Find a psychiatrist in
Charlotte, NC

Dr. Krista Alexander is a board-certified psychiatrist who loves equipping her fellow human beings to feel and function better. She studied medicine at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical School and completed her residency at Duke University. She has worked in both private practice and integrated primary care/behavioral health care settings. She is a member of the American Psychiatric Association and the North Carolina Psychiatric Association. Krista offers medication management and supportive psychotherapy for mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma, ADHD, substance use disorders, and other mental health issues. She strives to embody "relational prescribing” and believes that med management is most effective in the context of a relationship of mutual trust, emotional safety, and shared decision-making between provider and patient. She has trained in psychodynamic psychotherapy and various forms of cognitive behavioral therapy, and tailors her approach to each patient's individual strengths and needs. Krista understands that the needs of the whole person must be addressed in order to facilitate growth and healing. She enjoys collaborating with fellow medical/mental health providers to address a patient's complex needs as an integrated team.

Dr. Lauren Broderick is a Harvard trained, board certified psychiatrist. She completed her medical degree at Weill Cornell Medical College of Cornell University. She then completed her adult psychiatry residency training at Massachusetts General Hospital and McLean Hospital, both teaching hospitals at Harvard Medical School. Dr. Broderick has held clinical appointments at Harvard Medical School and Duke University Medical School. At both institutions, she has been recognized for clinical excellence, receiving awards for outstanding patient care and clinical teaching. Dr. Broderick's practice uses a collaborative, evidence-based approach to understand and treat a person's psychiatric symptoms. Her sessions are usually 30 minutes. In addition to focusing on medication management, Dr. Broderick's practice also prioritizes a whole person approach, incorporating aspects of nutrition, lifestyle, mindfulness, and supportive or brief cognitive behavioral therapy into the treatment plan. Occasionally, Dr. Broderick may believe that additional therapy is also needed and ask that you see a separate therapist to provide the best outcome. She has clinical expertise in the treatment of anxiety disorders and mood disorders, specifically focusing on the clinical treatment of young adults going through early life transitions. Dr. Broderick strongly believes in providing high quality, equitable care and empowers her patients to be active players in their treatment plans to facilitate the best care possible.

Dr. Clark is a board-certified adult psychiatrist. She is fellowship-trained in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and has been in practice for 11 years. She received her medical degree from the Medical University of South Carolina. Dr. Clark then completed her residency training and continued her training in child and adolescent fellowship at the Medical College of Georgia. Dr. Clark works with patients to create an environment where they feel comfortable and supported. She focuses on medication management along with supportive therapy. Normally visits are 30-minute follow-ups that allow time to focus on areas of support needed. If additional therapy is recommended, she will request a therapist be added to your care team to meet all your needs. Dr. Clark has worked in both inpatient and outpatient settings with adult, child, and adolescent populations. She has worked in private practice as well as community mental health, where she worked with reaching under-served communities. Dr Clark has a passion for treating both adult and child and adolescent patients with anxiety and depression.

Dr. Natalie Cummings is a board-certified adult psychiatrist, and board-eligible geriatric psychiatrist. She obtained her medical degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and completed her residency training in psychiatry at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine and Jackson Memorial Hospital. She then went on to complete her geriatric psychiatry fellowship at Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Beth Israel. During her fellowship, Dr. Cummings participated in Mount Sinai's Visiting Doctors Program, providing patient-centered and compassionate care to homebound elder adults in New York City. She also received training at Coler Rehabilitation and Nursing Care Center on Roosevelt Island during her fellowship, and presented at the American Association for Geriatric Psychiatry annual meeting. During her training, Dr. Cummings gained extensive experience providing psychiatric care to various patient populations in multiple patient care settings, including in the outpatient clinic, inpatient unit, and emergency department. Following her training, Dr. Cummings worked at New York Presbyterian's Gracie Square Hospital, serving first in the position of float psychiatrist, providing care to patients on every inpatient psychiatric unit (including the young adult/college student program, Orthodox Jewish program, psychotic disorders program, crisis-stabilization program, dual focus program, and Asian Psychiatry program), before transitioning to an established psychiatric attending for the older adult program. During her time at Gracie Square Hospital, Dr. Cummings received the Physician of the Year Award, and served as a Clinical Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at Weill Cornell Medicine. She worked closely alongside staff psychologist, social workers and nurses to provide multidisciplinary, collaborative care to patients suffering from a variety of mental health conditions. Dr. Cummings primarily focuses on medication management and supportive psychotherapy, but has extensive training in utilizing various therapy modalities, including cognitive behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy, reminiscence therapy, and psychodynamic psychotherapy. When appropriate, Dr. Cummings will refer for more extensive psychotherapy and/or collaborate with your established psychotherapist for comprehensive care. Dr. Cummings strongly believes that addressing psychosocial and interpersonal factors (including relationship health, economic stressors, social isolation and loneliness) is as essential as pharmacologic management in treating mental health conditions. She has particular experience and interest in treating older adults and those suffering from memory disorders, but provides treatment for a variety of psychiatric conditions including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorders, trauma-related disorders and substance use disorders. Dr. Cummings is a member of the American Psychiatric Association and American Association for Geriatric Psychiatry.

