Book a call with admissions

You’re in good hands

Meet Our Care Team

Neuro Wellness Spa was founded by Dr. Martha Koo,ย a double-board-certified psychiatrist with decades of experience working in hospitals and private practice. At Neuro Wellness Spa, we believe complete mental wellbeing is attainable, sustainable, and should be prioritized and valued as much as physical health. When you partner with our team, you’ll experience exemplary care led by experts in the field, compassionate treatment and a thriving mental health community.ย 

Medical Directors

Dr. Martha Koo, M.D.

Chief Medical Officer

Dr. Martha B. Koo, M.D., completed her undergraduate studies at Princeton University, where she graduated Magna Cum Laude, and her medical training at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, where she earned membership to the AOA and Sigma Xi Society for academic excellence. Dr. Koo obtained her psychiatry residency training at the Resnick Neuropsychiatric Institute at UCLA and her subsequent psychoanalytic training at the New Center for Psychoanalysis. She is Board Certified in Psychiatry and Board Certified in Addiction Medicine. For over twenty years Dr. Koo has enjoyed her private practice, providing outpatient psychotherapy, psychoanalysis and pharmacological treatment for individuals, couples and families. A pioneer in the development and application of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS), Dr. Koo opened the South Bay TMS Therapy Center in 2009. She is certified in the application of Neurostar rTMS, Brainsway Deep TMS and MagVenture rTMS Therapy. South Bay TMS has evolved into the Neuro Wellness Spa, where Dr. Koo is Medical Director and offers iv ketamine, iv nutrition and photobiomodulation along with rTMS therapy. She is on the Board of Directors of the Clinical TMS Society. Additionally, Dr. Koo is the Medical Director and Clinical Supervisor atย  Clear Recovery Center. She is an active member of the American Psychiatric Association, the New Center for Psychoanalysis, the Clinical TMS Society, the American Society of Addiction Medicine, the American Society of Ketamine Physicians, the California Psychiatric Society and the Southern California Psychiatric Society. She is also a guest lecturer at the New Center for Psychoanalysis and the Los Angeles Psychoanalytic Society and Institute.

Dr. Simon Faynboym, M.D.

Medical Director South Torrance & Long Beach

Dr. Simon Faynboym was born in Ukraine and immigrated to California at a very young age. Growing up in California, he had a drive to serve the underprivileged and decided to become a physician. Dr. Faynboym currently practices Psychiatry and TMS at Neuro Wellness Spa. Dr. Faynboym earned two Bachelor of Science Degrees, his first in Genetics and the second in Food Biochemistry. He graduated in the top of his class and continued thereafter to get his masters training in Biomedical Sciences at Midwestern University for a year, before heading off to Medical School.

Dr. Faynboym attended Medical School at SGU School of Medicine with clinical rotations in New York and California. Dr. Faynboym then attended Indiana University School of Medicine-Purdue University Indianapolis Hospital System for his internship and residency in Psychiatry.

Dr. Faynboym has been politically involved in Indiana State Medical Association leading to his service as a Trustee for several years along with sitting in the House of Delegates for the American Medical Association. Currently he is involved with the Los Angeles County Medical Association, American Psychiatric Association and is a delegate to the California Medical Association.

Dr. Faynboym enjoys being active out doors, in his free time, he likes to go hiking, mountain biking, and doing water activities.

Dr. Josh Lichtman, D.O.

Medical Director Manhattan Beach & North Torrance

Dr. Josh Lichtman has been practicing psychiatry for over 20 years. He is dual board certified in both adult psychiatry and addiction medicine.

He is passionate about mindfulness practice and psychiatry and is constantly trying to blend the two. Although he primarily focuses on TMS and psychopharmacology, he is trained in various modalities of psychotherapy including CBT, DBT, EMDR, and Psychodynamic Psychotherapy. He is a clinical instructor at UCLA, and has been selected to be on the list for Southern California Super Doctors for 2025, 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016, and 2015. He was recently selected to be in the Southern California Super Doctors Hall of Fame. He is the co-author of the best-selling book, โ€œThe Write Methodโ€ which is a self-help journal.

Dr. Todd Hill, D.O.

Medical Director Westlake Village & Encino

While Dr. Todd Hill may be new to Southern California, he has been practicing psychiatry for nearly 20 years and is board certified in General Psychiatry by the American Academy of Psychiatry and Neurology.

Dr. Hill received his undergraduate degree from the University of Kansas and a Master’s in Biology from the University of New Mexico. After meeting his wife Viola, and starting a family of two daughters, Dr. Hill came back to the Midwest where he received his medical degree from the University of Health Sciences-College of Osteopathic Medicine Kansas City. He then attended and completed his residency in General Psychiatry at the University of Kansas Medical Center.

Throughout his medical career, Dr. Hill owned his own private practice for 10 years, was on staff as a consultation psychiatrist for multiple Kansas City hospitals, and served as the Medical Director of Psychiatric Services at one of the largest hospitals in the Kansas City Metro area. Additionally, Dr. Hill served as Assistant Professor and Department Chair of Psychiatry at his alma mater, Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences.

Dr. Hill believes in common sense psychiatry and cutting-edge treatment alternatives, which includes providing patients with as much information as possible about their illness. His own personal philosophy when approaching patient care is โ€œwith more education, there would be less medication.โ€

Dr. Hill is passionate about removing the stigma that surrounds mental health and has often had the opportunity to spread his message through local television appearances and a recent PBS documentary about mental health in the Midwest titled The Hidden Pandemic. In his free time, Dr. Hill can be found spending time with his family as well as playing and performing music.

Dr. Baback Gabbay, M.D.

Medical Director Westlake Village & Encino

Dr. Baback “Bob” Gabbay received a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree in Economics at UCLA. After obtaining his medical degree (M.D.) at UCLA, he completed residency training in Adult Psychiatry and additional subspecialty training in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center in Torrance, CA. Throughout his professional clear he has garnered extensive experience in Women’s Mental Health and Geriatric Psychiatry, in addition to formal fellowship training in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry.

Over the past 12 years, he has treated diverse patient populations through the UCLA Women’s Clinic, The Help Group, Penny Lane Family treatment centers, Jewish Family Services, Center for Discovery, and most recently has served as the full time Chief Medical Director/Attending Psychiatrist at Destinations for Teens.

His training encompasses the fields of psychotherapy, family therapy, as well as medication assistant management to treat substance use disorders.

In his spare time, he enjoys swimming, jogging with his puppy (Joey), singing karaoke, public speaking, and spending time with his family. His children have been known to chuckle at his eclectic Spotify playlist.

Dr. Alexa Hall, M.D.

Medical Director Santa Monica & Beverly Hills

Dr. Alexa Hall, M.D. was born and raised in New England. She obtained her B.S. in Biology from Providence College and her M.D. from Saint Louis University School of Medicine. She then completed her general psychiatry residency at Harvard South Shore in Massachusetts with clinical training throughout many affiliated hospitals of Harvard Medical School and the Veterans Affairs Boston Healthcare System.

During her residency training, Dr. Hall developed a strong interest in providing high quality, evidence-based care for her patients and spent significant time mentoring and teaching peers. She understands mental health care is not one-size-fits-all, and while collaborating with a patient and the rest of their care team, she helps create for them a personalized treatment plan in line with their values.

Her passion for outpatient psychiatry has led her to the West Coast and Neuro Wellness Spa.

Dr. Frances Javier, M.D.

Medical Director Marina del Rey

Dr. Frances Javier graduated from UCLA with a degree in Psychobiology, Magna Cum Laude, Phi Beta Kappa, Departmental Highest Honors. She then spent a decade at the Yale School of Medicine for her medical education and training and currently holds a Community Faculty position at the Yale Child Study Center.

After earning her MD with thesis degree, Dr. Javier joined the Yale Solnit Integrated Child/Adult Psychiatry Program for a combined adult psychiatry residency and child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship. She was the first Solnit Integrated fellow to complete an additional fellowship in interventional psychiatry with the Yale Interventional Psychiatry Service, receiving subspecialized training in TMS, IV ketamine, intranasal esketamine and ECT. On her final year of training, Dr. Javier was conferred the John E. Schowalter Chief Resident Award for outstanding service as a chief resident. It is her hope that being dual fellowship-trained in child/adolescent and interventional psychiatry would broaden her expertise in extending non-pharmacological, biological therapies to those in need across the lifespan.

Dr. Javier aims to decrease the stigma and barriers to care for some of the most effective and cutting-edge treatments available in psychiatry (i.e., TMS, ketamine, esketamine, etc.), which is a shared goal of Neuro Wellness Spa. Having grown up in Los Angeles, this is homecoming for Dr. Javier after a stint in the Northeast.

