Residents

Meet Our Psychiatric Professionals

PGY-1

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!

Xiang You, MD
Hometown: Atlanta, GA
Medical School: Shanghai Jioa Tong University

I was born and raised in Shanghai, China before I relocated to Atlanta, GA where I started pursuing my American dream. Being a new immigrant, I love the welcoming and warm atmosphere in the south and feeling deeply sense of belonging as a Georgian. Outside of medicine, I usually spend time trying a new recipe, learning a new technology (such as my new drone), watching sports, and playing video games.

I chose Gateway because of my strong feelings of being part of a community service board and the wonderful camaraderie here at Gateway. To me, Savannah is also the pearl of the east coast alike my home town. From my very first day, I can easily tell the fact that our attendings are super approachable and passionate in our success. Faculties always try their best to provide everything that will help to pursue this goal. I am very grateful to be a part of this family.

PGY-2

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!

Kaitlyn Halsema, DO
Hometown: Memphis, TN
Medical School: Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences, College of Osteopathic Medicine

I have had a passion for the field of psychiatry for over a decade. I always loved playing therapist for my friends, and felt truly fulfilled whenever I helped them gain more clarity or solve an interpersonal problem. I attended college at the University of South Florida, where I obtained my BS in biomedical sciences with a minor in psychology. I decided to shake things up by moving to the Midwest, and attended medical school at Kansas City University in Kansas City, MO. Some of my favorite pastimes are reading, watching weird movies with my husband, and palling around with my two sweet kitties.

I was instantly attracted to Gateway because I have dreamed of living in Savannah for many years, but there is so much more to this program than the amazing location. Gateway is a true community program – it is more invested in the community it serves than any other program I interviewed with. Our faculty is composed of some of the most kind, knowledgeable, and approachable people you will ever meet. This is a wonderful environment to learn and grow into a confident, capable psychiatrist.

Luis Hernandez, MD
Hometown: Trujillo Alto, Puerto Rico
Medical School: University of Medicine and Health Sciences, St. Kitts

I was born and raised in the island of Puerto Rico in Trujillo Alto. I completed my undergraduate studies in Cellular Biology in the University of Puerto Rico. I later decided to attend medical school in the Caribbean at UMHS in St. Kitts. In my spare time I like to spend time with my family and friends, play with my dog, and watch movies and sports.

I chose Gateway because I wanted to be part of a “new” program that has a commitment to provide care to those that are underserved. I was attracted by the environment of the program, where everyone is close and considered family. During the interviews you could see the enthusiasm and passion that the residents and faculty have towards providing care and this made it an easy choice.

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.

MacKenzie Sloas, DO
Hometown: Russell, KY
Medical School: West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine

I grew up in a small town in Kentucky. I attended the University of Louisville where I received my bachelor of science degree in Psychology. I completed my medical education at the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine. My passion for psychiatry is rooted in patient advocacy, and caring for vulnerable populations. I chose Gateway because of their commitment to training community-based physicians, and their dedicated service to the Savannah area.

In my free time, I enjoy all things art and pop culture especially film and tv. But above all, I love sharing a good laugh with my family and friends.

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.

PGY-3

Lorelys Arroyo Rivera, MD
Hometown: Camuy, Puerto Rico
Medical School: University of Medicine and Health Sciences, St. Kitts

I was born and raised on the beautiful island of Puerto Rico where I received my Bachelor of Science in Cellular Molecular Biology. I attended medical school in the Caribbean and received clinical training in various states. I made Augusta, Georgia my home ever since, where I fell in love with the warmth, kindness and cuisine of the south. I knew then, that I wanted to care for the Georgian population. I enjoy caring for my patients and popular culture. I have full confidence in the opportunities this program has to offer, and I’m eager to nurture my abilities to better serve the community and the family at Gateway Behavioral Health, CSB.

Modupeluwa Babalola, MD
Hometown: Peachtree City, GA
Medical School: Medical College of Georgia

I am originally from Nigeria. I moved to the United States in my pre-teen years and I have lived in Georgia for most of my time here. I completed my undergraduate studies at Georgia College and State University, received my MPH degree from Georgia State University, and received my medical degree from the Medical College of Georgia. Apart from medicine, I enjoy music, traveling, staying active, movies, and learning new things.

I chose Gateway because of the program's emphasis on community psychiatry and also because I got an overall good feeling of the program during the interviewing process. Living in Savannah, GA has been a bonus; I especially like that it is close to the beach. I am pleased to be joining the Gateway psychiatry team and I look forward to working with the diverse patient population.

