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Meet Our Providers Florida

Dr. Jawad Riaz, MD

Dr. Jawad Riaz completed medical training at King Edward Medical University, Pakistan. Early during medical school, he became enthusiastic about pursuing combined training in internal medicine and psychiatry. He completed his psychiatry residency at Mount Sinai School of Medicine, Cabrini Medical Center. He has often been inspired by patients’ resilience, creativity, and innovation in solving complex problems and navigating shared decisions between patients and physicians. He also has vast experience working as an adult psychiatrist at a community medical health center.

In his practice, he focuses on comprehensive and extensive psychiatric evaluations, and treatment plans specific to individual needs to promote lifestyle balance and mental well-being. Dr.Jawad Riaz has significantly earned the reputation of treating patients with all psychiatric issues ranging from depression, mood disturbances, bipolar disorder, panic, social anxiety, OCD, psychosis, Paranoia, schizophrenia, sleep problems, attention problems, PTSD, as well as troubles with work and relationships.

Currently, he is an active member of The American Psychiatry Association (APA), American Medical Association (AMA), American Association of Sleep Medicine (AASM), and American Association of Addiction Medicine (AAAM)

Jawad-Riaz MD
Dr. Jana Erika Cua MD

Dr. Jana Cua, MD

Dr. Jana Erika Cua is a board-certified psychiatrist and serves as Medical Director for three companies. She practices telepsychiatry and supervises mid-level providers.

Dr. Cua was born and raised in New Jersey. She graduated cum laude from the University of Florida with a Bachelor of Science in Biology in 2009. In 2011, and graduated with a Master of Science in Biochemistry from Rutgers University. She continued to obtain her Doctor of Medicine degree from Ross University in 2015, graduating with High Honors. She did her Internal Medicine internship from 2016-2017 at Florida State University before transferring to psychiatry. She completed an ACGME-accredited Psychiatry Residency at Community Health of South Florida and served as chief resident in her final year. Dr. Cua is working on obtaining her Master of Business Administration from the University of Miami.

Dr. Codie Vassar, MD

Dr. Codie Vassar, a dedicated psychiatrist. He is passionate about helping people and has a strong background in mathematics and science. With his expertise in psychiatry, he specializes in diagnosing, treating, and preventing mental illnesses for individuals aged six and above.

Dr. Vassar completed his undergraduate studies at the prestigious University of Wisconsin-Madison and earned his medical degree from the renowned Medical College of Wisconsin. Fluent in English and Spanish, he ensures effective communication with a diverse range of patients.

Dr. Vassar’s patient care philosophy revolves around collaboration, empowerment, and psychoeducation. He actively involves his patients in their treatment journey, encouraging shared decision-making and ensuring they have a thorough understanding of their condition and available treatment options.

Offering medication management and evidence-based psychotherapy, Dr. Vassar provides comprehensive care to promote mental health and well-being. He tailors treatment plans to each patient’s unique needs and values, embracing cultural sensitivity in his approach.

Patients can expect a warm and caring environment when visiting Dr. Vassar. His genuine concern for their well-being and commitment to their success in both health and overall quality of life create a trusting and supportive therapeutic relationship. Whatever the need may be—medication management or psychotherapy—Dr. Vassar’s expertise and genuine care will guide patients towards improved mental well-being.

Coddie Vassar MD

Elizabeth Lokenauth, PA-C

Elizabeth Lokenauth is a board-certified physician associate. She earned her Bachelor of Science in health sciences at Mercy College. During this time, she simultaneously worked as a patient care technician at Garnet Health Medical Center. After graduating with her Bachelor of Science, she earned a Master of Science in physician assistant studies at Mercy College. Elizabeth completed her psychiatry training at New York-Presbyterian Westchester Behavioral Health Center. She was intrigued by the field and knew she could positively impact people’s lives based on her knowledge and life experiences.

Elizabeth began her career as a physician associate working with both children and adults in psychiatry in Westchester County, NY. After relocating to Florida, Elizabeth joined the MAVA team. She specializes in supporting individuals dealing with a spectrum of mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, and more. Her experiences have nurtured a deep understanding of psychological well-being, and she is passionate about providing comprehensive care that addresses all the emotional aspects of health. She believes in treating patients holistically, not just medicinally. Elizabeth is driven by the desire to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those she serves.

