Recognizing Excellence: 2026 Kaiser Permanente Mental Health Training Program Award Recipients

Joy Bess, MFT
Individual Supervisor

Joy Bess exemplifies leadership through professionalism, compassion, and a deep commitment to trainee growth. Her ability to challenge trainees to think more deeply while creating an atmosphere of trust and respect has left a lasting impression on those she supervises. One nominator reflects that Joy’s “ability to filter through my process, ask questions that allow me to think on a deeper clinical level, have helped me develop a sense of trust within myself.” Her dedication to meaningful learning experiences and professional development creates an environment where trainees feel trusted, challenged, and supported.

Amanda Devane, PhD
Individual Supervisor

Dr. Amanda Devane is honored for her exceptional supervisory style, combining clinical expertise, responsiveness, and genuine investment in trainee growth. Trainees consistently describe her as warm, approachable, and deeply supportive, especially when navigating complex trauma work, crisis situations, and professional development planning. One nominator notes, “I leave each supervision session feeling more grounded, more competent, and more connected to the work,” while another praises her “clear, actionable feedback that supports my growth as a trainee.” Dr. Devane’s ability to foster confidence while encouraging reflection and clinical excellence makes her an invaluable mentor within the training program.

Annie Grella, LCSW
Individual Supervisor

Annie Grella is recognized for creating a supportive, growth-focused learning environment where trainees feel safe, encouraged, and empowered to develop their clinical skills. As both a Care Coordinator II and Site Internship Director, she consistently provides thoughtful guidance, collaborative case consultation, and meaningful advocacy for her supervisees. One nominator shares that Annie “has created and maintained a safe space for her pre-master’s supervisee from onboarding with clear and consistent communication,” and highlights how she “advocates for the needs of her pre-master’s fellows and shares resources with her fellows on a regular basis.” Her warmth, responsiveness, and dedication to trainee development leave a lasting impact on those she supervises.

Jennifer Mehling, PsyD
Individual Supervisor

Dr. Jennifer Mehling is celebrated for the encouragement, confidence, and positivity she brings to supervision. Trainees highlight her extensive clinical knowledge, approachable nature, and ability to help clinicians build confidence in their own professional identities. As one nominator shares, “Dr. Mehling has been extremely supportive and displayed confidence in my abilities as a clinician, which helped me develop my own confidence.” Her humor, kindness, and commitment to fostering both personal and professional growth make her deeply deserving of this recognition.

Dominic Prime, PhD
Group Supervisor

Dr. Dominic Prime fosters engaging and collaborative group supervision experiences that trainees consistently look forward to each week. His thoughtful leadership style balances professionalism with warmth, creating a supportive environment where trainees feel comfortable discussing difficult cases and developing confidence in their clinical judgment. One nominator describes his supervision groups as “collaborative, meaningful, and genuinely enjoyable,” adding that his “dedication to mentorship and trainee development has had a lasting impact.” Dr. Prime’s approachable mentorship style helps strengthen both trainee skills and community connection throughout the program.

Alana Stark, PsyD
Specialty Supervisor

Dr. Alana Stark is honored for her exceptional leadership and mentorship within neuropsychology training. Widely respected for her warmth, intelligence, and high professional standards, she guides trainees with both encouragement and thoughtful, constructive feedback. One colleague describes her as “an earnest and readily available collaborator whose ethics and competence inspire others,” noting that “her warmth, intelligence and supportive style have been acknowledged by interns and postdocs alike for nearly a decade.”  In addition to supporting trainees, Dr. Stark plays an instrumental role in advancing innovative neuropsychology training opportunities across the region.

Dina Alkoury, PsyD

Dr. Dina Alkoury demonstrates extraordinary leadership, compassion, and commitment to the success of trainees and staff alike. As Training Director, she cultivates a supportive and innovative learning environment while balancing numerous clinical and leadership responsibilities with positivity and grace. Nominators praise her for always making trainees feel supported, with one sharing, “There has not been a single moment in my training experience that I haven’t felt supported by my training director.” Another states, “Dina is truly exceptional in every sense-her impact is felt across all levels of the program.” Her ability to empower trainees, strengthen programs, and foster a collaborative community leaves a profound impact throughout the organization.

Henry Collier, LCSW

Henry Collier is being recognized for his exceptional mentorship and dedication to developing future clinicians. As a training director, Henry creates an environment where trainees feel genuinely heard while being encouraged to think more deeply, critically, and compassionately about their work. His thoughtful guidance, balanced approach of support and challenge, and commitment to fostering reflection have had a lasting impact on those he mentors. As one nominator shared, “Henry goes beyond the role of training director—he is a mentor that I deeply respect and look up to.” His example of compassion, curiosity, and strong clinical thinking continues to inspire the next generation of mental health professionals.

Joanne Lam, PsyD

Dr. Joanne Lam is recognized for her creativity, innovation, and dedication to enriching trainee learning experiences. Through engaging initiatives such as podcast-style didactics and collaborative educational programming, she consistently finds new ways to support and inspire trainees. One nominator describes her as “the backbone of this program,” highlighting how she “leads with warmth rather than hierarchy, which fosters trust and growth.” Her thoughtful leadership, commitment to inclusivity, and ability to empower both trainees and colleagues alike make her an exceptional Training Director and mentor.

