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Meet Our Providers Illinois

Coddie Vassar MD

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.

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

Rachel Amodu, PMHNP

I believe we function at our highest capacity when there is balance in mental, psychological, physical, social, and spiritual health. Our initial appointment entails listening to your detailed history, discussing your current stressors, and working on your treatment goals. Our follow-up appointments will review progress and make adjustments until we find the best balance for you. I believe applying both pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy is all it takes for the best outcomes. Let’s start a better mental health journey together.

I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. My main areas of focus include symptoms and Medication management. I practice evidence-based, patient-centered care and always aim at providing the best care possible. I have over 16 years of nursing experience and am extensively involved in psychiatric nursing. I create a supportive and judgment-free space for patients.
I am passionate about improving access to mental health care for all. My goal is to eradicate the stigma and bias associated with mental health by rendering compassionate, holistic, and culturally competent care to my patients. In the long run, this helps in living and maintaining an optimal quality of life.

Evelyn Ukpolo, PMHNP

Evelyn Ukpolo is a highly respected Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree. She has nine years of experience in providing mental health care to diverse population specializing in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, and substance use disorders. She worked as on duty administrator at cook County Hospital where she attended to patients with various mental health conditions. Evelyn Ukpolo earned her DNP from the University of Michigan at Flint, where she focused her doctoral research on improving access to mental health services for underserved communities using telepsychiatry. Evelyn Ukpolo has been in the nursing field as a registered nurse for over 25 years prior to becoming an advanced practice nurse. She also earned her BSN from Lewis University, an MSN from North Park University, family nurse practitioner certification from Governor state University and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner certification from northern Kentucky University. In addition to her clinical practice Evelyn Ukpolo is a passionate advocate for mental policy reform. She has served in various committees while at Cook County aimed at improving mental health care delivery and reducing stigma around psychiatric disorders. She is committed to advancing the role of PMHNPs in addressing the growing mental health needs in the healthcare system.

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