For top-notch psychiatric care in Florida, reach out to our experienced psychiatrist by calling us at 561-336-4790. We offer comprehensive mental health services, including psychotherapy.
Sarah Youssef MD, FAPA
As a board certified psychiatrist and a fellow of the American Psychiatric Association, as well as a member of the Clinical TMS Society, my journey in mental health began with a fascination for people and their unique stories. This passion, combined with my love for science, guided my career path. I grew up between Cairo, Egypt, and New York City. After completing medical school at Ain Shams University in Cairo, I moved to Chicago to undertake my psychiatry residency program at Rosalind Franklin University, which is affiliated with the North Chicago VA Medical Center. Upon graduating in 2007, I was honored to stay at the VA as an attending psychiatrist, where I also contributed to the academic training of new residents and medical students at the university.
In 2009, I relocated to Florida as a transfer to the West Palm Beach VA, successfully passing my board certification exam in 2010. I continued my work at the VA until 2013 when I chose to expand my expertise to include the general population in a private hospital setting, treating both adult patients and a significant portion of the senior population. This journey culminated in 2021 when I reached a new milestone by establishing my private practice under Psychiatric Care Florida. I believe in the importance of lifelong learning and view medicine as an art. This philosophy drives my ongoing passion for exploring new directions in psychiatric care, including interventional psychiatry, TMS, and emerging psychedelic-assisted treatments. I look forward to assisting you on your mental health journey and helping you achieve your goals through my training and expertise.
Jessica Shabo MD
Board Certified Psychiatrist
Adult, Child, and Adolescent
I attended UMDNJ, New Jersey Medical School where I received my medical degree in 2005. I was then accepted into their General Psychiatry residency program followed by a fellowship in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. After graduating, I decided to stay within the same organization working as one of the head psychiatrists for a Partial Hospitalization Program. Aside from treating adults and adolescents, I also have experience working with young children who benefited from treatment within a Therapeutic Learning Center. During these times, I treated severe cases of depression, anxiety, psychosis, and disruptive and defiant behaviors. I worked with many families, children, and adolescents who experienced major traumatic events, lacked resources, and struggled significantly with their emotions, behavior, and academics. Additionally, I had the opportunity to work closely with public schools in Florida, completing psychiatric evaluations and assessments for children with special needs.
All these different experiences have allowed me to enrich my career and become a better Child and Adolescent psychiatrist. As I continued to expand my horizons within the field of mental health, my family and I decided to relocate to the Sunshine State. Since my relocation, I have been working within the private sector, providing psychiatric care to children, adolescents, and adult patients. I favor an inclusive and collaborative approach, believing in cautious prescribing based on evidence. I strive to provide quality care that respects patients' opinions and concerns. I am happy and excited to have joined Psychiatric Care Florida and to be part of a team that shares my values and goals. I look forward to meeting and working with you in the realm of psychotherapy.
Olugbenga Aje MD, FAPA
Board Certified Adult Psychiatrist, Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association
My first curiosity about human behavior began when I moved to NYC at the age of 10 years old. Coming from Nigeria, I was fascinated by being around diverse groups of people from all over the world. I joined an international school in New York City and later studied medicine at an international university in Moscow. Witnessing the changes that the people of the former Soviet Union experienced during the fall of communism deepened my curiosity about human behavior. I observed how culture influences behaviors and impacts mental health during my psychiatric rotation in medical school. This interest led me to conduct research and present on this topic during my final year of residency at Maimonides Medical Center in New York.
I enjoyed working with individuals from various cultural backgrounds and was pleased to use my knowledge of the Russian language to support the Russian immigrant community during my residency program in Brooklyn, a diverse area of New York City. With over 15 years of experience as a physician in the field of psychiatry, I have actively engaged in teaching medical students and residents about mental health and psychiatric care. As a board-certified psychiatrist and a fellow of the American Psychiatric Association, I also love traveling the world and learning new languages. My hobbies include fitness, reading, and photography.
I am here to support you on your journey to wellness and will do my best to help you reach your mental health goals through psychotherapy and personalized care.
Sravan Narapureddy MD
As an adult and adolescent interventional psychiatrist, I am always fascinated by the stories and narratives of the people I meet in Florida. I am consistently in awe of the courage and determination that individuals show in the face of extreme adversity. With experience in mental health, I have come to recognize that sometimes, overcoming adversity cannot be achieved alone. This realization, combined with my innate curiosity about the sciences, naturally led me to pursue a career in psychiatric care.
After completing medical school at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley School of Medicine as part of their inaugural class, I attended UT Southwestern for my psychiatry residency in Dallas, Texas. While there, I participated in the interventional training program, gaining proficiency in psychiatric treatment methods such as ECT, rTMS, and esketamine. However, it was rTMS that truly captivated me due to its ability to rapidly change patients' lives with minimal side effects compared to traditional antidepressants. Under the mentorship of leading experts in TMS, I honed my skills in TMS evaluation and treatment, including experience working with adolescent patients over the age of 13, offering hope to those grappling with depression and anxiety.
