Meet The Team

Our Management Team

Thomas C. Cook, Jr.

President and Chief Executive Officer

Hayley I. Porter. Psy.D.

Chief Compliance, Ethics, and Training Officer & HIPAA Privacy Officer

Aruna Rao, MD

Board Certified Psychiatrist & Chief Medical Officer

Brandi Tanasescu, LCPC

Chief Financial and Strategic Officer

Lauren Cook

Director of Marketing & Intake

Molly Martin

Chief of Staff

Kathryn DeRaffele, LCPAT, ATR-BC

Vice President of Clinical Services

Jennifer Haller, CRNP

Vice President of Psychiatry

Sandy Young

Vice President of Human Resources

Nate Christian

Vice President of Operations

Anna Jung, LCSW-C

Vice President of Staff Development and Training

Lisa Foley

Director of Finance

Lauren Cook

Director of Marketing & Intake

Our Mental Health Treatment Providers

Providers are currently accepting new clients. Contact us at 410-800-2169, option 1, to schedule an appointment/referral

** Please note: All providers are currently providing Telehealth Services **

Jennifer Haller, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP-BC

Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Walden University

Wendy Strong, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP-BC

Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-Board Certified From Walden University

Kamau Collins, M.D.

Board Certified Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist University of Maryland School of Medicine

Kwesi Codrington, PMHNP-BC

Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Walden University

Olalekan Ajayi, DNP, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP-BC

Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-Board Certified From Walden University

Anissa Salerno, PMHNP-BC

Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-Board Certified From Walden University

Kelli Kitts, MSN, CRNP

Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Walden University, Post Masters Family Nurse Practitioner from Wilmington University

Donna Martin, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP-BC

Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-Board Certified From Frostburg State University

LaToya White, MS, PA-C

Psychiatric Physician Assistant Board Certified from Towson University

Jennifer Haller, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP-BC

Position: Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Walden University
Categories: Delaware, Telehealth
Location: Delaware, Telehealth

Jennifer is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who received her Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University and her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Towson University. Jennifer has specialized training and experience in treating clients across the lifespan with various mental health conditions. She has psychiatric experience, including working in local hospitals, in the emergency room, and in outpatient clinics. Jennifer has been a nurse for over fourteen years with a background in critical care.

Since her first psychiatric clinical experience in nursing school on an acute crisis inpatient unit, Jen has been drawn to psychiatry and helping to heal the mind and body using a holistic approach. She enjoys working collaboratively with other mental health providers and individualizes each treatment plan to suit the most appropriate needs of the client. Jennifer enjoys working with clients with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, other mood disorders, and ADHD. She is fully dedicated to helping to improve the overall quality and well-being of her patients.

Note: Ms. Haller works in our Telehealth division and in our Delaware Offices.

Wendy Strong, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP-BC

Position: Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-Board Certified From Walden University
Categories: Delaware, Harford County
Location: Delaware, Harford County

Wendy is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Walden University. Wendy has training and experience treating clients with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan and practice settings, including emergency departments and outpatient clinics. Wendy has been a nurse for 14 years, with most of her experience in the emergency department taking care of severe mental health disorders.

She realized that she wanted to provide extended advanced care to this population, which prompted her to return to school for a higher degree.  Wendy treats clients with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and schizophrenia. She provides clients with a safe environment and offers culturally diversified care with a holistic approach for mind and body well-being. Each treatment plan is individually comprised of input, not only from Wendy but from the client and therapist as well, truly showing her commitment to individualized, personalized, and comprehensive care for her patients.

Note: Ms. Strong works in the Harford County Office, as well as provides Telehealth Counseling Services.

Kamau Collins, M.D.

Position: Board Certified Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist University of Maryland School of Medicine
Categories: Overlea, Telehealth
Location: Overlea, Telehealth
IN-PERSON APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE: No
TELEHEALTH APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE: Yes

Dr. Collins received his Medical Degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, in 2003. He pursued his General Psychiatry training at Howard University, which he completed in 2007. Dr. Collins returned to the University of Maryland, Baltimore, for his Child and Adolescent Psychiatry training, which he completed in 2009. Dr. Collins specializes in medication management of psychiatric conditions.

He has particular interest in childhood related conditions, including ADHD, Anxiety disorders, and Autistic Disorders. He works with children, adolescents, and adults.

