Joseph Smith, LMHC

More Clinicians

Brittany Bridges, LMHC

Staff Licensed Mental Health Counselor

Brittany Bridges received her Bachelor's of Science (BS) in Human Development and Family Studies from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, as well as her Master's (MS) in Mental Health Counseling, from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. Ms. Bridges is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) for the state of North Carolina as well as a National Certified Counselor (NCC). Ms. Bridges utilizes an array of therapeutic modalities and techniques based on the needs of the clients, including but not limited to cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and Solution-focused Therapy. ‍Ms. Bridges' prior experience entails working in a clinical outpatient setting and on a North Carolina college campus where she's treated a variety of mental health conditions. She leads with openness and empathy as she strives to provide a safe and respectful environment in which clients from various backgrounds and cultures can explore a myriad of issues. Ms. Bridges enjoys working with a broad range of clients and concerns. Her professional interests include working with young adults, women's issues, diversity, and multicultural experiences

Catherine Derys, LMHC

Staff Licensed Mental Health Counselor

Catherine is a graduate from the City University of New York (CUNY) Brooklyn College where she received her Master's Degree in Mental Health Counseling. She is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor experienced in working with adults that struggle with an array of different issues for the past 7 years, both in outpatient and private practice settings. Coupled with her empathic and non-judgmental attitude, she uses a person-centered approach when working with clients. She strives to meet the clients where they are at. Catherine has a passion for helping others reach their full potential, rebuild their confidence, and gain a better insight into themselves through using psychodynamic and CBT interventions. She promotes and encourages "progress over perfection."

Catherine Sheahan, PMHNP

Staff Nurse Practitioner

Cate Sheahan, nurse practitioner, is dual certified in psychiatry and family medicine. She completed her masters in nursing education at East Carolina University, her post graduate training in family medicine at Duke University and her post graduate training in psychiatry at the University of St. Joseph. Cate has practiced in a variety of settings including clinics, skilled nursing and assisted living facilities, hospitals and community outreach. She appreciates how her years of varied experience have enriched her practice and compassion for others. She enjoys teaching and assisting others to build on their unique experiences and strengths.

Cate believes we are each unique in our experiences and our expression of those experiences. Using a collaborative approach, she seeks to discover, along with you, her patient, what is going on in your life and deciding together what treatment is best suited for you. Cate believes medication can be a solid foundation or a transitional step toward improved mental health. She also believes in 'less is more' when it comes to medications.

During each 30-minute session, Cate will employ supportive, motivational and reframing among other therapeutic techniques to foster confidence, insight and healing as you navigate your mental health journey. She believes the mind, body and spirit are an integrated whole and therefore encourages holistic self-care such as healthy eating, good sleep hygiene, regular exercise and mindfulness practices as part of your treatment. If more intensive therapy is needed, Cate will work with your therapist or make appropriate referrals as needed.

Patricia Battles, LCSW

Staff Therapist

Pat is a licensed therapist with over two years of experience specializing in mood disorders and trauma. Holding degrees in Clinical Social Work and Music Therapy, she utilizes various evidence-based approaches to support clients in their healing process. Pat's treatment style is client-centered and integrative, drawing from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and EMDR techniques to tailor treatment to the unique needs of each individual. Previously, she worked in child welfare, private practice, forensic mental health, hospice, and palliative care.‍With a passion for supporting adult clients, Pat creates a safe, compassionate space where individuals can explore and address their challenges. She believes strongly in the importance of mental health for all, and aims to foster a collaborative environment focused on personal growth, resilience, and healing. In her off time, Pat enjoys traveling, singing, and spending time with family and loved ones.

Cassandra Thomas-Jingles, PMHNP

Staff Nurse Practitioner

Cassandra Thomas-Jingles is a dedicated board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, who also holds dual certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner. She is very passionate about helping others, she takes a holistic and evidence-based approach to mental healthcare, empowering her patients to live life to their fullest potential. Her practice specializes in medication management and supportive therapy, offering 30-minute follow-up sessions. She recommends incorporating a therapist into the care team to ensure the best possible outcomes if additional therapy is needed. With extensive experience in both outpatient and inpatient settings, Cassandra has worked with adults and children facing a range of mental health conditions, including ADHD, anxiety, depression, and psychotic disorders. She strongly believes in prioritizing the client’s involvement and interprofessional collaboration.

