Ruben Mendez, MD

Getting to know me

Dr. Jennifer Laprise is an outpatient psychiatrist with experience caring for patients in rural communities and addressing rural mental health needs. She earned her medical degree from the University of Illinois and was part of the inaugural Carle Psychiatry Residency Program in Urbana, Illinois. She lives in central Minnesota and enjoys time on the lakes, reading, board games, and playing with her three Labrador retrievers.

Dr. Laprise fosters a warm, supportive environment where patients feel heard and respected. Before becoming a psychiatrist, she taught at the university level, inspiring her passion for patient education. She believes patients should understand every step of their care and feel comfortable with the treatment decisions they make together.

During the first visit, Dr. Laprise reviews each patient's history, concerns, and goals to establish a diagnosis and personalized treatment plan. She emphasizes education about mental health conditions and available treatment options, empowering patients with the information they need to make informed decisions about their care.

Dr. Taylor Goldman is a physician who earned a medical degree from the USF Morsani College of Medicine in Tampa, Florida, and completed psychiatry residency training at Jefferson Einstein in Philadelphia.

Dr. Goldman approaches patients with curiosity and uses humor when appropriate to foster a warm, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment that encourages self-exploration and open dialogue. He values collaboration, comfort, and creating a space where patients feel heard and respected.

He takes time to understand each patient as an individual, exploring symptoms in the context of personal history and lived experience. He works collaboratively with patients to identify priorities, clarify goals, and develop realistic, achievable treatment plans that evolve over time.

Dr. Rachel Lynn earned her medical degree from the University of California, San Francisco School of Medicine, completed her General Adult Psychiatry residency and served as Chief Resident at NYU Langone/Bellevue Hospitals, then completed a Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry fellowship at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. For over 15 years, she has provided psychiatric care to patients throughout the cancer journey at NCI-designated Cancer Centers across the U.S.

Dr. Lynn strives to understand each patient as a unique individual. She values open communication, honesty, transparency, and respect while partnering with patients to set clear treatment goals. She fosters a warm, supportive environment where patients feel heard, empowered, and involved in their care, and welcomes patients of all backgrounds, including the LGBTQI community.

Dr. Lynn begins by gathering a thorough medical, social, and psychiatric history to understand each patient's concerns and goals. She works collaboratively to develop an individualized treatment plan, using psychotherapy, medication when appropriate, and other non-pharmacologic approaches, with regular follow-up to support progress.

Dr. Sabrina McDonald earned her medical degree from Liberty University College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed her residency at Arnot Ogden Medical Center. She has experience practicing in both inpatient and outpatient settings, with additional work providing psychotherapy. Dr. McDonald also has experience integrating lifestyle modifications into clinical care to support overall well-being.

Dr. McDonald brings warmth and curiosity to every clinical interaction while providing thoughtful, evidence-based treatment recommendations. She takes a holistic approach to care, considering both organic and psychosocial factors that may contribute to a patient’s symptoms and overall functioning. She values collaboration and uses a structured, concise approach to goal setting to help patients make meaningful progress.

Dr. McDonald focuses on understanding each patient’s unique story to guide individualized treatment planning. She explores current concerns, life stressors, and personal goals to inform ongoing care. By considering stress responses from multiple perspectives, she helps patients develop a flexible and deeper understanding of their experiences while creating treatment plans tailored to their needs.

Dr. Lana Hanna earned her medical degree from the University of California, Riverside School of Medicine, where she also completed her psychiatry residency. She has experience treating a broad range of mental health conditions, including depression, mania, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and schizophrenia, across both inpatient and outpatient settings. Her training has focused on providing care for diverse and historically underserved populations, including veterans, LGBTQ+ patients, immigrants, and individuals from rural, low-income, and marginalized communities.

Dr. Hanna provides evidence-based, culturally competent care while taking a holistic view of each patient’s unique experiences, values, and goals. She believes effective treatment combines medication management and psychotherapy when appropriate. Patients can expect a compassionate, collaborative, and supportive environment where they feel heard, respected, and actively involved in their care.

Dr. Hanna begins by building an understanding of each patient’s history, concerns, and personal goals. She works collaboratively with patients to develop individualized treatment plans that align with their needs and preferences. Through open communication and shared decision-making, she helps patients explore treatment options and make informed choices throughout their mental health journey.

Dr. Harish Mangipudi is a board-certified psychiatrist with more than 10 years of experience treating patients in both inpatient and outpatient settings. He completed a combined five-year residency in Internal Medicine and Psychiatry at the Medical University of South Carolina, where he served as PGY-5 Chief Resident. His training provides a strong foundation in psychiatric diagnosis, psychopharmacology, psychotherapy, and the medical factors that can influence mental health.

