Behavioral Health North Carolina

Meet Mina, a dedicated psychiatrist and researcher with a passion for behavioral health care. With expertise in ADHD and a strong understanding of public health policy, Mina is committed to expanding access to care and addressing issues of interoperability in healthcare technology.
As the founder of Animo Sano Psychiatry, Mina’s goal is to provide personalized, comprehensive care for his patients. With a focus on the individual and their unique story, Mina and his team strive to help patients achieve their goals and passions. Mina’s work at Animo Sano is driven by his belief that a healthy mind is key to overall wellness. Mina would be honored to assist you in your journey towards wellness.

Sally has a great love for medicine and helping people. She completed her Masters in Physician Assistant Studies at Jefferson College of Health Sciences. During that time, she developed a passion for psychiatry. Sally enjoys getting to know her patients and helping them achieve their goals and she has already won the hearts of our patients. Sally has a great passion for treating patients with Depression and Anxiety and is excited to connect with everyone and help them become the best versions of themselves.

I remain committed to promoting mental health awareness and combating the stigma associated with psychiatric disorders. Through community outreach and education, I aspire to contribute to a more inclusive and empathetic understanding of mental health. With a blend of compassion and expertise, I am eager to facilitate meaningful improvements in the lives of my patients, paving the way for a brighter, healthier future for all. I am an advocate for a holistic approach to mental health care, encompassing medical treatments, lifestyle modifications, and community support. By fostering strong, collaborative relationships with my patients, I aim to develop personalized treatment plans that empower them to actively participate in their recovery journey. In my role as a Physician Assistant specializing in psychiatry, my primary mission is to provide compassionate and evidence-based care to my patients. My dedication to continuous learning allows me to integrate the latest research and effective treatment modalities into my practice, ensuring optimal outcomes for those I serve.

Kelly is passionate about helping clients achieve their therapy goals. She achieved her Master’s in Counseling from Liberty University in Lynchburg, VA, and has been practicing as a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) since 2013, in various outpatient and residential settings.

Kelly considers her therapeutic approach as “eclectic” and draws upon multiple theoretical orientations and techniques, including behavioral and person-centered therapy. Kelly’s therapeutic approach can help patients in dealing with anxiety, depression, eating & personality disorders, trauma, and many other issues.

Kelly’s relatable and “non-judgmental” approach includes developing a trusting clinical alliance early on in the treatment process with her clients.

Pamela has always had a love for medicine and felt privileged to help others. “I’m aware that our work to help patients improve their mental health, helps not only the individual, but also impacts their family members and all spheres of their lives.” said Pamela. “Being able to provide “Individualized, high-quality care was a big motivator for my interest in joining the Animo Sano Team”.”

Pamela achieved a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from PACE University in New York, and her Physician Assistant Certification from Wake Forest University.

Pamela has been a Physician Assistant since 2001 in various outpatient settings in both Medical and Behavioral Health clinics.

With a lifelong commitment to behavioral health, MacKenzie is a professional and empathetic PA-C with experience in medical management, telemedicine, CBT, and lifestyle changes. Her education includes a Masters of Medical Science from Mercer University with a focus on Physician Assistant Studies, including an addiction management rotation and special lectures on LGBTQ safe medicine. As a former patient advocate and MA at a non-profit clinic, she understands the importance of serving underserved populations.

With a Masters in Science from Philadelphia University and a Bachelors of Arts in Psychology from the University of Central Florida, Stefanie brings a unique combination of educational and clinical experience to her role as a Physician Assistant. She is involved in all aspects of patient care including taking detailed histories and physical exams, developing and implementing treatment plans, and prescribing medications. Her expertise includes management of chronic illnesses such as diabetes, hypertension, and mental health conditions, as well as evaluation and treatment of acute illnesses through telehealth platforms. Stefanie’s commitment to providing comprehensive and compassionate care is evident in all that she does.