Dr. Diane Edgar completed her psychiatry residency at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School in Piscataway, NJ. She received her bachelor's degree in Chemistry at Florida International University in Miami, FL, and stayed to complete medical school at their Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine. As a South Florida native, she is fluent in English and Spanish and has experience in treating individuals from a variety of cultural backgrounds. Dr. Edgar provides psychiatric care to adults ages 18 and older and is trained in the treatment of several psychiatric conditions including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD, OCD and substance use disorders. She believes in a patient-centered approach and working collaboratively with individuals to create a holistic treatment plan that is in alignment with their values and preferences. Treatment will include a combination of medication management, psychoeducation and therapy. She will provide supportive therapy and utilize elements of cognitive behavioral therapy and psychodynamic therapy when applicable. She may offer therapy rooted in mindfulness and the mind-body connection, stemming from her personal yoga practice. Treatment might also involve guidance in implementing life-style changes such as exercise, nutrition, and sleep hygiene. Dr. Edgar is passionate about providing a safe space where individuals can work towards healing and increasing their overall wellness while finding fulfillment in their lives.

Background and credentials

Dr. Joyln Ferrell is a board-certified psychiatrist with specialized training in treating depression and anxiety disorders. She earned her medical degree from Howard University College of Medicine and also holds a doctorate in pharmacy from the University of Georgia. She completed her residency training in psychiatry at VA Boston/Harvard Medical School and gained significant clinical experience at McLean Hospital. Additionally, she completed a fellowship in psychoanalytic psychotherapy at Columbia University Center for Psychoanalytic Training and Research.

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Treatment approach

Dr. Ferrell focuses on providing patient-centered care, emphasizing improving quality of life and helping patients reach their specific treatment goals. Her approach integrates medication management with supportive therapy. She believes in a collaborative treatment process and may recommend additional therapy support when necessary to optimize outcomes. She takes a cautious and limited approach to the use of controlled medications, ensuring responsible medication management.

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What you can expect in a first visit

During the first visit, patients can expect a comprehensive assessment of their symptoms, medical history, and treatment goals. Dr. Ferrell takes a thoughtful and individualized approach to care, working with patients to develop a treatment plan that incorporates medication management and supportive therapy. Follow-up visits typically last 20-30 minutes and focus on monitoring progress and adjusting treatment as needed. In some cases, she may recommend involving an additional therapist to further enhance the effectiveness of the treatment plan.

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Why Talkiatry?

We’re a virtual mental health practice that makes it easy to find great care. We combine quality and convenience to help you thrive—faster. Our providers, like this one, are highly trained experts who specialize in medication management and collaborate with you on a treatment plan that fits your needs and comfort level.

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Dr. Anthony Finch is a graduate of the New York-Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical Center General Psychiatry residency and the Duke University Geriatric Psychiatry fellowship programs; he is board certified in Psychiatry by the ABPN. Dr. Finch was born and raised in New York and now lives in North Carolina. Dr. Finch specializes both in psychiatric medication management and various forms of psychotherapy. He believes that effective psychiatric treatment requires attention to multiple domains, including the establishment of a strong doctor/patient relationship, the development of a sound understanding of who the patient is as an individual, and a comprehensive assessment of spiritual and biological factors contributing to mental health. As such, Dr. Finch's practice includes both pharmacological and psychotherapeutic interventions that aim to treat the whole person on an individualized basis. He sees patients of all ages, specializing in older adults, and treats all psychiatric conditions. Dr. Finch received the 2023 Distinguished House Staff Award from the New York Weill Cornell Medical Center Alumni Council; this is awarded to one graduating house staff member from each department annually for excellence during training. He has conducted research on depression and PTSD, published a number of papers in peer-reviewed journals, presented posters at conferences, and written a chapter for a book on medical education. He practices in both English and German.

Dr. Kimberly Ford completed her psychiatry residency training at Harvard University in Boston, Massachusetts. She has enjoyed treating patients for over 25 years in a variety of settings such as inpatient, outpatient mental health clinics, emergency room, and multidisciplinary clinics. She is talented in her ability to connect, understand, and empathize with her patients.‍She has expertise in treating patients with mood disorders, anxiety, PTSD, and incorporates psychopharmacology when needed, psychodynamic and supportive psychotherapy. She wholeheartedly believes that treating her patients holistically is of high importance, with a focus on their physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being.

Dr. Megan Freeman is board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in Adult Psychiatry. She completed her residency training at Vidant Medical Center at East Carolina University in Greenville, North Carolina in 2021 where she was the chief resident. Since then, she has worked as an attending physician at an inpatient adult psychiatric unit in Burlington, North Carolina. As a resident and attending she has treated adults of all ages and in all areas of mental health. Dr. Freeman's talkiatry practice will mostly focus on medication management in conjunction with support or acceptance-based therapy during 30-minute follow-up visits. During this time, Dr. Freeman hopes to collaborate with her patients to help set treatment goals and ways to track progress in between appointments. Dr. Freeman is board certified in adult psychiatry. She enjoys seeing patients with a wide variety of diagnoses including, but not limited to, major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and generalized anxiety disorder. She enjoys combining medication management with various therapy techniques.‍

Dr. Jessica Grimes is a board-eligible child and adolescent and adult psychiatrist. She is originally from Sylva, NC. She earned a bachelor's degree in religion and minored in biology at The University of the South in Sewanee, TN. She graduated cum laude and was inducted into the order of the gownsmen, an honor society. She earned her doctorate from the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine in Lewisburg, WV. Dr. Grimes completed a traditional rotating internship through WVSOM at Our Lady of Bellefonte Hospital in Ashland, KY and completed residency training in psychiatry at Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine in Erie, Pennsylvania. While in residency, she earned a master's degree in medical education from LECOM. She completed a fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry at the University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Greenville. During her second year of fellowship at USC-Greenville, she received the "Child & Adolescent Psychiatry Fellow of the Year� award.