Dr. Mangipudi brings a comprehensive and thoughtful approach to care, drawing on extensive experience treating a wide range of psychiatric conditions. His background in both psychiatry and internal medicine allows him to consider the whole person and address the connection between physical and mental health. He works collaboratively with patients to create individualized treatment plans that support their goals and overall well-being.

Dr. Mangipudi begins with a thorough evaluation to understand each patient’s symptoms, medical history, and personal circumstances. He develops evidence-based treatment plans that may include medication management, psychotherapy, and coordination with other healthcare providers when appropriate. His goal is to help patients achieve meaningful and lasting improvements through compassionate, patient-centered care.

Dr. Matthew Thompson earned his medical degree from the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, completed his psychiatry residency at Baylor College of Medicine, and completed fellowships in geriatric psychiatry at Mount Sinai School of Medicine and addiction medicine at Memorial Hermann Prevention and Recovery Center. He has extensive experience in general, geriatric, and addiction psychiatry in both inpatient and outpatient settings, including telehealth.

Dr. Thompson values open communication and works with patients to set clear treatment goals. He creates a warm, supportive environment where patients feel heard and respected, emphasizing that medication, when needed, is usually only one part of improving symptoms and quality of life.

Dr. Thompson reviews each patient's full history to develop an accurate diagnosis and individualized treatment plan rather than relying on a checklist of symptoms.

Justin O'Brien, MD has experience in both outpatient and inpatient psychiatry. He earned his medical degree from UT Southwestern Medical School and completed his residency through the UT Southwestern Psychiatry Residency Program.

Dr. O'Brien values hearing each patient's story and history. One of his favorite questions is, "What is the most important thing you think I should know about you?" He encourages patients to ask every question they have so they never leave with unanswered concerns.

Dr. O'Brien spends the beginning of a first visit getting to know each patient, understanding what brings them to care, and creating a comfortable environment. He encourages open communication throughout treatment so patients feel heard and involved in their care.

Dr. Brendalyn Iweh, MD, is a board-eligible psychiatrist with experience providing care in outpatient, inpatient, emergency, consultation-liaison, and community settings. She earned her medical degree from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Medicine, completed psychiatry residency training at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, and received specialized training and certification in women’s mental health. Dr. Iweh treats adolescents and adults with anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma-related disorders, bipolar disorder, and women’s mental health concerns, with particular interests in reproductive psychiatry and the connection between mental and physical wellness.

Dr. Iweh values open communication and collaborative decision-making. She creates a warm, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment where patients feel heard and respected. Believing that effective treatment begins with trust, she takes time to understand each patient’s experiences, values, and goals while developing treatment plans that reflect their individual needs and preferences. She emphasizes education and empowerment to help patients better understand their mental health.

Dr. Iweh begins by gaining a thorough understanding of each patient’s history, current concerns, strengths, and treatment goals. She explores emotional, medical, social, and lifestyle factors that may affect mental health and develops individualized treatment plans. Treatment options may include medication management, lifestyle modifications, psychoeducation, and therapy referrals when appropriate. Through follow-up visits, she monitors progress, adjusts treatment as needed, and provides ongoing support so patients feel informed, empowered, and supported throughout their care.

Dr. Brian Schultz earned his PhD in Molecular and Cellular Biology and his MD from the University of Washington. He completed his psychiatry residency at Northwestern University in Chicago and is board-certified in adult psychiatry. Dr. Schultz has served on the teaching and clinical faculties of the University of Hawai‘i and the University of Washington. His experience includes inpatient psychiatry, outpatient community clinics, cancer treatment centers, and psychiatric consultation in hospital medical settings. He has treated patients from college age through late life and, as the spouse of an active-duty military service member, understands many aspects of military family life.

Dr. Schultz engages with patients in a casual, conversational style and believes that medication, when appropriate, is only one part of a comprehensive treatment plan. He strives to create a supportive, non-judgmental environment where patients feel comfortable sharing their experiences, concerns, and goals. He values honest, open communication and welcomes discussions of the gray areas of diagnosis and treatment. Dr. Schultz encourages active participation in the healing process and tailors care to each individual’s unique story.

Dr. Schultz begins by listening to each patient’s concerns, experiences, goals, and history, followed by a discussion of clinical impressions and treatment options. He uses an evidence-based approach to develop personalized treatment plans, recommending medication when indicated and incorporating other strategies such as cognitive and behavioral techniques. Dr. Schultz collaborates with other healthcare providers when appropriate and recommends additional behavioral health resources when beneficial. Ongoing follow-up focuses on assessing progress and adjusting treatment to support patients’ goals.