Charlotte is a highly experienced counseling professional with a Master’s in Marriage and Family Counseling and Christian Education with over a decade of experience providing mental health and substance abuse services to children, adolescents, adults and families. She has a proven track record of delivering high quality services in various settings, including outpatient clinics, crisis walk-in clinics and juvenile justice centers. Charlotte is a compassionate and empathetic counselor, skilled in using integrative care and evidence-based interventions to help clients manage their problems and find solutions to their personal issues. She is also an effective leader with demonstrated success in supervising and developing new clinicians, building relationships with stakeholders, and running day-to-day operations of a clinic.

As a skilled Physician Assistant with a background in both primary care and behavioral health, Ruth brings a unique combination of knowledge and experience to her patients. With a Master’s degree in Physician Assistant Studies from South University and a Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences from North Carolina State University, she has honed her skills to provide exceptional care to patients in need. Ruth’s career has taken her to various clinics, including B&D Integrated Health Services, where she served as a Physician Assistant, and Mindpath Care Centers, where she provided behavioral health care. Ruth is proud to have also served as a Physician Assistant at Urban Ministries Open Door Clinic, providing primary care to those in need. With a passion for helping others, Ruth is dedicated to providing the highest quality of care to all her patients.

A lover of people, Lauren is a therapist with a wide range of experience since completing her Masters in Social Work at the University of Texas at Austin in 2011. Throughout her career, Lauren has worked with individuals, families, and couples, facing a variety of needs, including relational difficulties, grief and loss, trauma, Autism, and professional and educational concerns. She considers it a great honor to walk alongside individuals as they bravely take steps to confront their pasts and enrich their futures.

Dr. Whitenack received his Doctor of Medicine degree from the University of Texas Medical School at Houston. After medical school, he completed his adult psychiatry residency at the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill, NC. During the last year of training, he was appointed Chief Resident over the large residency program. Dr. Whitenack specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of women’s mental health issues, ADD/ADHD, panic attacks, social anxiety, generalized anxiety, depression and bipolar disorder. He utilizes TMS treatment for depression. When not working, Caleb, originally from Denver, CO, enjoys the mountains, snowboarding, good food, homebrewing beer and traveling with his family.

Dr. Nakamura is a board-certified psychiatrist and specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and trauma and stressor-related disorders. She obtained her MD and PhD from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. During her graduate studies, she explored the role that apoptotic proteins play in neurodevelopment and disease. Dr. Nakamura then completed her adult psychiatry residency at Duke University and, while at Duke, was part of the Medical Education Leadership Track. In addition to seeing patients, she has a passion for teaching medical students, residents and APPs. During her free time, she enjoys cooking, photography and spending time with her family.

Whitney earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Wildlife Sciences from North Carolina State University and her Master of Science degree in Physician Assistant Studies from Elon University. She started her PA career in oncology and then transitioned to psychiatry after becoming interested in how mental health impacts physical health and quality of life.

Whitney has lived in NC since the age of 8 and believes there is no better place to live! She has been married to her husband Lee since 2001 and they have 3 wonderful children. In her free time; she loves to spend time with her family and friends, attend CrossFit classes at her local gym, hike, read, sing at her church, play piano, cook, and watch her teenage children do the activities they love.

I am a physician assistant with both the passion and experience treating patients who feel unseen or unsupported. I received my Master’s degree in Physician Assistant Studies from South University in Savannah, GA and a Bachelor’s degree in Biology from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. I am the child of immigrant parents that worked hard to provide for my sibling and I, therefore it’s important to me to advocate for our underserved, minority, and more vulnerable populations. With experience in addiction medicine, treating pediatric and adult populations with depression, anxiety, mood and neurodevelopmental disorders, I am dedicated to continuing to learn and to educate patients on how to best treat their mental health.

