Meet Our Psychiatry Residents
PGY-1
Maya Bussey, MD
Hometown: Atlanta, GA
Medical School: Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis
I was born and raised in Atlanta, GA but moved up to the northeast to attend college and then the Midwest for medical school. I am so excited and grateful to be moving back to the south for residency! Although it wasn’t until my third year in medical school when I found my passion for psychiatry, I am deeply committed to learning how to provide community care that is rooted in empathy and compassion regardless of a patient’s ability to pay. I was drawn to this field out of a curiosity of caring for the way that people’s lives and behaviors affect their health. My clinical interests include perinatal psychiatry, the biopsychosocial model for health, and child & adolescent psychiatry. Outside of medicine, I love making and enjoying good food, painting, dancing, and going to the see movies in IMAX. I chose Gateway for both its perfect location and values!
Yuna Lee, DO
Hometown: Suwanee, GA
Medical School: Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, Georgia
I was born in South Korea and moved to the United States in 2005. In 2007, I relocated to Suwanee, Georgia, where I have since called home. I graduated from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM) Georgia with my Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree.
I chose Gateway Behavioral Health CSB because of its commitment to providing compassionate, community-based mental health care to individuals from diverse backgrounds. As someone who has witnessed the stigma surrounding mental health in many cultures, I hope to help patients from diverse ethnic and cultural communities feel heard, understood, and empowered to seek the care they deserve. I was drawn to Gateway's mission of improving access to behavioral health services and providing patient-centered care to underserved populations.
Outside of medicine, I enjoy spending quality time with my family, discovering new restaurants, watching movies, listening to music, and dancing. I also enjoy exploring new places around Georgia and appreciate opportunities to connect with friends and loved ones over good food and meaningful conversations.
Alexander Levin, DO
Hometown: Orlando, FL
Medical school: Lincoln Memorial University DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine
Born and raised in Orlando, Florida, I developed an early interest in the life sciences and earned my B.S. in Biology from Stetson University before attending LMU–DCOM for medical school. After college, I worked at an inpatient psychiatric facility, supporting those in crisis. Connecting with patients during their care reinforced my longstanding interest in mental health and ultimately led me to pursue a career in psychiatry. I chose Gateway because of its strong community focus, integrated network of services, and, above all, the people.
Outside of medicine, I enjoy spending time outdoors hiking, kayaking, and photographing nature. I also love cooking, listening to live music, and spending time with friends!
Merrick Nicksic, DO
Hometown: Johnson City, TN
Medical School: Virginia College of Medicine, Carolinas
Growing up across three different high schools in Indiana and Tennessee and competing in athletics, I got to meet a large variety of people and hear a lot of their stories. Moving to new schools constantly got me out of my comfort zone, and when high school came to a close, I found myself looking for the next pursuit that would push me while also making a real difference in the world. That search led me to medicine, and ultimately psychiatry.
I chose psychiatry because every patient carries a unique story. That curiosity about people and what shapes them traces back to moving around so much growing up, and it never left me. Psychiatry gives you the privilege of hearing those stories and walking with people through some of the hardest chapters of their lives. Some of the hardest battles a person faces are invisible to those around them, and I hope to be someone who helps carry that weight.
What drew me to Gateway was immediately apparent on my second look visit, a true family atmosphere built on collaboration and mutual support. My wife Madison and I are thrilled to call Savannah home. Outside of medicine, you'll find us hiking with our dogs Aubri and Remi, playing pickleball, trying new restaurants, or watching a good movie.
Landon Simmons, MD
Hometown: Cartersville, Ga
Medical school: Mercer University School of Medicine, Savannah
I am from Beckley, WV, but was raised in Cartersville, Ga. I attended the University of Georgia for undergrad, and then Mercer School of Medicine in Savannah for medical school. From a young age all the way up to third year of medical school I believed I was going to pursue pediatric medicine. During my third year though, I really enjoyed my psychiatry rotation, and I realized on my peds rotation that working with children with psychiatric illnesses was my real passion rather than the typical checkups and illnesses that you treat as a pediatrician. I chose Gateway for a couple reasons. For one, it’s an excellent environment to learn in and very welcoming. From the attendings to the other coresidents everyone does all they can to help you get acclimated to working in what can be a challenging environment. Secondly, the program is located in Savannah, were I’ve loved living for the last four years already.
