have to offer, and she looks forward to continuing her journey in healthcare on a patient-centric team with a strong mission and solid values.

Edward B. Nino MSN, RN, PHN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC is Dual Board Certified as both a Family Nurse Practitioner and as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Across the Life Span) with more than twenty years of experience. He has full prescriptive authority in several states, including California, Nevada, Arizona, Iowa, Tennessee, and Virginia. He earned his Master’s degree in Nursing with a sub-specialty in neuropsychiatry from the University of California at Los Angeles followed by a Post-Master’s Certificate in Psychiatry from Azusa Pacific University. He is fluent in English, Spanish and Tagalog.

Edward’s medical approach is evidence-based and guided by his knowledge of both traditional and holistic psychiatry, and grounded in scientific studies in the growing fields of epigenetics, nutrient-based psychiatry, and the gut-brain connection.

Ed’s treatment approach is based on his recognition that each patient is a unique human being with a vast array of individual experiences, the sum of which have shaped our inner self to create the person that we are today. His treatment approach focuses on the goal of helping each patient function comfortably and joyfully in both their personal and work lives.

“Life presents all of us with daily challenges that may occasionally cause pain and difficulty. Some patients may have a hidden genetic predisposition that makes it difficult to deal competently with such daily stressors, and they can develop medical symptoms directly related to those underlying psychiatric conditions. This is where I can help.

My approach is one based on a wellness model that includes the entire person. While it is necessary to focus immediately on the symptoms that lead a patient to seek treatment, I think it is a disservice to focus solely on a person’s symptoms and illness. In reality, people are much more than the symptoms that they may be experiencing. Each person is a human being with strengths, talents, interests, a vast array of experiences, and a support network of friends and family. I think that the most effective way to help a person begin to heal is by focusing long-term on their strengths, harnessing their available resources while promptly treating the symptoms that led them to seek treatment.

As a result, after a thorough medical and psychiatric assessment, I collaborate with my patients to formulate a plan to target first the symptoms that led them to seek treatment. At the same time, I also begin to address other areas of the patient’s life. Together we talk about their human relationships, work life and career, health, including diet, exercise, and any underlying medical conditions, personal development, and spiritual life. After that review, we develop a comprehensive plan together to identify specific goals in each of these areas. By addressing the whole person, and not just the current problem or symptom, we can work together effectively to improve the overall quality of their life.”

Emma Castro, M.D., F.A.P.A. is a board certified psychiatrist. She completed her psychiatric residency at Harvard South Shore in Boston, Massachusetts. Her specialized training at the Boston Veterans Affairs Healthcare System afforded her the opportunity to participate in clinical research exploring the Neurobiology of Traumatic reactions. Completing her fellowship at the Boston Psychoanalytic Society and Institute, Dr. Castro developed a special interest and focus in Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorders (PTSD), Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Women’s Health and combining medication with psychotherapy.

Telemedicine Appointments Available

Juan De Hoyos, M.D. has a variety of clinical experience to draw upon in the treatment of his patients including ER, in-patient, and out-patient care. His goal has always been to help patients in their treatment, knowledge, and decisions in the very best manner. Having grown up in Tracy, he also has a personal connection to the area and seeing Pleasanton as a small agricultural town to the present.

David Finkelstein, M.D. is a board-certified adult psychiatrist, whose primary interest is in psychotherapy. He typically sees patients for weekly psychotherapy sessions. If appropriate, he also prescribes psychiatric medications to his patients, though his primary approach to addressing issues is therapy. Dr. Finkelstein usually utilizes a psychodynamic, or insight-oriented, approach to try to help people figure out how possible unconscious factors from past experiences might be contributing to current life troubles or maladaptive patterns.  Although therapists who practice psychoanalytic-based therapies are often stereotyped as being silent and expressionless, Dr. Finkelstein tries to create a warm and engaging environment and frequently uses humor.

Dr. Finkelstein completed his undergraduate studies at Williams College in Williamstown, MA, majoring in Biology, though grateful to have been the recipient of a strong liberal arts education. He attended medical school at the University of Massachusetts Medical School in Worcester, MA, and he continued at UMass Medical for his psychiatric residency training. He participated in the Advanced Training Program in Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy at the Boston Psychoanalytic Society and Institute. He moved to California and joined Community Psychiatry in 2013.