Shannon Tran, PhD

Dr. Shannon Tran is honored for her authentic, compassionate leadership and tireless dedication to trainee growth and well-being. Trainees consistently praise her warmth, responsiveness, and ability to create a welcoming and supportive training environment. One nominator shares, “from the moment I interviewed, the energy I felt from her was filled with warmth, kindness, and authenticity,” while another notes that she “balances support with autonomy by encouraging my clinical judgment and independence.” Her thoughtful mentorship and steady leadership inspire confidence, growth, and professionalism across the program.

Frederick Hives, PsyD

Dr. Frederick Hives is recognized for his visionary leadership and innovation in developing a dedicated neuropsychology track within the Kaiser Permanente Fresno doctoral internship program. His efforts have significantly expanded access to specialized neuropsychological training and strengthened opportunities for future clinicians. One nominator praises his “remarkable vision and initiative,” noting that his work “serves as a model for other sites seeking to advance training in this specialty area.” Dr. Hives’ commitment to education, innovation, and clinical excellence have made a lasting contribution to the Mental Health Training Program.

Jocelyn Barajas, AMFT
Post-Masters Fellow

Jocelyn Barajas is celebrated for her enthusiasm, clinical excellence, and dedication to serving children, adolescents, and families. Supervisors highlight her ability to manage challenging cases thoughtfully, integrate feedback seamlessly, and contribute meaningfully across multiple domains, including therapy groups, the bilingual track, and program development initiatives. One nominator shares, “her documentation is on-point and I have used [it] as a ‘good note example’ with other trainees,” while also praising the significant progress she helps patients achieve. Jocelyn’s professionalism, initiative, and collaborative spirit make her an invaluable clinician.

Amy Bedell, PsyD
Doctoral Intern

Dr. Amy Bedell is recognized for her outstanding work with neurodiverse youth, particularly children with autism and ADHD. Her initiative, clinical skill, and commitment to improving patient care have already had a broad impact across the region. One nominator highlights how she “created several smartphrases that are now going to be part of a regional assistance for child psychiatry,” while another praises her “drive and determination” and notes that “the clinic has been really appreciative and values the work she does on behalf of both patients and staff.” Her dedication and collaboration continue to elevate those around her.

Noa Elliott, MSW
Pre-Masters Intern

Noa Elliott is recognized for her tremendous growth, strong clinical skills, and deep commitment to social justice throughout her year in Child and Adolescent Mental Health. During her training year, she has managed a diverse clinical caseload, co-leads anxiety-focused programming, and provides compassionate, evidence-based care to youth and families. One nominator describes her as “caring, thoughtful, inquisitive and [having] a strong sense of social justice,” emphasizing the meaningful contributions she makes to both the clinic and broader mental health community. Her dedication to learning and advocacy distinguishes her as an outstanding trainee.

Jordann Frank, PhD
Postdoctoral Resident

Dr. Jordann Frank has demonstrated exceptional clinical and research skills, innovation, and leadership in behavioral sleep medicine. During her postdoctoral residency, she has expanded her expertise across complex adult populations while helping develop a highly valued CBT-I treatment program. One nominator describes her work as “innovative, high-value work that addresses a critical gap in patient care,” while another praises her “dogged determination to succeed, and genuine curiosity for the discipline.” Through her integration of evidence-based treatment, program evaluation, and interdisciplinary thinking, Dr. Frank makes a significant impact on both patient care and clinical training.

Yaqi Huang, M.A.
Psychology Practicum Extern

Yaqi Huang has quickly distinguished herself through strong clinical judgment, professionalism, and dedication to patient care. Supervisors praise her ability to build rapport, thoughtfully apply evidence-based interventions, and engage deeply in self-reflection and supervision. One nominator notes that she “quickly established a therapeutic presence,” highlighting her openness to feedback and her “strong clinical judgment, professionalism, and a genuine commitment to patient care.” Yaqi’s clinical skillset and dedication to growth have made her an exceptional practicum student.

Ali Ozmeral, PhD
Doctoral Intern

Dr. Ali Ozmeral is celebrated for her exceptional clinical skill, professionalism, and compassionate care within Health Psychology and OBGYN services. Supervisors consistently highlight her ability to build authentic therapeutic relationships, integrate research-informed interventions, and function at a level far beyond what is typically expected of an intern. One nominator shares, “watching her attune to patients in the tenderness of postpartum was inspiring,” while another describes her clinical and consultation skills as “superior and at a level of a licensed clinician.” Her dedication to learning, patient care, and collaboration makes her an invaluable member of the team and an outstanding future psychologist.