Outside of work, I enjoy being out by the pool, the beach, or walking around the downtown Savannah. If not by the water, I’m usually playing golf at a few of the great courses around the area.
Ashleigh Torrance, MD
Hometown: Auburn, AL
Medical School: University of South Alabama
My name is Ashleigh Torrance, and I am originally from Auburn, AL. I completed both my undergraduate education and medical school at the University of South Alabama. During my third-year clinical rotations, I developed a love for psychiatry because I enjoyed the meaningful conversations with patients, getting to know them on a deeper level, and listening to understand each person's story and how their life experiences and circumstances influenced their mental health. I chose Gateway because from the moment I interviewed, I felt welcomed by everyone and immediately noticed the program's strong sense of community. I was especially drawn to the early outpatient exposure and the opportunity to receive well-rounded training while serving an underserved population. Outside of medicine, I enjoy watching TV, playing mini golf, couponing, and spending quality time with my fiancé, family, and friends.
Noah White, MD
Hometown: North Charleston, SC
Medical School: University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Greenville
I grew up in South Carolina and earned my medical degree from the University of South Carolina School of Medicine Greenville. While finishing my third year of medical school, I thought I would pursue pediatrics because I loved the opportunity to care for children and support families through some of their most vulnerable moments. As I gained more clinical experience, I found myself most drawn to the psychosocial aspects of patient care. I loved the conversations, the relationships, the collaborative environment, and the opportunity to understand each person’s story beyond their diagnosis. That realization ultimately led me to psychiatry, where I discovered a specialty that combines science, empathy, and meaningful human connection. My professional interests include child & adolescent psychiatry, addiction psychiatry, psychotherapy, and expanding access to mental health care for underserved populations. Outside of medicine, I enjoy listening to music and free styling, practicing meditation and mindfulness, and spending time with family and friends. I am excited to continue growing as a psychiatrist while serving the patients and community around me.
PGY-2
Ashlyn Chea, MD
Hometown: Seneca, SC
Medical School: University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Greenville
I am from Seneca, SC and attended the University of South Carolina School of Medicine Greenville with a desire to serve rural communities like the one that raised me. Throughout medical school, I was struck by how psychiatry intersected with every area of medicine. I ultimately chose psychiatry for its emphasis on meeting patients where they are (both figuratively and literally—shout out to ACT teams and street psychiatry!) to improve their quality of life and the field’s exciting future with advancements in neuropsychiatry. My clinical interests include addiction psychiatry, integrated behavioral health, and caring for those experiencing housing instability. I chose Gateway to train alongside passionate and innovative psychiatrists in a vibrant city.
Outside of medicine, you’ll probably find me reading a fantasy book, taking on yet another overly ambitious home improvement project, or exploring the natural beauty of Savannah with my husband and our two dogs.
Maryam Irfan, MD
Hometown: Waycross, GA
Medical School: Mercer University School of Medicine
I was born and raised in Waycross, GA, and am excited to be doing residency in SE Georgia! I went to Bryn Mawr College for my degree in biology for undergrad. During my gap year, I lived in Philadelphia with my two best friends from college. After my time in Philly, I attended medical school at Mercer University School of Medicine. I picked psychiatry because I love that socialization and learning more about a person’s life is key to their medical care! I chose Gateway because it is a community psychiatry program that prioritizes collaboration; it is also an excellent learning environment with amazing faculty and staff. Outside of medicine, I enjoy watching movies and eating out at restaurants – I am always looking for suggestions for both of these things! I am excited to be here at Gateway training in psychiatry with a great group of people!
Jin Moon, MD
Hometown: Jefferson, GA
Medical School: Mercer University School of Medicine
My name is Jin Moon, and I spent most of my life in Jefferson, Georgia. For as long as I can remember, I’ve wanted to become a doctor. I was fortunate to be accepted into Mercer University School of Medicine, where my passion for serving underserved communities aligned with Mercer’s mission.
I fell in love with psychiatry because it allows me to truly see and understand people, not just their symptoms, but their stories, struggles, and resilience. Growing up in a community where mental health was often stigmatized or overlooked, I came to appreciate how deeply psychological well-being impacts every aspect of life. I chose Gateway for its strong community-based setting, allowing me to work directly with the people I hope to serve. During my sub-internship here, I was impressed by how the program taught residents to listen with intention, connect meaningfully, and advocate for their patients. I also felt genuinely welcomed by the faculty and residents, which left a strong impression on me.