After obtaining his medical degree, Dr. Vijay Swahari completed a postdoctoral fellowship at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill where he studied brain development and maturation and the ensuing disorders that occur during neurodevelopment. Following his research fellowship, he trained in the psychiatry residency program at Duke University. During his training at Duke, he was particularly drawn to the biopsychosocial approach of treating psychiatric illness. This approach involves careful medication management with equal emphasis on therapy and improving social support. Training first as a Tarheel and then a Blue Devil, Dr. Swahari has made North Carolina his home.

Ariel obtained her Masters in Physician Assistant Studies from Chatham University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and her Bachelors of Science in Respiratory Therapy from The Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio. She has always been dedicated to collaborative care with other providers as well as informed and collaborative care with her patients, this is a vital part of her practice. She will do her best to meet you where you are in a caring and compassionate manner. Ariel has been told that she is easy to talk to and laid back which she believes facilitates a strong provider-patient relationship, especially in the mental health field. In her free time, she finds enjoyment in learning about the latest in psychiatric and psychological practice to share with her patients. She is truly fascinated by the “human condition”.

I have been a PA for 11 years and have practiced in Urgent Care, Clinical Research and Addiction Medicine. I attended the University of South Carolina where I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science in 2009. I then attended South University and received a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies in 2012. Dedicated to providing high-quality, individualized care, I will always do my best to meet my patients where they are. I am passionate about expanding access to mental healthcare and truly enjoy getting to know my patients.

Being a mom is my greatest joy in life. My husband and I have 3 children, ages 8,7 and 2. We also recently welcomed a puppy to our family, Ollie, a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel who goes everywhere with us. I enjoy traveling and exploring all the outdoor activities that the Lowcountry has to offer. I am a proud Carolina Gamecock and Atlanta Braves fan!

Hunter received his Bachelor of Science from North Dakota State University and his Master of Medical Science in Physician Assistant Studies at Lincoln Memorial University in Tennessee. He has a background in family medicine, psychiatry, and multi-specialty research. Hunter believes in a holistic approach to health and wellness. As with both pathology and treatment, rarely is there a singular factor in disease or healing. Hunter encourages approaching physical and mental health from all potential angles including
mind, body, and spirit. In his downtime, he enjoys spending time with loved ones, traveling, and cheering on the UT Volunteers.

Hi there, my name is Sydney! For as long as I can remember, I’ve been passionate about mental health and how I can help those who are struggling. My love for Psychiatry has steadily grown throughout my education. I received my Bachelor’s degree from Colgate University and my Master’s degree from Pacific University. I am currently working on my Doctorate in Medical Sciences from Pacific University. My approach to mental health is continually evolving, but firmly rooted in a foundation of compassion and empathy. I want my patients to feel heard, while working on small, daily habits to improve their quality of life.

Outside of my professional life, I enjoy reading, running and playing with my 4-year-old rescue dog, Teddy. I’m determined to improve my cooking. Currently in the stage of more burnt meals than edible ones, but still working on it!

Mattias is originally from Florida. He obtained his Bachelor’s Degree from Florida Institute of Technology where he also played on the varsity tennis team. He obtained his Master of Physician Assistant Studies from Chatham University in Pittsburgh, PA. Mattias fell in love with Raleigh, North Carolina, during one of his travels during his PA program. Shortly after completing his NCCPA State licensure, Mattias moved to Raleigh North Carolina to experience the cool fall weather. Mattias enjoys reading books and playing tennis in his free time.

Hannah earned her Master of Physican Assistant Practice and Master of Science in Public Health degrees from Campbell University. She is passionate about mental health and working with patients to meet their goals and address barriers to wellness. She treats many mental health conditions but has professional interests in ADHD and anxiety.
In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her wife and 3 cats, making art, gardening, hiking, doing yoga, and reading.