Caitlyn Fitzgerald, MD
Hometown: Wall, NJ
Medical School: University of Medicine and Health Sciences, St. Kitts

Originally from a coastal town in New Jersey, I obtained my BA in Psychology from New York University and Medical Degree from UMHS St. Kitts. While I have been committed to advancing the treatment of mental health since high school, my specific areas of interests include adolescent psychiatry, addiction medicine, and emergency crisis intervention. Outside of medicine, I enjoy spending time with my husband and family, reading, traveling, cooking, practicing yoga, bike riding, and relaxing at the beach.

I chose Gateway BHS because I was excited at the prospect of being part of a new program committed to providing psychiatric care to an underserved community in need. I was impressed with their commitment to all levels of community care, particularly with their initiative of getting out into the community to provide hands on relief for those who need it the most. I look forward to serving the people of Chatham county and I am thankful to Gateway BHS for giving me that opportunity to do so.

Naomi Gunadeva, MD
Hometown: Snellville, GA
Medical School: Medical College of Georgia

I am from Snellville, Georgia. I graduated from Emory University in Atlanta with my Bachelor’s degree and the Medical College of Georgia with my Medical degree. When I first came to Gateway, I was impressed by how friendly everyone was and how they made their interviewees feel at home. Their kindness, emphasis on resident wellness, and passion for the program made me excited for the opportunity to continue my medical education here. I believe that Gateway will give me the chance to work with a diverse patient population and explore my areas of interest in psychiatry further. I enjoy traveling, coffee shops, hiking, backpacking, camping, and exploring all that Savannah has to offer.

Mary Ashley Mercer, MD
Hometown: Pawleys Island, SC
Medical School: Medical University of South Carolina

I was born & raised in SC. For the past decade I’ve called Charleston (SC) home, where I’ve attended the College of Charleston for undergrad & majored in Psychology/Neuroscience, and then hopped down the street to MUSC for medical school. I have quite the unconventional path to where I am today. I worked in research for several years before applying to med school, then took a gap year to be a mom while my husband was called to duty in the military. Nonetheless, I am grateful for my unique journey & excited to continue in Savannah to focus on my passion for community psychiatry. I have interests in preventative /integrative medicine, nutrition/wellness, veteran/women’s health, addiction, as well as the evolving field of interventional psychiatry (TMS/ECT). I am mom to a 2yo ‘wild child’ we call Sully and our rescue staffie, Bowen. My family and I love all things outdoors and adventure- like boating, the beach, and traveling to new places! I grew up in a small town, and thus fell in love with the ‘small town feel’ of the program and the close-knit vibes among its staff.

Jasmine Murchison, MD
Hometown: Tampa, FL
Medical School: Morsani College of Medicine-University of South Florida

I was born in Tucson, Arizona. But growing up as a military brat, we moved around a lot, so I don’t feel like I have just one hometown. I completed my bachelor’s degree at Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, a Master’s in Public Health at the Medical University of South Carolina, and my medical degree at the Morsani College Medicine-University of South Florida. If you can’t already tell, one thing I love is learning! Other loves of my life include reading, going to farmer’s markets, playing with my doggies, and spending time with my family.

I choose to come to Gateway because of the immediate friendliness and caring I felt while visiting. Also, Gateway is a very community-focused residency program, and it is important to me that I am well trained to serve my community. In the future, I would love to work in a community-based practice and also implement health promotion programs targeting mental health and wellness in the community.

Nisha Ramchander, DO
Hometown: Daytona Beach, FL
Medical School: Lake Erie College Of Osteopathic Medicine

I attended the University of Florida for undergrad where I completed Bachelor’s degrees in Microbiology and Religion. I received my medical degree from Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine in Bradenton, Florida. In my free time I love trying new foods and cooking, binge-watching tv, spending time outside, and anything to do with the arts – I’ve been painting, drawing, and singing since I was young.

I chose Gateway because from the first moment I came here and interacted with the faculty and residents, I could feel the genuine warmth and support everyone had for each other, the patients, and the community. I am so excited to be a member of this team. Additionally, I have visited the beautiful city of Savannah many times and am so happy to now be able to call it home!