If you think you might be interested in seeing Dr. Finkelstein for psychotherapy, you can contact him directly to set up a time to talk to see if his practice might be a good fit for you:

Phone: 925-557-3582

Email: DFinkelstein@cpsych.com

Dr. Hoffman is dually board certified as a family nurse practitioner and a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She received her Doctorate of Nursing Practice and her post doctorate certificate as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner from Brandman University in Irvine, CA. She completed her Family Nurse Practitioner degree at Samuel Merritt University in Oakland and her Master of Science in Psychology at Jacksonville State University in Jacksonville, AL. She has also been certified in the past as a Cognitive Behavioral Forensic Therapist. Holli has carried out research in pain amelioration, behavior patterns in adults, suicide tendencies in adolescents, and schizophrenia. Holli started a primary care program for adults with mental illness in Telecare, San Mateo. She has precepted many nurse practitioner students. Her work settings have included but were not limited to inpatient psychiatric units, partial hospitalization programs, community mental health, and early intervention. She has worked with clients of all ages but has a specialized focus with young adults and adolescents. She has spent much time working with clients with Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, and addictions.  She incorporates psychotherapy and medication in treatment and sees her psychiatric work as a partnership with her clients.

Board Certified – Adult Psychiatry

Board Certified – Child and Adolescent Psychiatry

Dr. Xiaoling Zhu specializes in working with children, adolescents, and the adult population. Dr. Zhu completed her general psychiatry training at Stanford University Medical Center and received her child/adolescent psychiatry training at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles. Dr. Zhu is board certified in both specialties.  She is fluent in Mandarin and has worked with a number of Mandarin-speaking patients and families. Dr. Zhu has also enjoyed working in a wide spectrum of treatment settings which have provided her with invaluable experience, deepened empathy, as well as perspective. These settings include crisis residential facilities, outpatient clinics for children with developmental disabilities, transitional age youth clinic (age 18-25yo), telepsychiatry which provided indigent populations with little access to healthcare with psychiatric support, and private practice. Dr. Zhu believes strongly in utilizing comprehensive treatment approaches with the goal of obtaining both mental and physical wellbeing.

Christopher Sinnappan, M.D., is a board certified psychiatrist in both general psychiatry and child and adolescent psychiatry.  Dr. Sinnappan completed medical school at the University of Illinois in Chicago. Afterward, he went on to complete his psychiatry residency and child and adolescent fellowship at the University of Chicago, Illinois. Dr. Sinnappan has a special interest in mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and ADHD disorders. He works with his patients and their families collaboratively.

Eugene Fealk, D.O. received his training in psychiatry at the Michigan Psychoanalytic Institute. In addition to his training in psychotherapy, he brings to his practice over twenty years of experience in psychopharmacology and the treatment of mood disorders. A long-standing member of the Roseville community, Dr. Fealk has also served as the medical director of several mental health programs in the Sacramento Valley. He has extensive experience in treating psychiatric illness complicated by chemical dependency and has served as the director of both hospital and outpatient chemical dependency programs. Dr. Fealk is trained in mindfully based cognitive therapy. He has been practicing this form of therapy for the past eight years. Dr. Fealk has been trained under Jon Kabat-Zinn and provides an eight-week program teaching the fundamentals of mindfully based stress reduction.

Dr. Ramirez Moya is a board eligible child and adolescent psychiatrist. While pregnant with her son, she completed a child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship in 2011 at the University of Mexico. She focused on learning developmental disabilities and autism at the Center of Developmental Disabilities, UNM. Two years later, her son was diagnosed with autism and a rare genetic disease. Since then, she has been working and advocating for the developmental disability community. As a mother, she understands the struggles of dealing with insurance, schools and community services for a child with a developmental disability. As a doctor, she understands the difficulties in managing medications for patients who are facing such issues and who could have very unique responses to psychopharmacology. She understands the importance to work as a team with other healthcare professionals such as; occupational therapists, speech pathologists, physical therapists, case managers, neurologists, and school staff. Dr. Ramirez-Moya is from Costa Rica and is bilingual. She is also committed to taking care of Hispanic and bilingual children who struggle with mental illness and cultural adaptation.