From an early age I have been both an extrovert and an empath. This keen interest in understanding people combined with a yearning to help people, led to a desire to pursue a medical career in Psychiatry. I think it is important to consider all aspects of life that contribute to physical, mental and spiritual health – it is a false dichotomy to compartmentalize the mind and body separate from each other. For this reason, I take my time to get to know patients and considers how nutrition, physical activity, career, hobbies/interests, community , identity/values and other aspects of life impact mental health in addition to considering things like trauma and systems of oppression. I am known amongst my colleagues as being thorough and attentive and am responsive to my patients’ needs. I have spent years cultivating relationships with therapists in the community to have a good understanding of what options there are for therapy for patients, since therapy is often an integral and first-line treatment for many psychiatric conditions. I am also well-versed with the resources in the area for other aspects of treatment which may be necessary for treatment of certain conditions. I believe in the importance of collaborating with other providers to provide optimal, personalized, holistic, multidisciplinary care. Special niche areas me include Autism and ADHD as well as Women’s Mental Health. My approach is patient-centered where the patient is honored and partnering with me on their journey of well-being. My goal for you as a patient is to be empowered along your journey to attain wellness.

Dr. Naqvi’s academic and professional journey began in upstate New York. He earned his BS from the University at Albany with a focus on Neurobiology, Psychology, and Criminal Justice. He attended medical school at Upstate Medical University in Syracuse and completed his residency at Emory University in Atlanta. His deep interest in the nexus of law and mental health led him to a Forensic Psychiatry Fellowship at Yale University.
Dr. Naqvi continues to contribute to the field of psychiatry with his comprehensive clinical practice and scholarly dedication. Currently, he holds a position as a Clinical Instructor at the Yale School of Medicine’s Department of Psychiatry. Additionally, he provides psychiatric services in two notable institutions — as the Medical Director of Performance Psychiatry New York and as a Forensic Psychiatrist for the Connecticut Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services.

Meredith Rappaport PA-C, LCSW received her master’s degree in physician assistant studies from The University of New England and physician assistant certification from the NCCPA in 2021, and has worked in general psychiatry and neuropsychiatry ever since. Additionally, she has over a decade of experience in the field of mental health as a psychotherapist and social worker. Meredith received a master’s degree in social work from the University of Tennessee, in Knoxville in 2008, after which she gained experience in hospice care, criminal justice, severe/persistent mental illness, homelessness, community mental health, geriatrics, and eventually in her own private practice as a psychotherapist treating a variety of mental health conditions. Meredith decided to return for a second master’s degree in 2019 that has enabled her to continue in mental health as a medical practitioner and prescriber. She enjoys reading, crossword puzzles, cooking, home-improvement projects, travel, down-time with family and friends, and her canine companions.

Esther received her Master’s in Social Work from Wurzweiler in NYC. Esther has worked in the clinical field specializing in Cognitive and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. Overall, her therapeutic approach is very holistic drawing from different schools of thought to best help her clients. Esther has worked with diverse groups of clients, ranging from children to adults, addressing issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, and personality disorders. Her emphasis has always been on creating a safe and empathetic environment, fostering trust, and ensuring client-centric solutions. Esther finds it a very humbling and meaningful experience to be a part of someone’s journey.

Hi! My name is Corbin Burns, and I am from Tuscaloosa, Alabama (Roll Tide!). I obtained my undergraduate degree from Birmingham-Southern College in 2014, and went on to obtain my Master’s Degree in Physician Assistant Studies in 2017 from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. I started my career in urgent care medicine, then transitioned to outpatient psychiatric care in 2020, and have been practicing in behavioral health ever since! I have experience treating various psychiatric conditions, such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, and mood disorders. In particular, I have professional interests in the treatment of anxiety and ADHD. I provide compassionate care to all of my patients, and want to help them succeed in meeting their personal goals. I have been told that I am laid-back and easy to talk to, which I believe are integral traits to a positive provider-patient relationship. In my free time, I love to spend quality time with my partner and golden retriever, as well as hiking, camping, and spending weekend days at the beach.

