This year marks the inaugural Mental Health Training Program (MHTP) Awards, created to honor some of the truly outstanding individuals who make our program so impactful. We were blown away by the volume of nominations we received—each one a heartfelt testament to the dedication, talent, and leadership within our community.
We would like to extend our deepest gratitude to our incredible Wellness and Professional Development Liaisons—Micaela Birt, PsyD, Chelsa Vilinskas, PsyD, and Susan Fitts, PsyD—for creating this meaningful opportunity to celebrate our amazing trainees and staff.
A special thank you goes to Micaela Birt, PsyD, who spearheaded this inspiring initiative to highlight and honor the phenomenal individuals within the MHTP.
Reading through the nominations was both moving and inspiring, and it quickly became clear how many people are deeply valued by their colleagues and trainees. Choosing winners was incredibly difficult, as so many are deserving of recognition. While only a few individuals are highlighted in this issue, we want everyone connected to MHTP to feel celebrated and appreciated.
We’re excited to share this special edition of our newsletter to spotlight the award recipients and to extend our sincere thanks to everyone for their hard work, passion, and contributions throughout this training year.
Outstanding Achievement in Supervision
Award for Distinguished Excellence in Supervisory Leadership
Recognizing a select group of outstanding supervisors whose dedication, mentorship, and leadership within the Mental Health Training Program (MHTP) continue to inspire, empower, and shape the future of mental health professionals. These individuals exemplify the highest standards of guidance and support, fostering growth and excellence in the next generation of practitioners.
LACHARONDA TAYLOR, MBA, LCSW
Individual Supervisor
Lacharonda Taylor has made a lasting impact through her leadership in the Intensive Outpatient Program, where she provided a rich, hands-on experience while fostering self-care and professional resilience. “She taught me how to leave behind the work at the end of the day,” said one nominator. Her support extended beyond formal supervision, advocating for and mentoring trainees into their professional roles while modeling compassionate, effective leadership.
CAMERON LUTCHANSKY, LMFT
Individual Supervisor
Cameron Lutchansky is celebrated for his experiential supervision style, particularly his effective use of role-play to enhance clinical confidence and risk assessment. “His innovative use of role-play has transformed my clinical practice,” one supervisee noted. Known for his patience, cultural competence, and tailored feedback, Cameron creates an empowering environment where learning and growth flourish.
LISA FOWLER, PSY.D.
Individual Supervisor and Training Director
Dr. Lisa Fowler (she/they) has been a transformative force in the Multi-Specialty Transitions Program, offering clinical guidance grounded in social justice, advocacy, and empowerment. A nominator shared, “Lisa is the type of supervisor I have dreamed of working with… I feel deeply lucky to have her.” She goes beyond skill-building, helping trainees navigate identity, build confidence, and achieve professional milestones such as WPATH course work and community connections. Her thoughtful feedback and strength-based approach are foundational to her supervisees’ growth.
JULIANA SIMMONS, PSY.D.
Individual Supervisor
Dr. Juliana Simmons is known for her meticulous supervision style and her deep investment in both clinical care and trainee development. One nominator shared, “Best supervisor ever. I’m not certain I’ll ever find a better fit.” With an eye for both patient outcomes and professional growth, Dr. Simmons balances support and challenge, ensuring trainees grow into strong, ethical psychologists.
FARZANEH ELEEN, PH.D.
Individual and Group Supervisor
Dr. Farzaneh Eleen has been a pillar of the training program for 15+ years, guiding postdoctoral residents with warmth, insight, and dedication. A colleague and former supervisee described her as “a gift… a reason why so many of our postdoctoral residents want to stay at Kaiser.” Her enduring impact is seen in both the development of future clinicians and the strong supervisory community she has helped foster.
ZAHRA SATTAUR, PSY.D.