Jon Porter, D.O. is a board eligible adult psychiatrist. He received his Bachelors of Psychobiology from UC Davis and completed his medical degree at Western University in Pomona. He has experience with psychiatric emergencies working in an acute inpatient hospital at Arrowhead Regional Medical Center in San Bernardino County where he completed his residency as the Chief Resident. He has experience working in underserved areas in multiple settings including hospitals, prisons, mental health clinics, and crisis walk-in centers. Dr. Porter enjoys providing medication management that is tailored to meet the needs of patients from all walks of life. His goal is to create a therapeutic relationship by treating each patient with respect and compassion. He enjoys teaching residents and medical students and is currently a clinical assistant professor at Western University and Touro University in Vallejo. In his spare time, Dr. Porter enjoys being outdoors with his family.

Amanjot Gill, M.D. is Board-certified, she received her medical degree in India from the Guru Govind Singh Medical College. After medical school, she worked in underserved areas and volunteered in flood relief programs; helping those without direct access to healthcare. Shortly after moving to the United States, Dr. Gill completed her Adult Psychiatry residency training at the University of Toledo Medical College, where she served on the ethics committee. She is trained in psychotherapy and psychopharmacology for the treatment of a variety of issues, including a special interest in the treatment of anxiety and mood disorders. She incorporates a shared decision-making model. Her approach aims to improve the quality of decisions in terms of knowledge and values.

Smita Reddy, M.D. is an adult psychiatrist. She was born and raised in the southern part of India and is a fourth generation physician in her family, but the first psychiatrist in the clan. Her passion for psychiatry was fueled by the fact that it was such a stigmatized field despite the huge need, not just in India, but globally. She graduated medical school in India and completed her adult general psychiatry residency training in 2011 from Rosalind Franklin University, North Chicago (otherwise known as Chicago Medical School). Afterward, Dr. Reddy worked at their community clinic as an Adult Psychiatrist with a special interest in, women in the reproductive age group and trauma. She enjoys teaching as much as she enjoys practicing psychiatry. She taught medical students during her residency and after graduating she taught as a clinical instructor at their outpatient clinic. Dr. Reddy is also the Medical Director of a youth counseling group in Chicago.

Saleha Abbasi, M.D. graduated from the Aga Khan University Medical College in Pakistan in 1999. She went on to pursue Residencies in Internal Medicine and Psychiatry at West Virginia University Hospital in Morgantown before becoming a Child and Adolescent Fellow at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor. Dr. Abbasi is active in the community, having volunteered at several outpatient clinics serving low-income patient populations. She has a special interest in Mood Disorders. Dr. Abbasi is a proud mother of a son with whom she can be found playing chess and other board games and watching science documentaries.

Ni Ni Hla, M.D. has worked for Community Psychiatry since 2006. She received her medical degree at the Institute of Medicine II, in Yangon, Myanmar. She then completed an internship and a Residency in Psychiatry at the Albany Medical College where she was Chief Resident. She finished 2 years of fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at the University of Buffalo. She is a Board Certified Psychiatrist in General Psychiatry. She is fluent in English and Burmese and works with adults, children, adolescents, and families.

Abhijit Ramanujam, M.D. is a board certified Psychiatrist. He completed his General Psychiatry Residency and Child-Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at Wayne State University/Detroit Medical Center. He was honored by the institution, having been voted Chief Resident as well as winning the prestigious Outstanding Graduate Award. Dr. Ramanujam’s valuable experience with diverse cultural backgrounds combines with his professional expertise to give him a well-rounded approach to psychiatry. He has been a Psychiatrist with Community Psychiatry since 2010, and in 2019, became one of our Regional Medical Directors.

Rajdeep Ranade, M.D. received his medical degree from Seth GS Medical College at the University of Mumbai in India in 2001. He completed both his internship and residency in psychiatry at Loyola University Medical Center in Illinois. Dr. Ranade has broad research, teaching, and clinical experience. His three main areas of interest are adolescent psychiatry, neuropsychiatry, and geriatric psychiatry. He has been working with Community Psychiatry since 2009.

William White, MD graduated from Ohio State University College of Medicine in 1989 and became board eligible in 1993 after graduating from 4 years residency at Albany (NY) Medical Center Psychiatry Program. In the intervening years, he has served treating adults in community clinics, hospital inpatient units, government, and private practice settings on both coasts. He has a special interest in the ways that psychiatry and gastroenterology overlap and the effects of our diet, microbiome, lifestyle, and mindfulness on our mental well-being as individuals, and as members of society.

