About Hemisphere

Connecting east with west in modern medicine.

OUR STORY

We at Hemisphere are a team of clinicians founded on the belief of treating the mind, body and spirit. Our holistic approach to treatment uses both eastern and western medicine to give you a tailored treatment plan to your journey to wellness.

Hemisphere was started to give clients back their freedom to their health while removing the stigma from mental health.

We are here to meet you halfway to your journey to wellness.

What Makes US different

Hemisphere not only focuses on your mental health but we understand the connection between the mind, body and spirit. We do not only evaluate your mental health but also your physical health. We do a thorough evaluation which includes a nutritional assessment and rule out any potential variables.

We Offer:
- Medication Management
- Telehealth
- In Person Sessions
- Psychotherapy
- Genetic Psychotropic Testing
- Diagnostic work up to assess physical health
- We treat children, adolescents and adults

OUR TEAM

Introducing Hemisphere

Brittany Watson
PMHNP-BC, FNP-C, DNP
CEO

Brittany Watson is a licensed and dual board-certified Advanced Practice Nurse Practitioner in family medicine and psychiatric mental health. Her training in both specialties allows her to understand the critical link between physical and mental well-being across the lifespan.

She has a strong belief in holistic care utilizing a variety of treatment modalities including psychotropic medications, in addition to evidence based complementary and alternative treatments.

She believes in a collaborative approach with her client's in reaching their goals. She takes pride in developing individualized treatment plans with her clients that meet their lifestyle, personal beliefs and needs.

She is boy mom and understands the challenging balance of work and family, and believes in evaluating nutrition and the physical components of the body as this can impact treatment. She is a San Diego native and enjoys playing sports, traveling and going to the beach with her family.

Erica Merlos
Director of Operations

Erica is the Director of Operations for Hemisphere and the co-founder of Hemisphere Billing and Credentialing Services. Her experience includes over 25 years in customer service and healthcare management, covering practice operations, revenue cycle management, coding, documentation, staff training, communications, policy and procedure development, contracting and credentialing, and overall workflow redesign.

Erica takes pride in ensuring that the customer service and communication experiences for clients and clinicians are remarkable. She has helped numerous businesses, startup mental health/psychiatric practices, and customer service call centers by providing executive support, team development, and business consulting.

Erica is an avid animal lover with a fur family of four and enjoys the outdoors. She loves spending time with her family and taking long drives.

Raphael Morris
MD
Psychiatrist and Medical Director San Diego

Dr. Morris is board certified in general and forensic psychiatry. He has been in practice for over 20 years and he is a Distinguished Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association.

In addition to his clinical practice, he has consulted as an expert on high profile criminal cases around the country. He is also our preferred TMS provider at Del Mar Brain.

If you would like to schedule a TMS consult please call our office at 858-522-0145.

Kristen Curry
PMHNP-BC, DNP
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Kristen Curry is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) who treats individuals across the lifespan, from children to older adults. She earned her Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP) from the University of San Diego. During her PMHNP training, she gained extensive experience at Sharp Mesa Vista, working with inpatient and intensive outpatient therapy programs (IOP) such as cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, dual-diagnosis, eating disorders, and maternal mental health programs. Additionally, she completed clinical rotations in community health and private practice settings.

Kristen takes pride in her holistic approach, collaborating with patients to create individualized treatment plans that may include medication management, individual therapy, and complementary approaches like mindfulness, meditation, nutrition, spirituality, and behavioral changes. She has experience working with a multi-disciplinary team to provide comprehensive care, helping patients achieve their goals in a stigma-free environment.

Born and raised in northeastern Pennsylvania, Kristen began her nursing career in Philadelphia before moving to San Diego. She has over nine years of experience as a registered nurse in various settings, including medical-surgical, operating room, and behavioral health. She pursued a career as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner to better serve the community with evidence-based care.

In her spare time, Kristen enjoys self-care activities such as exercising, reading, and spending time outdoors, whether at the beach or hiking in the mountains. She values quality time with her family and friends, especially with her husband and their beloved cat, Khaleesi.

Kirsten Manalo
PMHNP-BC, DNP
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

I am a board-certified psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner that specializes in treating a variety of mental health disorders including depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, and ADHD. I have 8 years of nursing experience with background specialties in psychiatric/mental health, medical-surgical, home health, and academia. My education and experience enables me to treat patients with a holistic approach meaning other factors that affect mental health and well-being are taken into consideration as well. This includes addressing multiple facets of health including emotional, psychological, physiological, sociocultural, and spiritual.