Note: Dr. Collins works in the Overlea Office, located in the Beltway Plaza and the Harford County Office.

Kwesi Codrington, PMHNP-BC

Position: Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Walden University
Categories: Hunt Valley, Telehealth
Location: Hunt Valley, Telehealth

Kwesi is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with a degree from Walden University. Kwesi has 15 years of nursing experience with a focus on critical care and behavioral health. He has extensive experience treating patients with psychiatric disorders from various age groups and cultural demographics.
Specializing in a range of mental health conditions, Kwesi has honed his skills in diagnosing and treating mood disorders, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and schizophrenia. He approaches each patient with an individualized treatment plan, recognizing the uniqueness of their experiences and tailoring interventions to suit their specific needs. His holistic approach takes into account biological, psychological, social, cultural, and environmental factors that contribute to mental health issues.
Beyond his clinical experience, Kwesi is well known for his empathetic and non-judgmental demeanor. He strongly believes in inclusivity for people from all walks of life. He creates a safe and supportive environment where patients can openly express their thoughts and emotions. His collaborative approach focuses on building a strong therapeutic alliance that involves working closely with patients to set achievable goals, empowering them to actively participate in their healing journey.

Mr. Codrington works in our Hunt Valley office and remotely, providing Telehealth services. 

Olalekan Ajayi, DNP, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP-BC

Position: Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-Board Certified From Walden University
Categories: Hunt Valley
Location: Hunt Valley

Olalekan Ajayi is a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) who graduated from Walden University. He is a highly skilled professional with thirteen years’ overall nursing experience, five years in psychiatry before he went back to school and became licensed as a PMHNP. Olalekan’s experience encompasses a commitment to delivering exceptional, qualitative, and compassionate patient care to diverse and multicultural client mixtures.

He has a holistic understanding of psychiatric and medical techniques, processes, and the unique protocols of the Psychiatric-Mental healthcare delivery in outpatient settings, community, correctional health care systems, hospitals, nursing homes, and assisted living facilities. The years of experience bring to fore proficiency in obtaining a history, carrying out a physical assessment, diagnosing, implementing treatment, and evaluating care outcomes while maintaining safety and promoting client dignity, respect, and in accordance with each facility’s policies and procedure.

Note: Mr. Ajayi works in the Hunt Valley Office, as well as provides Telehealth Services.

Anissa Salerno, PMHNP-BC

Position: Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-Board Certified From Walden University
Categories: Pennsylvania, York- Belvedere
Location: York Belvedere

Anissa Salerno, PMHNP, is a Child and Adult Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Anissa manages and treats a wide range of mental health concerns, including Autism, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, and Eating Disorders. Her approach to care recognizes that every patient is unique and should be treated as such.

Anissa provides psychiatric evaluations and medication management with special attention to individual needs, personal history, stressful or traumatic life experiences, and concerns about medications. Anissa approaches patient care with patience, warmth, understanding, and helpful explanations that facilitate treatment and the patient’s sense of comfort and trust. She approaches treatment from a nonjudgmental space allowing the professional relationship to develop. This approach is successful in meeting the needs and desired outcomes of each client. Anissa’s primary focus is providing honest communication with her patients and quality resources for all those involved.

Note: Ms. Salerno works in the York-Belvedere Medical Center. 

Kelli Kitts, MSN, CRNP

Position: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Walden University, Post Masters Family Nurse Practitioner from Wilmington University
Categories: Salisbury
Location: Salisbury, Telehealth

Kelli has over 30 years of nursing experience, including urgent care and emergency medicine, and has worked in the emergency room for six years as a family nurse practitioner. Her passion for mental health led her to pursue her Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, which she completed in 2024. Her education and work experience has shaped her compassion for helping others. She looks forward to continuing her advocacy for clients’ physical and mental well-being. Her focus will be improving medication management, patient and family education, access to treatment, and providing culturally sensitive holistic care. Kelli treats clients (teenagers to seniors) with depression, ADHD, anxiety, LGBTQ population, OCD, mood disorders, sleep-related disorders, and schizophrenia.

Donna Martin, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP-BC

Position: Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-Board Certified From Frostburg State University
Categories: Salisbury
Location: Salisbury

Donna is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who treats clients of all ages. She received her graduate degree from Frostburg State University and is board certified as a PMHNP by the American Nurses Credentialing Center. After over 30 years of experience as a registered nurse, she decided to become a nurse practitioner.