Assessment Supervisor
Dr. Zahra Sattaur stands out as an exceptional assessment supervisor, known for her structured, developmentally attuned approach. “She has inspired me to want to pursue assessment as part of my career!” a supervisee remarked. Her balance of rigor, empathy, and adaptability has helped trainees build both skill and confidence throughout the year.
Outstanding New Program Contributions
Honor for Outstanding Impact in New Program Implementation
This award honors individuals or teams whose visionary efforts have led to the successful development and implementation of new programs within the Mental Health Training Program (MHTP). These contributions reflect a commitment to innovation, responsiveness to emerging needs, and a dedication to enhancing the quality and accessibility of mental health education and services.
QUINN DURAND, PSY.D.
Dr. Quinn Durand is honored for her outstanding new program contributions as the manager of the Eating Disorders Program at Kaiser San Rafael. Over the past year, she has implemented large-scale improvements that have significantly elevated patient care. From building partnerships with local treatment centers to launching innovative in-office food exposure protocols, Dr. Durand has created a multidisciplinary model that integrates medical, dietary, and therapeutic support for teens and their families. “Her management style is undoubtedly felt by our patients, as there is support for providers from the top down,” one colleague shared. With a warm, relational leadership approach and deep clinical knowledge, Dr. Durand has set a new standard for excellence in eating disorder treatment.
Outstanding Program Leadership
Award for Excellence in Program Leadership
The Mental Health Training Program (MHTP) proudly recognizes the outstanding leadership of our Training Directors—individuals whose vision, mentorship, and unwavering dedication have shaped the foundation of excellence in mental health education. These leaders play a pivotal role in cultivating a supportive and enriching environment where trainees are empowered to grow both personally and professionally.
Through strategic guidance, compassionate mentorship, and a commitment to clinical and educational integrity, our Training Directors exemplify the highest standards of leadership. Their contributions not only elevate the quality of our training programs but also inspire a culture of continuous learning, collaboration, and innovation.
This recognition honors those who lead with purpose, foster resilience, and champion the development of future mental health professionals.
CAITLIN MAUS, LMFT
Caitlin Maus is recognized for her transformative leadership, blending clinical expertise with exceptional emotional intelligence and administrative insight. She has redefined the training experience through personalized supervision, proactive mentoring, and an unwavering commitment to professional development. One fellow shared, “She skillfully normalized my impostor syndrome through sharing her own professional journey,” emphasizing how her empathy and authenticity foster growth. Mrs. Maus leads with flexibility, compassion, and vision, resulting in improved outcomes, high staff retention, and a deeply supportive professional culture.
LISA VINE, LCSW
Lisa Vine is a dynamic and visionary leader who has built the Central Valley Area training program from the ground up, developing both the infrastructure and the people who sustain it. Her commitment to mentorship and supervisory support has left a lasting mark, with one colleague stating, “Serving as a supervisor under Lisa’s leadership has been one of my most rewarding experiences as a clinician.” From organizing monthly supervisory meetings to fostering talent that continues on within the clinic, Lisa’s influence is both foundational and enduring in the professional development of her team.
MYRON HAYS, PH.D., ABPP
Dr. Myron Hays is celebrated for his steadfast dedication to trainee support, expertly balancing the demands of a large training program with individual care. Known for his compassion, responsiveness, and humor, Dr. Hays creates an environment where trainees thrive both personally and professionally. One resident expressed, “He is truly a miracle worker at times… his support is immeasurable.” Whether through emotional encouragement, career guidance, or maintaining program excellence, Dr. Hays exemplifies the best of training leadership—present, dependable, and deeply human.
NICOLA FIDDES, PSY.D.
Dr. Nicola Fiddes stands out for her efficient management, thoughtful guidance, and approachable leadership style that anchors her training program. Trainees consistently feel heard and valued under her direction, benefiting from her calm insight and meticulous planning. One student praised her saying, “I have always felt heard, understood and have learnt so much through her guidance.” She balances the logistical complexities of program leadership with an authentic dedication to mentorship, creating a learning environment that is both effective and emotionally supportive.