When I’m not working, I enjoy practicing Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, cooking, watching TV, and playing video games.
Jacob Osborne, DO
Hometown: Prosper, TX
Medical School: University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Woth-Texas COM
I grew up in the small town of Prosper, TX. I received my undergraduate degrees in Biochemistry and Microbiology from Oklahoma State University in Stillwater, OK. I then graduated from Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine’s medical school in Fort Worth, TX. I chose to pursue Psychiatry because of the integration of neuroscience, pharmacology, and psychology while getting to help people find their way back to the life they enjoy. I have a strong desire to work in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry because of time serving at Camp Sweeney where I got to work with children with type one diabetes. At camp I got to help these kids navigate enjoying life despite their new circumstances and I want to be able to do that for many more kids and families in the future. I chose Gateway because of the strong sense of community in the program and here in Savannah, it reminds me of what I loved most about where I grew up. My wife and I cannot wait to explore more of Savannah, GA together and truly immerse ourselves in this community. Outside of work, I enjoy playing video games or board games with friends, playing my guitar, fishing, or playing pickleball with my wife.
Chandani Patel, DO
Hometown: Thomson, GA
Medical School: Campbell University Jerry M. Wallace School of Osteopathic Medicine
As an M4, I did a sub-internship rotation at Gateway and was so impressed by the culture here. The attendings were so down to earth and genuinely cared about my betterment, professionally and personally, even though I was only here for a month! Now as a resident, it has been so fun and fulfilling to explore my style in the non-intimidating space they have created to learn. It was important for me to train at a true community program where I could be challenged, supported, and surrounded by people who truly care for each other and for the vulnerable population they serve. Also, I really wanted to live in a vibrant, walkable city! My husband and I love spending time on the marshes and beaches, going to the Spanish moss filled parks, and exploring the rooftops and many delicious restaurants!
Joshua Priest, DO
Hometown: Shelton, WA
Medical School: Pacific NW Un of HS, Col of Osteopathic Medicine
Howdy! I grew up in rural Western Washington and attended medical school at PNWU in Yakima, WA. Prior to medical school, I worked as a preschool teacher for several years and planned to choose a pediatric subspecialty. I fell head over heels for psychiatry during clinical rotations and decided to pursue Child & Adolescent Psych. I love the detailed interviews, attention to social factors, and nuanced pharmacology in psychiatry. I chose Gateway because it is a community program with a strong C&A Fellowship in a beautiful city. I had (and continue to have) a true appreciation for the joyful and passionate atmosphere of the program and its residents. Outside of medicine, I enjoy tennis/pickleball, board games, video games, and exploring the wonderful local restaurants with friends.
Anna Wilson, MD
Hometown: Dallas, TX
Medical School: Texas A.M. College of Medicine
I was born and raised in Texas, but took a break from the heat to attend college at Wheaton, a small school just outside of Chicago, where I studied psychology and neuroscience. After graduation, I returned to Texas for medical school. My fascination with the mind-body connection led me to pursue a career in psychiatry—a field I deeply value for its ability to bring healing and hope to those affected by mental illness. I chose Gateway because its mission aligns perfectly with my own. I have a strong passion for community mental health, and I knew Gateway would equip me with the tools to create lasting, positive change in this field. Plus, I love the location—Savannah is a beautiful city, and I love being so close to the coast! Outside of medicine, I enjoy spending time with my husband and our sweet cat, Albert. I also love reading, binge-watching reality TV, traveling, and going on Target, TJMaxx, or Ulta runs.
PGY-3
Robert Hurt, MD
Hometown: Athens, GA
Medical School: Morehouse School of Medicine
Georgia has always been where I’ve called home. I grew up in Cordele in Southwest Georgia where I had a rural upbringing and spent lots of time in nature. Growing up, I always had an interest in healthcare and service, I was thrilled to attend medical school at Morehouse to pursue my dream of becoming a physician. My interest in psychiatry stems originally from seeing the challenges that friends and community members in my hometown faced when seeking mental health care. My interest became a mission when I witnessed the state’s mental health needs as a whole while in medical school. I chose Gateway for Residency because Gateway shares my passion for serving the underserved and increasing mental healthcare accessibility for all. My interests include child and adolescent psychiatry, addiction psychiatry, and nutritional/lifestyle psychiatry. Outside of medicine, I enjoy spending time with my family, cooking, soccer, going outdoors, anime, traveling, and learning new things.