Your mental health journey is unique, and Cassandra is here to listen with compassion and without judgment. Our conversations are confidential, and Cassandra's goal is to create a space where you feel comfortable sharing your thoughts and concerns. During our first appointment, Cassandra will go over your mental health history, current symptoms, lifestyle factors, and any previous treatments to get a full picture of your needs. We will develop a treatment plan that may include therapy, medication, or other supportive strategies. Cassandra believes in shared decision-making, meaning your input is important in every process step. If medication is part of your treatment, Cassandra will provide clear information about its benefits and potential side effects and how we will monitor your progress. Adjustments can be made as needed to ensure the best possible outcome. Healing takes time, and Cassandra will support you throughout the process. Follow-up appointments help us track progress, make any necessary adjustments, and ensure you receive the care you need.

Your mental health journey is unique, and Cassandra is here to listen with compassion and without judgment. Our conversations are confidential, and Cassandra's goal is to create a space where you feel comfortable sharing your thoughts and concerns. During our first appointment, Cassandra will go over your mental health history, current symptoms, lifestyle factors, and any previous treatments to get a full picture of your needs. We will develop a treatment plan that may include therapy, medication, or other supportive strategies. Cassandra believes in shared decision-making, meaning your input is important in every process step. If medication is part of your treatment, Cassandra will provide clear information about its benefits and potential side effects and how we will monitor your progress. Adjustments can be made as needed to ensure the best possible outcome.
Healing takes time, and Cassandra will support you throughout the process. Follow-up appointments help us track progress, make any necessary adjustments, and ensure you receive the care you need.

Kelly Vandivert, LPC

Staff Licensed Professional Counselor

Kelly Vandivert, LPC, is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over twenty-seven years of diverse experience in the mental health field. Her career has spanned a variety of settings, from residential facilities to outpatient community services, in-home, school, and private practice. Her passion for people and love of experience has afforded her the chance to work with people of all ages from a variety of cultural and socio-economic backgrounds. Kelly has been licensed since 2008, focusing much of her time since then working together with adolescents and adults regarding the treatment of mood disorders, such as depression and anxiety, adjustment-related concerns and life transitions, as well as trauma and abuse. Kelly has a client-centered and comprehensive approach to therapy, drawing from a variety of treatment modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy. Her approach emphasizes the importance of the therapeutic relationship for a safe place to share and engage in self-discovery and personal growth. She values an evidence-based approach utilizing the latest research for effective treatment incorporating her experience with each individual's own values and preferences.

Michelle Hamilton, PMHNP

Staff Nurse Practitioner

Michelle Hamilton is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a special interest in the care of adults with mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and PTSD. She earned her Master of Science Degree from The Ohio State University and her Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing from The Oregon Health & Science University in Portland, Oregon. Her background includes both inpatient and outpatient psychiatry, crisis stabilization, and Consult-Liaison Psychiatry. Michelle has a passion for incorporating a holistic, evidenced-based approach to improve the mental health needs of each individual client through medication and therapy while emphasizing practical lifestyle changes such as the incorporation of exercise, healthy nutrition, and stress management techniques.

Ekaterini Telonis, MD

Staff Psychiatrist

Dr. Telonis is a board-eligible adult psychiatrist who had been in practice for four years. Her focus is on using a collaborative approach and shared-decision making to help patients achieve their treatment goals. Dr. Telonis typically provides monthly 30-minute follow-ups with a focus on medication management and supportive therapy. In some instances, she may recommend a separate therapist to help facilitate the best care possible. Dr. Telonis earned her bachelor's degree in History of Art from Johns Hopkins University and then completed her master's at King's College London in international development with a focus on climate change. She received her medical degree from St. George's University School of Medicine and completed her psychiatry training at Mount Sinai Morningside and West Hospitals. Dr. Telonis has worked with a diverse patient population while training at Mount Sinai Morningside.‍

Heather Inano, MD

Staff Psychiatrist

Background and credentials

Dr. Inano is a board-certified adult psychiatrist. She earned her bachelor's degree in psychology from Xavier University in New Orleans and obtained her medical degree from the University of California Davis. She completed her general psychiatry residency at the University of Texas at Austin Dell School of Medicine. Before transitioning to private practice, Dr. Inano worked within the Veterans Affairs healthcare system, where she gained extensive experience treating a diverse range of mental health conditions. She has also served as an Affiliate Faculty member at the University of Texas at Austin Dell School of Medicine, supervising and training psychiatry residents.