Dr. Haiyan Wang, M.D.

Medical Director Crenshaw

Dr. Haiyan Wang completed the first three years of her adult psychiatry residency atย St. Elizabethโ€™s Hospitalย in Washington D.C. She completed her child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship atย New York University. NYU is one of the nationโ€™s leading institutes in childrenโ€™s mental health. She has also received psychoanalytical training fromย Washington Baltimore Psychoanalytic Institute. Dr. Wang also holds a masterโ€™s degree from theย University of Connecticutย in Physiology and Neurobiology. Prior to her residency and fellowship, she invested years in psychiatric and neuroscience research and published journal articles.

Dr. Haiyan Wang is particularly passionate about diagnosing and practicing evidence-based treatments in children,ย adolescentsย and young adults who have anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), depression, mood disorder, PTSD,ย ADHD, disruptive behavior, and psychosis as well as providing parenting and behavioral strategies.

She has extensive experience working with OCD and anxiety patients and has been severed as an expert in such areas by providing care to patients throughout the U.S. due to their severe OCD and anxiety symptoms.ย  She provides routine complex medication management and guidance for behavioral interventions such as ERP and CBT. Dr. Haiyan Wang has been actively involved in mentoring the next generations of mental health providers and provides peer consults for OCD and anxiety treatment for children, adolescents and adults.

She has a thorough knowledge of the neuroscience related to psychiatric illnesses. She stays up to date with current research on those topics.

Dr. Jahan Khan, M.D.

Medical Director Pasadena

Jahanzeb Khan MD, was born in Karachi, Pakistan but grew up in the Chicagoland area. He attended Northern Illinois University where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Biology with a minor in Psychology, English, and Chemistry. Subsequently, he attended Windsor University School of Medicine and upon graduation he joined the General/Adult Psychiatry Residency Program at the University of Toledo Medical Center. He then went on to attend University Hospitals, Case Western Reserve University, where he did 2 fellowships in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Community and Public Mental Health Psychiatry. He later joined as faculty at the University of Mississippi Medical Center.

He has served in various leadership roles such as Chief Resident, Medical Director of Psychiatric Emergency Services, Medical Director of inpatient psychiatric pediatric unit, Medical Director of consultation and liaison service, Medical Director of pediatric outpatient services, Division Chief of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, and Program Director of Adult Psychiatry Residency Program. He enjoys working in the clinical setting which fostered his experiences in scholarly, academic, and administrative domains.

He is passionate about teaching and working to provide the best interventions to those in need. He has diverse background working in collaborative settings on multidisciplinary teams consisting of but not limited to nurse practitioners, residents, fellows, medical students, and patient advocates. He appreciates the responsibilities of being involved in people’s care and is determined to help provide the best care possible as a Neuro Wellness Spa provider.

Dr. Francis Shih, M.D.

Medical Director Orange County

Dr. Francis Shih completed his adult, adolescent and child psychiatry training at UCLA Neuropsychiatric Institute and has practiced integrative psychiatry for over 20 years.ย  He attended UCLA majoring in psychobiology and University of Vermont College of Medicine for his medical degree.ย  Atย  Neuro Wellness Spa, Dr. Shih brings quality compassionate care with a focus on enhancing resilience and potential.ย ย 

On a personal note, Dr. Shih was named after the city he was born in, San Francisco.ย  He grew up in the Midwest and Orange County, but also lived in Los Angeles, New England and the Seattle area.ย  With his free time, Dr. Shih enjoys exploring the diversity of food and culture with his family and friends.ย ย 

Psychiatry & TMS Team

Quy Pham, PMHNP

Nurse Practitioner South Torrance

Quy Pham was born and raised in Orange County, California. His parents immigrated from Vietnam in 1984 and they taught him the importance of service and working with underserved populations. Quy has been practicing in the mental health field for over seven years. He believes in the importance of dispelling the shame and stigma that has been attached to mental health through education and advocacy. Quy’s goal as a practitioner is to help patients reach their goals and achieve a higher quality of life. In his free time, Quy enjoys traveling and trying new food. He strives to visit as many countries as he can and take advantage of what life has to offer.

Samaneh Fanaeian, PMHNP

Nurse Practitioner Santa Monica

Samaneh Fanaeian is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who graduated from Walden University. Samaneh has been in the mental health field for over five years has experience working with both adolescents and adults. She completed her Bachelors of Science at Chamberlain University and received her Masters of Science in Psychiatry from Walden University.

Samaneh uses a collaborative and holistic approach to address biological, psychological, and social factors that impact a clientโ€™s health. She utilizes mindfulness and cognitive behavioral therapy to meet the needs of every client in their own unique way. In addition, she is a member of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners and the American Psychiatric Nurses Association.

Samaneh believes that one of the most crucial factors in becoming an effective Advanced Practice Nurse is promoting hope to individuals and families with mental illnesses, to instill self-responsibility and empowerment, and in helping individuals living with mental illness seek a meaningful role in life. With this, she hopes to help clients meet their goals and live the life they value and desire.ย Samaneh offers services in English and Farsi.

Paul Choi, PMHNP

Nurse Practitioner Manhattan Beach

Paul Choi is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and also holds a Board Certification for Family Practice. With over a decade of experience as a nurse practitioner and registered nurse, Paul brings a holistic approach to patients of all ages, socioeconomic backgrounds, ethnicities, and sexual identities. He firmly believes that quality mental health needs to be easily accessible. Paul emphasizes the importance of incorporating the recovery model into his day-to-day practice. He provides compassionate care that is evidence-based and personalized to each client’s needs.
Paul speaks fluent Korean and enjoys playing with his child in his free time.

Anthony Marcaida, PMHNP

Nurse Practitioner Beverly Hills

Anthony Marcaidaย is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner with a Masterโ€™s degree from Walden University. Born and raised in Los Angeles,ย Anthonyย has a professional healthcare background spanning almost 15 years of adult and geriatric nursing between various settings from emergency to critical care, and in recent years focusing on mental health.

As a Los Angeles native, he witnessed first hand how the drastic lack of attention towards mental health within the community can lead to unnecessary physical and mental disability resulting in a poor quality of life. With a passion and dedication towards the field of mental health,ย Anthonyโ€™s goal is to greatly improve society with each patient encounter.

In his free time,ย Anthonyย enjoys exercising, seasonal outdoor activities and being one with nature.

Araceli Lozano, PMHNP

Nurse Practitioner North Torrance

Araceli Lozano is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with a Master and Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Indiana Wesleyan University. Before pursuing nursing, she served on active duty in the U.S. Army after which she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from New Mexico State University.

As a combat veteran and first-generation Mexican American, Araceli has lived through unique experiences which have helped her develop a solid understanding of the diverse needs of people from various cultures and backgrounds. Her passion is working in mental health and helping people meet their goals through individualized pharmacological and psychotherapeutic interventions. She is fluent in English and Spanish.

Prior to earning her degree as a nurse practitioner, Araceli worked as a registered nurse in an inpatient psychiatric hospital and on medical-surgical units in Indiana. Her clinical experience as a nurse practitioner started with the geriatric population in nursing homes and assisted living facilities and has more recently been in the outpatient setting providing treatment for individuals with a wide range of psychiatric comorbidities.

Izunna Ewudo, PMHNP

Nurse Practitioner Marina del Rey

Izunna Ewudo is a doctoral-prepared, dually Board-Certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who embodies a unique blend of expertise and genuine care in his patient interactions. Born and raised in Los Angeles and with a rich heritage as a Nigerian-American, Izunno brings a unique perspective to his practice, embracing cultural diversity and valuing the experiences it offers. He obtained his Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from Brandman University, his Master of Science in Nursing and post-master certification in Family Nurse Practitioner from Charles Drew University, and his Bachelor of Science in Health Science from California State University, Los Angeles.

He has been in healthcare since 2015 and has a broad background in treating mild to severe psychiatric disorders in various settings, including inpatient psychiatry, intensive outpatient psychiatry, telemedicine, and primary care, serving patients from all walks of life.

His whole-person approach to patient care is marked by a deep understanding of the interconnectedness of the clientโ€™s mental, physical, and social well-being. He is passionate about quality patient care and collaboratively develops tailored treatment plans for clientsโ€™ specific needs. He focuses on actively involving clients in their healthcare decisions to help them think, feel, and be at their best so they may continue to thrive in life.