Dr. Meghan Fahy Hebishi is double-board certified in General Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry.    Originally from Delaware, Dr. Hebishi earned her medical degree from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2017. She also obtained a Master of Science in Biological Sciences from Drexel University and a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Juniata College. In 2017, Dr. Hebishi moved south and is happy to call North Carolina her home. She completed her internship at Campbell University/Harnett Health in 2018. She went on to complete a General Psychiatry Residency followed by a Fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at East Carolina University Brody School of Medicine.  She began her career at  North Raleigh Psychiatry in Raleigh NC, practicing there for 2 years before deciding to join Talkiatry in early 2025.

Dr. Hebishi is experienced in treating children, adolescents and adults. She utilizes medication management and psychotherapy in her clinical practice. Her areas of interest include ADHD across the lifespan, anxiety disorders, mood disorders (depression and bipolar disorder) and OCD. She is dedicated to building a collaborative relationship with patients and their families where shared-decision making is respected and encouraged. She is passionate about providing continuity of care to her patients as they navigate life's changes and challenges.

Dr. Ismail is double board-certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in both Adult Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. She earned her medical degree from Cairo University, where she also completed her neurology residency at Cairo University Hospitals. Following this, she pursued psychiatric training at New York Medical College at St. Vincent’s Hospitals, where she was appointed Chief Resident and recognized as Resident of the Year.

Dr. Ismail further specialized with a fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at UMDNJ/Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School. Her career includes multiple leadership roles, notably serving as Chief of the Child and Adolescent Partial Hospital Programs (PHP) at Rutgers University in Newark, NJ, where she provided direct care to young patients. She has also held Medical Director positions across various clinical settings, including child and adolescent inpatient units, outpatient programs, and intensive outpatient services for both adolescents and adults with mental health and co-occurring substance use disorders.

An active educator, Dr. Ismail has been a teaching faculty member, delivering lectures and providing supervision and evaluations for medical residents and child and adolescent psychiatry fellows. Her academic contributions extend to research, where she has served as a principal investigator on multiple studies.

Throughout her career in leadership and teaching, Dr. Ismail maintained an integrative private practice in New Jersey, serving residents of the NJ and NY metropolitan areas before relocating to North Carolina.

Dr. Ismail is passionate about integrative medicine, which combines evidence-based alternative therapies with conventional treatments to optimize outcomes. Her approach focuses on promoting overall wellness, keeping both the body and mind in harmony.

During the diagnostic evaluation, Dr. Ismail will review your medical history and past treatments to develop a comprehensive, personalized treatment plan that prioritizes your overall wellness. In addition to medication management, she incorporates supportive, cognitive, or psychodynamic psychotherapy during follow-up visits, as time allows. When appropriate, she may also recommend referrals to specialized psychotherapists to address your individual needs as part of a holistic treatment approach.

Dr. Michele Kerbow is a board certified psychiatrist with more than 20 years of clinical experience. She completed her undergraduate training at Clemson University before continuing to the University of South Carolina School of Medicine in Columbia, SC. From there, she completed her General Psychiatry Internship and General Adult Psychiatry Residency through the University of Virginia in Roanoke. Though she has a wide array of experience in psychiatric care and psychological assessment, Dr. Kerbow has a particular interest in the treatment of Veterans' issues and trauma. Her most recent work saw her caring for both Veterans and Active Duty military through the Fayetteville VA Medical Center in Jacksonville, NC and the Naval Hospital Jacksonville in Florida. She believes strongly in the interconnectivity of mental and physical health, especially as it relates to trauma. Patients seeking psychiatric assistance will find Dr. Kerbow to be an empathetic and approachable provider. She places an emphasis on the importance of both therapy and medication management in the treatment of mental health, and has a strong history of collaboration with therapists and counselors in order to enact the best treatment plan possible.

Dr. Michael Kim, DO, is an accomplished attending psychiatrist dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health care. He earned his medical degree from Liberty University College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed his residency at HCA's The Medical Center of Aurora North. With a diverse clinical background, Dr. Kim has honed his expertise across various settings including inpatient, outpatient, PHP/IOP, and specialized areas such as geriatrics, eating disorders, addiction, and child and adolescent psychiatry. Dr. Kim is proficient in innovative treatments like Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). He is passionate about employing supportive and psychodynamic therapy approaches, tailoring treatment plans to meet each patient's unique needs. Embracing a holistic approach to psychiatry, Dr. Kim integrates medication management with a focus on nutrition, diet, and lifestyle factors to foster overall well-being. Dr. Kim is committed to delivering high-quality, personalized care to his patients. Outside of his professional commitments, he is an advocate for personal health and wellness. He enjoys enhancing his fitness and nutrition, engaging with enlightening podcasts, and exploring the great outdoors. Dr. Kim's holistic approach to psychiatry reflects his belief in treating the whole person, ensuring optimal mental and physical health for each individual he serves.