Alricka Jackson, MD
Hometown: Fayetteville, GA
Medical School: Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University
I was raised in Fayetteville, GA. I went to UNC Chapel Hill for undergrad and attended the Medical College of Georgia for medical school. My journey to psychiatry was not straightforward. I originally matched into a general surgery residency program in Miami and spent nearly 4 years there. I ultimately realized surgery was not for me and psychiatry aligned better with my passions and career goals, so I decided to make the transition. I am excited to be back in my home state as I begin my career as a psychiatrist. Outside of medicine, I enjoy exercising, going to the beach, journaling, and indulging in reality TV. I have a sweet, adorable cat named Ivy who happily greets me whenever I return home.
Yeva Nayflish, DO
Hometown: Uzbekistan
Medical School: Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
I immigrated to the United States at four years old when my mom won the Green Card lottery. I completed medical school at Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine in rural South GA. After many years of studying science and medicine, it was the deeper more profound humanistic aspect which goes beyond the science that I was most drawn to. Of all the fields of medicine, psychiatry allows for every day to be filled with human interactions that are so vulnerable and pure they punch a hole in your gut and imprint on your soul. So why Gateway? Of all the psych programs, Gateway was a program that really resonated with that humanistic aspect of psychiatry. I love that it is a non-profit, community service based program that truly helps those who need it most, regardless of their ability to pay.
Beyond my professional interests, I have a deep love and affection for four-legged critters, finding joy and companionship in my furry babies. Humans are nice too! When I’m not working, I’m probably tromping around with my favorite fuzzy animal friends or exploring Savannah’s restaurants and beaches. I am so glad to be here at Gateway, doing what I truly love.
Brandon Nguyen, MD
Hometown: Lawrenceville, GA
Medical School: Mercer University School of Medicine
I grew up east of Atlanta in the Gwinnett area between Lawrenceville and Loganville Georgia. I then went to University of Georgia for my degree in Biological Sciences through the college of agriculture. After college I took a gap year working as a medical assistant for a Vietnamese-American office before starting medical school at Mercer University School of Medicine’s Macon campus.
I was drawn to Gateway because of the wonderful faculty and residents I had the pleasure of meeting during my interview and subsequent second look. Everyone here is so kind and genuine. From that experience, I knew immediately that I wanted to do my training here. Outside of the wonderful world of psychiatry, I love to bake pastries, play video games, and watch anime.
Utkarsh Pandey, DO
Hometown: McDonough, GA
Medical School: Lincoln Memorial University-DeBuse College of Osteopathic Medicine
Hello! I went to Lincoln Memorial University for medical school. I chose to pursue Psychiatry because of the unique emphasis on connecting with patients beyond their immediate medical problems and because it is exciting to be a part of a field of medicine where there is so much to figure out with regards to diseases processes and treatments. I chose Gateway to be able to practice and learn the core elements of Psychiatry in a community setting while also having access to a strong academic curriculum and diverse clinical electives. I am also excited to be able to serve the community in my home state. Outside of work, I enjoy playing sports, photography, drawing, and spending time with my cats, family, and friends!
Emily Schlottman, MD
Hometown: Macon, GA
Medical School: Mercer University School of Medicine in Savannah, GA
I chose Psychiatry because I wanted to practice medicine that was the closest thing to creating art. Psychiatry is a very nuanced, evolving, and beautiful medical discipline that has heavy emphasis on the value of intuition, perception, and socialization. When I was looking for a program to proudly represent, being able to advocate for patient populations who are otherwise unable (or less likely) to do so themselves was paramount. Not a day goes by that I am not inspired, challenged, educated, validated, and get to share lot of laughs through my role at Gateway. I have never been called a woman of few words and I have many to share about how much I love my job. I am particularly interested in the caring for LGBTQIA+ individuals who are disproportionately affected by mental illness, and my favorite hobby is walking aimlessly around a HomeGoods or TJMaxx with an XL diet coke from Parker’s.
