AnnMarie Staats
Psychiatric Mental Health
Nurse Practitioner
AnnMarie Staats
PMHNP-BC
"For me, being a PMHNP is
a calling. I am passionate about what I do."
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner in the great state of Texas. I have been a nurse for 22 years. I moved here 10 years ago with my family from New York. I have clinical experience in both the inpatient and out patient areas of psychiatry. I am currently practicing in the outpatient setting. I worked as a clinical nursing instructor at the University of Texas at Austin- School of Nursing fo 5 years and as a nursing educator since 2006. I use my skills as a teacher to help others with their problems and provide education about their treatment and the medications that can help them. I believe this leads to better compliance with a plan that we will develop together. My belief is that education plays a tremendous role in achieving and maintaining mental health and collaboration is always key. I look forward to working with you.
Accreditations
Board Certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center
Member of the American Nurses Association
Member of the American Nurses Psychiatric Association
Education
University of Cincinatti - Post-Masters Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing
Mercy College - Masters in Nursing Education
Cochran School of Nursing - Associates in Applied Science - Nursing
Pace University - Baccalaureate of Arts in Literature and Communications
Owais Tirmizi
Psychiatrist MD
Dr. Tirmizi is a board-certified Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist with over 7 years of experience. Specializing in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of emotional, behavioral, and developmental disorders in children, teenagers and adults. Dr. Tirmizi is deeply committed to providing compassionate and evidence-based care. Dr. Tirmizi completed their medical degree and psychiatry residency at Dell Medical School. Their clinical expertise spans a range of conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, and mood disorders. When not in the clinic, Dr. Tirmizi enjoys skateboarding and rock climbing.
Dr. Tirmizi believes in empowering families through education and collaboration. He utilizes a comprehensive assessment and team approach to diagnose and treat children, adolescents and adults.
By using a combination of therapeutic interventions such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), psychopharmacology, and family counseling, Dr. Tirmizi ensures a holistic approach to treatment. Dr. Tirmizi takes the time to listen to each patient and their family, ensuring that they feel heard. He believes in creating a safe and trusting environment, for all.
At this time Dr. Tirmizi is currently only accepting cash for new patients, we anticipate credentialling with insurance in the next 3 months for Aetna, BCBS, Cigna and UHC/OPTUM
LaSonda Michelle Courts
PMHNP-BC
Michelle is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Masters Degree of Science in Nursing from Walden University. Ms. Courts has experience treating adults and adolescents ages fourteen and older with mental issues. She has obtained experience in treating patients experiencing depression, anxiety, and mood disorders. Her clinical training includes working with patients experiencing depression, anxiety, mood disorders, schizophrenia, and eating disorders.
Michelle’s goal is to assist clients in achieving and maintaining in their optimal mental health capacity. She believes that clients should be actively involved in their care. In addition to using psychopharmaceuticals to assist clients, Michelle often recommends use of adjunct interventions such as psychotherapies to facilitate long-standing results
Okwuchukwu “Michael” Okpalaeze
PMHNP-BC
Okwuchukwu “Michael” Okpalaeze is a compassionate and highly skilled Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a deep commitment to providing expert mental health care to individuals of all backgrounds. With over 6 years of experience in the field, Michael combines his extensive clinical expertise with a genuine and empathetic approach to healing, making him a trusted and respected figure in the world of psychiatric nursing. Michael's kind and empathetic nature is evident in every interaction with his patients. He believes that building trust and rapport is essential to effective psychiatric care. He takes the time to listen attentively, validate his patients' experiences, and create a safe and non-judgmental space for them to share their concerns.
His dedication to helping individuals achieve better mental health shines through in his every action, making him an invaluable asset to the mental health community and a trusted partner in his patients' journeys to healing and recovery.
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Education
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Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from Midwestern State University
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Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a specialization in Psychiatry from Midwestern State University
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Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC)
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Active member of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association (APNA)
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Psychopharmacology: Michael has a deep understanding of psychotropic medications and their applications in treating mental health disorders. He conducts thorough assessments to prescribe and manage medication regimens tailored to each patient's unique needs.
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Psychotherapy:He is proficient in various therapeutic modalities, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing , and mindfulness-based therapies, which he integrates into her treatment plans to address the psychological and emotional aspects of mental health
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Patients consistently praise Michael for
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Empathetic Listening: He actively listens to his patients' stories, offering a sense of understanding and validation that fosters open communication.