Zuleimye Valle Blas, MD
Hometown: Aguadilla, Puerto Rico
Medical School: University of Medicine and Health Sciences, St. Kitts

I was born and raised in the beautiful island of Puerto Rico. I completed my undergraduate studies at the University of Puerto Rico, Aguadilla Campus. I attended medical school at the University of Medicine and Health Sciences, St. Kitts and at the same time completed a Master’s in Public Health from Walden University. Both degrees strengthen my interest of empowering the community with mental health wellness, especially during stressful times as it has been the COVID-19 pandemic.

My interests are photography, DIY’s, planning, and interior design. I love spending time with my family and my chihuahua Púa. Savannah caught my eye a couple of years ago, since it’s one of the most romantic cities in the USA. Other than its beautiful scenery, Savannah has Gateway Behavioral Health Psychiatry program. Gateway’s Community Based Program allows me to practice my interest in serving the community by providing excellent care through my knowledge of both medicine and public health.

PGY-4

Emily Aquadro, MD
Hometown: Albany, GA
Medical School: Medical College of Georgia

Originally from Albany, GA, I graduated from Georgia Tech (Go Jackets) and Medical College of Georgia. After my interview with Gateway, I saw how much the program had to offer and could not feel more honored to be a part of this team. It is a privilege working with my patients, learning their stories and cultures, and helping them take steps toward their own recovery and wellbeing. I look forward to getting up every day to be a part of a program that cares so genuinely for its patients and is continually making profound advancements in mental health resources.

Yvonne Erusiafe, MD
Hometown: Benin, Nigeria
Medical School: Madonna University School of Medicine

I was born and raised in Nigeria. Over the last several years, I lived in Atlanta, Georgia. I enjoy music, poetry, and trying out new restaurants. Most of all, I love spending time with my husband and our two children.

The first time I came to Gateway. It felt like home. Everyone I met was kind, genuine and very dedicated to the residency program. Additionally, I get to live in the beautiful city of Savannah and serve a diverse patient population.

Domonic Hill, MD
Hometown: Tampa, FL
Medical School: Drexel University College of Medicine

I was born and raised in Tampa, where I completed my undergraduate studies at University of Tampa. My interests include sports, comedy, videogames, cooking, hiking/fishing, traveling, gym and playing with dogs.

I chose Gateway because of its strong commitment to community health, and its forward thinking when it comes to solving community problems. Gateway empowers not just the individual patient but it also empowers the community to play a role in its own community health. Also, Me being “A Florida Boy”, the fact that there is a beach nearby is a huge plus.

Sitwat Malik, MD
Hometown: Karachi, Pakistan
Medical School: Jinnah Sindh Medical University

I am from St. Louis, Missouri; I was born, raised, and attended medical school in Karachi, Pakistan. Outside of medicine, I love spending time with my family, biking, and cooking. I chose this program because it immediately felt like home due to the welcoming interview experience and the possibility of being mentored by highly experienced faculty. And I am glad and excited that I was right! Gateway is an awesome program to get trained by. It’s a honor for me to be a part of the inaugural class!

Johnathan Pierson, MD
Hometown: Henderson, KY
Medical School: Louisville School of Medicine

My name is Trent and I was born and raised in rural western Kentucky. I received my Bachelor's degree in biology at Murray State University and my medical degree at the University of Louisville School of Medicine. After completing my medical school training I did a year of research on the topic of suicidality in the veteran population. My main passion in psychiatry involves helping the underserved, rural and military populations.

In my spare time I enjoy a plethora of activities consisting of, but not limited to, hiking, kayaking, camping, playing hobby board games, landscape photography, finding hole-in-the-wall restaurants, landscaping, taking care of my awesome dog, going to yard sales, cooking, and listening to bluegrass & folk music.

I believe Gateway will give me the opportunity to explore my areas of interest in psychiatry while also giving a great quality of life balance.

Shahin Zohoori, MD
Hometown: Atlanta, GA
Medical School: Ross University School of Medicine

I was born in Iran and relocated to the United States to begin high school. I lived in California before coming to Georgia. I completed my undergraduate studies at UCLA with a bachelor of science degree. I attended medical school at Ross University School of Medicine in Caribbean, Dominica West Indies. I enjoy a variety of sports; I like to walk and hike as well as participate in yoga. I do set aside time to bike, swim, cook, play card games, go to the beach, watch movies, hang out and go camping.

I chose this particular program because of the fact that it is community-based and I’m familiar with that infrastructure. I like the fact that it is brand new and while very much organized some flexibility is also welcomed. I also admire the city and believe in the program’s mission.