Dr. Siera Kirkland is an adult general psychiatrist. She is a diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. She has been practicing for 8 years. Dr. Kirkland focuses on collaborative and evidence-based care. She believes it is imperative to form a therapeutic relationship with each individual and work together as a team to formulate the best treatment plan. Her passion is to educate, empower, and support. She specializes in medication management and brief psychotherapy .Dr. Kirkland received her medical degree from Ross University School of Medicine. She completed her residency at The Cleveland Clinic Akron General and Summa HealthSystem in her hometown of Akron, OH. Upon completion of residency, she relocated to Charlotte, NC to start her career as the Lead Psychiatrist at Novant Health Psychiatric Associates- Matthews. Dr. Kirkland has experience in treating various patient populations. Her areas of focus have been perinatal and postpartum depression and anxiety. She has also worked with adults with co-occurring substance use disorders. Special interests include women's health and minority mental health disparities.‍For established patients of Dr. Kirkland, call 917-634-5311 to schedule an appointment and let the care coordinator know you are an established patient.

Dr. Lee is a board-certified psychiatrist who specializes in adult psychiatry and minority mental health. He is a graduate of Morehouse College and later received his medical degree from Meharry Medical College in Nashville, TN. After graduating from Meharry, he completed his psychiatry residency at the University of South Carolina/ Palmetto Health in Columbia, SC and a forensic psychiatry fellowship at Tulane University. After completing his training, he entered private practice in Rock Hill, SC and served the community for 11+ years. During that time, he also served as Staff Psychiatrist at Winthrop University. Prior to joining Talkiatry, Dr. Lee served as an Attending Psychiatrist and Medical Director of an inpatient psychiatric unit. Throughout his professional career, he has remained passionate about educating individuals about sustaining better mental health and eradicating the stigma of mental illness. Dr. Lee brings a vast array of knowledge to Talkiatry. He has experience treating various psychiatric disorders including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and ADHD. His approach focuses on evidence-based medication management and incorporates supportive therapy techniques as well as psychoeducation to address the presenting issues in a compassionate and competent manner. If additional therapy is needed, Dr. Lee may recommend that a therapist is part of the treatment team.

Dr. Parker Loy is a board-certified Psychiatrist at Talkiatry. After finishing undergraduate studies at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, he completed the University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC) Master of Science program before enrolling in medical school at the same institution. After graduating from medical school, he completed his residency at UTHSC, during which he trained in a variety of inpatient and outpatient settings and treated a broad spectrum of mental health conditions. He enjoys treating a wide variety of conditions, including mood and anxiety disorders. Therapeutic techniques are incorporated into medication management visits when indicated, and collaboration with therapists may also be recommended.

Dr. Caitlin Meyer is a board-certified in adult psychiatry with experience in a wide variety of psychiatric disorders including depression, anxiety, women's mental health, and ADHD. Dr. Meyer's practice is focused on medication management with supportive therapy offered in 30-minute follow-up visits. Dr. Meyer received her medical degree from the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas, Texas, where she received the North Texas Society of Psychiatric Physicians' Award for outstanding medical student in Psychiatry. She pursued her residency in adult psychiatry at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island, with particular interest and training in child, adolescent, and young adult Psychiatry. After completing training, Dr. Meyer worked with children and adults in a variety of treatment settings including Community Mental Health Centers and hospitals, providing inpatient, residential and outpatient services. Prior to joining the Talkiatry team, Dr. Meyer participated in psychiatric research developing new treatment methods for complex psychiatric disorders. Dr. Meyer enjoys treating patients across the lifespan from young adulthood through senior care. She sees each patient as a unique individual and works together with her patients to develop a treatment plan specific to their needs and goals.

Dr. Morales is a board-certified psychiatrist who is dedicated to the bio-psycho-sociocultural model. This has been reflected in Dr. Morales' pursuit of treating patients suffering from diverse medical and psychiatric conditions, respective psychological mindedness, and varied socio-economic and cultural backgrounds. As an individual, Dr. Morales is fascinated by the human mind, its mechanisms to pursue goals, and the cyclical patterns seen in maladaptation and suffering. He believes in understanding patients' experiences and developing comprehensive treatment plans towards reconciliation. After completing his medical education at the East Carolina Brody School of Medicine, as a Brody Scholar, he subsequently completed psychiatry residency at Jackson Health System/University of Miami. Dr. Morales has had the opportunity to work with a diverse array of patients including high-functioning patients, veterans, trafficking victims, the severely mentally ill of low socio-economic status, and cancer patients across three distinct hospital systems via telemedicine and face-to-face interactions. His experience includes working with patients suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder, adjustment disorder, mood disorders, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and more. He honors active listening, analytic understanding, supportive psychotherapy techniques, and evidence-based and methodological treatment for patient care and actualization. His goal is to assist patients in navigating short- and long-term goals as well as improved quality of life. As a result, Dr. Morales focuses on medication management, which is offered in conjunction with supportive therapy, which is offered in 1-hour initial and 30-minute follow-up visits. Dr. Morales believes that appropriate patients can benefit from additional exploratory and self-actualizing therapy from other valued and specialized therapists to support targeted goals. He will not hesitate to recommend and promote consultations with therapists for such patients who are ready to pursue. Ultimately, Dr. Morales seeks to understand, validate, and treat patients in a collaborative therapeutic alliance.