Telemedicine Appointments Available

Kelsey Salzberg, M.D. is a Board Certified Psychiatrist. She obtained her Medical Degree from Georgetown School of Medicine in Washington, DC and completed her Adult Psychiatric Residency at UC San Francisco in San Francisco, CA. She served as Chief Resident of Outpatient Services and was awarded an Area of Distinction in Women’s Mental Health during her residency. She is trained in both psychopharmacology and psychotherapy, with a special interest and additional training in the area of Women’s Mental Health, including Peri-partum issues and Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder. Her treatment approach aims to find balance between pharmacologic management along with lifestyle modifications, like diet and exercise, and psychotherapy. At this time, she is only providing medication management for patients, but enjoys close collaboration with clients’ psychotherapists. In her free time she enjoys running, outdoor activities and cooking.

Gail is a board-certified Family Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, practicing since 2016. She completed her BScN in Nursing at MacMaster University in Canada, Master of Science in Nursing at Regis University in 2008 and her Psychiatric NP and Doctor of Nursing Practice from Brandman University in California in 2016, with internships in the Sacramento area. She has been working in the mental health nursing field for the last 35 years, along with teaching mental health nursing at the undergraduate and graduate levels throughout California.

She has experience and special interest in working with underserved populations, especially older adults and transition age adolescent and young adults. Gail has a special interest in mood disorders, depression, anxiety, personality disorders and the autism spectrum in adults. She takes a holistic approach to treatment incorporating mindfulness and motivational counseling strategies, along with more traditional patient centered medication management.

Jack Perlov, M.D. is a board certified psychiatrist with over 30 years of experience as a University professor, psychotherapist and treating all ages and most conditions. He attended medical school at The University of Manitoba and went on to complete his psychiatric residency at the McMaster University Medical Center and the University of Toronto in Ontario, Canada. Dr. Perlov completed his Child and Adolescent fellowship at the University of Toronto, where he also served as a Chief Resident at the Hospital for Sick Children.
Dr. Perlov has extensive experience in outpatient psychiatric settings where he cared for patients of all ages and most diagnoses including but not limited to: Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Autism, as well as, physician and therapist “burnout”.

Dr. Perlov can be expected to practice with empathy, compassion, respect, and collaboration.

Kory Juckem, MSN, PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner seeing adult patients in La Jolla, California. She received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Grand Canyon University and her Master of Science in Nursing from the University of South Alabama. Kory has experience in working with adults with mental illness and her expertise includes the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mood, anxiety, and thought disorders. She utilizes a collaborative approach to address biological, psychological, and social factors impacting a patient’s health. Kory believes in using a holistic approach to improve your mental health and overall wellbeing.

Kristen Clayton, LCSW graduated from UMASS Amherst with a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology in 2006 and Master’s Degree in Social Work in 2009 from San Diego State University. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a member of the National Association of Social Workers.

Kristen believes everyone can find happiness, love, and balance in their lives. Her approach is compassionate, yet direct and tailored to comfort. She promotes an environment of shared learning and safe communication.

Kristen’s focus is helping children, adolescents, adults, and families achieve their highest level of functioning by offering education, strategies, and perspective to assist in personal growth. Throughout her career as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, she has had the privilege of working with a variety of clients. She offers couples work and individual therapy for mild to persistent symptoms. Kristen is experienced in relieving challenges with depression, anxiety, behavioral challenges, OCD related behaviors, ADHD and substance abuse. She works in both inpatient and outpatient mental health facilities, hospitals and schools. Her diverse background allows her to extend a unique approach. Her backpack of tools includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Family therapy. Kristen’s certification in EMDR for those struggling with trauma will occur within this year.

Erika Pizarro, M.D. is a board certified adult psychiatrist. She received her Bachelor of Science degree in Biology at the University of the Philippines and attended medical school at the University of Santo Tomas in the Philippines. Dr. Pizarro completed her general psychiatry residency in Philadelphia, PA at the Albert Einstein Medical Center. She practices a holistic approach to providing care to individuals from distinctive backgrounds. Her special interests include mood disorders, genetics, and gene testing. In her free time, she enjoys reading, running, and exploring the outdoors on her bike.