Donna is also a certified nurse case manager with expertise in assisting clients in navigating the healthcare system’s complexities and obtaining the care they need. Donna believes in a client-centered approach where the client is the most important part of the treatment team. She believes in the importance of therapy and medication and works closely with the client’s therapist to assist the client in attaining their treatment goals. The NP program Donna attended at Frostburg was designed to provide health care services in rural and underserved areas. As a life-long resident of the Eastern Shore of Md, she understands the challenges faced by those living in rural communities and is excited to be a part of the team at the Salisbury office.

Note: Ms. Martin works in the Salisbury Office.

LaToya White, MS, PA-C

Position: Psychiatric Physician Assistant Board Certified from Towson University
Categories: York- Belvedere

LaToya received her Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from Towson University. She started her healthcare career 18 years ago as a combat medic in the United States Army, treating soldiers and their families. LaToya has worked in Geriatric psychiatry in a local nursing facility. She also has worked on multiple inpatient psychiatric units.

She has experience working with a diverse group of patients. Most recently, LaToya worked on research studies with children and adolescents battling chronic health problems and the natural process of aging. She believes that fostering our mental health is an important part of treating our overall wellness.

Note: Ms. White works at the York- Belvedere Medical Center office, and the Harford County office

 

Our Wellness Team

Thomas Austin-Braxton, L.Ac

Licensed Acupuncturist

Thomas is a Licensed Acupuncturist with a Masters in Acupuncture…

Dr. Shari Youngblood, DCN, CNS, LDN

Certified Nutrition Specialist, Licensed Dietitian Nutritionist

Dr. Shari Youngblood is a board-certified nutrition specialist (CNS) and…

Yvette Lyn Myers, M. Ac., L.Ac.

Licensed Acupuncturist

Yvette Myers is an acupuncturist licensed by the state of…

Holly Zink, CNS, LDN

Certified Nutrition Specialist, Licensed Dietitian-Nutritionist

Holly Zink is a Certified Nutrition Specialist (CNS) and Licensed…

Thomas Austin-Braxton, L.Ac

Position: Licensed Acupuncturist
Categories: Wellness

Thomas is a Licensed Acupuncturist with a Masters in Acupuncture from Maryland University of Integrative Health. He practices Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). His treatments focus on mental health and pain. He’s experienced in treating patients for menstrual pain, pain (acute and chronic), anxiety, and depression. Some of the other modalities that he uses are cupping, gua sha, tui na, and dietary suggestions.

Dr. Shari Youngblood, DCN, CNS, LDN

Position: Certified Nutrition Specialist, Licensed Dietitian Nutritionist
Categories: Wellness

Dr. Shari Youngblood is a board-certified nutrition specialist (CNS) and licensed dietitian nutritionist (LDN) with extensive experience in clinical nutrition and functional medicine. She holds a Doctorate in Clinical Nutrition (DCN) from Maryland University of Integrative Health and specializes in using personalized therapeutic nutrition to support mental health and overall wellness. At Balance Point Wellness, Dr. Shari leads the clinic’s nutrition program, providing evidence-based nutrition counseling and developing individualized nutrition plans to help clients achieve optimal health. She is passionate about integrating nutrition and psychology, with a special interest in ketogenic metabolic therapy to support mental health. Her practice focuses on helping individuals manage conditions such as metabolic dysfunction and chronic illness through food as medicine.

Yvette Lyn Myers, M. Ac., L.Ac.

Position: Licensed Acupuncturist
Categories: Wellness

Yvette Myers is an acupuncturist licensed by the state of Maryland. Over seventeen years ago, she received her Master of Acupuncture degree from TAI SOPHIA/ Maryland University of Integrative Health in Laurel, MD. She specialized in the study of the Five Element teachings of J.R. Worsley and Traditional Chinese Medicine. Since graduation, Yvette has provided detoxification acupuncture to clients in two Intensive Outpatient (IOP) Substance Abuse programs in Baltimore City.

In her private practice, she treats various general medical conditions, including chronic pain, headaches, allergies, anxiety, depression, sports injuries., etc. Working in concert with Dr.’s, therapists, and other practitioners to combine Eastern and Western medicine for the best possible outcomes. Yvette helps her patients discover their healing abilities by supporting them along their healing path.