Dr. Lauren Morris is a board-certified psychiatrist and a graduate of the Duke Psychiatry residency program. She is originally from NC - she studied Neuroscience at NCSU, and attended medical school at ECU. Dr. Morris's practice focuses on medication management, and incorporates insight-oriented therapy during visits. Dr. Morris takes a patient-centered evidenced based approach to psychiatry. Dr. Morris is joining the Talkiatry team after working as a staff psychiatrist at the Durham VA, where she also served as a consulting professor for the Duke psychiatry residency program. In her free time, Dr. Morris enjoys hiking and traveling.

Background and credentials

Dr. Jonathan Myrtil is a board-certified adult psychiatrist. He earned his medical degree from Ross University School of Medicine and completed his residency in Adult Psychiatry at the University of Central Florida, affiliated with North Florida Regional Medical Center. After completing his training, he remained at North Florida Regional as an adult psychiatrist and supervising physician, gaining experience treating patients in inpatient, outpatient, partial hospitalization, and intensive outpatient program (IOP) settings.

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Treatment approach

Dr. Myrtil takes a collaborative approach to psychiatric care, integrating medication management with supportive therapy to provide well-rounded treatment. His primary focus is on treating adults with mood and anxiety disorders, PTSD, and ADHD. He prioritizes patient involvement in treatment decisions, ensuring that care plans align with individual needs and goals.

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What you can expect in a first visit

Patients meeting Dr. Myrtil for the first time can expect a thorough evaluation where he assesses their symptoms, treatment history, and personal goals. He fosters a supportive and collaborative environment, working closely with patients to create a personalized treatment plan that incorporates medication management and therapeutic interventions tailored to their specific needs.

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Why Talkiatry?

We’re a virtual mental health practice that makes it easy to find great care. We combine quality and convenience to help you thrive—faster. Our providers, like this one, are highly trained experts who specialize in medication management and collaborate with you on a treatment plan that fits your needs and comfort level.

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Dr. Nieves-Alvarado is a board-certified psychiatrist who completed medical training at Duke University Psychiatry Program. Originally from Puerto Rico, she is fluent in both English and Spanish, which allows her to connect deeply with a diverse patient population. Her practice combines medication management with insight-oriented therapy during every visit, promoting a comprehensive approach to mental health care. She advocates for her patients to engage in therapy alongside medication management, as she believes this integrated approach leads to better outcomes and sustained improvement. Dr. Nieves-Alvarado's practice is rooted in a collaborative, team-based approach, working closely with her patients to achieve long-term mental wellness. Dr. Nieves-Alvarado earned her medical degree from the Universidad Central del Caribe School of Medicine in Bayamon, PR. Afterward, she moved to North Carolina, where she completed her residency at Duke University Hospital. During her training, she was nominated for a fellowship in psychodynamic practice by the Psychoanalytic Center of the Carolinas, showcasing her expertise in this area. She is also a dedicated advocate against childhood sexual trauma. Her diverse training includes significant experience in jail and forensic psychiatry, as well as the treatment of military veterans under the Veterans Affairs health care system. She has experience in medically assisted treatments (MAT) for substance use disorders, Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), and family therapy, enabling her to care for patients with complex needs. Dr. Nieves-Alvarado treats patients across a wide age range, from young adults to the elderly. Passionate about improving access to mental health care, she joined Talkiatry to help patients facing time or transportation challenges receive the care they need. In addition to her clinical practice, Dr. Nieves-Alvarado remains involved with her alma mater's Behavioral Health Department, contributing to academic education and maintaining a connection with the next generation of medical professionals. She continues to seek ongoing improvement in her field, remaining engaged with medical associations including North Carolina Psychiatric Association, American Psychiatric Association, and Alpha Omega Alpha national medical honor society. Dr. Nieves-Alvarado is committed to working hand-in-hand with her patients to achieve mental wellness.

Dr. Irene Pastis is a board-certified psychiatrist who specializes in adult psychiatry.  She completed residency training at East Carolina University in both internal medicine and psychiatry.  After residency, she pursued her passion in psychiatry and stayed on as a clinical assistant professor in the department of psychiatry at East Carolina University.  In this role she specialized in treating adults with mental illness in both the inpatient and outpatient settings.  She has spent a considerable amount of time teaching residents and medical students and has published several papers focusing on the neuroscience pathways of mental health conditions.  In her daily practice, Dr. Pastis focuses on evidence-based treatments utilizing the latest clinical guidelines and current approved treatments.  In addition to medication management, she also incorporates psychotherapy in the treatment of mental health conditions.  Dr. Pastis is passionate about taking a collaborative approach with her patients to help them reach their potential.

Dr. Elena Perea is a board-certified psychiatrist.  She completed her undergraduate training at Wake Forest University followed by medical school and residency training at The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC).

Dr. Perea holds an adjunct academic appointment at UNC and has been involved in medical education for her entire career.  She most recently served as Residency Program Director for the Mountain Area Health Education Center (MAHEC) psychiatry residency in Asheville, NC.  She remains involved in didactic education there for both residents and medical students.