Izunna is active in the California and American Association of Nurse Practitioners and speaks Igbo. In his free time, you can find him either at the gym working towards his new physical goal, traveling,ย  spending time with his friends and family, dancing to music, or outdoors holding up a camera.

Marissa Chantorn, PMHNP

Nurse Practitioner Pasadena

Marissa Chantorn is a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with a Master of Science degree from Yale University and a Bachelor of Science in General Biology from University of California, San Diego. She has inpatient psychiatric nursing experience in dual diagnosis, adult, and pediatric populations. Her clinical experience includes consult psychiatry for the medical floors of Yale New Haven Hospital and medication management for a pediatric outpatient FQHC in Hartford, CT.

As a first generation Asian American, Marissa recognizes the importance of understanding the roles a personโ€™s ethnic, racial, sexual, and gender identity play in caring for their mental health. She believes in the necessity of fostering a generation of providers who are culturally sensitive and informed. She is honored to be a part of the complex journey towards mental wellness and clarity.

Marissa is an active member of the Sigma Theta Tau Honors Society and the American Psychiatric Nurses Association. In her free time she enjoys frequenting cafes, trying new restaurants, reading contemporary fiction, and spending time with her two cozy cats.

Esther Lee, PMHNP

Nurse Practitioner Encino

Esther Lee, PMHNP is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Masterโ€™s of Science in Nursing from California State University, Dominguez Hills and post masterโ€™s degree from West Coast University. She received her Bachelorโ€™s of Arts in Psychology at University of California, San Diego and Bachelors of Science in Nursing from Mount St. Maryโ€™s University. Esther has extensive experience in inpatient and outpatient care of all ages. She has worked in a variety of settings with a strong critical care background, working with cardiac and pre/post transplant patients.ย 

Growing up in Los Angeles as a first generation Asian American, Esther understands the significance of how a personโ€™s racial, cultural, economic and sexual identity affects their mental health care. She advocates for cultivating a generation of culturally sensitive and knowledgeable providers. She is a strong advocate for making premium mental health care accessible and affordable.ย Esther embraces a comprehensive approach to patient care and is dedicated to patient-centered care. She is committed to providing holistic care through collaborative and integrative treatments. She hopes to empower patients by working closely with them to achieve their goals.

During her free time, she enjoys outdoor activities with her dog and spending quality time with family and friends.

Molly Hanna, PMHNP

Nurse Practitioner Marina del Rey

Molly Hanna is a skilled Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of diverse nursing experience, from critical care to geropsychiatry. She utilizes evidence-based practice and collaborative care to treat a variety of psychiatric conditions. She is passionate about challenging systemic factors that contribute to mental health disparities through her involvement with various grassroots organizations such as NAMI. She prioritizes building kind and compassionate connections with patients, ensuring they feel safe and validated over the course of their care.

Molly holds a bachelorโ€™s degree in Exercise Science and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Rochester, where she graduated magna cum laude. She completed a nurse residency program at Georgetown University Hospital, training in the Neuroscience Intensive Care Unit. She earned her masterโ€™s degree from the University of Rochester, where she was selected as An HRSA grant recipient to participate in the development of a trauma-informed care curriculum on campus. She is passionate about trauma informed policies and programs and incorporates resilience-building approaches into practice, to address adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and improve clinical outcomes.

Molly is an active member of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners and Sigma Theta Tau, the International Honor Society of Nursing. In her free time, she enjoys simple pleasures such as a good cup of coffee, walks, and cozy snuggles with her pups.

Paula Martin, PMHNP

Nurse Practitioner Crenshaw

Paula Martin is a compassionate Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with experience spanning diverse settings and a have solid foundation in trauma-informed practices.

She initiated her professional journey in the field of Behavioral and Mental Health in an acute inpatient setting where she gained experience in caring for adult individuals suffering from psychiatric and substance use disorders. She furthered her expertise and practical skills and subsequently joined a team at a childrenโ€™s hospital in an inpatient mental health unit specializing in delivering trauma-informed care to children and adolescents grappling with psychiatric disorders and/or adverse childhood experiences. In addition, she gained some experience in a crisis stabilization unit working with adults and adolescents. The experience gained at these facilities served as her primary motivation to pursue graduate studies and become a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner to better care and advocate for those with mental health disorders. Afterwards, she then proceeded to work as a PMHNP with adults in detox, residential, PHP/IOP, and outpatient settings helping those with mental health and substance use disorders.ย 

Paula believes that collaborative treatment with psychiatrists and other mental health care providers is critical to a holistic treatment strategy. She also believes that it is very vital to serve every client and their loved ones with the utmost respect and dignity.ย 

Brittany Skinner, PMHNP

Nurse Practitioner Crenshaw

Brittany is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She was born and raised in a small town in Missouri before she came to California as a travel nurse. Brittany has an extensive critical care background as well as a background in psychiatry and addiction medicine, and she believes in staying up-to-date with all the newest technology and medications to find what truly works best for her patients. Having trained in large metropolitan areas as well as rural communities, it is her passion to provide affordable, quality mental health care to those in all areas. Brittany is active in the American Psychiatric Nurses Association andย  American Nurses Association of California as well the American Association of Nurse Practitioners. In her free time, Brittany can be found traveling, enjoying the outdoors or with her dog at the dog park.

Rica Beck, PMHNP

Nurse Practitioner Brea

Rica Beck is a dual-certified Family and Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 16 years of diverse clinical experience, offering a unique blend of expertise across family medicine and behavioral health. A graduate of both Azusa Pacific University and Western University of Health Sciences, Rica has devoted her career to addressing the complex needs of individuals across the lifespan.

In her most recent role, Rica served at an outpatient community clinic, providing essential healthcare services to medically underserved and uninsured populations. Her compassionate, patient-centered approach bridges the gap between physical and mental well-being, ensuring holistic care for vulnerable communities.

Ricaโ€™s clinical expertise lies in the treatment of depression, trauma, stress-related conditions, psychotic and mood disorders. She is deeply committed to empowering patients through evidence-based care, fostering resilience, and transforming lives. With a passion for advocacy and an unwavering dedication to health equity, Rica Beck stands at the forefront of integrated care, driving meaningful change in healthcare delivery.

Samantha McKinnon, PMHNP

Nurse Practitioner North Torrance

Samantha McKinnon is a dual-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) and family nurse practitioner (FNP) with 14 years of nursing experience caring for patients of all ages. She completed her bachelorโ€™s and masterโ€™s degrees in nursing at The University of Texas and her post-masterโ€™s psychiatric mental health certification at Johns Hopkins University.

Samantha is dedicated to understanding each patientโ€™s story, ensuring they feel valued, supported and heard. She believes in a holistic and collaborative approach, working alongside her patients to create personalized plans for long term mental wellness with an emphasis on the whole person. Committed to providing the best care possible to her patients, Samantha also pursues the latest advancements in treatments and health technology through ongoing education.

Outside of work, Samantha enjoys traveling with her husband and their two children, exploring new restaurants, spending lazy days at the beach, and diving into a good book.

Danica Trinidad, PMHNP

Nurse Practitioner Westlake Village

Danica Trinidad is a dual certified Acute Care Adult and Gerontology and Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 15 years of diverse clinical experience. She is experienced in inpatient and outpatient care of all ages. She has worked in a variety of settings with and has a strong background in critical care as well as mental health, and education. Danica believes in holistic care, treating the whole person, and not just symptoms. Her approach to patient care includes integrating medication management, psychotherapy, lifestyle modifications, and patient education. In her free time, Danica likes to go hiking and exploring unique locations in different states.

Monique Acosta, PMHNP

Nurse Practitioner Santa Monica

Monique Acosta is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a masterโ€™s degree from Charles R. Drew University. Monique has over 15 yearsโ€™ experience in oncology nursing which has cultivated a deep understanding of holistic, patient-centered care, particularly in managing complex and emotionally challenging health conditions. Monique is defined by her commitment to supporting patients and their families through some of the most vulnerable moments in their lives.

As a member of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association, Monique is dedicated to advancing the field of mental health through evidence-based practice, education, and advocacy. She brings a compassionate approach and a wealth of clinical expertise to address a variety of mental health challenges. She is passionate about integrating her oncology background with psychiatric care, recognizing the intricate connection between physical and mental wellbeing. Her approach emphasizes empathy and collaboration that empowers individuals on their journey toward recovery and resilience.

In her free time, Monique enjoys reading, staying active by going to Orangetheory Fitness, and unwinding with thrilling dramas and suspenseful movies.

Denis Grigorov, PMHNP

Nurse Practitioner Long Beach

Denis is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a Masterโ€™s degree in Nursing from Cal State University Long Beach and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Arizona State University. He has completed a post-graduate PMHNP residency program at West LA at the Veterans Affairs (VA).