Nicole Miller is a board-certified Physician Assistant. She graduated Magna Cum Laude from D’Youville College with a Bachelors of Science/Master of Physician Assistant Studies. She has trained in a variety of clinical settings including psychiatry and emergency medicine. Nicole previously worked in the field of neuropsychiatry and has experience working with a variety of conditions including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADD/ADHD, PTSD, OCD and dementia. She enjoys caring for patients of all ages and abilities. Patients with developmental disabilities hold a special place in her heart after working in group homes for many years. She is passionate about helping her patients live full and happy lives. Nicole has published two articles in the field of psychiatry. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, playing board games and finding new eateries to try. Nicole is originally from Buffalo, New York and enjoys watching Buffalo Bills football and Bandits lacrosse.

With an unwavering passion for fostering positive mental well-being and a profound commitment to making a meaningful impact, I aspire to serve in the realm of mental healthcare. After graduating with a Masters in Physician Assistant Studies from Eastern Virginia Medical School, I spent years working in Emergency Medicine treating patients from all backgrounds and life experiences during some of their darkest moments. I am motivated by empathy and a deep understanding of the significance of mental health. I envision a career devoted to breaking down stigmas surrounding mental health, promoting awareness, and implementing effective therapeutic interventions to empower individuals on their journey towards mental wellness.

Hi! My name is Hannah and I am an NC native. I was born and bred a Tar Heel, and graduated from UNC Chapel Hill in 2021! My husband and I met while leading YoungLife in college, and we now live in Durham. We are actively involved with our church and specifically love the Kids Ministry there! I am a huge reader, and am always looking for more book recommendations, I love baking, and my favorite dish to make is Pad Thai. I’m excited to be on the ASP team, and know that it is a privilege to help people who have depression find reprieve through TMS therapy.

Dr Pamela Reid is a board-certified adult psychiatrist with over 20 years of clinical experience. She completed medical school at the University of South Carolina and Residency in Psychiatry at University of North Carolina Hospitals. Dr. Reid’s special areas of clinical interest and expertise include treatment of Mood Disorders, ADHD, Anxiety disorders,Psychotic Disorders and co-occurring medical, autoimmune, inflammatory, neuro-endocrine and psychiatric disorders.

Jordan is a board certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She believes in patient-centered care, not only trusting her own knowledge but using the patient’s opinions and goals to mediate care in hopes to overall improve the individual’s daily life. She feels that involving the individual who seeks care with every decision will bring the individual closer to their goals, improve how they feel overall, and improve the outcome of care. She promotes healthy eating, exercise, and calming techniques such as meditation and yoga. Her treatment approach includes medication management, psychotherapy, and psychoeducation in hopes to best treat the mental health disorder one may struggle with. She enjoys spending time with her family including her son and 3 dogs. She has only been in North Carolina for a few years and moved from Birmingham, Alabama where she received both of her degrees from. She originally worked and went to school at the University of Alabama at Birmingham before moving here with her husband.

Vaishali, a board-certified Physician Assistant, graduated from North Carolina State University with a Bachelor of Science in Microbiology and Masters of Physiology. Driven by a deep compassion for medicine, she later earned her Master of Physician Assistant Practice degree from Campbell University. Vaishali thrives on building open and trusting relationships with her patients, emphasizing active listening, empathy, and individualized care. As a firm believer of mind-body connection, Vaishali emphasizes the importance of both healthy lifestyle choices, strong social bonds, and spirituality in promoting mental well-being. With experiences in both inpatient and outpatient settings, Vaishali provides effective medication management for a wide variety of conditions, including depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. She embraces evidence-based medicine while collaborating with other specialists to ensure holistic care. Her particular interest in integrative psychiatry empowers patients to find their optimal well-being, and her passion shines through in creating a safe, stigma-free environment for healing. A North Carolina native, Vaishali currently resides with her husband and mini goldendoodle, Callie. In her free time, she enjoys cooking, reading, spending time with friends and family, and exploring new restaurants and coffee shops in the Triangle area.