She has a genuine interest in treating a vast array of psychiatric disorders including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, post-traumatic stress disorders and obsessive compulsive and related disorders. She is a skilled psychopharmacologist and interested in the mind-body connection. She believes physical health greatly affects mental health and vice versa and loves helping patients with medical comorbidities to feel well.

Patients looking for a psychiatrist will find that Dr. Perea has a comprehensive approach to diagnosis and management of her patients. She believes in the principle that body and mind are interconnected and utilizes psychoeducation and psychotherapeutic approaches in addition to medications for total wellness.

Dr. Pipalia is board-certified in both adult psychiatry and internal medicine. Since graduation from residency, he gained specialized experience in treating veterans with terminal illness, specifically Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (aka Lou Gehrig's Disease), at the VA Medical Center in Portland, OR. He combines both psychotherapy and medication treatment to provide holistic care that addresses not only your mental health but also the parts of your life that surround and are deeply intertwined with your mental health. When more intensive psychotherapy is warranted, he collaborates with an experienced psychotherapist to serve you better. With his experience of internal medicine, he is also comfortable with navigating complex medical issues that may interact with your mental health. Dr. Pipalia is a graduate of St. George's University School of Medicine. He completed a combined Psychiatry & Internal Medicine residency training program at East Carolina University. He went on to complete a fellowship in Clinical Informatics at Oregon Health & Science University, learning how to use modern digital technologies and patient data to improve patient care. His academic activities include a presentation he has given multiple times on Illness Identity, teaching other clinicians how having an illness can change how we perceive our place in the world and how to help patients manage their relationship with illness.

Dr. Stephanie Price is a board-certified psychiatrist. Her practice focuses on medication management and supportive therapy. She believes in a collaborative approach to treatment planning because shared decision-making helps provide the best outcome for patients. She went to college at the University of Rochester in Rochester, NY and received her degree in Microbiology. She completed her medical education at Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine in Spartanburg, SC, and completed her residency training at Creighton University School of Medicine-Valleywise Health in Phoenix, AZ. She served as vice chief resident during her residency training. She has additional post-residency experience working in the outpatient setting treating multiple conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, insomnia, OCD and psychotic disorders. Areas of interest include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and ADHD.‍

Dr. Romanow is double board-certified in Adult Psychiatry and Forensic Psychiatry. He graduated summa cum laude from the University of Pittsburgh with a Bachelor of Science degree in Sports Medicine/Athletic Training and then attended Drexel University College of Medicine. After medical school, he completed his residency in Adult Psychiatry at the University of Virginia, where he obtained a certificate in additional psychotherapy training. After residency, Dr. Romanow completed a fellowship in Forensic Psychiatry at the University of Virginia. During his fellowship, he trained at the prestigious Institute of Law, Psychiatry, and Public Policy (ILPPP) and Western State Psychiatric Hospital where he performed criminal and civil forensic evaluations. He also provided clinical care at a maximum security prison. Prior to joining Talkiatry, Dr. Romanow worked at a healthcare system in Montana providing inpatient and outpatient psychiatric care involving medication management and psychotherapy. Additionally, he operates a private forensic psychiatry practice that conducts mental health evaluations for the legal system. Dr. Romanow has extensive experience treating various mental health disorders including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, and ADHD. His clinical work includes assisting patients who experience mental health disorders with co-occurring substance use problems. He has training in various schools of psychotherapy including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), CBT for insomnia, motivational interviewing and supportive psychotherapy. Dr. Romanow incorporates treatment focusing on the importance of exercise, diet, and good sleep habits as a part of comprehensive mental health care.‍

Dr. Luna Sanchez Rivera holds the position of Staff Psychiatrist at Talkiatry. After completing residency in 2016 at the Ponce Medical School Psychiatry Residency in Puerto Rico, she then moved to North Carolina to complete a subspecialty in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at Duke University Health System. There, she transitioned into an assistant professor position, focused on structuring pediatric emergency psychiatric services, and helped support the consult and liaison pediatric service. Her years of experience have included working as an integrated care child psychiatrist within outpatient clinics at Duke University Health System, and she trained and worked as a staff psychiatrist at the Inpatient State Facility in North Carolina. She also served in the Dayton Children's Hospital outpatient clinics in Dayton, Ohio, the Appalachian Health System outpatient clinics in Linville, North Carolina, and more recently has been serving the Child and Adolescent inpatient population in Bangor, Maine. Dr. Sanchez Rivera has an approachable style aimed at providing a comprehensive evaluation for all age ranges and is comfortable managing various levels of diagnostic complexities. She provides supportive psychotherapy while using psychodynamic therapy skills to clarify her patient's constellation of symptoms, identify unifying themes and provide thorough psychoeducation throughout the process to drive positive outcomes. She integrates psychodynamic medication management approaches and is adept at family therapy interventions.

Background and credentials

Dr. Schaefer is a board-certified adult psychiatrist with over 16 years of experience. She earned her medical degree from the University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha, NE, and completed her adult psychiatry residency at Oregon Health and Science University in Portland, OR. She then specialized further by completing a forensic psychiatry fellowship at Yale University. She has worked as a staff psychiatrist at Atrium Health System for over 16 years.

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Treatment approach

Dr. Schaefer’s practice primarily focuses on medication management, which she offers in conjunction with supportive therapy and elements of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). She takes a patient-centered and collaborative approach, ensuring that treatment is tailored to each individual’s needs. If additional therapy is required, she may recommend working with a therapist as part of a comprehensive care plan. Her primary focus areas include depression, anxiety disorders, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).