A proud graduate of the U.S. Air Force Academy, Denis served as a Captain in the United States Air Force for 10 years where he developed a strong passion for supporting the vulnerable veteran population.

Specializing in depression, anxiety, insomnia and PTSD, Denis provides patient-centered, individualized care that empowers clients to take an active role in their healing journey. Committed to reducing the stigma surrounding the mental health, he strives to make treatment accessible, inclusive, and culturally sensitive.

Tanisha McLean, PMHNP

Nurse Practitioner Crenshaw

Tanisha McLean is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who is dedicated to supporting individuals of all ages throughout their mental health journeys. Raised in Los Angeles, CA, Tanisha brings over eight years of experience in behavioral and mental health, allowing her to understand the needs of people from diverse cultures and backgrounds across the lifespan. She provides trauma-informed care and evidence-based treatment for a variety of conditions, including mood disorders, anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, and substance use disorders.

Her professional experience includes working with children, adolescents, adults, and geriatric patients in diverse clinical settings, both inpatient and outpatient. She has collaborated closely with multidisciplinary teams to provide patient-centered care that addresses the unique needs of each individual. Known for her empathetic approach and clinical skills, Tanisha strives to create a safe, supportive environment for patients and their families.

Tanishaโ€™s motivation to become a nurse practitioner stems from her desire to help others through their most challenging times, offering them guidance, understanding, and hope.

She is committed to fostering resilience and wellness in every patient she serves, empowering them to lead healthier and fulfilling lives.

Outside of her work, Tanisha enjoys spending time hiking outdoors, experiencing new foods, and exploring new activities with friends and family. She believes in the importance of balance and self-care, principles she incorporates into her practice to promote a holistic well-being.

Halim Shariff, PMHNP

Nurse Practitioner Encino

Halim Shariff is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a passion for providing comprehensive mental health care to individuals across the lifespan. With a strong foundation in both nursing and psychiatry, Halim offers evidence-based treatment for a variety of mental health concerns, including mood disorders, anxiety, major depressive disorder, trauma, and substance use disorders.

Halim graduated Magna Cum Laude from Maryville University and earned a Masterโ€™s degree in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing. Halim also has a Masters of Nursing Leadership from Western Governors University and a Bachelors of Science in Nursing from Oakland University. Halim is committed to a holistic approach to mental health care, emphasizing collaboration with patients and other healthcare providers to create individualized treatment plans that promote long-term well-being.

Halim Shariff is also dedicated to staying current with advancements in psychiatric care, attending ongoing professional development opportunities and engaging in research to ensure the highest quality care for patients. As a compassionate and patient-centered provider, Halim Shariff works closely with patients to foster trust and support their journey toward mental wellness.

Jamie Waarbroek, PMHNP

Nurse Practitioner Pasadena

As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a master’s degree from Charles Drew University, Jamie has a deep passion for improving both mental health and physical well-being. Jamie has been in medicine since 2009, first as a Registered Nurse and now as a PMHNP, where she has extensive experience in intensive care, perianesthesia, and trauma psychiatric care across all age groups, from pediatrics to adults. This diverse clinical background allows her to approach each patientโ€™s care with a comprehensive perspective, integrating the latest evidence-based practices to provide the highest standard of care.

Jamie is a proud member of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association and continuously stays up to date with the best evidence-based practices in psychiatric care. Her goal is to empower and support her patients on their mental health journey with compassionate, personalized care.

When not working, Jamie is a mother of two young children, and loves spending her weekends with family. Staying active is a big part of her life, and she enjoys skiing, running, and hiking. These activities help Jamie to maintain a healthy balance between work and personal life, ensuring that she can give her best to both her patients and her loved ones.

Kelly Hobbs, PMHNP

Nurse Practitioner Pasadena

Kelly Hobbs is a compassionate and empathetic board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with over 7 years of pediatric nursing experience spanning across the inpatient and outpatient settings. Kelly is passionate about delivering inclusive and affirming care to patients of all socioeconomic backgrounds, ethnicities, sexual identities, and gender identities. Her goal is to make patients and families feel safe, heard, and supported as they work together to develop a holistic plan of care.

Kelly is a Los Angeles native who holds a bachelorโ€™s in marketing, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Mount Saint Maryโ€™s University, and a Masterโ€™s Degree in Nursing from Ohio University. Her nursing career began with the Pediatric RN residency program at Childrenโ€™s Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA), where she went on to work in post-operative care and acute inpatient care. She transitioned to CHLAโ€™s outpatient behavioral health clinic post-pandemic, spending 4+ years working closely with patients and families during an ever-growing mental health crisis. She has experience with numerous developmental, behavioral, and psychiatric disorders such as ADHD, anxiety, and depression.

Kellyโ€™s psychiatric training was across the lifespan, including her passion in child and adolescent psychiatry at the Department of Mental Health outpatient clinic at CHLA. She believes all youth deserve the opportunity to improve their mental health and thrive as their best and most authentic selves.

In her free time, Kelly enjoys hiking, traveling, coffee, and spending time with her fluffy white husky, Mochi.

Nick Triviso, PMHNP

Nurse Practitioner South Torrance

Nick is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with both a Masterโ€™s and Bachelorโ€™s in Nursing from West Coast University and Azusa Pacific University, respectively. Since 2019, Nick has worked in various acute healthcare settings in the greater Los Angeles area. His accumulated expertise in severe-phase psychiatric care spanning all age groups has led to a deep passion for enriching clientโ€™s mental and physical well-being. The culmination of his extensive clinical background allows Nick to approach patient care with a comprehensive framework, integrating client-centered based practices to provide the highest standard of care.

Nick is deeply devoted to providing culturally sensitive and holistic care to a diverse patient population by inviting clients to receive mental health support in safe, non-judgmental environment. As a member of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association (APNA), Nick is committed to ongoing skill expansion and remains current in the latest evidence-based practices โ€“ensuring his patients receive the most cutting-edge treatments available.

Outside of his work, Nick enjoys sports, exercising, traveling, and spending quality time with his French Bulldog (Frenchie) and loved ones.

Shaina Goelman, LMFT

Care Coordinator

Shaina Goelman is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.ย Shainaย was born and raised in Los Angeles, California. She got her BA from Emerson College in Boston, Massachusetts.ย Shainaย worked in the entertainment industry for eight years before going back to school to study Psychology. Shainaย received her masters from Pepperdine University in Clinical Psychology.

Shainaย has gained experience as a therapist in residential treatment centers, IOP and PHP programs. Most recently, she was seeing clients in a private practice setting.ย Shainaย believes in a client centered approach and advocates for her clients to ensure theyโ€™re receiving the best care possible.ย Shainaย is trained in EMDR and specializes in perinatal mental health.

In her free time,ย Shainaย enjoys spending time with her baby and dog.

Jennifer Barajas

Clinic Manager Santa Monica & Beverly Hills

Jennifer joins Neuro Wellness Spa with a passion for helping others. With over 15 years of customer service experience, six of those in the medical field, she finds joy in helping others recover with a compassionate and personal understanding of their journey.

When she is not working, Jennifer enjoys spending time with her family, her friends and her pug, Peggy Sue. She loves to cook, and as a Southern California native, she loves the beach, live music and theme parks, especially Disneyland.

Jennifer is excited to bring her drive and understanding to the position and grow with the Neuro Wellness Spa team.

Nyla Jacobs

Clinic Manager Marina del Rey

Nyla, a Los Angeles native, pursued dual majors in psychology and creative studies during college. With over a decade of administrative expertise, she began as an Admin at her current company and advanced to the role of Lead TMS tech. Outside of work, Nyla finds joy in watching superhero movies and crafting engaging social media content.

Tosh Garcia

Clinic Manager South Torrance & Long Beach

Tosh Garcia is a native of Redondo Beach and the South Bay, Tosh began his journey in Behavioral Health in 2007 when he joined the US Army. Initially trained as a Combat Medic, Tosh pivoted and became a Behavioral Health Specialist due to the increased need for behavioral health services.

Tosh then went on to serve as a Behavioral Health Specialist at various locations inside the continental United States including Texas, North Carolina, and Tennessee. Tosh also served in multiple overseas tours including Germany, Hawaii, and Afghanistan.

Tosh has served as a Clinical Manager in various settings including Multi-Disciplinary Behavioral Health, Inpatient Psychiatry, Social Work Services, Combat Operational Stress Control, and the US Army Graduate Medical Education Psychiatry program.