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Seher Shaikh, PA-C

Seher Shaikh PA-C developed a love for medicine early in her high school career. She was born in Pakistan and raised in Central Florida where she attended the University of Central Florida for her undergraduate studies. She went to Miami Dade college for her Physician Assistant studies and completed her training in Jackson health and Baptiste health system. She always had a unique interest in helping out in the community, especially in the underprivileged population. She was heavily involved in best buddies which is an organization who assists children and adults with developmental disabilities. During her training, she was involved in Project SEED, a community outreach program to bring healthcare screening and follow up care to the migrant worker and their families in the Homestead area. She was also involved in Miami Dade annual health fair, which targeted underserved, uninsured population to provide basic care and provide screenings. She has been in the specialty of psychiatry since 2017, where she found her love for psychiatry when she was working in Addiction medicine. Her areas of expertise in substance abuse from alcohol dependence to opiate abuse. Her areas of interests are Bipolar disorder, Major depression, Anxiety disorders, Specific phobias, OCD, and psychotic disorders. Devoted to comprehensive psychiatric care. Her goal is to achieve optimal health through disease prevention and healthy lifestyle. Her mission is to conduct comprehensive evaluations to establish an accurate diagnosis and plan treatment which incorporates safe and effective use of psychopharmacology and psychotherapy in a caring environment. Psychoeducation and family involvement are highly encouraged.

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Michael Oliva, PMHNP-BC

Michael Oliva is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a profound commitment to delivering compassionate and evidence-based care to individuals facing mental health challenges. With a robust background encompassing six years of experience in inpatient crisis stabilization and alcohol/drug detox as a registered nurse, he is driven by a passion for fostering recovery and well-being.
During his time working as a PMHNP-BC at Q Space Detox in Homestead, FL, he provided comprehensive care to individuals who belonged to the LGBT community, helping to navigate their journey of recovery. Drawing upon his experience supporting marginalized segments of the community throughout his career, Michael conducts comprehensive psych evaluations, administers patient assessment tools, and actively participates in prescribing and monitoring psychotropic medications.
His journey as a PMHNP is fortified by a solid educational background. He earned a Master of Science in Nursing from Nova Southeastern University, specializing in Psychiatry. Prior to this, he obtained an Associate of Science in Nursing from Miami Dade College. Complementing his nursing qualifications is a Bachelor of Art in Psychology with a Minor in Sociology from Florida International University.
Michael’s educational and professional experiences have equipped him with the skills and expertise necessary to navigate the complexities of mental health care, with a focus on fostering recovery and well-being.

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Michael-Oliva PMHNP-BC
Lisa Shallenberger -PA-C

Lisa Shallenberger, PA-C

Lisa Shallenberger is a physician assistant with a certificate of added qualifications in psychiatry. She has 30 years of healthcare experience. She earned her undergraduate degree at California State University at Northridge. She furthered her education by attending Miami Dade College’s physician assistant program, where she graduated with honors and is a member of Phi Theta Kappa, the honors society. She attained a master’s degree in medical science at St. Francis University, where she graduated with honors and is a member of Delta Epsilon Sigma. Having lived in Miami for over 20 years, she realized the importance of patients being understood and became conversant in Spanish.

As a member of the Orlando Psychiatric Associates family, she has found a unique opportunity to reach people in need. She has a particular interest in finding the best treatment for everyone in a positive, professional, and caring manner. Performing a thorough psychiatric evaluation and creating an individualized treatment plan is the foundation of her treatment of patients. Taking into consideration medical needs and genetic background allows for the personalization of the treatment and long-term goals. She relies on therapists and other OPA team members to create the best environment for patient success. Her areas of interest include bipolar disorders, anxiety disorders, major depression, adjustment disorders, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, psychotic disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Before finding her dream job in psychiatry, she worked in a variety of specialties, such as neurology, pain management, aesthetics, and internal medicine. Additionally, she has written for the Rosh Review, an academic and didactic review that assists students in the field of medicine to achieve their goals. These experiences have granted her a unique perspective in her patients’ best management and treatment.

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