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What you can expect in a first visit

During the first visit, patients can expect a thorough psychiatric evaluation, where Dr. Schaefer carefully assesses their symptoms, treatment history, and mental health goals. She works collaboratively with patients to develop a personalized treatment plan, which may include medication management and therapy recommendations. Follow-up visits are typically 30 minutes and focus on monitoring progress, adjusting treatment as needed, and ensuring the best possible patient outcomes.

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Why Talkiatry?

We’re a virtual mental health practice that makes it easy to find great care. We combine quality and convenience to help you thrive—faster. Our providers, like this one, are highly trained experts who specialize in medication management and collaborate with you on a treatment plan that fits your needs and comfort level.

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Background and credentials

Dr. Seicarescu is a board-certified adult psychiatrist with over 12 years of experience. She received her medical degree from Carol Davila University of Medicine in Romania and completed her psychiatry residency at Wayne State University in Detroit. Following residency, she gained extensive clinical experience practicing psychiatry in diverse outpatient settings, including a multi-specialty center in North Dakota and community mental health centers in Ohio and Michigan. Dr. Seicarescu has also served as an assistant professor at the University of North Dakota and Michigan State University, where she taught and supervised medical students and residents.</p>

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Treatment approach

Dr. Seicarescu employs a collaborative, supportive, and patient-centered approach to psychiatric care, integrating medication management with therapy tailored specifically to each patient. She utilizes supportive therapy along with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), adjusted according to individual patient needs. Her specialty areas include the treatment of depression, bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders, PTSD, and a broad range of mental health conditions.</p>

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What you can expect in a first visit

Patients can expect an initial appointment with Dr. Seicarescu to include a thorough evaluation focusing on their unique psychiatric symptoms, personal experiences, and treatment goals. She offers a supportive and compassionate atmosphere, carefully combining medication management with individualized therapy recommendations. Her patient-centered approach ensures the creation of a personalized treatment plan to effectively address each patient’s specific needs.</p>

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Why Talkiatry?

We’re a virtual mental health practice that makes it easy to find great care. We combine quality and convenience to help you thrive—faster. Our providers, like this one, are highly trained experts who specialize in medication management and collaborate with you on a treatment plan that fits your needs and comfort level.</p>

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Dr. Shari Sengupta attended the University of OK as a National Merit Scholar and went on to graduate with her MD from Eastern Virginia Medical School. She specialized in Adult Psychiatry at the University of NC Hospitals where she was a chief resident. She received psychotherapy training in insight-oriented and cognitive-behavioral approaches and trained at the Psychoanalytic Institute of the Carolinas. She has 18 years of experience providing medication management and psychotherapy in both private practice and community mental health settings and over 10 years of experience in telepsychiatry providing care to underserved communities. Dr. Sengupta has experience treating a variety of mental health concerns but has a particular interest in depression, anxiety, and mental health in the perinatal period. Her practice focuses on medication management from a holistic perspective. She believes that mental health is the cornerstone of overall well-being and that treatment is a collaborative journey toward improved health and function in life, work, and relationships. She offers culturally sensitive treatment to people from all backgrounds and sexual orientations. As a staff psychiatrist at Talkiatry, her treatment approach focuses on medication management informed by a background in psychotherapy.‍

Elizabeth Shaffer, MD, is an accomplished psychiatrist specializing in child and adolescent psychiatry. She earned her M.D. degree from St. George's University School of Medicine and holds a Bachelor of Science in Child Development from Appalachian State University where she graduated summa cum laude. Dr. Shaffer's passion for working with children and families developed during her involvement in a pre-K Head Start Program in Rural North Carolina. She completed her General Psychiatry Residency and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at Jerry M. Wallace School of Osteopathic Medicine at Campbell University. Dr. Shaffer obtained ABPN Board Certification in General Psychiatry in 2023 and is working towards Board Certification in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. Dr. Shaffer has received honors and awards for her contributions to psychiatry, including the Laughlin fellowship through The American College of Psychiatrists and Resident of the Year at Cape Fear Valley Health System in 2022.Her areas of interest focus on neurodevelopmental disorders such as ADHD, Autism, and Intellectual Delay. Dr. Shaffer is affiliated with professional organizations like AACAP and APA, demonstrating her commitment to professional development. Dr. Shaffer is dedicated to promoting mental health awareness and family and patient psychoeducation. Dr. Shaffer emphasizes a joint decision-making approach to treatment options and utilizes local resources to provide wrap-around support. Dr. Shaffer is a respected psychiatrist known for her excellence, compassion, and innovative approach to mental health care. Her extensive education, accolades, research contributions, professional affiliations, and community involvement reflect her commitment to making a positive impact in her patients' lives and the broader community.

Dr. Cedric Skillon is a board-certified adult psychiatrist with over 20 years of experience. Dr. Skillon’s clinical expertise includes treating adults with depressive disorders, bipolar disorders, anxiety disorders, substance -related and addictive disorders, and trauma related disorders. Dr. Skillon has worked in a variety of mental health care settings including academia, community mental health centers, and a substance use treatment center.