The two things that drive him professionally are taking care of patients and wanting to help others. In his free time, Tosh enjoys nothing more than spending time at the Beach with his two daughters and rescue dog, Tommy, as well as trying new restaurants.

Daniel Shetterly

Office Manager Brea

Daniel Shetterly is an experienced health care professional with a strong background in business operations and a deep passion for patient care. While working most of his young adult life in the health care industry, he has honed proficiency in both clinical and operational settings, focusing on improving patient outcomes while optimizing organizational efficiency.

He is dedicated to destigmatizing mental health by fostering open conversationsย andย advocating for better mental health support in communities. He believes that true healing occurs when patients feel seen, heard,ย andย supported.

A passionate sports enthusiast,ย Danielย draws parallels between teamwork, resilience,ย andย leadership in both the athleticย andย health care arenas. Outside of work, he is a proud “Girl Dad” who believes in being the best father possibleย andย setting an example of love, discipline,ย andย purpose for the next generation.

His professional purpose is clear: to lead by example, continuously grow as both an individualย andย a professional,ย andย serve the community with integrityย andย compassion. Whether leading teams, mentoring colleagues, or advocating for better patient care,ย Danielย is committed to making a positive impact on othersโ€™ livesย andย leading those around him toward success.

Makenna Lawing

Clinic Manager North Torrance & Manhattan Beach

Makenna is passionate about people. She believes that everyone deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential. After growing up in the Inland Empire, Makenna moved to Texas to pursue her degrees: a BA in Psychology and Master of Public Administration. Through a range of health care positions Makenna has honed her spirit for putting people first: the patients and the team that care for them. As clinic manager, her goal is to provide a great working environment that translates to an amazing patient experience.
Outside of work you’ll catch Makenna reading or hanging at the beach, sometimes both! She is excited to be back in California, doing what she loves with Neuro Wellness Spa.

Hamilton Lichtman

TMS Apprentice

Hamilton โ€˜Hamiโ€™ Lichtman splits his time between our North Torrance office and Manhattan Beach office. He is just as passionate about mental health and wellness as the rest of our human staff. Hami is 8 years old and is an Australian Shepherd. When he is not in the office helping with patient care, he loves to go swimming and watch Netflix.

Therapy Team

Sophia Galano, LCSW

Clinical Supervisor – Manhattan Beach

Sophia was born in Los Angeles, raised in London and holds a Masterโ€™s degree in Social Work from New York University. Sophia began forming her private practice under supervision as an Associate Social Worker in 2016. She earned her LCSW in 2018 and now has a full therapy practice, catering to adults and teenagers throughout California. Additionally, Sophia has extensive experience working as a therapist in residential, inpatient, outpatient, medical and educational settings for both adolescents and adults. In conjunction with her role at Neurowellness Spa and running a private practice, Sophia is also a high school counselor.

In addition to her work as a therapist, Sophia is a certified Yoga instructor, Master Reiki Practitioner and volunteers for several non profit organizations. She is also a published author and will be publishing her first book about adolescent anxiety in 2025. Since achieving her LCSW, Sophia completed a Sex Therapy certification from California Institute of Integral Studies, an Animal Assisted Therapy certification from The Animal Behavior Institute and a Forensic Social Work Certification from The National Organization of Forensic Social Work.

License #LCSW87234

Michael Saks, LMFT

Therapist – Encino

Michael is a licensed marriage family therapist, earning a masterโ€™s degree from Antioch University. Michael has over 9 years of experience working in the mental health and addiction fields- spending time working with clients in long-term residential addiction treatment, PHP/IOP, and detox settings. In addition to his work as an addiction therapist, Michael also started a private practice in March, 2022, as an associate therapist and under licensed supervision and has worked as a contracted therapist for addiction treatment centers.ย 

Michael practices therapy through the use of empathetic understanding, malleability, and by taking a โ€œone size does NOT fit allโ€ approach. Michael seeks to help each client strengthen intrapersonal insight and awareness by providing an alternative lens or perspective by which the client may conceptualize his or her past, present, and future. It is Michaelโ€™s philosophy that by exploring the past, we may understand the present, and better plan for the future.ย 

In his free time, Michael enjoys spending time with his two dogs, exercising, cooking, reading, and traveling.

License #LMFT146241

Jonathan Artigue, LMFT

Therapist – Manhattan Beach

Jonathan was born and raised in Gardena, California. Growing up in a culturally diverse neighborhood provided him with a love, appreciation, and comfort in working with people from a wide variety of backgrounds. After working for some time in the trades, he decided to return to school to pursue his lifelong interest in clinical psychology. Jonathan earned his masterโ€™s in marriage and family therapy at Cal State Dominguez Hills, after which he was drawn to work with children and families managing challenges associated with autism and other neurodiversity.

After shifting to working with adults in both residential and outpatient treatment for addiction and co-occurring challenges such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, and many other psychiatric diagnoses, Jonathan developed his mindfulness-based approach to psychotherapy further. With extensive training and over 9 years of experience in using DBT, ACT, and CBT in combination with a humanistic and solution-focused approach, Jonathan applies an integrated and personalized style of therapy from a place of genuine connection and empathy. He believes in meeting his clients where they are while remaining flexible yet focused in his work to assist people in reaching their personal and mental health goals of wellness and fulfillment.

In his free time, Jonathan enjoys spending time with his family and partner exploring southern Californiaโ€™s natural beauty, attending cultural events, and seeing art and live music.

License #LMFT125131

 

Sydney Klatt, LCSW

Therapist – Encino

Sydney Klatt is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). Her areas of focus are the treatment of trauma, anxiety, depression as well as psychedelic integration. Sydney approaches her work from a place of wholeheartedness and compassion, and she believes that the therapy space provides a valuable opportunity to process lifeโ€™s challenges and integrate lifeโ€™s lessons.

Sydney is trained in Somatic Experiencing, Narrative Therapy, CBT, DBT, and Trauma-Focused CBT modalities, as well as Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP). Her work centers the LGBTQIA+ community by providing gender-affirming and queer-positive care. Sydney graduated with her Masterโ€™s in Social Work from CSU Sacramento in 2020 with a previous Bachelorโ€™s in Global Studies from UC Santa Barbara. Outside of the therapy room, she facilitated trauma-focused yoga for 6 years in mental health settings. Sydney brings the principals of yoga and mindfulness into the therapy space by inviting clients to connect with themselves through presence and awareness of physical body and breath. She values the expertise of each personโ€™s lived experience and strives to center clientsโ€™ wisdom of their own unique needs. ย She deeply respects the dignity and worthiness of every human and believes firmly in each personโ€™s innate capacity for growth and healing.

When Sydney isnโ€™t working, she loves to practice yoga, create textile art, and spend as much time around animals as possible.

License #LCSW117736

Christine Johnson, AMFT

Therapist – Manhattan Beach

Christine earned her Masterโ€™s Degree in Clinical Psychology at Antioch University. Her experience working in the mental health and substance use field brings out her passion for Trauma Informed Care. Christine acknowledges the multitude of complexities that come with the human condition and, using authenticity and unwavering compassion, she approaches recovery from a place of empowering her clients.

Christineโ€™s goal is to create a safe, non-judgmental space for healing to unfold. She has a strong foundation in the science of psychology, the study of the brain and nervous system and its capacity to heal and change. Her approach to treatment is client centered and eclectic. Depending on the clientโ€™s goals she may integrate EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, Mindfulness, CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy) and Narrative therapy into her work.

When she is not serving clients you will find her on a Pickleball court, hiking with friends and family or planning her next travel adventure.

License #AMFT144799
Supervised by Sophia Galano, LCSW #LCSW87234

Mava Fakoori, AMFT

Therapist – Encino

Mava is a compassionate and dedicated psychotherapist committed to guiding clients through their transformative journeys with empathy and understanding. With four years of specialized training in psychoanalysis, she brings knowledge and firsthand experience to every therapeutic interaction.

Mava has had roles as a sexual assault and domestic violence counselor. She aims toย provide a safe and supportive space for her clients, enabling them to reconnect with their inner selves. Utilizing psychodynamic therapy, CBT, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, and DBT, Mava tailors each session to meet the unique needs of herย clients. Sheย is a skilled hypnotherapist and has also received specialized training at the Dr. Sue Johnson Institute for Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT).

Mava serves both English and Farsi-speaking clients and in addition to traditional therapeutic approaches, sheย incorporates somatic interventions to address the mind-body connection and promote holistic healing. ย Believing in the innate resilience of individuals, she strives to empower clients to tap into their inner strength and find healing from within.