Graham Johnson, D.O. is a Board Certified adult psychiatrist who has been with Community Psychiatry since 2016. He attended medical school at Ohio University and then completed his residency in adult psychiatry at Arrowhead Regional Medical Center in San Bernardino, California. Dr. Johnson is very comfortable working with patients from a variety of diverse backgrounds and enjoys tailoring treatment plans to each individual based on their unique treatment goals. Dr. Johnson combines several disciplines to promote a holistic approach to mental health, including lifestyle management, medical health, along with up to date psychopharmacology. He is committed to partnering with his patients to both optimize their mental health and promote long-term well-being. In practice, Dr. Johnson strives to give as much clarity as possible in the complex and ever-changing field of mental health. In his free time, Dr. Johnson enjoys running, violin, cooking, reading, board and card games, guitar, and hiking the beautiful California outdoors with his wife.

Telemedicine Appointments Available

Wai Meng Soo, M.D. is a board certified adult psychiatrist. Having lived in the Philippines, Malaysia, and Francophone Canada, prior to settling in the United States, he is familiar with various cultures and attuned to the immigrant experience. He obtained his medical degree from McGill University, in Montreal (a highly eclectic, multicultural, and multilingual city) and went on to pursue a residency at the Hennepin County Medical Center in Minneapolis, MN. During his training, he saw patients from all walks of life, including the indigent and homeless, recent refugees, working-class individuals, university students, and those with professional backgrounds. This experience imparted to him a deep sense of “sonder” – the appreciation that everyone has a story to tell and that understanding of this story is key to successful treatment. His interest in individuals’ personal narratives was reinforced by his training in psychodynamic therapy at the Hamm Clinic in St Paul. Following residency, he worked for 7 years at the VA Medical Center in Minneapolis and gained much experience managing mood disorders, anxiety, substance abuse, and PTSD. His work with veterans has left him with a deep and abiding respect for the sacrifices that they continue to make post-deployment.

Telemedicine Appointments Available

Anoopinder Singh, M.D., F.A.P.A. is a board certified psychiatrist. He practices psychiatry with a holistic health approach. He attended SGRD Institute of Medical Sciences in India for his medical education. He completed Psychiatry residency training at the Hofstra North Shore – LIJ School of Medicine in New York, where he also completed a fellowship training in Psychosomatic Medicine with a focus on patients with co-morbid medical disorders. Dr. Singh received additional training in Disaster and Trauma psychiatry at the State University of New York, New Paltz, as well specialized training in treating college track patients, Early episode mood and psychotic disorder, HIV Psychiatry, Obsessive-compulsive disorder and ADHD in adults. His research includes analyzing the evidence for the efficacy of complementary and alternative medicine. He has worked with Disaster psychiatry outreach, Medical Reserve Corps, Foreign and local governments, providing psychological first aid services in the aftermath of disasters in the United States and India. Dr. Singh sees patients over the age of 18. During time away from work, Dr. Singh enjoys spending time with his family and friends, hiking, running, nature walks, photography, restaurants, and cooking.

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Adria Carney, M.D., is a board certified psychiatrist who has subspecialty training in both Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Forensic Psychiatry. Dr. Carney graduated summa cum laude from University of Nevada, Las Vegas, with a Bachelor of Science in Cellular and Molecular Biology. There, she received the titles of Nevada Regents Award Undergraduate of the Year and Biology Department Lab Instructor of the Year. Dr. Carney earned her medical doctorate from the University of Nevada School of Medicine during which she served as President for organizations such as the American Medical Student Association and the American Medical Woman’s Association.

Dr. Carney completed her residency in Psychiatry at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences where she served as Chief Resident and received the title of Outstanding Graduating Resident Award. While pursuing fellowships in both Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Forensic Psychiatry, Dr. Carney served on the Medical Ethics Advisory Committee and founded a Telepsychiatry Clinic. Dr. Carney enjoys being active in her community and specializes in community mental health services.

Telemedicine Appointments Available

Daria Pasca, M.D. is board certified in both Adult Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology as well as the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Dr. Pasca received her Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree from “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy in Cluj-Napoca, Romania. She completed her Adult Psychiatry residency at Caritas St. Elizabeth’s Medical Center, a Tufts University affiliated program in Boston, Massachusetts. She continued with a Child and Adolescent Psychiatry fellowship, which she completed at the New York Presbyterian Hospital, a joint program between Cornell University and Columbia University in New York City.

