Bio

It must begin and end with the people we serve. As a Senior National Medical Director within Optum Behavioral Health Solutions, I lead enhancements to the clinical enablement of innovative and effective solutions that meet the current and future needs of people across the country. I influence clinically focused solutions, perspectives, and best practices to facilitate a seamless and effective engagement experience. With a focus on helping patients connect with solutions that improve their wellbeing and health outcomes, I am passionate about challenging the status quo. I draw on my experience as a triple board-certified psychiatrist in adult, child & adolescent, and addiction, with a focus on family and community integrated systems to support development of clinically informed programs. Prior to joining Optum I partnered with pediatric care providers within a collaborative care model offering both physical and behavioral health care treatment services. I also engaged in tele-healthcare services for families and children. My special interests include preventative, whole-person centered care. I am passionate about supporting greater equity and access to care for all patients. I believe in the importance of human centered inspiration, design and implementation for both patients and health care providers. In order for the health care system to work best for all, I advocate for a people first mentality. In the age of burnout, the Great Resignation, the Great Awakening, a national youth mental health crisis and an all time high of overdose deaths in America, I believe in the value of innovating for the future so that our healthcare system is not only sustainable, but one in which patients and health care providers can thrive.