Dr. Jennie F. Hall is a psychiatrist with 31 years of experience in outpatient and inpatient settings, previously affiliated with the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center in Houston, Texas. She earned her MD from the University of Texas Medical School at Houston (now McGovern Medical School at UTHealth), completed her General Psychiatry residency at Baylor College of Medicine through the Menninger Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, has been board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology since 1996, and has held faculty appointments at Baylor College of Medicine and McGovern Medical School.

Dr. Hall believes patients and their psychiatrist work as a team. She welcomes your input to help establish and refine your treatment goals while providing a warm, comfortable, and supportive environment where you are treated with compassion, respect, and understanding.

Dr. Hall begins by gathering a thorough history, including your concerns and goals. Together, you'll develop an individualized treatment plan, and she'll encourage open communication as your needs evolve through medication management and supportive psychotherapy.

Dr. Victoria Diaz earned her medical degree from Texas Tech Health Sciences El Paso Foster School of Medicine and completed her adult psychiatry residency at TTUHSC El Paso. She has experience practicing in outpatient and inpatient settings in a culturally diverse U.S./Mexico border city. She also has training in psychotherapy, including trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, and transcranial magnetic stimulation.

Dr. Diaz values a collaborative, patient-centered approach and understands that every treatment plan should be tailored to the individual. She actively listens with empathy and support to build a strong therapeutic alliance.

Dr. Diaz begins by learning about each patient's unique background and clarifying their goals of care. Together, they develop a personalized treatment plan, followed by regular check-ins throughout treatment to monitor symptoms and adjust care as needed.

Dr. Elena Volfson is a double board-certified psychiatrist in General Adult Psychiatry and Addiction Psychiatry. She earned her medical degree from St. Petersburg Pavlov Medical University, completed advanced training in the U.S., and has held leadership, teaching, and clinical roles at nationally recognized institutions. She has also been honored as a Top Doctor and named a Distinguished Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association.

Dr. Volfson believes medication can support recovery but is not a replacement for psychotherapy. Her treatment philosophy combines thoughtful medication management with evidence-based psychotherapy, creating an individualized approach that helps patients build lasting skills and achieve meaningful progress.

Dr. Volfson partners with each patient to understand their goals, concerns, and unique needs. She develops personalized treatment plans that integrate psychotherapy into every visit, using medication when appropriate while emphasizing collaboration, education, and long-term wellness.

Dr. Alexander Seger, MD, is a board-certified psychiatrist with experience treating patients in inpatient, outpatient, and telehealth settings. He earned his medical degree from Creighton University School of Medicine and completed his psychiatry residency at Creighton University, where he served as chief resident during his final year. He provides evidence-based care using both psychopharmacologic and psychotherapeutic approaches.

Dr. Seger strives to create a warm, respectful, and collaborative environment centered on each patient’s unique goals and needs. He takes a whole-person approach that considers medical conditions, culture, lifestyle, and relationships. By combining respect for patient autonomy with clinical expertise, he works with patients to achieve the best possible outcomes.

Dr. Seger begins with a comprehensive evaluation to understand a patient’s history, current symptoms, and personal goals. Treatment plans are individualized and adjusted as needed during follow-up visits, with attention to progress and minimizing adverse effects. He emphasizes education, open dialogue, and shared decision-making, and may recommend individual, family, or group psychotherapy as part of a team-based approach to care.

Dr. Kokil Malik Chopra earned her medical degree from MGM Medical College in India, where she graduated with honors in medicine. She completed her psychiatry residency at Eastern Virginia Medical School, serving as Chief Resident, and went on to complete a fellowship in Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry (Psychosomatic Medicine) at the University of Washington. With more than 17 years of clinical experience, including a decade in county health systems and community psychiatry, she is also a Qualified Medical Evaluator. Dr. Chopra has contributed to psychiatric research through publications and presentations at national and international conferences and has participated in rural health camps in India in support of global health initiatives.

Dr. Chopra takes a compassionate, culturally sensitive approach to care and strives to create a supportive environment where patients feel heard and respected. Her expertise includes the treatment of depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), using evidence-based psychopharmacology while incorporating psychotherapy when appropriate. Fluent in English and Hindi, with working knowledge of Punjabi and Urdu, she is well equipped to care for patients from diverse backgrounds.

Dr. Chopra believes in a patient-centered approach built on collaboration and trust. She works with patients to develop individualized treatment goals and emphasizes a strong therapeutic alliance throughout care. Her treatment plans are grounded in evidence-based practices and may include a thoughtful balance of medication management and psychotherapy, tailored to each patient's unique needs. She is committed to improving access to mental healthcare through education, advocacy, and direct patient care.

Dr. Jordan Suchy is a board-certified psychiatrist who earned his medical degree from the Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed his psychiatry residency at Lutheran General Hospital. He has experience treating treatment-resistant mood disorders in both inpatient and outpatient settings and is committed to helping patients achieve meaningful improvements in their mental health and quality of life.

