Meet Our Psychiatric Professionals
PGY-1
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
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.
Jessa Sinkway, DO
Hometown: Beaufort, SC
Medical School: Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
The majority of my life has been spent in South Carolina's Lowcountry: Hilton Head Island, Beaufort, and Charleston. I attended College of Charleston Honor's College where I met my wonderful and loving husband. After working as an ABA therapist and mental health technician between undergrad and medical school, I attended medical school at PCOM-GA in Suwanee, GA, with the sincere and unwavering intent to pursue psychiatry. This desire is founded on the belief that, in psychiatry, it is a joy and privilege to meet people amidst their pain and confusion, working together to develop solutions and promote healing. In addition, my work with Georgia Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental and related Disabilities as a trainee further solidified my heart for Georgia and its people—specifically its children and IDD populations. Choosing Gateway for the next chapter of my career was organic, as it combined my love for Georgia's safety net systems and commitment to mental health with my foundational love of the Lowcountry and its beauty. My husband, three cats (Eddy, Teddy, and Freddi), and I cannot wait to further explore this area and the community that makes it so special. When not at work, I enjoy spending time outdoors with long walks in pursuit of iced coffee and beach days, as well as staying active with yoga, pilates, dance, and running.
PGY-2
Jessica Cauthen, DO
Hometown: Greenville, SC
Medical School: Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine
I grew up in a small town right outside of Greenville, South Carolina and got my undergraduate degree in Biological Sciences from Clemson University. I graduated from VCOM – Carolinas Campus in Spartanburg, SC. Outside of medicine, I enjoy cuddling with my cat Millicent, watching trashy reality tv, and listening to punk/rock music. I chose Gateway because it is a community-focused program that is continually growing and offering more and more learning opportunities. Everyone I’ve met has been incredibly kind and welcoming. This is truly a remarkable program that prioritizes resident education and I feel very lucky to be a part of it!
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.
Aaron "Chase"Nettles, MD
Hometown: Nahunta, GA
Medical School: Mercer University School of Medicine
I was raised in Nahunta, GA, a small town in southeast Georgia. After high school, I attended Waycross College where I received an Associate’s in general studies. I then attended Georgia Southern University where I majored in psychology. After undergrad, I attended Mercer University School of Medicine on the Savannah campus. Outside of medicine, I enjoy golfing, watching sports, and playing video games. I also enjoy watching movies and reading- particularly books about history.
I chose Gateway because I strongly believe in its commitment to community health and providing care for the underserved. As a resident of southeast Georgia for my entire life, I have seen firsthand the impact that a lack of mental health resources can have on a community. I knew that Gateway would be an ideal place to prepare me to face the challenges that come with practicing in underserved areas in Georgia, which I plan to continue doing in the future. I was lucky enough to get to rotate here as a medical student, and the faculty and staff have always made me feel that everyone is an important and respected member of the team. I am excited to be a part of this program and look forward to learning from such knowledgeable and enthusiastic people.
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!
PGY-3
Nisha Beard, DO
Hometown: Atlanta, GA
Medical School: Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
My family immigrated from India to the United States when I was in high school. Although, we moved around the south a lot I call Atlanta, GA home. I went to the University of North Georgia for my Bachelors and attended PCOM-Georgia for medical school. When looking for a residency program it was important to me to be in a community setting, serving the people of Georgia. I was blown away by the people and the training provided at Gateway. It was important to me to be at a program that emphasized providing healthcare to a vulnerable population, learning and ultimately felt like family. I am so thrilled to be surrounded by people who are passionate about psychiatry. In my free time I enjoy exploring Savannah, going to the farmers market every week, and spending time with my family and friends.
Michael Boring, MD
Hometown: Merritt Island, FL
Medical School: University of Central Florida College of Medicine
Hello! I grew up on the Space Coast of Florida. I graduated from the University of Central Florida (Go Knights!) with a bachelor’s degree in Biomedical Sciences, and stayed at UCF to complete my medical degree. Some of my hobbies include playing sports, hiking, piano and trying out different cuisines. My family and I have been excited to explore Savannah and get to know this beautiful city.