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Supportive Guidance: He provides clear guidance and education about mental health conditions and treatment options, empowering his patients to make informed decisions about their care.
Ann Torres
PMHNP-BC
Ann's approach to patient care is firmly rooted in holistic care, emphasizing the importance of understanding and addressing the whole person, not just their symptoms.
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Ann prioritizes understanding the patient's personal experiences, symptoms, and concerns.
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She works closely with patients to develop individualized treatment plans that align with their personal goals and needs.
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Areas of specialization include : anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Ann's holistic approach ensures that treatment focuses on improving overall well-being. She understands that effective mental health care involves addressing physical, emotional, and social factors, and she is dedicated to supporting her patients in all aspects of their lives.
Jody Tudor
PMHNP-BC
FNP-BC
Jody Tudor is double board certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner as well as a Family Nurse Practitioner. Through her dual certification, she has experience in both the medical as well as psychological aspects of mental health care.
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She is licensed, trained, and board certified in the state of Texas to treat the mental health needs of people across the lifespan and is accepting clients aged 14 years and up.
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Her primary areas of focus include using evidenced based therapies to treat those with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, eating disorders, substance use disorders, schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder, as well as others. She uses a variety of modalities and strives for a “whole person” approach, by incorporating not only medication management, but also other aspects of mental health such as sleep, diet, exercise, talk therapy, and more, as well as considerations for TMS and ketamine.
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Her ideal treatment approach is one of collaboration, where both the patient and Jody work together to find the best outcomes. She works with clients by building trust, providing a safe space, and forming a team, all of which allow the person to take an active role in their mental health care, leading to positive outcomes.
Education
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Post masters certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practioner from the University of Texas at Tyler
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Masters degree in Family Nurse Practitioner from Midwestern State University
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Bachelors of Science in Nursing from Midwestern State University
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Associates degree in Nursing from Western Oklahoma State College
Nicole Garcia
LCSW-S
Nicole Garcia, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S.
My ideal client is any person wanting to work on themselves, regardless of what brought you here. Most of my clients have a goal of feeling in control of themselves and their lives.
I specialize as a trauma therapist, specifically working with clients with domestic violence, sexual assault and trauma history. I also have a strong background working with law enforcement, military families, and families in crisis. I worked for the nonprofit, state and federal government and have a wide variety of experience.
I realize asking for help and working on yourself can be an intimidating and even scary process. I have the skills, training, education and experience to help you get control of your life back and feel empowered. I’m looking forward to the opportunity and privilege to work with you.
Areas of Specialty include:
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Trauma and PTSD
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Domestic Abuse
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Sexual Abuse
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Addiction
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Anxiety
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Borderline Personality
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Coping Skills
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Depression
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Domestic Violence
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Family Conflict
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Grief
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Relationship Issues
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Self Esteem
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Stress
Amanda Gayle
LCSW
Through life’s toughest moments we need a safe place to receive help. Therapy is the process of openly processing and evaluating your unique life events. It is about building up your strengths and coping skills as well as having a safe, judgement free place to openly and honestly express your thoughts and feelings. You are your own expert and as your therapist, my job is to give you the tools to better yourself and help you reach your goals.
I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults with Depression, Mood/Anxiety Disorders, PTSD, Substance Use Disorders, Relationship problems, and more. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) in most of my work.
I am a Licensed Master Social Worker and I am trained in providing evidenced-based treatment modalities to guide and empower you in the therapy process. I provide a safe therapeutic space for you to process your thoughts, feelings, goals, challenges, and successes.
Lorri Frasier
LPC, LCDC
My counseling practice is grounded by my conviction in the possibility of change. This conviction is based on witnessing dramatic, life-changing growth in both personal and professional experiences.
Together, we examine how our past significant experiences and relationships have influenced our present-day life. By exploring the messages and beliefs we formed from the past, we gain insight into the current narrative that plays out in our lives. This narrative impacts how we form attachments, how we handle relationships, what coping skills we turn to, and how those choices help or hurt our overall well-being.
My own story has many twists and turns that help me relate to a variety of issues and situations with empathy, compassion, and often, humor. I studied Psychology & Neuroscience as an undergraduate and earned a bachelor’s degree from Baylor University. From there, I took a decades-long detour working for a fast-paced high-tech company, and then left the corporate world to return to my genuine interests, and get a master’s degree in Counseling.