Dr. Suchy takes a patient-centered approach that focuses on each individual's goals, values, and needs. He creates a warm, supportive environment where patients feel heard, respected, and empowered throughout treatment. He works collaboratively with patients to develop personalized treatment plans and seeks to understand what has and has not been helpful in previous psychiatric and therapeutic experiences.

Dr. Suchy begins by developing a thorough understanding of each patient's history, including past diagnoses, treatments, childhood experiences, and the impact of symptoms on daily life. He believes in comprehensive care that extends beyond medication management and works with patients to create individualized treatment plans that support long-term well-being.

Dr. Henry Guajardo is a psychiatrist who strives to help people overcome their challenges, not merely endure them. He earned his M.D. from UT Southwestern Medical Center and completed psychiatry residency at Baylor College of Medicine, where he served as Chief Resident of the outpatient clinic. He also trained at The Menninger Clinic, a world-renowned inpatient treatment center. He has worked with individuals facing burnout, relationship conflict, attention and focus difficulties, anxiety, attachment issues, childhood trauma, and questions of meaning and purpose.  

Dr. Guajardo’s reassuring demeanor sets patients at ease, allowing them to open up at their own pace. He uses psychotherapy as a core part of his treatment approach, drawing from motivational interviewing (helping patients find their own reasons for change) and psychodynamic psychotherapy (exploring how past experiences shape current patterns). He has ample experience managing complex cases, and is adept with advanced medication approaches for patients with refractory symptoms. He also has expertise supporting patients who are taking a closer look at their relationship with alcohol, nicotine, cannabis, or compulsive behaviors such as gambling or pornography use.

Dr. Guajardo uses the initial appointment as an opportunity to understand his patient’s background thoroughly and define treatment goals. He aims to thoughtfully interweave medication management and psychotherapy at every visit.

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Steve Prenzlauer, MD, is a board-certified psychiatrist who trained at Wayne State University School of Medicine in Detroit, MI. He completed his internship at the University of Cincinnati, residency at Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York City, and fellowship in Psychosomatic Medicine at Beth Israel Medical Center. He has extensive experience treating adults with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, PTSD, and psychiatric concerns related to medical conditions, and is committed to respectful, affirming care for diverse communities.

Dr. Prenzlauer believes person-centered care starts with compassion, understanding, and open communication. He prioritizes shared decision-making and creates a space where patients feel heard, respected, and supported. He values each individual’s life experience and works collaboratively to build trust and comfort in care.

Dr. Prenzlauer takes time to understand each patient’s background, perspective, and goals. He develops thoughtful, individualized treatment plans tailored to each person’s needs, integrating clinical expertise with patient input to support meaningful, sustainable progress.

Harshit Gupta, MD, completed his undergraduate training at the University of Texas at Austin, earned his medical degree from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), and completed his adult psychiatry residency at Baylor College of Medicine. He has experience across outpatient, inpatient, emergency, and consult-liaison psychiatry settings and is on track to become board certified in September 2026.

Dr. Gupta approaches care through a holistic, evidence-based lens that emphasizes the mind-body connection. He strives to understand each person through their physical health, lifestyle, relationships, life experiences, and mental health symptoms. His goal is to provide compassionate, nonjudgmental, personalized care through shared decision-making to help patients achieve their goals.

Dr. Gupta begins with a comprehensive evaluation to understand psychiatric concerns, medical history, life factors, and personal goals. He develops individualized treatment plans that may include supportive therapy, medication management, and psychoeducation. He meets regularly with patients to refine treatment plans, monitor progress, and has experience treating a broad range of psychiatric conditions in adults.

Brandon Ho, MD, earned a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree and a Master of Medical Science degree from Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine. He completed psychiatry residency training at LSU Health Shreveport, where he served as Chief Resident. Dr. Ho has experience providing comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and treatment planning for diverse patient populations.

Dr. Ho values building strong rapport and meaningful connections with patients to create a supportive, collaborative treatment environment. He strives to ensure patients feel heard, respected, and actively involved in their care through open communication and individualized treatment aligned with each patient’s goals and priorities.

Dr. Ho begins appointments with thorough history gathering to better understand each patient’s background, symptoms, and treatment goals. He develops individualized treatment plans focused on optimizing outcomes while minimizing side effects whenever possible, and works collaboratively with patients to monitor progress and adjust care as needed.

Dr. Adam Griffin earned his BA in Psychology and Sports Medicine from Rice University and his medical degree from the University of Illinois Chicago College of Medicine. He completed his psychiatry residency at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, where he served as chief resident and received the department’s top resident psychotherapy award. He is also an experienced yoga and meditation instructor who teaches at national yoga conferences.