I enjoy the challenges and complexities of psychiatry and especially having the opportunity to serve vulnerable populations in our community here at Gateway. I love the family culture that Gateway has and how caring and friendly everyone is. It's an honor to work with such a great team.
George Butler, DO
Hometown: Nashville, TN
Medical School: Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine
I grew up in Knoxville, TN. I attended the University of Tennessee where I received my bachelor’s in biochemistry. I completed my medical education at Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine in Spartanburg, SC. During my interview with Gateway, I was drawn to the faculty and residents’ collective enthusiasm for the program. I’m excited to train in a collegial environment where the team is committed to patient care and resident education.
I spend my free time playing golf and tennis as well as watching UT sports. Additionally, I enjoy living in downtown Savannah, where it's only a short walk to world-class restaurants and historic public parks.
Jacob DeBellis, MD
Hometown: Columbus, OH
Medical School: University of Cincinnati College of Medicine
I was born in Columbus, Ohio, and I attended the University of Dayton for my undergraduate degree where I majored in Pre-Medicine and Psychology. After college, I pursued a Master’s degree in Neuroscience from the University of Hartford in Connecticut. Aside from all things medicine-related, I really enjoy spending time outside with my dog, Theo. I also enjoy the acoustic guitar, watching basketball, and playing video games.
I chose Gateway because of its community-focused approach and commitment to the under-served. The staff and faculty showed a genuine desire to support the residents both in and out of the hospital. Additionally, after doing long distance for many years, I am lucky to be joining my significant other who is pursuing her residency in family medicine here in Savannah, as well. After visiting Savannah together, we fell in love with the people, food, and weather. I am incredibly excited for what’s to come in these next four years!
Joseph Harwood, MD
Hometown: Anderson, SC
Medical School: Medical University of South Carolina of Medicine
I was born in Richmond, Virginia and have spent most of my life moving place to place down the eastern coast of the United States. Prior to medical school I studied at Anderson University where I majored in Biochemistry. After college I got a job as a chemist where I quickly learned that I didn’t want to spend my time pipetting in a lab all day. I ended up attending the Medical University of South Carolina where I received my medical degree and decided to pursue a career in psychiatry. In my spare time I love reading fantasy novels, listening to punk/screamo music, and watching anime.
After my last two clinical years in a small town hospital in Anderson, SC I knew exactly what I wanted out of a residency program. I chose Gateway because I could tell that they prioritized resident education and didn’t make their residents feel like another brick in the wall. While working in a free clinic during my clinical years, I knew Gateway’s focus on under-served populations was just what I wanted as well. The faculty and residents were personable, enthusiastic, and warm when I met them during virtual interviews and after being here in person I feel even more privileged to be a part of such a wonderful program.
Youngmin Kim, MD
Hometown: Newnan, GA
Medical School: Mercer University School of Medicine - Macon/Columbus
I was born and raised in South Korea. When I was 15, my family moved to the United States to settle our lives here. I graduated from Georgia Tech with a bachelor’s degree in Biology, then I went to Mercer University School of Medicine for my medical degree. I discovered my interest in psychiatry during my clinical years. I realized that even though I chose medicine for my interest in science and physiology, I loved listening to people and helping them become emotionally intelligent and perseverant. In my spare time, I love petting and playing with my cats, Ari and Mary, and spending time with my family. I also like exploring parks and walking trails.
My heart was set on Gateway since I interviewed. From residents to staffs and Program Director, everyone was very approachable and welcoming. The program is very passionate about treating the under-served populations in its community through comprehensive services to help individuals get on their feet. It has multiple clinics throughout Savannah, so we residents will get to experience and be trained in multiple aspects of psychiatric care. I feel lucky to be part of a program that is dedicated to its community.