Dr. Joseph Keenan earned his Medical Degree at Michigan State University in 1985 and completed his residency at William Beaumont Hospital in Royal Oak, Michigan in both Internal Medicine and Pediatrics. Dr. Keenan was in private practice for 20 years and is a research investigator, having over 30 years of experience in leadership and management in the research of hypertension, cholesterol, diabetes, and overall wellness. His fascination with the mind and enthusiasm for helping those with mental health challenges has led him to a promising career with Animo Sano Psychiatry.

Dr. Kunaparaju has always been deeply intrigued with the mind and finished her psychiatry training at Cooper University Hospital in New Jersey before completing a fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at Duke University. She was drawn to North Carolina for its beautiful outdoors and moderate climate where she loves hiking and playing badminton. Currently, her career interests include prevention, psychoanalysis, mindfulness and education. Dr. Kunaparaju is excited and grateful for an opportunity to be on staff at Animo Sano.

Dr. Melendez was born and raised in Los Angeles, California. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Johns Hopkins University and her medical degree from Temple University School of Medicine. Dr. Melendez completed a residency in adult psychiatry at Temple University, a fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry at the Los Angeles County-University of Southern California, and is board certified in both General and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. She has worked in a variety of settings providing care to all age groups. Dr. Melendez enjoys helping her patients navigate through life stressors and understands how childhood trauma shapes coping mechanisms and emotional reactivity in adulthood.

Dr. Amar Arafat, DO, completed his residency in the Psychiatry Residency Program at Western Michigan University Homer Stryker M.D. School of Medicine. He holds a bachelor’s degree in biomedical engineering from North Carolina State University (NCSU) and earned his medical degree from Campbell University School of Osteopathic Medicine (CUSOM). Throughout his academic and professional journey, Dr. Arafat has been deeply committed to community service and mental health advocacy and excellence, as he was a Goodnight Scholar while at NCSU and received the Distinguished Clinical Scholar Award for psychiatry in the Raleigh region in 2020 while at CUSOM. During his residency, Dr. Arafat maintained exceptional standards of care, consistently receiving high praise from patients for his empathetic and effective treatment approaches. His approach is grounded in a comprehensive understanding of diverse obstacles and mental health challenges, combined with utilization of medication management when necessary. Dr. Arafat remains dedicated to ensuring that care is not just available but also truly accommodating and responsive to the well-being of each of his patients.

Brock Carter, MMS, PA-C earned his Master of Medical Science Degree in Physician Assistant Studies from Lincoln Memorial University in Harrogate, Tennessee in 2017 following his completion of their didactic program and clinical rotations at various healthcare institutions throughout Central Florida and Houston, Texas. He began his career in Emergency and Behavioral Medicine in Central Florida in 2017, and continued to practice in Internal Medicine with Administrative roles at various hospitals and practices in Knoxville, Tennessee from 2018-2023. Prior to his clinical education, Brock was a Research Associate for Oak Ridge National Laboratory’s Biosciences Division where he contributed to a Climate and Biofuels Research initiative after obtaining his Bachelor’s Degree in Microbiology from The University of Tennessee in 2012. His interest in science and dedication to helping others through practicing medicine have led him to a promising future with Animo Sano Psychiatry, which he joined in October of 2023 as an Associate PA, TN Branch Recruitment Lead, and TN Office Lead. In his free time, he enjoys playing live music, spending time with his family and friends, exploring nature, and taking road trips.

I began my career in the mental health field 20 years ago as a qualified professional in a group home setting serving those with severe and persistent mental illness. I have worked in the medical field providing support and resources to those struggling with chronic illness. My early experience has allowed me to develop the skill set necessary to provide a safe, nurturing, non judgmental environment and meet my clients where they’re at. One of the things I love most is to witness a breakthrough. Assisting clients realize that they’re not what they’ve done and that there are other ways to view themselves and the world. I thoroughly enjoy helping people identify their strengths and creating an environment where my clients feel comfortable enough to process through their issues. Everyone deserves to be comfortable in their own skin and I would like to be a part of assisting my clients in getting there.