Dr. Griffin believes strong patient relationships are the foundation of effective treatment. He combines psychotherapy with medication management to provide comprehensive care and incorporates his background in mindfulness, yoga, and meditation into his therapeutic approach when appropriate.

Dr. Griffin begins by learning about each patient’s history, current concerns, and treatment goals during the initial visit. As the patient-physician relationship develops, he explores their experiences in greater depth and collaborates with them to create an individualized treatment plan tailored to their needs.

Florence (Flossy) Eddins-Folensbee, M.D. is board certified in general and child and adolescent psychiatry, with 43 years of clinical practice. Most recently, she served as lead psychiatrist for two Texas state hospital forensic units. She semi-retired from leadership positions in medical education and administration in 2021/2022 (deanships in admissions, student affairs, curriculum development and medical school accreditation), but continues consultation in medical education and accreditation for new and developing medical schools. She is a member of Alpha Omega Alpha Medical Honor Society, has received multiple teaching and educational leadership awards, and is a peer-reviewed published author. Outside of medicine, she is the mother of four adult children, enjoys time with her first grandchild, and is the proud parent of Mork, a Yorkshire Terrier named in honor of Robin Williams.

Dr. Eddins is considered an expert in anxiety and depression and emphasizes helping patients, especially children and adolescents, build a healthy developmental trajectory despite emotional and behavioral challenges. Her professional interests include human development, physician professionalism and mental health, and the provision of compassionate, transparent care grounded in developmental psychiatry and individualized goals.

Dr. Eddins begins with a comprehensive developmental and psychiatric assessment integrating history, family context, and functional goals. She develops an individualized, evidence-informed treatment plan that may include therapy; medication management; and coordination with families, schools, and other supports.

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Dr. Joel Barrett is a board-certified psychiatrist who treats children, adolescents, and adults. He earned his medical degree and completed his psychiatry residency at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, serving as chief resident, and later completed fellowships in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Forensic Psychiatry at LSU Health Shreveport. Dr. Barrett also completed advanced training in trauma-focused care, developmental assessment, cognitive evaluation, and forensic risk assessment.

Dr. Barrett takes a whole-person approach to care, considering biological, psychological, social, family, and cultural factors rather than focusing only on symptoms. He works to create a respectful, nonjudgmental environment where patients and families feel safe sharing their experiences. His treatment style combines evidence-based medication management with structured psychotherapy tailored to each patient’s needs.

Dr. Barrett begins with a thorough biopsychosocial evaluation that reviews history, functioning, past treatment, and current concerns before making recommendations. He then collaborates with patients and, when appropriate, families to develop individualized treatment plans with clear goals and measurable progress. Care may include medication management, psychotherapy, and coordination with therapists, schools, primary care providers, and other clinicians as needs evolve over time.

Dr. Nikita Dixon is a double board-certified psychiatrist in General Psychiatry and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. She has significant outpatient telepsychiatry experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. Dr. Dixon completed her Psychiatry Residency at Harvard Longwood, her Child & Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at the University of California San Diego, and earned her medical degree from Southern Illinois University. She also has advanced training in Perinatal Mental Health and Geriatric Mental Health.

Dr. Dixon values conducting comprehensive evaluations to develop holistic, personalized treatment plans tailored to each individual’s needs. She strives to create a collaborative and supportive environment where patients feel heard and understood. Her approach integrates multiple therapeutic modalities, when appropriate, to help patients achieve meaningful and lasting progress.

Dr. Dixon begins by gathering information from all areas of a patient’s life to gain a thorough understanding of their background, experiences, and concerns. Based on this assessment, she develops individualized treatment plans that incorporate multiple evidence-based approaches and presents options that align with each patient’s goals, preferences, and overall well-being.

Dr. Shailen Patel earned his medical degree from McGovern Medical School at the University of Texas in Houston and completed his psychiatry residency at John Peter Smith Psychiatry Residency, where he served as Chief Resident for two years. He has presented at case conferences and journal clubs and is committed to providing thoughtful, evidence-based psychiatric care.

Dr. Patel fosters a supportive environment where patients can openly discuss their concerns. He takes a collaborative, patient-centered approach and values treating the whole person through holistic care that integrates medication management and psychotherapy to help patients achieve their treatment goals.

Dr. Patel begins with a thorough assessment of each patient’s concerns, including an evaluation of potential medical and psychiatric factors contributing to symptoms. Treatment plans are developed collaboratively using evidence-based approaches tailored to individual needs. Follow-up visits focus on monitoring progress, reassessing symptoms, and making appropriate adjustments to treatment to support continued improvement.

Dr. Tasha Vazquez is a psychiatrist with expertise in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), psychodynamic psychotherapy, and integrative psychiatry. She is passionate about helping individuals improve their mental health through a thoughtful combination of psychotherapy, lifestyle wellness, nutrition, and evidence-based treatment. Dr. Vazquez works with patients experiencing anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and life transitions, and has a special interest in supporting LGBTQ+ individuals, women’s mental health, and college-age young adults.

