MEET OUR PROVIDERS

Dr. Henry Chavez Cuffaro, MD

Dr. Chavez is a highly experienced and bilingual psychiatrist who completed his medical school studies in Venezuela before relocating to the United States. After completing his studies, Dr. Chavez pursued a residency in psychiatry at MetroHealth Case Western Reserve in Cleveland, Ohio, where he developed extensive experience in inpatient and outpatient psychiatry. Throughout his career, Dr. Chavez has developed a passion for crisis psychiatry and has specialized in treating mood and psychotic disorders.

In addition to his clinical work, Dr. Chavez is a preceptor for medical students at Sam Houston State University and has precepted students from other medical schools. He is dedicated to sharing his knowledge and experience with the next generation of physicians and helping them develop the skills and expertise they need to impact the field positively.

His commitment to staying up-to-date with the latest research and treatment options in psychiatry ensures that his patients receive the highest quality care possible

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)

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.

Mary Wellington, PMHNP

Mary Wellington is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with years of nursing experience in the psychiatric field ranging from child and adult inpatient care to geriatric care. She earned a Bachelor of Science in nursing at The University of Arlington, Texas, and a master’s in nursing from Walden University, Minneapolis psychiatric mental health Practitioner program, before joining Mava Behavioral Health. She was the Assistant Director of Nursing in a Rehabilitation Nursing facility for five years. Currently in the Doctor of Nursing (DNP) program at Walden University,

Mary believes in creating an individualized plan of care that values client involvement, interprofessional collaboration, and evidence-based practice. The client can expect their initial visit to include a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, determination of treatment goals, and education about diagnosis and available treatment options. I have the pleasure of working alongside many skilled and experienced clinicians and am happy to collaborate and coordinate care with them when appropriate to the client’s needs.

Rida Qadri, PA-C

Rida Qadri received her Bachelor of Business Administration degree at the University of Houston with a degree in Management Information Systems in 2016. She worked at Ernst & Young in IT Audit before quickly realizing that her heart was for practicing medicine. She then got her Masters in Physician Assistant studies at Sullivan University in Louisville, Kentucky, in 2021. She has been practicing in Behavioral Health at MAVA ever since 2022. She has a broad knowledge basis in psychiatry and can care for patients from all walks of life.

Rida is passionate about educating her patients on the safety of psychotropic medications and providing tips on anxiety & depression relief. Her care philosophy centers around her patients and strongly values creating and maintaining the provider-patient relationship. As a Pakistani-American, Rida also values diversity and is culturally aware when treating her patient population.

Omotayo Sofela, PMHNP

Omotayo Sofela is a Board-Certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Her training and nursing experience have expanded nearly two decades of working in various nursing settings. Omotayo received her Bachelor of Science degree from York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, and her Master of Science in Nursing degree from Walden University.

She was licensed and began her nursing career in the Med/Surg unit of William Osler Health Center, Brampton, Ontario, Canada. She later relocated to the United States to work in the Med/Surg unit at Willis Knighting Hospital, Shreveport, Louisiana. She continued as an RN at mental health hospital in Conroe, where she worked as a psychiatric Nurse.

Omotayo’s goal is to decrease the stigma on mental illness, decrease barriers to access care of mental healthcare, decrease the mental health crisis in our communities, and help individuals get back to the quality of life they deserve.

Omotayo possesses great listening, caring and compassionate skills that her patient love. She provides a non-judgmental, positive environment giving patients the most dignity, empathy, and respect.

Omotayo is ANCC Board Certified in Psychiatric Mental Health, A member of the American Nurses Association. She is also an MBA degree holder from the University of Lagos, Nigeria.

Fanny Nnabuike, PMHNP

Fanny’s started working with Mava Behavioral Health in 2022. Fanny’s positive attitude, extensive knowledge, and willingness to go above and beyond in providing care for the individuals we serve are immeasurable. Fanny derives joy in caring for and putting a smile on the faces of every individual each day. Daily, Fanny is always on the move assessing patients, prescribing medication, providing therapy, interviewing patients, documenting, and following the nursing guidelines across the lifespan. Fanny’s commitment and strong work ethic are appreciated and valuable to the individuals we serve. Fanny understands the individuals she treats, their medical conditions, diagnosis, and treatment very well.