License #AMFT146156
Supervised by Sophia Galano, LCSW #LCSW87234

Kenichi “Ken” Mekaru, ACSW

Therapist – Manhattan Beach

Ken Mekaru hails from Okinawa, Japan, and is fluent in both English and Japanese. In 2018, Ken graduated from Columbia University in New York City. Since then, Ken has gained extensive experience working in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, intensive outpatient programs (IOP), non-profits, and substance treatment centers.

Ken’s professional journey has involved supporting individuals facing a wide range of challenges, such as HIV and cancer, as well as members of the LGBTQAI+ community. Ken specializes in addressing severe mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder (BPD), and PTSD. Ken’s particular areas of expertise are LGBTQAI+ issues and HIV/AIDS.

License #ACSW112801
Supervised by Sophia Galano, LCSW #LCSW87234

Joseph Toews, AMFT

Therapist – Manhattan Beach

Joseph is an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist . He attained his Masterโ€™s in Clinical Psychology from Azusa Pacific University and his Bachelorโ€™s in Psychology from California State University Long Beach. He has been working in the field since 2019 and has a unique approach to treatment using Attachment Theory and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques tailored to each clientโ€™s individual needs. He prides himself on using a client centered approach to create a relaxed and safe space for his clients to feel heard, understood, and expressed.

He has a genuine caring nature for people and puts an emphasis on building a strong relational foundation with his clients. Joseph has a passion for helping facilitate emotional awareness, insight, and growth with his clients. One of his favorite quotes is โ€œwe do not think ourselves into new ways of living, we live ourselves into new ways of thinking.โ€

Outside of the office, Joseph enjoys everything active from hiking to hockey, beach volleyball, and traveling. Joseph also loves his down time with his cat and enjoys watching docuseries, movies, and a variety of podcasts.

License #AMFT137694
Supervised by Sophia Galano, LCSW #LCSW87234

Brenda Cabrera, LCSW

Therapist – Manhattan Beach

Brenda is a Licensedย Clinical Social Worker who brings a wealth of knowledge and a commitmentย to supporting her client’s well-being. She earned her Master’s in Social Work from New York University.

Brenda’s journey includes working in community-based crisis teams at South Central and performing roles in partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient, and residential programs.ย  Her experience has allowed her to create a space where individuals can feel heard, valued, and empowered to make meaningful life changes. She utilizes a range of therapeuticย modalities, including Dialecticalย Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitiveย Behavioral Therapy, Self-compassion interventions, and Eye Movementย Desensitization and Reprocessing to support individuals seeking helpย withย anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions.

When she is not in the therapy room, Brenda enjoys working out, dancing, and cooking for some personal self-care.

License #LCSW123122

Allison Ciongoli, LMFT

Therapist – Manhattan Beach

Allison earned her Masterโ€™s Degree in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy at Pepperdine University. Her experience working in community mental health and substance use allowed her to cultivate a passion for trauma informed care. Allison understands that wellness is an intricate balancing act and uses an integrative approach to help her clients navigate anxieties, avoid burnout, manage relationships, and heal after trauma.ย 

Allisonโ€™s goal in therapy is to create a nurturing, secure environment where the client can work through the various stressors of daily life and tap into inner resources for presence, resilience, and happiness. Her approach to treatment is client centered and integrates Narrative Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy. This approach ensures that concerns are addressed holistically and goals are worked towards in a balanced and supportive manner. She works together with her clients using their strengths in changing unhelpful patterns and behaviors to rewrite a more authentic story.

When she is not with clients, she likes to cultivate a balanced life by spending quality time with friends and family, cuddling her puppy Maple, and seeking new adventures through travel.

License #LMFT144366

Daniah Hamouda, AMFT

Therapist – Pasadena

Daniahย Hamouda is a compassionate and dedicated Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT) with a unique background and a deep passion for mental health. She holds a graduate degree in Clinical Psychology, specializing in Marriage and Family Therapy, from Pepperdine University. With a commitment to supporting individuals and families through lifeโ€™s challenges,ย Daniahย creates a safe, non-judgmental space where clients can openly explore their emotions and work toward healing and personal growth.

Daniah‘s therapeutic approach is grounded in empathy and a client-centered philosophy, with a strong emphasis on collaboration, resilience, and empowerment. She integrates evidence-based practices, drawing on modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Solution-Focused Therapy to tailor each session to the unique needs and goals of her clients. By combining these techniques with a deep respect for her clients’ personal experiences,ย Daniahย helpsย them gain insight, develop coping strategies, and foster lasting positive change.

When she’s not working, she enjoys traveling, exploring new cultures and languages, and spending time with friends, always seeking new experiences that enrich her understanding of the world and deepen her connection to others.

License #AMFT150453
Supervised by Sophia Galano, LCSW #LCSW87234

Andy Dukeshire, LCSW

Therapist – Encino

Andy Dukeshire is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and is also Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC). Andy has over 17 years of experience in the mental health and substance abuse field, which includes the following settings: Medical Detoxification, Residential and PHP/IOP. In addition to working in the above settings, Andy has his own private practice. Andy has much experience in treating depression, bipolar, anxiety, trauma, life changes, relationship and family issues as well as addictive and other disorders. Andy completed his Bachelorโ€™s in Psychology at Woodbury University and his Masterโ€™s in Social Work at the University of Southern California.

Andy believes therapy is about treating the whole person and the more we can improve each area of a personโ€™s life, the more successful and happier they will be. Andy also believes in utilizing multiple approaches in therapy to not only have his patients receive the most they can, but to also provide relief right away. Types of therapy approaches Andy utilizes is CBT, DBT, Solution Focused/Problem Solving, Self-Care/Coping Strategies, Trauma Resiliency, Psycho-Educational, Process and Insight Orientated, Motivational Interviewing and Grief/Loss.

When Andy isnโ€™t working, he enjoys cooking, roller skating, the arts, watching sports, spending time with friends and family.

Arianna Wheat, LMFT

Therapist – Encino

When life feels overwhelming and isolation creeps in through self-doubt, it’s easy to lose sight of hope. Arianna believes healing begins with connectionโ€”to one’s past, present, and with someone who sees them fully. She is guided by the Ghanaian word, Sankofa, meaning “Go back and fetch it.” This spirit of reflection guides her work. In therapy, she explores the parts of her clients that have been silenced or wounded, reclaiming their wisdom to create a more fulfilling future.

Arianna is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Drama Therapist, and storyteller. Her work focuses on elevating the voices of individuals navigating systemic oppression, including BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and fat-identified folx. Using experiential therapy and creative approaches, she helps clients shed negative self-talk and envision lives filled with self-compassion and joy.

Her clients are courageous individuals who value self-discovery and connection. Together, they use metaphor, symbolism, and play to explore what serves them, release what doesn’t, and nurture the possibility of tomorrow being different from today.

In her free time, Arianna enjoys reading fiction, playing DnD, and going on artist dates. She believes that every life matters, and every story deserves to be heard. She invites clients to write their next chapter together.

George Ramzi, LMFT

Therapist- Pasadena

George is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, earning his Masterโ€™s Degree in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University in 2018 and Bachelorโ€™s in Clinical Psychology from University of California, Santa Barbara. He has been working in the mental health field since 2017 with experience in an array of settings, such as, private practice, FSP/AOT, transitional housing and health clinic.

Georgeโ€™s approach to therapy is casual, practical and direct. He is a big believer in being a partner in the process and shares his own experience to connect and provide a collaborative approach to therapy. He utilizes the power of therapy to promote healing and growth by offering a safe, accepting, and encouraging space for people to be honest about who they are, what theyโ€™ve been through, where they want to be, and how they need to change to get there.

During his free time, George enjoys walking his dog, playing video games with his stepson, a big sports guy; and a huge Lego, Star Wars and Disney fan.

Yoana Urbina, LMFT

Therapist – Pasadena

Yoana Urbina (she/her/ella) is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over seven years of clinical experience specializing in trauma-focused care, anxiety, and depression. Trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), she is passionate about supporting diverse populations, including Latino communities, individuals navigating generational trauma, and those managing chronic health conditions.

Yoana earned her Master of Arts in Psychology with a focus on Marriage and Family Therapy through the Enlaces! program at Mount Saint Maryโ€™s University, which prepared her to serve Spanish-speaking communities with cultural sensitivity and trauma-informed care. While completing her masterโ€™s degree, Yoana gained valuable experience working with families involved in the foster care system, equipping her to provide compassionate support to those navigating complex systems and building stability. She also holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Spanish from the University of California, Merced, beginning her academic journey with an emphasis in Human Biology before discovering her passion for fostering emotional well-being and understanding human behavior.