Nathaniel Sawyer, PsyD

Dr. Nathaniel Sawyer is honored for his outstanding leadership and longstanding commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and social justice. Throughout the training year, he plays an active role in the JEDI consultation program, facilitating meaningful conversations around difficult and important topics with care, skill, and authenticity. One nominator praises his “high quality and deep impact” contributions to the community, while another highlights his professional and personal dedication to supporting survivors of human trafficking and advancing racial justice. Dr. Sawyer’s work consistently reflects cultural humility, advocacy, and a deep commitment to equity in clinical care and professional spaces.

Quinton Castleberry, M.Ed., M.A.

Quinton Castleberry’s exceptional leadership and initiative led to the development of the CVA Neuropsychology Practicum Program. Recognizing the limited training opportunities available near his hometown of Modesto, Quinton advocated for a local training experience, helping establish what became the third neuropsychology practicum site in Kaiser Permanente Northern California. One nominator describes his efforts as demonstrating “remarkable courage” and praises his “initiative, leadership, and dedication to expanding access to care.” Quinton’s vision and advocacy create opportunities that continue benefiting future trainees and local communities for years to come.

Sachita Pokhrel

Sachita Pokhrel is recognized for her exceptional leadership, community engagement, and service both within MHTP and beyond. Sachita serves as a liaison between MHTP and Palo Alto University, assisting with trainee interviews and collaborating with PAU on various initiatives. In addition to being a dedicated student representative, Sachita actively contributes to community-building efforts within the Nepali community through volunteer work and event planning. One nominator highlights her “professionalism, initiative, and strong communication skills,” while also recognizing her “leadership, reliability, and commitment to service.” Sachita’s dedication to supporting others and strengthening community connections exemplifies the spirit of this award.

Nicholas Lackey, PhD BCB

Dr. Nicholas Lackey is celebrated for his collaborative spirit, eagerly consulting with lab mates and strengthening projects through thoughtful input and mentorship. His expertise in statistics has enhanced the rigor and clarity of multiple studies, while his contributions to a program evaluation on integrating technology into therapist training have advanced innovative approaches to clinical education. The Principal Investigator, Ren Hong, PhD, recognizes Dr. Lackey as “an invaluable member of our Implementation Science Team… he has helped to organize the data, be a reliable thought partner, and has been an integral part in shepherding our findings across multiple professional platforms, which helps to further our contributions to the greater field of applied psychology.”

Lodovica Bicego, M.A.

Lodovica Bicego is recognized for her exceptional skill in analyzing research, applying it to clinical practice, and delivering an engaging and meaningful presentation. Her presentation on working with youth with ADHD and gaming is praised for being both highly informative and accessible, supported by a creative, research-informed clinical tool. Nominators describe her work as “easy to follow,” “well-designed,” and “delivered with enthusiasm,” reflecting her talent for making complex research practical and impactful for clinicians and trainees alike.

Adrianna McCants
Alana Stark
Alessandra Salciccia
Alex Mayer
Ali Ozmeral
Allanna Robinson
Allison Donovan
Aman Manhas
Amanda Devane
Amy Bedell
Amy Orecchio
Anne Grella
Anthony Ross
Au Myat May
Blair Martin
Brandi Garner
Brittany Sanchez
Cassandra Lehman
Charrin Kimble
Chelsea Vilinskas
Chelsey Richeson
Clare Engel
Courtney Thomas
Dina Alkhoury
Dominic R Prime
Edmundo Perez
Emilio Licea
Felicia Lee
Fereshteh Madjlessi
Frederick Hives
Graham Cooper
Grayson Lewis
Helen Kim
Henry Collier
Janele Auranicky

Janice Lehman
Jaqueline Cortez
Jarrett Takayama
Jenna Kim
Jennifer Mehling
Jessica Hamilton
Joanna Friedman
Joanne Lam
Jocelyn Barajas
Jon Dubos
Jordann Frank
Joshua Alexander
Joy Bess, LMFT
Juana Aguilera
Juli Teague
Juliana Nunez-Saksa
Julie Johnson
Karlene Alves
Katherine Schwimmer
Katie Terry
Keith McCann
Kirsten Fenstermacher
Kristina Johnson
Ladan Khatibijah
Lesley Calderon
Lily Krauss
Lodovica Bicego
Maleeha Iqbal-Hofmeister
Margot Green
Martin Hanson
Mary Vertinski
Matthew Holland
Megan Da Vania Clark
Mikaeh Trahan
Myron Hays

Naazdeep Sandhu
Natalie Vides-Boelke
Nathaniel Sawyer
Nicholas Lackey
Nicole Deacon
Nicole Wilberding
Noa Elliott
Nohemi Klinck-Lopez
Patrizia Meunier
Pooja Dandekar
Pooja Mamidanna
Quinn Durand
Quinton Castleberry
Renata Way
Roop Sabharwal
Ryan Shickman
Sachita Pokhrel
Saige Portera
Sara Dunnigan
Sarah Munguia
Sarah Tolentin
Scott Charlton
Shannon Tran
Shelby Smith
Shirley Tolman
Stacey Cariaso
Sue Dyer
Sumra Afzal
Syrrus Powell
Taylor Bucher
Terry Waite
Treon Hinmon
Vaishali Sachdeva
Yaqi Huang
Yarely Moreno