‍

Treatment approach

Dr. Inano employs a kind, collaborative, and patient-centered approach to psychiatry. She specializes in treating depression, anxiety, and trauma-related disorders, with additional training in psychotherapeutic modalities for PTSD. She strives to create a safe and supportive environment where patients feel comfortable exploring their concerns and working toward healing.

‍

What you can expect in a first visit

During the first visit, patients can expect a thorough and compassionate evaluation aimed at understanding their unique experiences, symptoms, and treatment goals. Dr. Inano emphasizes collaboration, ensuring that each patient is actively involved in their treatment plan. She provides a supportive space where patients can discuss their concerns, and she tailors treatment options—including therapy and medication management—to meet individual needs.

‍

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.

‍

Tyler O'Brien, MD

Staff Psychiatrist

Dr. O'Brien is a board-certified adult psychiatrist who completed his medical education at Northeast Ohio Medical University. Following his graduation from NEOMED, he completed a residency in Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine at West Virginia University/Charleston Area Medical Center. Throughout his training, he has enjoyed working in both outpatient and hospital settings and has a great passion for medical education and teaching the next generation of mental healthcare providers. Dr. O'Brien's practice focuses on medication management for a wide variety of mental health diagnoses, including anxiety disorders, depression, Bipolar Disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Tic Disorders, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. In addition to medication, he offers a mixture of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Psychodynamic Therapy during 30 minute follow up appointments. Dr. O'Brien believes in a truly collaborative and holistic approach to mental healthcare, striving to involve patients and all members of the healthcare team in every aspect of care.‍

Aneela Ali, MD

Staff Psychiatrist

Dr. Aneela Ali is a Board-certified Adult Psychiatrist. She completed medical school at Jinnah Sindh Medical University, Karachi, and her Psychiatry Residency training at Metropolitan Hospital Center, New York. After her residency, she pursued some additional training in consult liaison psychiatry, further developing her expertise in caring for patients with complex medical and psychiatric comorbidities. ‍She was part of the esteemed faculty at Stony Brook University as an Assistant clinical Professor and staff Psychiatrist. She has also gained experience in Telehealth, providing virtual care to patients and enjoying the flexibility and convenience it offers. She treats various mental health conditions including depression, anxiety disorders, Bipolar disorder, PTSD, and OCD. Dr. Ali takes time to explain complex concepts in a clear and accessible way, equipping her patients with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about their care. Her compassionate approach puts patients at ease, allowing them to open up and embark on a journey of healing and recovery. By actively involving patients in their treatment, Dr. Ali empowers them to take an informed and active role in their care, fostering a collaborative relationship that promotes well-being and understanding.

Maryanne Garnsey, LMFT

Staff Therapist

Maryanne Garnsey is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, who has extensive experience working in multiple disciplines, modalities, and stages of life. Maryanne has worked directly with clients of various demographics, living with a variety of mental health conditions. Maryanne completed her BFA at Rutgers University in New Brunswick, New Jersey, and MS in Mentally Health Counseling and Marriage and Family Therapy from Palm Beach Atlantic University in West Palm Beach, Florida.

Maryanne’s approach is eclectic, integrative, interdisciplinary, and holistic. This approach incorporates humanistic, family systems, lifestyle, cognitive behavioral, acceptance and commitment, mindfulness, strengths-based, and healthy attachment, as well as many other techniques into each session based on the unique needs, interests, and goals of each client. Maryanne’s love of nature, science, people, and lifelong learning creates a therapeutic environment of curiosity, care, support, guidance, and hope.

Maryanne has experience in finance, education, wellness, entertainment, hospitality, marketing, and sales working with individuals, couples, families, and groups of all ages. Maryanne is easily inspired and enjoys discovering each client’s personal story. Maryanne believes that working as a team with a common goal can foster personal growth, healing, health, and optimum wellbeing.

Joseph Smith, LMHC

Education and training

Get to know