Her therapeutic approach empowers clients to recognize their innate strengths, achieve their goals, and see the best in themselves. Whether working with individuals, couples, or families, Yoana is committed to creating a supportive and collaborative environment that promotes healing and personal growth. Outside of her professional life, Yoana enjoys exploring her creativity through arts and crafts, traveling, savoring a good cup of coffee, and spending time with her husband, family, and their dog, Nani.

Chris Manno, AMFT

Therapist – Pasadena

Chris Manno specializes in helping clients find liberation from the struggles of; trauma, anxiety & depression, self-sabotage, career pressure, toxic relationships, unrealized life potential and much more. Chris has designed his therapeutic space as a supportive environment for those who need to have conversations that they may not be able to have with anyone else in their life. He firmly believes that even though healing might be difficult and painful, the growth that awaits a person on the other side of the process can be truly beautiful, lasting and often transformational.

Chris received his M.A. in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University. As a therapist, he has accumulated experience in an array of therapeutic modalities and most commonly employs; Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT), Psychodynamic and Existential-Humanistic Therapy. His style often involves supplementing therapy with the teaching of valuable skills, tailored to the specific needs of each client. He also regularly integrates interventions into the process, pulled from his arsenal of mindfulness, meditation and breathwork strategies to help his clients increase connection between their mind and body.

Chris became a therapist after working several years as an entertainment business professional in Los Angeles. His inspiration came after witnessing the exciting new changes taking place within the field of psychology and finding hope in our potential to meet the mental health demands of our modern, 21st century society. Thus, he has a passionate interest in staying up to date on all cutting-edge evidence-based treatments and is also committed to helping clients confront more contemporary concerns such as; technology/social media addiction, disconnection from the community, career burnout, issues of men and masculinity, mental health stigma and narcissistic abuse.

In his leisure time, Chris likes to chill with his two dogs and two cats, practice hatha yoga, listen to electronic music and discover new opportunities for growth and transformation.

Halle Guidi, LPCC

Therapist – Encino

Halle Guidi is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC). Halle focuses on improving an individualโ€™s overall quality of life, and approaches her work from a place of genuineness and compassion. Halle believes that every human being is capable of change and has the opportunity to live out their dreams. It is an honor as a therapist to assist others in the discovery of self. She believes that each human has a unique understanding of self through life experiences, with the ability to discover balance within life while being able to flourish through genuine self-expression.

Halleโ€™s approach as a therapist focuses on understanding the personalized challenges of the individual, couple, and/or family. Her approach is tailored to meeting each person where they are in their journey through empathy, curiosity, education, trust, and safety. She focuses and specializes in Trauma, Grief Therapy, Eating Disorders, and Substance Use/Addiction. Halle conceptualizes these disorders as a result of relational/attachment challenges that result in maladaptive coping and functioning. She collaborates with all clients to foster increased awareness and adaptive ways of living and relating to the world around them, while also fostering a true connection to self.

Halle graduated with her Masterโ€™s Degree in Clinical and Community Mental Health Counseling from Saint Bonaventure University in 2019. Previously, she obtained her Bachelorโ€™s of Liberal Arts Psychology Degree for Dโ€™Youville College in Buffalo, New York. In conjunction with Halle’s educational and professional attainment, she is also a certified Reiki and Theta Healing Practitioner. Halle brings these aspects of holistic healing into her work as a Clinical Therapist. She believes in a wholesome, holistic, and individualistic approach with all of her clients.

When Halle isnโ€™t working, she enjoys practicing yoga, hiking new trails, spending time with her dog, and trying new foods.

Jonathan Lee, LCSW

Therapist – Brea

Jonathan is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over five years of experience in the mental health field. He holds a Master of Social Work from Azusa Pacific University and dual bachelor’s degrees in Psychology & Social Behavior and Education Sciences from the University of California, Irvine.

Jonathanโ€™s clinical experience spans diverse settings, including medical social work in a cancer hospital, intensive therapy at a partial hospitalization drug and alcohol rehabilitation program, and comprehensive mental health services within Full-Service Partnership (FSP) community mental health programs. Through these roles, he has supported individuals facing complex medical diagnoses, substance use challenges, and severe and persistent mental health conditions.

As a trauma-informed therapist, Jonathanโ€™s mission is to empower individuals in navigating lifeโ€™s challenges and traumatic experiences, fostering healing, resilience, and personal growth.

Drawing upon both his professional expertise and experience as a second-generation Asian American, Jonathan is committed to providing a safe, supportive, and culturally responsive space where clients can explore their emotions, identities, and lived experiences with compassion and understanding.

Jonathan has specialized training in eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), trauma-informed cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and exposure and response prevention (ERP). His approach integrates these evidence-based modalities to help clients process and reframe distressing memories, facilitating healing and psychological well-being.

His therapeutic practice is tailored to the unique needs and goals of each individual, emphasizing self-awareness, emotional insight, and the development of effective coping strategies. Through a collaborative and strengths-based approach, Jonathan strives to help clients cultivate healthier patterns and build the resilience needed to navigate lifeโ€™s complexities.

Therese Apontti, LMFT

Therapist – Manhattan Beach

Therese Apontti is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) raised in Los Angeles. She believes everyone is capable of change and is passionate in assisting others reach their highest potential. Therese believes that the door to what we seek starts with self-love, and that the more we learn how to give ourselves the love we need, the greater we can show up in our lives and for others.

Therese creates a safe and warm place for clients to be themselves so that they may feel safe to explore ways to live even more authentically. She approaches therapy from a holistic lens through compassion, curiosity, and acceptance. Therese meets clients where they are, helping them to uncover patterns where they feel stuck, and with gentleness and accountability, collaborates with clients in taking action steps that align with their values.

Therese is trained in evidence-based practices such as CBT, IPT, Motivational Interviewing, and Procovery. She combines mindfulness and somatic practices, meditation, acceptance and commitment therapy, and trauma informed care. She graduated with her Masterโ€™s in Marriage and Family Therapy from USC with a previous Bachelorโ€™s in Psychology from UC Santa Cruz. She has 10 years of experience in the field working in community mental health with children and families, group home for at-risk teen girls, addiction residential treatment center for adults, IOP, those impacted by homelessness, as well as spiritual retreat centers. Therese is a supporter and ally to the BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ communities. When Therese isnโ€™t working, she enjoys smelling the roses and saying hello to pups, hot yoga, jazz dance, musical theater, meditating, and talking about life over a cup of coffee.

Jessie Brucki, LMFT

Therapist – Brea

Jessie holds a Master’s degree in Applied Human Development and Family Science with a specialization in Marriage and Family Therapy from Northern Illinois University. With Jessieโ€™s specialized training in trauma-informed care and experience working in community mental health, she is able to support clients in processing their past experiences in a safe and compassionate space.

Jessie utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution Focused Therapy in her work with clients, helping them develop practical coping strategies, challenge negative thought patterns, and create meaningful change. In addition to working in the community mental health space, Jessie also has previous experience working in private practice and providing therapy services to couples, children, and families to improve communication and strengthen relationships. Whether addressing anxiety, relationship struggles, family dynamics, or personal growth, Jessie combines her skills and experiences to provide thoughtful guidance that is tailored to your unique goals and needs.

Outside of her work, Jessie enjoys staying active, experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen, attending book club events, and traveling.

Jessie understands that seeking therapy is a courageous step, and she is dedicated to fostering a warm, collaborative environment where clients feel heard, valued, and empowered. She looks forward to walking alongside her clients as they create meaningful change and build fulfilling lives.

Amy McNerney, AMFT

Therapist – Brea

Amy McNerney is an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT) that has spent almost two decades healing patients and developing a profound understanding of the unique challenges individuals face in their journey towards self-discovery. Her approach combines evidence-based, trauma-focused therapy and alternative healing modalities with neuroscience-based cognitive techniques, specifically tailored toward each patient.ย 

Amy invites you to embark on a journey of growth and empowerment, unlocking your full potential and nurturing your true self. Her therapeutic framework guides people through the universal challenges of the human experience with grace and integrity. She emphasizes a collaborative approach to deepening self-awareness through the practice of Loving Inquiry, helping you live, move, and experience the highest version of yourself.

Administrative Team

Michael Joly

Chief Executive Officer

Michael Joly is the COO of Neuro Wellness Spa, with over 20 years of experience in mental health recovery. Mike has devoted his entire career to helping individuals and their families heal and recover from substance abuse and co-occurring disorders.

His passion for recovery is unparalleled. He has built a wealth of knowledge and experience that translates across many disciplines.