I believe mental healthcare treatment is not limited to just medications and therapy. It involves looking in to other areas of your life as well: are you satisfied with your job, do you find fulfilment and purpose in what you do, are you living in alignment with your values, what do you do for stress management, how do you cope, do you have a good support system, do you feel connected with your loved ones, do you have medical conditions affecting your capabilities, what does your lifestyle look like in terms of diet, exercise, sleep... All these factors have the ability to impact one’s mental health and well-being and it can be helpful to have insight and awareness of these issues in addition to treatment with medications and therapy.

I am passionate about helping individuals learn and grow to take better care of themselves while navigating the challenges of life by providing treatment through diagnosis and medication management. I strive to deliver the highest quality of care by establishing rapport with each patient and working in collaboration with them to meet their treatment goals. I follow evidence-based practice with an emphasis on patient-centered care, taking time to formulate diagnosis, providing psychoeducation on medications, giving recommendations based on clinical judgment, while taking into consideration patient preferences, making sure to address any questions and concerns along the way.

Lauren Reed
DNP, PMHNP-BC
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Lauren is a California-licensed and board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He has experience in treating patients across the lifespan and with diverse cultural backgrounds, including clinical expertise in treating cognitive decline and dementia in older adults, psychiatric stabilization for individuals living with severe mental illness, and psychiatric care for individuals with severe/chronic medical illnesses. He also has experience in treating individuals with depression, anxiety, insomnia, PTSD, OCD, bipolar spectrum, and psychotic disorders.  Prior to completing his doctoral education in nursing practice from the University of San Diego, Lauren worked as a critical-care nurse and helped patients and their families navigate life-threatening illnesses.

In addition to medication-based treatment, Lauren has experience in multiple psychotherapeutic modalities, including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), motivational interviewing, and supportive therapy. He also integrates mindfulness practices, meditation, physical exercise, complementary and alternative medicine, and other holistic interventions into his practice. Lauren believes that competent and compassionate mental health care is rooted in honoring the values and lived experiences of those he cares for, and he prioritizes client autonomy and dignity in all aspects of the care he provides.

When he isn’t working, Lauren loves getting outside with his wife and daughter, and he is an avid surfer, hiker, and rock climber.

Rebecca Dorne
PMHNP-BC, DNP
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Rebecca Dorne is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice from the University of San Diego.  Rebecca has clinical expertise in providing compassionate care to individuals with a variety of mental health conditions, such as ADHD, depression and other mood disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety disorders, and addictions.    

Her resume boasts experience caring for anyone from children clients undergoing acute detox in rehab facilities, active-duty military and veterans through the Psychiatric Emergency Clinic at the VA Medical Center, and individuals with neurodevelopmental differences, elderly patients in nursing facilities, clients undergoing acute detox in rehab facilities, active-duty military and veterans through the Psychiatric Emergency Clinic at the VA Medical Center, and individuals in need of crisis stabilization. Rebecca demonstrates unparalleled cultural sensitivity, with the ability to provide high quality care in both English and Spanish, and to those who have previously felt misunderstood by mainstream psychiatry including members of the LGBTQIA+ community, individuals living alternative lifestyles, and those in nontraditional relationships.  

Rebecca’s practice is rooted on a foundational belief that providers of mental health services must “walk the walk” and lead by example by taking excellent care of their own mental health and well being in order to effectively care for the clients they serve. During her time off, she regularly attends mental health and wellness retreats, leads and participates in support groups, and volunteers visiting schools and hospitals with her Certified Therapy Dog, Chloe.  

Marcel Rauda
PMHNP-BC
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

I am a dedicated board-certified Advanced Practice Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with the ANCC. I graduated from Maryville University in St. Louis, and bring a wealth of knowledge into each session. Treating adolescents and adults with psychiatric disorders is my specialty. I have experience providing comprehensive care in both outpatient and inpatient settings.

Having immigrated to the US at the age of six, I have called California home ever since. This journey instilled in me a deep appreciation for diversity and resilience. I offer a holistic approach to mental health, integrating medication management, therapy, dietary considerations, and engagement in enriching activities.

My passion is for helping individuals achieve mental wellness. I am committed to empowering you on your healing journey.

Cara Spieler
PMHNP-BC
Santa Barbara
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Cara Spieler is a dedicated psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a strong commitment to providing compassionate care to patients. Her journey into nursing began after a transformative experience at a young age when she discovered the power of healing and empathy through healthcare during her own recovery from an accident. With this fundamental guidance present thereafter, her passion for psychiatry was realized down the line when hands on experience in the field illuminated the ability to honor humanity, and foster understanding and connection in the mental health setting.

Cara holds a Master of Science in Nursing, specializing in Psychiatric/Mental Health, from Cal State Long Beach, and a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Tufts University. She has extensive experience in community health, having worked with underserved populations at the Santa Barbara Neighborhood Clinics and the County of Santa Barbara’s Psychiatric Health Facility. She completed a year-long nurse practitioner residency at the Department of Veterans Affairs, where she received extensive training in psychopharmacology, psychotherapies and complementary holistic care practices.