Dr. Vazquez believes effective psychiatric care begins with trust, collaboration, and meeting patients where they are. She takes a warm, supportive, and holistic approach, tailoring treatment to each patient’s unique goals and needs. Depending on the individual, treatment may include psychotherapy, lifestyle and wellness strategies, medication management, or a combination of these approaches.

Dr. Vazquez begins with a thorough evaluation to understand each patient’s experiences, concerns, and priorities. Together, they develop an individualized treatment plan grounded in three core principles: talk therapy, evidence-based medication treatment, and lifestyle medicine. Her goal is to create a personalized path forward that supports lasting mental wellness and meaningful progress.

Dr. Charlena Melnyk is a compassionate psychiatrist specializing in adult mental health care for patients ages 18–64. She has experience in academic, consultation and liaison, and outpatient psychiatry, with expertise in diagnostic evaluation and individualized treatment planning. Dr. Melnyk values trauma-informed, nonjudgmental care and enjoys getting to know each patient’s unique goals. Outside of work, she enjoys reading, cooking, Zumba, spending time outdoors, and playing with her dog, Nezzy.

Dr. Melnyk believes strong therapeutic relationships are built through empathy, collaboration, and open communication. She integrates supportive therapy, behavioral activation techniques, and pharmacotherapy to create personalized treatment plans. She treats conditions including depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, and bipolar disorders, while focusing on each patient’s overall wellness and quality of life.

Dr. Melnyk begins by learning about each patient’s history, concerns, and mental health goals while considering biological, psychological, and social factors that may affect wellbeing. She works collaboratively to develop thoughtful treatment plans, adjust care as needed, and provide ongoing support throughout each patient’s mental health journey.

Dr. David Schlager is a board-certified psychiatrist with extensive experience across inpatient, outpatient, and telemedicine settings. He specializes in treating depression and bipolar disorders, anxiety and sleep disorders, ADHD, and mental health issues associated with complex medical conditions or co-occurring substance use concerns. Dr. Schlager earned his medical degree from Tufts University School of Medicine, completed his psychiatry residency at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City, and completed a research fellowship at Columbia University/New York State Psychiatric Institute, where he later conducted research focused on seasonal depression and sleep disorders.

Over long years of practice Dr. Schlager has witnessed, and so in every new case aims for, marked improvement in both emotional distress and day to day function. He is known for being attentive, compassionate, and nonjudgmental and eagerly supports Talkiatry's mission to provide expert mental health care by reducing geographic and insurance obstacles that traditionally limited access.

Dr. Schlager begins by listening openly to each patient's story, including any past experiences of trauma that may be contributing to their current distress. Interviews progress from conversational overview to more specific and problem focused discussion. Diagnosis and treatment response are often best determined by what patients report rather than by conventional blood testing or imaging. As such, he takes care at every stage to help patients articulate their condition and specific concerns, to recognize their meaning in a psychological and social context, and to regularly update goals of care.

Darius Stephens, MD, is a psychiatrist trained at Morehouse School of Medicine with residency at Howard University Hospital in Washington, D.C. He has experience across adult inpatient and outpatient settings, including acute care, medication management, and administrative psychiatry alongside hospital leadership. His work centers on general adult outpatient care with a focus on evidence-based treatment, patient education, and shared decision-making. He is a member of the APA, AMA, and ASAM.

Dr. Stephens takes a direct, collaborative approach, offering honest conversations about diagnoses, options, and expectations. He creates a respectful, nonjudgmental space where patients feel comfortable discussing sensitive topics. Dr. Stephens prioritizes understanding the whole person, incorporating cultural background and life context, and is committed to serving minority and underserved communities.

Dr. Stephens begins with a thorough psychiatric evaluation to understand history, concerns, and goals. He develops individualized plans that may include medication, lifestyle strategies, and therapy referrals. He explains the reasoning behind decisions so patients stay informed and engaged, and he adjusts care collaboratively based on progress and feedback.

Dr. Ruth Graupera-Frain earned her medical degree from Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. She completed a Pediatric residency at UNC Children’s Hospital and a Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatry residency at University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center at Case Western Reserve University. She practiced as a pediatrician for about 10 years and has since worked as a psychiatrist across outpatient, inpatient, residential, and college health settings. She has also cared for military members and their families and has provided telehealth services since March 2020.

Dr. Graupera-Frain takes a comprehensive and practical approach to care. She creates a supportive, nonjudgmental space where patients can feel comfortable sharing openly. She values clear, honest communication and is committed to helping patients feel heard, understood, and actively involved in their care.