Mike is actively involved in bringing community awareness to living a positive and healthy lifestyle by working as a substance abuse and prevention consultant to various educational and healthcare systems. His expertise has provided him guest appearances in major media outlets throughout the United States. Mike is also a prominent figure in the South Bay recovery community. He is heavily involved with numerous non-profits and gives back through a variety of impactful organizations. Mikeโ€™s experience and love of helping others allow him to bring his own unique brand of passion, enthusiasm and warmth to prospective clients and their families.

Chris Mijares

Chief Financial Officer

Emily Pedersen, MPH, MEd

Executive Director of Operations

Emily Pedersen is the Director of Clinical Development for Neuro Wellness Spa. She holds a Masterโ€™s degree in Education and a Master of Public Health degree with a certificate in health inequities from Johns Hopkins University.

As a former educator with a strong professional background in public health research, Emily has extensive experience partnering with communities to improve health and educational outcomes. She has served as a teacher, team-lead and professional curriculum developer for Baltimore City Public Schools as well as a senior research coordinator for the Johns Hopkins Department of Epidemiology.

Emily is passionate about reducing disparities in health care. She finds nothing more rewarding than meeting with local practitioners, developing partnerships, solving problems and increasing access to services, particularly for those in need of compassionate mental health treatment.

Greg Kettelkamp

Director of Operations

Greg Kettelkamp attended Chico State University with a focus on Mechanical Engineering. He found himself drawn to helping people rather than engineering after he left college.

Greg has many years of experience in both business and customer service that make him very effective with both clients and problem-solving day to day business matters. He believes that a personal touch is necessary to make sure that all customers feel they are heard and well taken care of.

In his free time Greg enjoys going to the gym, spending time with family and loved ones, and anything that has to do with sports. The greatest joy in his life is spending time with his wife Jessica, and her daughter Skylar.

Howard Barker, B.S.

Director of Business Development

Howard Barker works to engage, educate, and support the South Bay community for Neuro Wellness Spa. He is focused on spreading education and awareness on issues surrounding mental health and substance abuse as well as helping families navigate the difficult waters of getting a loved one help. Howard has spent the past 7 years working with young adults and their families, being a support during times of crisis.

Kirsten Uppercue

Payor Relations Manager

Kirsten is the Payor Relations Manager at Clear Behavioral Health, bringing eight years of experience in the behavioral health industry. She is dedicated to strengthening relationships with insurance providers, making it easier for patients to access the care they need. Passionate about care coordination and improving patient outcomes, she works to bridge the gap between payors, providers, and those seeking care. Outside of work, Kirsten enjoys traveling, yoga, surfing, meditation, and spending time outdoors in the sun.

Jennifer Minton

Talent Acquisition Specialist

Jennifer Minton is the Talent Acquisition Specialist at Neuro Wellness Spa. A native of Southern California, Jen graduated from Harbor College and brings over 20 years of clinical care experience as a dental, medical and surgical assistant to her role.

Having worked in both private practice and hospital settings with diverse patient populations, Jennifer is an expert in comprehensive patient care.

As a former clinical manager and rTMS Technician she has over 10 years of experience with rTMS. She is fully trained in the application of Magventure, Neurostar TMS and Brainsway deep TMS Therapy as well as MeRT TMS therapy. Jennifer is ACLS, BLS and CPR certified.

She finds nothing more rewarding than meeting with local practitioners, developing partnerships, solving problems and increasing access to services, particularly for those in need of compassionate mental health treatment.

In her free time, she spends time with her family including her senior pit bull, Athena. She loves spending time outdoors and traveling.

Daisy Lengkong

Community Relations Manager

Daisy Lengkong has nearly two decades of extensive experience in the medical field. Her background encompasses various specialties in the healthcare arenaโ€“from Cedars-Sinai, Sollis Health, Glendale Adventist, among many others. From orthopedic spine, bone cancer surgery, bariatric surgery, gastrointestinal diseases to urgent care/ER clinics, she possesses wide-ranging knowledge of diseases and care. In addition, she has managed operations for various specialty offices. Her commitment to high-touch customer service combined with her experience in managing operations has given her a broader view of the comprehensive plan and quality of care necessary for patients from all walks of life.

She shares the same beliefs of Jay Shetty in which he says, “Yourย passion becomes a purpose when you use it to serve others.โ€

Daisy loves to travel and spend time with her family and friends. Anywhere with a warm climate-like the Caribbean-are her favorite places to visit. She also enjoys trying new restaurants, hiking Runyon Canyon, and touring museums and galleries whenever she can.

Colby Hunsaker

TMS Admissions Manager

Colby serves as the TMS Admissions Manager at Neuro Wellness Spa, bringing 12 years of customer service experience to build strong, compassionate relationships with patients seeking mental health services. He has served in several roles at Neuro Wellness Spa, including as a TMS technician, where he developed a deep understanding of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) therapy. Colby is passionate about providing empathetic and supportive care, ensuring that every patient feels understood and valued. Currently pursuing a nursing degree, he is committed to further enhancing his expertise to make a more significant impact within the healthcare field.

Outside of his professional and academic pursuits, he enjoys staying active through exercise, cooking, and travel. He has a love for live music events and exploring new restaurants with diverse cuisines. A firm believer in holistic well-being, he is dedicated to his personal and professional growth while inspiring and supporting others to do the same.

Sydney Garrett

Psychiatry Admissions Manager

Sydney serves as the Psychiatry Admissions Manager at Neuro Wellness Spa, known for her compassionate and patient-focused approach to care. With a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, she firmly believes that mental health is just as important as physical health, and she is dedicated to helping individuals navigate their journey toward wellness.

A native of Los Angeles, Sydney enjoys cooking, traveling, watching football, and cherishing quality time with her family. Her passion for mental health, coupled with her personal warmth, allows her to make a meaningful impact on those she serves.

• • Testimonials • •

What Our Patients Are Saying

  • My Life Started To Turn Around

    star star star star star

    I had a very positive experience with Neuro Wellness Spa and would recommend them for TMS treatment. The psychiatrists and especially the technicians explained things to me clearly and had great bedside manner throughout my multi-week treatment. I had great results and am forever grateful!

    Leah
  • TMS therapy had a profound impact in a short period of time

    star star star star star

    I had an incredible experience with my TMS treatment. I felt appreciated and welcomed by the staff and my needs were met throughout the whole process. I was consistently checked on by the psychiatrist to assess progress. The technicians made me feel as comfortable as possible and I began to notice cognitive and behavioral differences after a short period of time.

    Ramsey
  • Mental health support backed by science

    star star star star star

    Neuro Wellness Spa is an amazing facility filled with excellent doctors, wonderful technicians and therapists, and cutting edge therapies. The Psychiatrists there are grounded in science and donโ€™t just prescribe medications to help with mental health issues. They take the time to listen and tune into individual patient needs and prescribe a plan to fit those needs. I Highly recommend for anyone searching more holistic therapies.

    Nancy
  • Helped my depression and anxiety

    star star star star star

    Amazing staff and very helpful they have helped my depression and anxiety immensely highly recommend their services

    Amber
  • Got The RIGHT Meds

    star star star star star

    Spent decades on mental health medications that werenโ€™t right for me. Took the genetic test, learned about what would work for me and got the RIGHT meds. Has made such a difference for me.

    Jean
  • TMS Changed Everything

    star star star star star

    I was so low on energy and TMS changed everything. Now, I look forward to starting my days. My focus has improved. I appreciate things I couldn’t even notice before.

    Rob
  • Full service support

    star star star star star

    I canโ€™t say enough about the genuine quality of care and professionalism of all the psychiatrists and the TMS team have provided to our loved one! They truly care about each individual! Highly recommend!!

    Robin
  • TMS helped with my sleep

    star star star star star

    I underwent TMS maybe a year ago, and albeit I had only undergone it once, I had felt better about my day and definitely my nights, for it had benefited my sleep a lot. I found myself to be less anxious and less depressed as the process had carried on and found it to be an enjoyable experience overall.

    Bryce
• • Stay Up To Date • •

Our Blog

• • Get in touch • •

Contact Us



    Could TMS Therapy Be Right For You?

    I struggle with depression, OCD or anxiety.

    I am experiencing sadness, low energy, difficulty sleeping, poor concentration, appetite changes, irritability or weight gain/loss.

    I have tried, or am currently on, 1 or more antidepressant medications.

    I have tried talk therapy

    Has your doctor/therapist suggested you try TMS?

    Mental Health, Reimagined.
    Call Us Today

    Call Us Today