PGY-4
Blake Dallon, DO
Hometown: Omaha, NE
Medical School: A.T. Still University of Health Sciences School of Medicine, Arizona
I grew up in Omaha, Nebraska. I went to college for molecular biology at Brigham Young University. For my medical education, I attended AT Still University School of Osteopathic Medicine in Arizona. In my free time, I like to cook and bake. My wife and I are the busy parents of three boys, a six-year-old, a four-year-old, and an eight-month-old. We like to play video games together as a family. My family has recently taken the responsibility of caring for the neighborhood cat.
I became interested in psychiatry during my clerkship in my third year of medical school. I have always wanted to help people and psychiatry is an area of great need. I decided I wanted to come to Gateway after doing a rotation here in my fourth year of medical school. I was drawn to the warm, family atmosphere and I was excited to work in Savannah!
Aryana Misaghi, MD
Hometown: Charleston, WV
Medical School: Marshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine
I was raised in Charleston, West Virginia, and graduated from the University of Kentucky with a degree in Music Performance. For a year after college, I worked as a professional musician, teaching flute and managing the WV Youth Symphony, before I went to Marshall University for medical school. Throughout school, I kept my creative side active by teaching yoga, making zines, and taking ceramics classes. My husband also helps by involving me in his short films and comedy shows. We’re both community-minded and wanted somewhere that we could build sustainable and supportive relationships with those around us. Gateway’s mission aligns with my personal values, and the people here create so much good in this world. I really couldn’t have dreamed of a better match for me!
Jessica Ray, DO
Hometown: Augusta, GA
Medical School: Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine
As a military dependent, I've had the privilege of experiencing diverse cultures and places, which has instilled in me a deep appreciation for understanding the human mind and emotions. After completing high school in Ramstein-Miesenbach, Germany, I pursued my passion for the sciences and obtained a degree in Biology with a minor in Chemistry from the sunny University of Tampa. I continued my academic journey at LECOM-Bradenton, where I earned a DO degree and Masters in Medical Science.
Psychiatry brings me immense joy as I get to walk alongside individuals during their most vulnerable moments, offering them hope and support as they navigate their unique journeys. Choosing Gateway for my psychiatry residency was a natural decision. Their community-centered approach resonated deeply with my values. I firmly believe in the power of collaborative care and fostering a strong connection with the local community.
When I'm not at Gateway, you can find me walking through downtown Savannah, with my Australian shepherd, Blu, and my husband. I also enjoy some of the simpler things in life like cooking, baking, and indulging in reality TV shows.
Abhiram "Abhi" Srivatsa, DO
Hometown: Atlanta, GA
Medical School: Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
Hello! I have lived all my life here in Georgia - grew up in Atlanta, went to undergrad in Augusta (BS in Cell & Molecular Biology), attended medical school in Suwanee, and now started residency in Savannah! I have been attracted to Gateway ever since my (admittedly virtual) interview because of the friendly and collaborative nature of all the faculty and residents. Now that I’m here, I struggle to find a single reason to complain. Besides being a fantastic learning environment, Savannah itself is a warm and welcoming city – sometimes too warm! My favorite hobbies include beatboxing, playing video games, and getting food with my friends. I feel blessed to have matched at this wonderful program that is committed to servicing the community. I am confident that I will enter the workforce as a confident and capable psychiatrist!
Abigail Williamson, MD
Hometown: Atlanta, GA
Medical School: Morehouse School of Medicine
After growing up in Atlanta, I attended the University of Georgia. There, I double majored in psychology and sociology before returning to Atlanta to attend Morehouse School of Medicine. I have always wanted to work in mental healthcare, and I knew I wanted to be a psychiatrist before starting medical school. In my free time, I like to cook, draw, and paint. I’m a big fan of anime, indie video games, and Dungeons and Dragons. My husband and my cat are joining me in Savannah, and I have since taken in a stray rooster.
It was clear early in the interview process that Gateway was the right fit for me. The enthusiasm of the residents and faculty members drew me to the program, and I could tell how much everyone cared about learning, teaching, and helping patients. I have always wanted to be part of a community program and work with the underserved in Georgia and I’m so excited to make that happen at Gateway!