Dr. Skillon grew up in Detroit, Michigan. He obtained his Bachelor of Science from the University of Michigan. He received his medical degree from Wayne State University. He completed a General Psychiatry Residency at University Health Center of Pittsburgh, Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic

Dr. Skillon combines a wealth of knowledge and experience with a compassion for meeting the patient “where they are” in their healing process. He believes in allowing the patient to feel heard in every session. He fully explains the risk and benefits of each treatment option. Then in collaboration, he and his patient agree on the next step to take towards the patient’s treatment goals.

Dr. Skillon is dedicated to providing hope and healing in a trusting environment. He combines empathy with a patient centered, and evidence-based approach in helping patients reach their treatment goals.

Dr. Caitlin Tillberg (she/her) is a board-certified psychiatrist. She has a BA in musicology and cognitive science from Oberlin College, an MD from Quinnipiac University in Connecticut, and completed general adult psychiatry residency at Duke University. Dr. Tillberg practices patient-centered and trauma-informed care, valuing patient autonomy and collaborative decision-making, acknowledging the burden many people carry from intersecting oppressions. She believes therapy is important � often equally important as medication, or more � and will work together with you to make a realistic treatment plan that will fit into your life. Dr. Tillberg also has a niche working with people with complicated relationships with their bodies, whether due to disordered eating, gender dysphoria, chronic illness/disability, or trauma. She welcomes LGBTQ+ patients, including trans and non-binary adults. She also enjoys working with patients with OCD, as well as autistic/neurodivergent adults (including those seeking adult autism evaluation). Please note Talkiatry is most appropriate for autistic patients with Level 1 (or case-by-case Level 2) support needs and who are verbal. Regarding eating disorders: Please note that for patient safety, per Talkiatry policy, Dr. Tillberg is unable to work with patients with current active anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa (or significant relapse in the last 6 months), or with patients requiring current regular medical or lab monitoring for complications of binge-eating disorder or ARFID. Bariatric surgery patients are welcome if medically stable. Patients with current disordered eating that does not rise to the level of a formal diagnosis of anorexia or bulimia, or with a past history of anorexia or bulimia in sustained remission, will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis at the first appointment. Dr. Tillberg looks forward to meeting you.

Dr. Justin Uzl is double board-certified in adult and consultation liaison psychiatry. His fellowship training helped him gain greater insight into the interface between medicine and mental healthcare. He has been practicing for seven years and has worked closely with individuals with co-occurring chronic medical issues, specifically organ transplantation. Dr. Uzl takes a holistic approach to mental healthcare combining medication management, psychotherapy, and lifestyle modifications to help his patients achieve a quality of life that allows them to pursue their goals. He sees the position of the psychiatrist as helping to educate and guide patients, allowing them to take an active role in their own recovery. Dr. Uzl believes diversity is a strength and embraces providing high quality services that affirm the dignity, worth and value of all individuals including the LGBTQ+ community. Dr. Uzl takes an evidence-based approach in his treatment of individuals suffering with depression, anxiety, trauma, difficulty focusing and concentrating, sleep issues, and interpersonal problems. He utilizes insight-oriented care, believing that gaining understanding of a person's feelings, thoughts, and actions will provide them the knowledge needed to make the positive change they desire. Therapy may be a key part of a person's treatment, and if greater frequency is needed outside of sessions with Dr. Uzl, he will refer and collaborate with a psychotherapist to help maximize a patient's success.

Background and credentials  

Dr. Webb is board-certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and  Neurology. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences from the  University of Miami in Coral Gables, Florida, and obtained her medical degree  in Osteopathic Medicine from the West Virginia School of Osteopathic  Medicine. Dr. Webb completed her psychiatry residency training at Palm Beach  Consortium for Graduate Medical Education in Tamarac, Florida. After her  training, she served as an attending psychiatrist with the Department of  Veterans Affairs in Miami, Florida, and as an attending psychiatrist and  mentor for psychiatry residents in training at the University of Miami,  Florida International University, and University Hospital and Medical Center  in Tamarac.  

Treatment approach    

Dr. Webb believes in building strong therapeutic relationships with her  patients, integrating conservative psychological treatments and lifestyle  modifications to enhance overall well-being and quality of life. She  primarily provides medication management combined with supportive or  emotionally focused therapy. Dr. Webb emphasizes creating individualized care  plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs. While medication and  supportive therapy are central to her approach, she occasionally recommends  involving an additional therapist to optimize treatment outcomes. Dr. Webb  specializes in managing a broad range of psychiatric conditions, including  depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, postpartum depression, OCD, and  PTSD.  

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What you can expect in a first visit  

Patients meeting Dr. Webb for the first time can expect a thoughtful and  comprehensive assessment focused on building rapport and understanding their  personal and clinical needs. Dr. Webb emphasizes creating a strong  therapeutic relationship, developing an individualized care plan designed  specifically to address each patient's symptoms and lifestyle. Follow-up  appointments typically last around 30 minutes, during which medication  management and supportive therapy are provided. Depending on patient needs,  Dr. Webb might suggest incorporating additional therapeutic support to  achieve the best possible results.    

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Why Talkiatry?    

We’re a virtual mental health practice that makes it easy to find great  care. We combine quality and convenience to help you thrive—faster. Our  providers, like this one, are highly trained experts who specialize in  medication management and collaborate with you on a treatment plan that fits  your needs and comfort level.