Outstanding Clinical Work
Recognition for Outstanding Contributions to Clinical Care
The Mental Health Training Program (MHTP) is proud to recognize a select group of outstanding trainees whose dedication, talent, and compassion leave a lasting impression on the individuals and communities they serve. These remarkable individuals exemplify the core values of our program—demonstrating clinical excellence, cultural humility, and a deep commitment to service.
Through their hard work, empathy, and pursuit of growth, these trainees contribute meaningfully to the field of mental health and inspire those around them. This recognition honors not only their achievements but also the promise they hold as future leaders and advocates in mental health care.
CYRUS MANIAN, MA, MS
DOCTORAL PRACTICUM EXTERN
Cyrus has excelled in the high-acuity, fast-paced environment of AMRS, managing complex cases with professionalism, flexibility, and empathy. He is particularly skilled in group therapy, where his authenticity and engagement shine through. Described as a “voracious learner,” he quickly incorporates feedback into his practice. A supervisor shared, “He is a true natural in his role as a group therapist and extraordinarily effective with our population.”
KATIE TERRY, MA, BCBA
DOCTORAL INTERN
Katie has demonstrated extraordinary clinical skills far beyond her training level, working effectively with a diverse and challenging patient population. Her patients tend to show rapid improvement under her care, and her humility, curiosity, and openness to supervision make her a standout clinician. As one nominator noted, “She has clinical skills that far exceed her level of training… Her patients love her, and they tend to get better very quickly.”
JOANNA HUANG, PSY.D.
POSTDOCTORAL RESIDENT
Dr. Huang is recognized as an exceptional neuropsychology postdoctoral resident, consistently going above and beyond in her clinical and collaborative efforts. She has strong patient rapport, excels in detail-oriented tasks, and has contributed significantly to clinic organization and patient care initiatives. As one nominator stated, “She is well beyond her training level and any organization would be lucky to have her.”
YVETTE MCKINNEY, ASW
POST-MASTERS FELLOW
Yvette has shown remarkable growth and clinical competence, actively engaging in trauma-informed care, safety assessments, and psychoeducation. She maintains a strengths-based, patient-centered approach and navigates difficult conversations with compassion and authority. A colleague shared, “She shows care and compassion to her clients while standing in her clinical authority… she is a pleasure to work besides, and watch grow.”
JENNA COLLINS, MA
PRE-MASTERS INTERN
Jenna has made a strong impression with her exceptional clinical work during her pre-masters internship. She is actively engaged in trainings, supervisions, and teaching opportunities, and earns high therapeutic alliance scores with patients. One nominator noted, “She has been a joy to work with, and we look forward to having her back as a Post-Masters Fellow.”
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Award
Honor for Transformative Impact in DEI Initiatives
This award honors individuals who demonstrate exceptional understanding, insight, and advocacy in the areas of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) within the Mental Health Training Program (MHTP). Through their actions, these individuals actively promote a culture of belonging, challenge inequities, and elevate the voices of historically marginalized communities.
BRETT TRACE, M.A.
Brett Trace (they/them) is the recipient of the DEI award for their “understanding, insight, and advocacy around diversity, equity, and inclusion.” They led a highly praised presentation on SOGIE (Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity & Expression) 101 that was so well received by the Psychiatry staff that multiple other departments and community organizations requested the training. Known as a true “Champion for DEI,” Brett’s work has helped staff become more culturally sensitive and inclusive providers. Their advocacy and insight have made a meaningful impact across the San Rafael/Petaluma service area and beyond.
Outstanding Community Work
Recognition for Exceptional Commitment to Community Service
This award honors exceptional contributions to community engagement and outreach within the Mental Health Training Program (MHTP). We proudly recognize one of our trainees for her outstanding initiative in developing and leading a project that introduced high school students to careers in mental health.