My work with clients addresses a variety of challenges:
Addictions
Substance Abuse
I have over 27 years of experience dealing with individuals with substance abuse, and in helping couples and families deal with the ripple effects caused by addictions and trauma.
Dual Diagnosis
Trauma / PTSD
Eating Disorders
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Anxiety
Depression
ADHD
I utilize a variety of therapeutic approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectual Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and, Attachment / Interpersonal Neurobiology (IPNB).
Rhonda Griffin
LPC
Rhonda Griffin, LPC has been a licensed professional mental health counselor for 23 years. She has a master's in Applied Behavioral Science from Bastyr University in Seattle, Washington. She has taught counseling and supervised intern graduate students. Rhonda engages easily with compassion and a warm sense of humor. A harmonious blend of west coast perspective with Texan common sense. She brings practical skills and knowledge to her clients for problem solving using various modalities. A Systemic Family practitioner, she also uses Cognitive Behavioral, Dialectic Behavioral, Jungian, and Emotion Focused Therapy. As a systems therapist, she investigates the family, social and cultural history of clients to understand the challenges they are facing. Awareness of these perspectives and influences of old coping patterns gives individuals the opportunity to develop new interpersonal skills, self awareness, self-acceptance and strengthened relationships.
The Gottman Institute located in Seattle was also influential in developing Rhonda's interest in working with couples. She finds couples counseling is especially rewarding and enjoys facilitating the creation of secure, lasting bonds between intimate partners. She is uniquely able to hold the two perspectives of each member while cultivating communication skills and re-connection.
Adult Children of Narcissists is a growing area of specialty that Rhonda is particularly skilled as a family systemic therapist. This work is especially helpful for clients that have suffered from narcissistic parenting behaviors that perpetuate detrimental patterns in their own adult relationships.
Areas of specialty include:
Couples Counseling
Borderline and Narcissistic Family Systems
Mood Disorders – Depression, Bipolar, Anxiety
Addiction – Alcohol, Substance, Sexual, Gambling
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder – Lifespan Integration
Modality
Dying and Bereavement
Life Transitions
Multicultural Counseling – LGBTQ, Earth Based Spiritual Practices, Polyamory
Support for Artists – Creative and Performing Artists
Ann K. White
LPC
Ann K. White is a Licensed Professional Counselor providing individual therapy to people with a range of concerns specializing in substance use and dual diagnosis. She offers a person-centered approach in a safe environment to explore, express, and motivate an individual toward personal growth and understanding. She uses a collaborative approach to therapy that is client-driven, and strength-based recognizing each person is unique and requires different methods to find change in their current life status.
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Ann has a Master’s degree in Education from the State University of New York at Plattsburgh and a Master’s in Mental Health Counseling from Argosy University in Sarasota, Florida. She has worked in a variety of settings in Florida and in Texas including residential treatment centers for substance use issues, anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorders. She has a knowledge base of 12 step programs as well as alternatives. Ann has a root in evidence-based therapies to include: Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Positive Psychology, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Tyler Downing
LPC
Tyler is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has worked in assisting clients overcome intensive challenges in their life over the course of his career. He attended Southwestern University to complete his Bachelors of Science in Psychology. He graduated from Angelo State University with his Masters degree in counseling, and since then has worked in community services specializing in outpatient behavioral health and assessment of intensive mental health concerns. Tyler has experience working with individuals with a wide range of concerns and backgrounds including those who identify as LGBTQIA+
Tyler has previously worked with adults and adolescents who are experiencing depression, anxiety, anger, low self-esteem, men's issues, videogame addiction, grief and loss, and oppositional concerns. Some of his treatment modalities include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused, Motivational, and Person-Centered Psychology.
Tyler is committed to fostering an environment of trust and understanding to foster an environment of growth and healing to assist in creating tools and skills to tackle the problems that life provides. He treats each person as an individual and seeks to improve the life of each person.
Judy Neves
Office Manager
Judy Neves has over 30 years of administrative and managerial experience as an office management professional. In 2021, she joined Staats Psychiatric Services and is responsible for coordinating a broad range of activities to ensure the efficient operation of the Office. She is committed to providing a supportive work environment for staff and patients.
Sherrie Spellman
Lead Patient Coordinator
About me coming soon
Cindy Herrera
Patient Coordinator
About me coming soon
Royette "Kit" Bricia
Patient Coordinator
About me coming soon