Aleksandra Grabb, MD
Hometown: Boothbay Harbor, ME
Medical School: St. George's University, Grenada
I grew up in a cozy seacoast town of Boothbay Harbor, Maine. I graduated from Mount Holyoke College in Western Massachusetts with my Bachelor’s degree in Neuroscience. I attended St. George’s University in Grenada for medical school and a Master’s in Public Health. I fell in love with the field of Psychiatry while studying neuroscience and during my two years working with patients as a Sub-Investigator for Psychiatric Clinical Trials in Miami, FL. My favorite pastimes are spending time on the water, hiking, enjoying French macaroons and trying new restaurants!
I chose Gateway because from the very first interview, the psychiatry team felt like a family! I was overwhelmed by Gateway’s dedication to their resident’s success, to the diverse Savannah community, their passion for mental health advocacy, and their tremendous commitment to evidence based practice. I am so thankful to live in the gorgeous city of Savannah and to be a member of this incredible residency!
PGY-4
Carolyn Akin, MD
Hometown: Marietta, GA
Medical School: Mercer School of Medicine - Savannah
I was born in Summit, New Jersey and raised in Marietta, GA. I graduated from the University of Georgia for undergrad where I double majored in Biology and Psychology. After college, I relocated to Savannah, GA to attend medical school at the Mercer University School of Medicine. Outside of medicine, I try to spend as much time as possible with my husband and our two dogs - Rosie, our Australian Cattle Dog rescue, and Riley, our mini Australian Shepherd. I love puzzles, binge-watching tv, watching sports, and playing video games.
I chose Gateway because of its strong commitment to this community. My passion for mental health advocacy and my desire to continue serving the population of Savannah, both in and outside of a clinical setting, made this a perfect fit. The faculty, staff, and other residents have welcomed and supported me since I rotated here as a 4th year medical student. I’m excited and grateful to be a part of this growing program!
Daniel Perry, MD
Hometown: Atlanta, GA
Medical School: Emory University School of Medicine
I am from Atlanta, GA. I graduated from Georgia State University with my Bachelor’s degree in Neuroscience and from Emory University with my M.D. and Master’s of Public Health. While my interview with Gateway was virtual, I was attracted to the friendly and collegial atmosphere they cultivated, and so impressed they managed to communicate that even over Zoom. Now that I’m here in person, I’m so happy to find that my initial (virtual) impression was correct. The faculty and upper level residents are wonderful teachers and so welcoming, and I’m grateful to have matched here.
Natalie Rivera Matos, MD
Hometown: Naranjito, Puerto Rico
Medical School: University of Medicine and Health Sciences, St. Kitts
I was born and raised on the beautiful island of Puerto Rico and graduated from the University of Puerto Rico with a BS in Biology. I studied medicine at the University of Medicine and Health Sciences in St. Kitts and moved around the states for my clinical rotations.
Psychiatry was not part of my plan until I did my first psych rotation - which I enjoyed more than eating ice-cream on a summer day in Savannah (and I really enjoy ice cream).
I chose Gateway the day of my interview. Even though we could not be there in person, I felt incredibly welcome. I remember seeing the great relationship between staff and residents and how comfortable everybody was around each other. All of it made Gateway a very easy first choice.
Kristen Williams, MD
Hometown: Snellville, GA
Medical School: Mercer School of Medicine
I was raised in Snellville, GA and I received my Bachelor’s degree in psychology from Hampton University in Hampton, VA. After undergrad I worked in mental health case management before obtaining my Master's degree in Clinical Counseling Psychology from Brenau University in Gainesville, GA and my medical degree from Mercer University School of Medicine in Macon, GA. I have always had a passion for community mental health and I chose Gateway for residency because of its community focused mission and excellent learning opportunities.
I am married, with two young children. My husband and I are enjoying exploring Savannah and all it has to offer our family, especially our proximity to the beach. I also enjoy running, reading and traveling.