All these experiences ultimately led me back home to South Florida, where I am excited to join Psychiatric Care Florida. My practice philosophy is centered around a patient-focused approach, emphasizing holistic care that incorporates biological, psychological, and social treatments. My goal for all my patients is achieving symptom remission through personalized psychotherapy. I believe in tailoring treatments to each individual and empowering them on their journey to mental wellness.
Samantha Montealegre PMHNP – BC
I was born and raised in New Hampshire but moved to Florida over twenty years ago to follow a job I loved. I met and married my husband and have been here ever since. After receiving my Nursing degree from Broward College, I began my career in psychiatric care working in the hospital. I have worked in mother-baby postpartum, NICU, Antepartum, and Labor & Delivery. Additionally, I have received specialized training in Perinatal Bereavement as well as Postpartum Depression in Fathers/Partners. I earned my Doctorate in Nursing Practice from Florida International University, specializing in Psychiatry. I also obtained my PMH-C from Postpartum Support International with a focus on pharmacology. For over a decade, I have worked with mothers, fathers, and infants before, during, and after the birth process. As an International Board-Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) for over 10 years, I encountered families facing challenges beyond breastfeeding issues. This experience ignited my passion to help individuals and families experiencing mental health struggles such as depression and anxiety. My role as a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner allows me to collaborate with my patients to identify and overcome the obstacles life presents. I advocate for a holistic approach to mental health care because the mind and body are closely linked. We must consider both to achieve a balanced mental health state. I also believe that focusing on the entire family’s mental health is essential and find great joy in treating patients of all ages. I am excited to work with Dr. Youssef at Psychiatric Care Florida and look forward to meeting and working with you. Here at Psychiatric Care Florida, we are committed to your health and well-being through comprehensive psychotherapy and psychiatric care services!
Samantha Montealegre, DNP, PMHNP-BC, PMH-C, IBCLC
Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Vanessa Alban, PMHNP-BC
I am a bilingual Nurse Practitioner born in New York and raised in South Florida. From an early age, I discovered my passion for nursing. I earned my bachelor’s degree from Florida Atlantic University, graduating Magna Cum Laude in 2015. I then completed my Master of Science in Nursing with a Family Nurse Practitioner specialty at Florida Atlantic University. Throughout my nursing career, I have worked in various settings, providing quality, evidence-based care to all my patients, including those needing psychiatric care.
Having worked on the frontline during the COVID pandemic, I witnessed the mental health crisis firsthand, which inspired me to pursue a career in psychiatry and mental health. I believe in fostering a safe, therapeutic environment conducive to forming and growing individual relationships. My goal is to provide personalized care to my patients so they can achieve optimal mental and physical health. I am excited to collaborate with a skilled team of caring providers and look forward to offering psychotherapy and comprehensive care to you!
Vanessa Alban, PMHNP-BC
Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Phoebe Yeung, PMHNP-BC
Growing up in Hong Kong and Canada, I gained an appreciation for the diverse ways people experience and navigate life. This perspective guided my person-centered approach to healthcare throughout more than 15 years as a Registered Nurse in the ER and ICU, where I supported individuals during some of their most vulnerable moments and came to understand how mental health affects every part of life. My own experiences with loved ones facing mental health challenges and witnessing their journey to recovery further inspired me to specialize in this field of psychiatric care.
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Florida, I provide evidence-based care that addresses the unique needs of the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. I earned my Doctor of Nursing Practice from Palm Beach Atlantic University, where I also teach as an adjunct professor, mentoring future nurses and sharing my passion for mental health and psychotherapy.
Outside of work, I enjoy exploring new places with my husband and our two dogs, which keeps me curious and reminds me of the beauty of human connection and the shared stories that bring us together. For the past 14 years, I’ve been proud to call West Palm Beach home, and it is my privilege to serve you and contribute to the well-being of our community.
Phoebe Yeung, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC
Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Monica Garcia LMHC
I always knew I wanted to help people, but I was unsure how to achieve that goal. Growing up in a military family, I experienced many moves and transitions. Feelings of nervousness, loneliness, and a lack of control are familiar to me. During my undergraduate studies at Florida State University, an amazing professor introduced me to the world of psychology. This exposure allowed me to better understand my feelings and become more in tune with them, leading me to realize that helping others was my true calling. I furthered my education by completing my Master's degree in Mental Health Counseling and Applied Behavioral Analysis at Nova Southeastern University.
