Ian Thistlethwaite, MD

Denise White, PMHNP, has worked in the mental health field for over 30 years following the completion of her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Suffolk University in Boston. She began her career as a mental health technician in a geriatric residential program and later pursued additional education in nursing, earning an Associate Degree in Nursing from Quincy College, a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing from South University, and a Master’s in Nursing from Eastern Kentucky University. Over the years, she has held diverse roles in adult and children’s case management, residential and intensive outpatient programs, inpatient psychiatric care, and crisis stabilization. Denise has provided care in both inpatient and outpatient settings as well as through hospital consult services across the country.

Denise prides herself on her ability to empathize with her patients and meet them exactly where they are in their journey. She believes that trust is the foundation of the therapeutic relationship and works diligently to create a supportive, nonjudgmental environment where patients feel safe, heard, and respected.

In the initial evaluation, Denise focuses on gathering comprehensive information to form a complete understanding of each patient’s unique background and needs. From there, she develops an individualized treatment plan that aligns with the patient’s prioritized goals. Each session begins from that foundation, allowing her to support patients at their own pace as trust deepens and progress unfolds.

Dr. Buonopane is Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. She obtained her medical degree with Laude from the University of Rome, La Sapienza, and completed her residency in Psychiatry from Yale School of Medicine. Dr. Buonopane has extensive experience in psychopharmacology and offers state-of-the-art medication management with compassion and empathy. She practices a holistic approach, combining psychiatric medications with elements of psychotherapy and mindfulness. She offers individualized and comprehensive treatment plans which address the whole person, including lifestyle and social engagement, because the latest research findings show that both play an important role in mental and physical health. Education on mental illness and recommendations on diet and exercise are always discussed with the patients, according to the individuals' needs. Dr. Buonopane spends time listening to patients and makes plans based on clinical evidence without an authoritative approach, taking into consideration the patient's level of comfort and views because, in her experience, the best outcomes are always reached when patients fully understand and agree with the management of their conditions. Dr. Buonopane has been in practice for more than twenty years and has extensive experience in general Adult Psychiatry with a focus on mood disorder and anxiety. She has been leading clinical programs and teaching medical students, residents, and fellows in psychiatry and addiction in various clinical settings, such as private institutions and universities, including Yale School of Medicine. Prior to joining Talkiatry, Dr Buonopane had her own in-person clinical services for over ten years and telehealth services over the past four years, treating patients suffering mainly from depression, bipolar disorder, and anxiety. When working in private practice, Dr Buonopane received the Compassionate Doctor Recognition (Vitals) and the Patient's Choice Awards (Vitals), both based on patients' reviews.

Barbara Thomas is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with 8 years of experience in outpatient and in-home settings. She earned her Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy from Seton Hall University and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Pennsylvania State University. Licensed in Pennsylvania for 5 years and recently in North Carolina, Barbara provides trauma-focused, culturally competent care for Anxiety, Depression, Mood Disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and LGBTQ+ issues.

Barbara offers systemic, client-centered, and cognitive behavioral therapy for children, adults, couples, and families. She tailors each session to individual needs, incorporating family systems and relational dynamics. She creates a safe, open environment that fosters collaboration and growth, helping patients explore new perspectives, achieve goals, and strengthen personal fulfillment.

Barbara begins with an intake session that includes a psychosocial assessment and discussion of the client’s history and goals. She develops individualized treatment plans in collaboration with patients and begins sessions with open-ended prompts to focus on client priorities. Through ongoing assessment, dialogue, and adaptable session structure, she builds trust, promotes change, and ensures each patient’s needs are met.

Donna Duggan, LMHC, earned her Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from the University of Massachusetts and a Master’s Degree in Clinical Counseling from Walden University. Her professional journey began in law enforcement, later leading to education and mental health advocacy. Donna’s work as a crisis advocate for survivors of sexual assault and domestic abuse inspired her to pursue counseling full time. Since earning her graduate degree in 2015, she has worked extensively with children, families, and adults, specializing in trauma recovery and empowerment.

Donna values open communication and believes in creating a warm, supportive environment where patients feel respected and understood. With over fifteen years of experience helping individuals heal from trauma, she views the therapeutic process as an opportunity for patients to reclaim their voices and move from “victim to survivor” on their own terms. Patients can expect empathy, collaboration, and a strong sense of safety in her care.

Donna begins each therapeutic relationship by establishing trust and safety, encouraging honest dialogue around personal and family challenges. She integrates education, reflection, and resource sharing on topics like communication and conflict resolution. Together with patients, she develops personalized short- and long-term goals rooted in their individual and cultural values, ensuring therapy supports meaningful and lasting growth.

Dr. Ali Imran is double board-certified in Adult Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He completed his psychiatry residency training at SUNY Downstate Medical Center. He completed his Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at Hofstra/Northwell Zucker Hillside Hospital. He has practiced in various settings over his career, including inpatient psychiatric units, adult and child outpatient treatment clinics, urgent care centers, and emergency psychiatric treatment centers. Dr. Imran has more than five years of experience treating patients with depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and learning disorders. Dr. Imran's approach is collaborative, supportive, and patient-centered.�

Ian Sanders is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) with 13 years of experience working with teens, adults, and couples. He is passionate about helping people navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, and major life transitions. Ian values a collaborative, strengths-based approach and strives to create a supportive, affirming, and nonjudgmental space for all clients, including LGBTQ+ individuals and those exploring identity or relationship concerns.

Clients working with Ian can expect an active, collaborative experience focused on practical growth. He blends evidence-based therapies with clear, actionable skills so clients leave sessions with tools they can apply in everyday life. Ian believes therapy should feel empowering and approachable, and he prioritizes open communication, emotional safety, and individualized care for each person or couple he supports.

Ian begins by gaining a clear understanding of each client’s goals, challenges, and strengths. Together, they develop a straightforward treatment plan tailored to the client’s needs. Sessions focus on building insight, strengthening coping skills, and tracking progress over time. Ian also incorporates psychoeducation for families and caregivers when appropriate and works with couples to improve communication and address relationship challenges.

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