Her professional interests include, but are not limited to, the areas of autism, anxiety disorder, mood disorder and ADHD. Dr. Pasca provides comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and evidence-based psychopharmacological treatment to young children, adolescents, and adults. Guided by genuine compassion, Dr. Pasca is committed to helping her patients understand their conditions and available treatment options. Dr. Pasca encourages her patients to share their values and express their concerns, supporting them in receiving the best care for their unique needs.

Telemedicine Appointments Available

Anita Garloff, MSN, PMHNP is an Adult Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She received her B.S. in Nursing at Jacksonville University and went on to complete her Master of Science in Nursing at the University of California, San Francisco. Anita has experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings, as well as telepsychiatry experience. She has been working in the mental health nursing field for over 15 years, including teaching mental health nursing at the undergraduate level in the Central Valley area. Her areas of interest include mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and the transgender population. She is an expert in the evaluation and diagnosis of behavioral health conditions and psychopharmacological treatment methods with consideration of all areas of a patient’s medical history.

Julian Lagoy, M.D. is a board eligible psychiatrist. He received his bachelor degree in philosophy from the University of Notre Dame and his medical degree from St. George’s University. Dr. Lagoy completed his psychiatry residency at Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine.

Dr. Lagoy has published in multiple medical journals and has presented his research at the American Psychiatric Association National Meeting and the World Psychiatric Association International Congress in Spirituality and Psychiatry. His research focuses on post suicide attempt survival and provider attitudes toward LGBTQ patients. During residency, Dr. Lagoy served on the hospital ethics committee and was the recipient of the humanism in psychiatry award. He was also awarded by an international NGO for his volunteer service work and compassion in patient care. Dr. Lagoy has a passion for service and has participated in medical missions and service trips all over the world. He uses this same passion to serve all his patients.

Dr. Lagoy speaks English and Spanish. He is an avid traveler and has visited over 30 countries. He is also a big sports fan and plays and follows soccer, football and basketball.

Dr. Peter Afsari completed Osteopathic Medical School in 2006 at Touro University in Vallejo, CA and, subsequently, completed an adult psychiatry residency and child/adolescent psychiatry fellowship at the University of Arizona, in Tucson, AZ. Most recently, he has spent several years working for the state of Arizona in a variety of community mental health settings.

He enjoys working with adults, children and families and aims to balance medication management with a psychotherapeutic approach when treating his patients. One area of professional interest is the physical and mental impacts of trauma throughout the lifespan.

Dr. Afsari is excited to be moving back to California with his wife and 2 young children. When not working, he enjoys spending time with his family, playing the piano, traveling and is an avid basketball fan.

Welby Nielsen D.O. sees people of all ages as part of his with Community Psychiatry.He focuses on wellness promotion and improving the quality life for each person he helps.At some point in the course of treatment there will likely be a discussion on the ways nutrition, exercise, and sleep can help promote wellness and happiness.He also utilizes telemedicine in many of his patients to improve access to care.Many of the people he treats are on medications, but some are not.He is also very cautious with prescribing controlled medications and requires all adults to obtain objective computerized testing to receive stimulant medications; such as Adderall or Ritalin. He also views benzodiazepines; such as Ativan and Xanax, as temporary treatments or something taken infrequently and instead emphasizes other ways of improving sleep and anxiety.He enjoys hiking, gardening, time at the ocean and is always working on attaining good balance for himself in his life.

Dr. Thom is a general psychiatrist who has a holistic and humanistic perspective in working with adolescents and adults. He completed undergraduate education at Stanford University and medical school training at Tufts University in Boston. His psychiatric internship and residency were at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, where he was chief resident. Dr. Thom practiced in the Seattle area before coming with his wife and children to San Luis Obispo in 2016.He is Board Certified in Psychiatry and has a broad range of experience in helping people manage depression, anxiety, bipolar illness, psychosis and attention deficit disorders.He enjoys partnering with his patients and sharing decision-making about their treatment, and helping people feel empowered as they reach towards their life’s goals.His outside interests include running, hiking, appreciating music and nature, learning, spending time with family, and enjoying life on the Central Coast.