KELLY HUANG, MSW
Kelly Huang is honored with the Outstanding Community Work Award for her impactful project engaging high school students in exploring careers in mental health. Drawing from her experience as the daughter of Chinese immigrants, Kelly returned to her own high school to inspire two cohorts of students, answering questions and providing guidance surrounding pursuing a career in mental health. Her nominator noted, “It is truly heartwarming to witness new clinicians give back to the community by offering the very support they wish they had received.” Kelly’s dedication provides invaluable support to young people as they begin planning their futures.
Research Award
Honor for Outstanding Contributions to Research Advancement
LYDIA MCGAFFEE, PSY.D.
Dr. McGaffee has played a central role in a research project through the EQI Lab examining dropout factors in CPT, demonstrating strong leadership, communication, and analytical skills. Her peers consistently described her as the driving force behind the team’s progress. As one nominator shared, “Lydia has been the unofficial leader of the group to me… using her organizational skills to help with planning and being the spokesperson for our group.” Her contributions in scientific writing, statistical analysis, and peer collaboration have been essential to the success of the project.
Program Development Award
Recognition for Outstanding Contributions to Program Development
TRINA CALABIO, MSW
Trina Calabio is a dedicated and proactive clinician who consistently seeks out opportunities to grow and contribute in meaningful ways. She played a key role in restructuring the TF-CBT adolescent/teen group series and served as a mentor in the 2024 KP Launch cohort, demonstrating both initiative and leadership. As her nominator shared, “Trina is hardworking and always open for a new challenge… I would recommend Trina without reservation for the Innovative Program Development award.” Her creativity and commitment have had a lasting impact on program development and team collaboration.
2024-2025 Distinguished Award Nominees
Adryan Caron
Aeriell Armas
Alana Stark
Albina Protich
Alexander Garcia
Amanda Devane
Amber L. Wilson
Anna Lee
Annabelle Cole
Aubyn Fulton
Ben Lim
Brenda Hammond
Brett Trace
Caitlin Maus
Cameron Lutchasky
Chelsey Richeson
Courtenay Cummings
Cyrus Manian
Damian Cassells-Jones
Daniel Friedman
Danielle Hall
Dina Alkhoury
Dominic Prime
Dora Tran
Elisabeth Dosa
Emilio Licea
Emma Olsen
Farzaneh Eleen
Fereshteh Madjlessi
Gary Shaller
Gerald Gonzales
Graham Cooper
Grayson Lewis
Hannah Joharchi
Helen Chan
Henry Collier
Hillary Kingman
Janice Lehman
Jarrett Takayama
Jenna Collins
Jennifer Barkin
Joanna Huang
Joanna Mendoza
Joanne Lam
Jordan Grant
Jorge Belloso Curiel
Joshua Maffly
Joytika Benutto
Juana Aguilar – Jimenez
Julia Gordillo
Juliana Simmons
Julie Johnston
Kaitlyn Terry
Karina Sandoval
Kelly Huang
Kendall Gedeon
Kevin Newgren
Kimberly Lanni
Lacharonda Taylor
Lacy Sohn
Ladan Khatibijah
Lane Bellmont-Olson
Lesli DuBose
Linda Isaac
Lindsey Hodos
Lisa Fowler
Lisa Vine
Lydia McGaffee
Mariah Ortiz
Marina Soto
Matthew Holland
Micaela Birt
Monica Hurtado-Leon
Morgan Duval
Myron Hays
Neilou Heidari
Nick Mattos
Nicola Fiddes
Nicole Wilberding
Patrizia Meunier
Paul Manning
Philip MacEachron
Quinn Durand
Rachel Manansala
Rayna Sanghvi
Rebecca Liu
Renata Way
Richard Peng
Sana Arastu
Sarah Esparza
Sarah Tolentin
Sarika Bahl
Sasha Zients
Shelby Smith
Stacey Cariaso
Sumra Afzal
Sydney Morris
Tiffany Gomez
Trina Calabio
Trina King
Veronica Ochoa
Yvette McKinney
Zahra A Sattaur