With a focus on patient-centered care, Cara is passionate about helping individuals navigate their mental health challenges and optimize functional mental wellness. She aspires to create a supportive therapeutic environment that promotes autonomy and overall well-being, while offering her skillset and knowledge of psychotropic medications and evidence based complementary treatment options.

Born and raised in Santa Barbara and playing a sport collegiately, she has a deep seeded passion for staying active, being outdoors, and appreciating the beauty and peace that nature brings. She also enjoys spending time with her family and friends and tending to her backyard chickens.

Emily Walton Pecaitis
PMHNP-BC, Director of TN
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner & Director of Tennessee Hemisphere

Emily is a licensed and board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). In her practice, she treats both adults and children for depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and a wide range of other mental health conditions. Emily’s nursing background consists of 15 years in the pre-hospital and emergency medicine setting, ten of those years at a Level 1 Trauma Center, and 7 of those years as a medevac flight nurse. She was awarded the Tennessee Star of Life Award in 2017.

Her past adversities and unique experiences serve as a foundation and motivation for her transition into mental health. She enjoys working directly with military and first responders. Along with supportive and motivational psychotherapy techniques, her goal is to find an effective medication regimen that aligns with your unique needs and lifestyle.

Emily is a proud mother of two young children. She loves spending time outdoors, decorating and design, and making memories and exploring with her children.

Alyssa Andring, MD
psychiatrist- Tennessee

Dr. Alyssa Andring is a General Psychiatrist, board certified through the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Dr. Andring joined VISN 8 in July 2023. She currently lives in Memphis, TN which is where she attended medical school at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center. She also completed her psychiatry residency training at UTHSC in June 2021. She completed an undergraduate degree at Dartmouth College with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology. 

Dr. Andring began working at the Memphis VA in July 2021 as the sole psychiatrist at the North Clinic CBOC and the Jackson TN CBOC. She worked remotely for the Jackson TN CBOC three days a week and saw patients in person at the North Clinic two days a week. Dr. Andring was a member of the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center. Dr. Andring is also a member of the American Medical Association and the American Psychiatric Association. 

Dr. Andring is very involved in the Memphis community. She works part-time at the local state hospital on the weekends, taking care of homeless, incarcerated, and uninsured patients throughout the greater Memphis and Shelby County area. She also volunteers her time at MIFA, the Metropolitan Inter-Faith Association, with her children, making birthday cards, packaging cookies, and delivering Meals on Wheels throughout the community. 

In her spare time, Dr. Andring loves traveling with her husband, daughter and son. She spends her free time at the Pure Barre  studio or volunteering at her children’s schools. She is currently learning how to play Mahjong with friends.

Kerreen Chau
LMFT
Director of Therapy Services & Licensed marriage and family Therapist

I take an intergenerational approach that views the individual, couple and family as an emotional unit. By understanding the nature of one's family members and their intense emotional connections with one another, I will help facilitate improved relationship outcomes.

I have treated many couples by developing effective communication and closeness within their relationships. Teenagers can work though issues and develop better relationships with my help.

I can help you deal with life's transitional challenges including career changes, empty nesting, teen launching, death of a loved one and divorce recovery. I help clients increase their self development with clinically researched ways of thinkingerreen has extensive knowledge and experience with helping people create fulfilling relationships. Through therapy, individuals and couples will learn to manage anxiety, increase communication and find direction in their lives.

Marga Methu
AMFT
Associate Marriage and Family Therapist

Empowering clients on their journey of self-reflection, Marga supports individuals in developing the skills necessary to improve, heal, and transform their lives. By considering the whole person—including their strengths and challenges—she tailors her approach to each client's unique needs.

With a diverse range of interventions at her disposal, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), attachment-based therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), compassion-focused therapy, narrative therapy, and holistic practices, she creates a personalized treatment plan for each individual. When she's not working with clients, Marga can be found reading, enjoying music, or exploring new corners of the globe.

As Brené Brown so eloquently puts it, "If we can share our story with someone who responds with empathy and understanding, shame can't survive."

Nala
Our Team's Four-Legged Emotional Support Dog and Team Mascot

Nala is more than just our emotional support animal; she's our team's beloved mascot. Her tail never stops wagging as she brings comfort and joy to everyone she meets.

Specialties:

Patient Visits: Whether in person or virtually, Nala loves meeting patients and offering her special brand of support.

Dog Snuggles: Nala's expert snuggles can turn any day around. Need a pick-me-up? She's got you covered.

Outdoor Explorer: When not working, you can find nala in the pool, her happy place for relaxation and fun.

CONTACT US

Get in touch to book your first appointment

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Phone
858-522-0145
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info@hemi.health
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