Fanny is certified in Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) by the Substance Abuse, and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA, 2022) started as a direct care nurse in 2003 and as a Pediatric Nurse for 12 years. Fanny worked a King Haven Medical, Houston, Texas, as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and Family Nurse practitioner, respectively, for almost five years.

Fanny Nnabuike obtained her Post-Master of Science in Nursing (Post-MSN, 2017) from Maryville University, St Louis, Missouri, and specializes as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Board Certified (PMHNP-BC). Fanny holds a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN, 2015) specializing in Family Nurse Practitioner, Board Certified (FNP-BC). Fanny has a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN-2012) from Texas Tech University Health Science Center, Lubbock, Texas. Fanny has an Associate in Science in Nursing (ASN, 2011) from Jacinto College – South, Beamer Road, Houston, Texas, as a Registered Nurse (RN). Fanny obtained her Associate in Arts (AAS, 2009) from Houston Community College. Fanny holds a Diploma of Science in Nursing (DSN, 2003) from San Jacinto College-North as a License Vocational Nurse (LVN).

Catherine Ogbonna, PMHNP

Nkechinyere Iwuorisha, PMHNP

A board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner in Texas. She started her academic journey by earning her associate degree in health science. She studied nursing and earned her Bachelor of Science degree In Nursing, with a broad-based knowledge of nursing practice, clinical expertise, evidence-based practice, strategic planning, and developmental and visionary leadership. She did her clinical rotation in several renowned healthcare institutions in the Houston metropolitan.

During her academic pursuit, she searched for a field that would allow her the opportunity for human growth and to spend time with clients and their families. She likes interacting, learning, and applying didactic teaching to practical experience. She went forward to obtain her Master of Science degree in Psychiatric Mental Health across the lifespan. She has been practicing as an Advance Practice Registered Nurse in Texas. She provides holistic care and services to assist patients in their total healing, adaptiveness to society, and functionality. As a practicing practitioner, she developed a particular interest in treating adults, adolescents, and children with mood disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorder, attention deficit hyperactive disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, disruptive mood dysregulation disorder, schizophrenia, etc. She likes working closely and collaboratively with other healthcare professionals. She is dedicated, compassionate, and passionate about promoting patient’s health and wellbeing, especially helping the underserved population access the ever-growing and complex healthcare system.

Julie Thibeaux, PMHNP

Julie Thibeaux is a dedicated and compassionate Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Julie obtained her Bachelor of Science in Biology with a minor in Chemistry from Texas Southern University in Houston, Texas, in 2012, followed by her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Oklahoma City University in Oklahoma City in 2017. With extensive experience in critical care settings and a passion for mental health, Julie then completed the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program, earning her Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University in Minneapolis in 2023.

Julie’s philosophy of care is rooted in the belief that every person deserves respect, dignity, and understanding in their journey toward mental health and well-being. Julie is dedicated to understanding and respecting her patients’ diverse backgrounds, values, and beliefs. When meeting with Julie, you will collaboratively create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and goals, you will be educated on different psychotropic medication options, and be equipped with the tools and resources necessary to achieve your mental health goals. Through education and support, Julie aims to empower individuals to develop coping skills, resilience, and a sense of self-efficacy in managing their mental health.

Gretel Salazar, PA-C

Gretel Salazar is a board-certified Physician Assistant with 20+ years of experience as a provider in Pediatrics and Family Medicine. She has special interests in psychiatric medicine and treating children with ADHD and autism.

Mrs. Salazar focuses on providing mental health evaluations and medication management for patients with various mental illnesses, including but not limited to depression, anxiety, bipolar, schizophrenia, ADHD, and autism. She is empathetic, easy to talk to, and provides explanations with examples that patients find easily relatable. Clear communication and empathy allow patients to communicate openly and honestly.

She has extensive clinical experience in up-to-date medical therapies, diagnostics, and records review and monitoring, which helps her formulate the best treatment plan. She listens carefully to patients’ symptoms to create a treatment plan accordingly.

She earned her bachelor’s degree from The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston in 2002.

She is a member of the American Academy of Family Physicians and is certified by the NCCPA.