Now, as a licensed mental health counselor in Florida, I strive to provide a non-judgmental and comfortable environment where clients can begin to heal. My goal is to help clients lead a life worth celebrating while uncovering their true potential. Some of my specialties include anxiety, depression, relationship issues, parenting challenges, grief and loss, low self-esteem, ADHD, and Autism. I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults, and I approach therapy with a collaborative spirit. I provide knowledge and support to help my clients achieve their goals. My passion for the field of mental health is unwavering, and I ensure that my clients come first. When clients step into my therapy room, they can expect empathy, transparency, and unwavering support. I am excited to embark on this healing journey with you and to work alongside Dr. Youssef at Psychiatric Care Florida.
Stephanie Vega LCSW
My passion for this field of work came alive through my own experiences, background, and journey to well-being. When we become intentional in confronting life's many obstacles, we can allow for the opportunity to become the best version of ourselves. Therapy, particularly in the realm of mental health, is most effective when there is a partnership involved, and I am here to provide a deep understanding of the unique challenges that each person faces on their journey toward emotional well-being.
I was born in Newark, New Jersey, and raised in New York until high school, where I continued my education in Florida. Graduating from the advanced standing Master in Social Work program at Florida Atlantic University has equipped me with the skills and knowledge needed to offer effective psychiatric care. Since then, I obtained my Licensure for Clinical Social Work and have gained experience working with children, teenagers, and adults in various settings.
Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, or relationship problems, I'm here to provide a safe and supportive environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings through psychotherapy without fear of judgment or criticism.
I want to empower my clients to gain new insights, develop effective coping strategies, and ultimately find their way toward a brighter future.
I look forward to meeting you and working with you!
Stephanie Vega
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Katie Murphy LCSW
Living in Queens, NY, during my first year of college allowed me to immerse myself in an environment filled with people and families from all over the world. After moving to South Florida, I completed my degree at Florida Atlantic University (FAU) and was thrilled to be part of another multi-cultural community. I earned my Bachelor's degree in Sociology, driven by my interest in understanding how and why individuals behave both independently and within groups. My passion for studying and observing diverse cultures continues to inspire my work in mental health. I later received my Master's of Social Work degree from Barry University in Miami Shores, Florida, and completed two years of clinical training, obtaining a License in Clinical Social Work (LCSW).
My experience spans several years at a community mental health center, where I gained insights into the lives of those dealing with serious mental illness and the community resources available to them. I also served as VP of Operations for a large community-based non-profit organization focused on delivering family-strengthening, after-school, and mentoring programs, along with outpatient psychiatry and in-home therapeutic services. Before establishing my private practice, I worked within a large healthcare system, where I provided and supervised clinical services, including assessment, individual and group therapy, and crisis counseling.
I am excited to collaborate with Dr. Youssef and the skilled, professional team at Psychiatric Care Florida to continue my commitment to providing high-quality psychiatric care and psychotherapy to those in need.
Katherine Murphy
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
James "Cody" Bothe LCSW
After being in practice for over 5 years in Florida, I realized how badly clients needed a safe space to process their feelings and find healing. I believe that Depression, Anxiety, and most forms of Mental Illness signal unmet needs rather than being problems in themselves. I work with men, families, and children of all ages, providing comprehensive mental health support. If you're seeking purpose and meaning, dealing with work or school-related issues, or struggling as a family, I am here to guide you on your journey of healing with effective psychiatric care.
I have a Master's Degree from Florida Atlantic University and I am a licensed clinical therapist in Florida. My practice is recognized for its focus on men's mental health and family therapy across all ages. I address marriage issues, parenting challenges, professional development, sexual dysfunction, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders through personalized psychotherapy.
I believe that therapy should be an exploratory process that ultimately brings a sense of peace. It takes a lot of courage to begin this journey, but the rewards are endless. So congratulations on taking this important step, and let's get started together.
James "Cody" Bothe
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Catherine Pryor LCSW
I was born and raised in South Florida, where I developed a passion for mental health. My experiences also include living in Central America for several years. I earned my Bachelor's degree in Social Work from Florida International University, followed by a Master's degree in Clinical Social Work from the University of Central Florida. My dedication to helping people led me to pursue a career as a therapist, specializing in psychotherapy. I work closely with my clients to help them create the lives they want and deserve. Together, we develop actionable plans that empower them to make meaningful changes in their lives. Understanding each client's unique reasons for seeking therapy is crucial for me to provide effective psychiatric care. My specialties include women’s issues, depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship problems, and parenting challenges. I also incorporate mindfulness techniques into my practice, as I believe in the profound mind-body connection. Learning how to ground oneself and calm the nervous system through these techniques can be particularly effective. Additionally, I have specialized training in Perinatal Mood Disorders, including postpartum depression and anxiety, and I thoroughly enjoy working with new mothers or women on their journeys to motherhood.
Catherine Pryor
Licensed Clinical Social Worker