Dr. Graupera-Frain begins with a foundational first visit focused on building rapport and gathering key information. She works collaboratively with patients to understand their concerns, identify contributing factors, and establish meaningful goals. Together, they develop a tailored treatment approach to improve well-being and daily functioning.

Dr. Stacyann York is a psychiatrist with experience treating children and adults across outpatient, inpatient, residential, PHP, and IOP settings. She earned her medical degree from the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, completed residency training at the Baylor College of Medicine Menninger Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, and pursued fellowship training at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine. She also holds a Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience and Behavioral Biology.

Dr. York provides a safe, supportive space where patients feel heard, respected, and cared for as individuals. She is attentive, proactive, easy to communicate with, and takes an empathetic, personalized approach to care. Her holistic approach to mental health may include consideration of nutritional health, spiritual wellness, and other support systems while addressing each patient’s questions and concerns.

Dr. York begins with a comprehensive history and biopsychosocial assessment using clinical interviews, rating scales, and laboratory testing when appropriate. She reviews treatment options thoroughly, including non-medication and medication-based approaches, and encourages patients and families to participate in healthcare decisions. She also welcomes collaborative care coordination and ongoing monitoring to support progress and adjust treatment as needed.

Dr. Jacqueline Ann Fenn earned her medical degree from the University of Illinois College of Medicine and completed her psychiatry residency at Baylor College of Medicine, where she served as chief resident. She pursued subspecialty training in Reproductive Psychiatry and Clinical Education and completed a fellowship in Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry with experience in transplant and reproductive psychiatry. She also holds a doctorate in neuroscience from Michigan State University and is a member of the Gold Humanism Honor Society.

Dr. Fenn values the mind-body connection and creates holistic treatment plans that may include medication, supportive therapy, and lifestyle changes. She prioritizes building strong rapport and providing a welcoming, collaborative environment. She emphasizes open dialogue and shared decision-making, and may recommend additional therapy when helpful. She has experience treating diverse psychiatric conditions, with a focus on women’s mental health and perinatal care.

Dr. Fenn begins with a comprehensive evaluation of symptoms, history, and lifestyle, followed by setting personalized goals. Treatment plans are flexible and refined over time, sometimes requiring multiple visits for clarity. She uses screening tools to track progress and incorporates medication management, supportive therapy, and psychoeducation to empower patients.

Deborah Gross, MD, earned her medical degree from the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio and completed her psychiatric residency at the University of Washington. She is board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and has extensive experience treating mood and anxiety disorders, trauma, addiction, disordered eating, and personality disorders in both outpatient and inpatient settings. She is also ASAM-certified in addiction medicine and holds a lifetime certificate from the American Board of Addiction Medicine. Dr. Gross is the author of a three-book series supporting women with disordered eating.

Dr. Gross creates a warm, supportive environment where patients feel heard and respected. As a writer, she values each patient’s story and uses it to better understand their challenges and guide treatment. She prioritizes open communication and collaborates closely with patients to establish clear, meaningful goals.

Dr. Gross begins with a comprehensive understanding of each patient’s history, concerns, and goals. She develops individualized treatment plans aligned with those goals and remains attentive as care progresses, adjusting strategies as new insights emerge.

Dr. Abirami Krishna is a board-certified adult psychiatrist with experience in both outpatient and inpatient settings. She earned her medical degree from the University of Louisville School of Medicine after completing undergraduate studies at the University of Kentucky. She completed her psychiatry residency and a community psychiatry fellowship at the University of Florida College of Medicine – Jacksonville, where she was recognized with the Leon L. Hailey Jr. Leadership and Inclusive Excellence Award.

Dr. Krishna values honest communication and collaboration, working closely with patients to define goals and build effective treatment plans. She fosters a warm, supportive, and non-judgmental environment where patients feel heard and empowered to actively participate in their care.

Dr. Krishna begins with a comprehensive evaluation of each patient’s history, concerns, and preferences. She uses a holistic, patient-centered approach to develop individualized, evidence-based plans, incorporating medication management and supportive therapy as appropriate to support each patient’s unique path to wellness.

Dr. Maryrose Bauschka, MD, earned her medical degree from Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine and completed her adult psychiatry residency at the University of Utah. She worked as an inpatient psychiatrist at the Huntsman Mental Health Institute and later at Eating Recovery Center and Pathlight Mood & Anxiety Center in Chicago and Denver, where she served as Medical Director. She has held faculty roles at Rush Medical College, the University of Utah, and the University of Colorado, and is a Certified Eating Disorder Specialist (CEDS).

Dr. Bauschka takes a collaborative, communicative approach, creating a space where patients feel heard and respected. She integrates psychotherapeutic techniques, goal setting, and medication management to support patients in working toward feeling their best.