Holly Zink, CNS, LDN

Position: Certified Nutrition Specialist, Licensed Dietitian-Nutritionist
Categories: Wellness

Holly Zink is a Certified Nutrition Specialist (CNS) and Licensed Dietitian Nutritionist (LDN), holding a master’s degree in Clinical Nutrition and Integrative Health from Maryland University of Integrative Health. Her background in scientific research, combined with clinical nutrition experience, has fostered a passion for translating the science of nutrition and health into accessible, evidence-based recommendations. She is passionate about making nutrition and health information feel less stressful and more attainable. Holly prioritizes meeting you where you are, developing customized recommendations to support your unique health and wellness goals. With significant experience in private family practice and functional medicine, she has seen firsthand that interdisciplinary collaboration in integrative care leads to the best patient outcomes. Her practice emphasizes diet and lifestyle strategies that address the link between mental health, metabolic function, and gut health.

 

Thomas Austin-Braxton

License: Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).

Celia Parada-Worby

School Attended and Major: Maryland University of Integrative Health, Nutrition and Integrative Health with a Concentration in Herbal Medicine
License: Certified Nutrition Specialist, Licensed Dietitian Nutritionist

Celia is a Board Certified Nutrition Specialist and Licensed Dietitian Nutritionist with a deep passion for promoting health and well-being through personalized nutrition and lifestyle guidance. She holds a Master's Degree in Nutrition and Integrative Health with a Concentration in Herbal Medicine from the maryland University of Integrative Health. She has successfully guided clients of all ages and backgrounds towards increased health and vitality, with a focus on cardiometabolic health, digestive support, hormone balancing, and mental health nutrition. Celia believes in fostering a compassionate, non-judgmental, and inclusive approach to health and well-being. She draws from functional medicine, herbalism, Health at Every Size®, and Intuitive Eating, a mindful and compassionate framework that helps individuals break free from diet culture and embrace a more balanced and joyful approach to eating. She enjoys collaborating with clients to create customized plans tailored to their unique health needs.

Yvette Lyn Myers, M. Ac., L.Ac.

Licensed Acupuncturist
Masters in Acupuncture from TAI SOPHIA / Maryland University of Integrated Health.

Yvette Myers is an acupuncturist licensed by the state of Maryland. Over seventeen years ago, she received her Master of Acupuncture degree from TAI SOPHIA/ Maryland University of Integrative Health in Laurel, MD. She specialized in the study of the Five Element teachings of J.R. Worsley and Traditional Chinese Medicine. Since graduation, Yvette has provided detoxification acupuncture to clients in two Intensive Outpatient (IOP) Substance Abuse programs in Baltimore City.

In her private practice, she treats various general medical conditions, including chronic pain, headaches, allergies, anxiety, depression, sports injuries., etc. Working in concert with Dr.’s, therapists, and other practitioners to combine Eastern and Western medicine for the best possible outcomes. Yvette helps her patients discover their healing abilities by supporting them along their healing path.

Note: Ms. Myers works in the York-Belvedere Medical Center office.

Rochan Olson-Burrell, DAOM, L.Ac, MATCM

Licensed Acupuncturist
Masters and Doctorate in Healthy aging and Longevity from Yo San University.

Dr. Rochan Olson-Burrell is a nationally licensed acupuncturist and herbalist. She graduated from Yo San University in 2012 with a master’s in acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine and went on to get her doctorate in 2014 with a focus on healthy aging and longevity.

She spent time in China studying at the Shanghai University spending time in the stroke center. She had a private practice in LA for eight years where she treated a wide variety of conditions, including but not limited to pain, digestion, PMS, fertility, stress, and anxiety. She focuses on treating the whole person physically, mentally, and spiritually, using many different modalities in combination with lifestyle and nutrition coaching to empower the patient to help heal themselves, working to treat the root cause, not just the symptoms.

Note: Ms. Olson-Burrell works in the Hunt Valley office.

Department Directory

Join the Balance Point Wellness Family!

We are looking to hire dedicated clinicians and support staff for our practice! If you are interested in working for Balance Point Wellness, email a resume and cover letter to Sarah Krieger, Talent Acquisition Manager, at skrieger@bpointwellness.com.

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