Dr. Bauschka begins by understanding each patient’s history, values, and goals. She partners with patients to develop individualized plans that include pharmacological and non-pharmacological strategies, with a focus on safe, thoughtful psychotropic prescribing.

I am committed to providing thoughtful, evidence-based mental health care in a supportive and respectful environment. I believe psychiatric care is most effective when patients feel heard, well-informed, and actively involved in treatment decisions, creating a collaborative relationship that supports lasting improvement. I take a collaborative and thorough approach to care, spending time understanding each patient's history, daily life, strengths, and current challenges. I emphasize individualized treatment that includes careful diagnosis, medication management when appropriate, and practical strategies that support long-term mental health. Treatment plans are developed together with patients to ensure they are medically sound, realistic, and sustainable, with the goal of helping individuals achieve stability, resilience, and improved quality of life. Patients can expect appointments that are attentive, calm, and focused on meaningful progress.

I have a longstanding interest in both medicine and the humanities, which naturally led me to psychiatry as a field that integrates both disciplines. I have worked across a wide range of psychiatric settings, including inpatient, outpatient, consultation-liaison, residential, and emergency psychiatry. I earned my Bachelor of Arts from The University of Texas at Austin, received my medical degree from Ross University School of Medicine, and completed my Psychiatry residency at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center at El Paso. I am a Diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and a Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association.

Dr. Timothy Saeed is a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine who completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee and earned his medical degree from the Virginia College of Osteopathic Medicine. He completed his Psychiatry Residency at the University of Miami and currently works in an outpatient setting with an emphasis on mood and anxiety disorders.

Dr. Saeed focuses on treating the person rather than the chart. He values a compassionate and understanding approach, ensuring that each patient feels heard and respected. His care is tailored to the individual, with attention to each person’s unique experiences and needs.

In the outpatient setting, Dr. Saeed emphasizes thoughtful, patient-centered interviews to guide care. He prioritizes getting to know each patient in depth and uses that understanding to develop individualized treatment plans that align with their specific concerns and goals.

Dr. Inder Bhanver, MD, has extensive experience diagnosing and treating ADHD, depression, anxiety, panic disorder, substance use, PTSD, and other mental health conditions. He has worked in both outpatient and inpatient settings across government and private hospitals and clinics, bringing a wealth of clinical expertise to each patient interaction.

Dr. Bhanver values open and honest communication, creating an environment where patients feel listened to and respected. He believes in building strong therapeutic relationships grounded in trust and collaboration.

Dr. Bhanver begins by carefully listening to each patient’s concerns, conducting a thorough evaluation and history, and then developing individualized treatment plans that align with the patient’s goals and adhere to high standards of care. His approach is comprehensive, personalized, and focused on achieving meaningful outcomes.

Dr. Nicole Masnada, DO, is board-certified in adult and child & adolescent psychiatry. She has experience across multiple states in inpatient, outpatient, and emergency settings, treating patients of all ages. She earned her medical degree from Midwestern University, completed residency at Banner University of Arizona Medical Center Phoenix, and fellowship at Valleywise Health Creighton Alliance Phoenix. She has also held academic faculty roles in Arizona and California and is passionate about teaching.

Dr. Masnada prioritizes creating a space where patients feel heard, respected, and understood. She values patient input and takes a collaborative, team-based approach, partnering with patients and families to develop individualized care plans. She integrates evidence-based treatments tailored to each patient’s goals, needs, and experiences.

Dr. Masnada focuses on developing a comprehensive understanding of each patient to identify root causes, not just symptoms. When helpful, she incorporates input from family or supports to clarify diagnosis and guide care, promoting targeted treatment and meaningful, lasting outcomes.

I am dedicated to expanding access to thoughtful, evidence-based psychiatric care, particularly for women and families during important reproductive life transitions. I strive to create a warm, respectful, and nonjudgmental environment where patients feel comfortable discussing sensitive concerns. I value collaboration and believe treatment works best when patients feel informed, supported, and actively involved in decisions about their care. My approach is compassionate and individualized, with attention to each patient's unique experiences during pregnancy, postpartum, and other reproductive life stages. I begin by learning about each patient's history, current concerns, symptoms, and personal goals. While I specialize in reproductive mental health, I welcome patients of all genders and backgrounds. Together, we develop an individualized treatment plan that may include medication management, supportive therapy, education, and follow-up care, with ongoing communication and thoughtful adjustments to support progress and well-being.

I am a board-certified psychiatrist with experience in outpatient, inpatient, emergency, and telepsychiatry care. I completed residency training in General Adult Psychiatry and a Reproductive Mental Health Fellowship at the University of Illinois at Chicago. I earned my MD from the University of Texas Medical Branch and a Bachelor of Science, summa cum laude, from Xavier University of Louisiana.