If you or someone you know needs emergency help for mental illness of any kind you should take them to the nearest emergency room or call 911 immediately. However if they are showing signs of psychosis that do not need immediate attention, there is specialized help for them right here in Lousiana.

SPECIALIZED TREATMENT

Three decades of research shows that specialized treatment as early as possible after one’s first psychosis episode improves outcomes across the board. It is important for people to understand that treatment at a general mental health clinic is NOT the same as receiving specialized treatment.

Early Psychosis Intervention Clinic (EPIC) is a Tulane University affiliated specialty care clinic for early psychosis. EPIC-NOLA is our main clinic and serves as a hub to our spoke clinics across Louisiana.

Our goal is to help adolescents and young adults understand, manage, and cope with psychosis experiences in order to get back to their everyday lives.

LET’S FIGURE IT OUT TOGETHER

EPIC-NOLA’s multi-disciplinary team provides coordinated specialty care, including psychiatric medication management, individual and family therapy, groups, peer support, family psychoeducation and wellness coaching. Treatment is deeply individualized and based on the most progressive evidence-based models for first-episode psychosis. Some of these services can be provided in the community and home through telehealth.

ELIGIBILITY

Patients may be eligible to participate in the EPIC- NOLA program if they are:

• Between the ages of 12 and 35
• Have been experiencing psychosis for less than 3 years
• Have received a diagnosis of schizophrenia or other psychotic disorder
• Willing to be evaluated and treated by healthcare professionals

HOW TO MAKE A REFERRAL

Feel free to call 504-988-0301 or email calm@tulane.edu for more information.

LOCATIONS

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1809 West Airline Hwy.
Laplace, LA 70068

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5599 Hwy 311
Houma, LA 70360

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157 Twin Oaks Dr.
Raceland, LA 70394

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If you live outside the area EPIC serves, here are other clinics within Louisiana that provide similar services.

If you are looking for providers outside these areas you can use this treatment locator OR browse
this document for first-episode psychosis treatment programs by state.

MEET OUR EPIC TEAM

Ashley Weiss, DO, MPH

Co-Founder of CALM and EPIC, Medical Director/Attending Psychiatrist

Dr. Weiss is the co-founder of the Early Psychosis Intervention Clinic-New Orleans (EPIC-NOLA) and CALM-Clear Answers to Louisiana Mental Health. Inspired by caring for young people in recovery from psychosis during her own training, she committed to building the first team in New Orleans to provide first-episode psychosis care. Starting with a few hours from a few dedicated clinicians and zero funding, EPIC-NOLA began in August of 2015. Dr. Weiss went to medical school in Florida and did her psychiatry residency at Tulane in New Orleans, along with fellowships in child and adolescent psychiatry and forensic psychiatry. Dr. Weiss also serves as the Vice Chair for Child Psychiatry, Director of Medical Student Education in Psychiatry for the Tulane School of Medicine, and is an Associate Professor. She is the Medical Director of the clinic and site principal investigator in the National Institute of Mental Health EPINET research program. Her clinical interests are advanced psychopharmacology, “ambitious psychotherapy” for psychosis (Thanks to Dr. Michael Garrett for that quote!) and understanding pathways to care for those first experiencing psychosis. Dr. Weiss also serves as the Director of Medical Student Education in Psychiatry for the Tulane School of Medicine and trains psychiatry residents at EPIC-NOLA. She believes being a psychiatrist is the best job ever (aside from being a mom) and loves being a part of helping patients find their path to recovery. Glitter and hard rock bring her happiness outside of work.

Akanksha Thakur, M.D.

Attending Psychiatrist

Dr. Thakur is one of our psychiatrists for EPIC-NOLA and EPIC-SOUTH CENTRAL. Dr. Thakur moved from New York to New Orleans for medical school in 2006. She is board certified in child and adolescent psychiatry and general psychiatry and is an Assistant Professor of Clinical Psychiatry at the Tulane School of Medicine. Her interests include cultural mental health and psychodynamics, and she teaches courses in these areas for Tulane Psychiatry trainees. In addition to her work in the Early Psychosis Intervention Clinic, Dr. Thakur works in Jefferson Parish School Based Health Centers, and she maintains a general and child psychiatry practice at Tulane. Dr. Thakur dances, plays and listens to music, travels, spends time in nature, grows food, and promotes therapeutic creativity and care.

Cassandra Lentz, MD

Attending Psychiatrist

Dr. Lentz moved to New Orleans in 2007 and fell in love with the city she now calls home. She attended Tulane University School of Medicine for both medical school and psychiatry residency. As a former teacher in the city, she had a special interest in the teenage and young adult population. While completing her training at Tulane, she met Dr. Weiss and immediately knew she wanted to be part of the EPIC-NOLA clinic. Dr. Lentz is a board-certified adult and forensic psychiatrist and Assistant Professor of Clinical Psychiatry at Tulane School of Medicine. When not at work, she enjoys watching the Saints, kayaking the bayou, exploring the city with her dogs, and playing board games.

Serena Chaudhry, DSW, LCSW, MPH

Public Health Director

Serena is the Public Health Director for the Early Psychosis Intervention Clinic (EPIC-NOLA) and Clear Answers to Louisiana Mental Health (CALM). Serena is working across the state to help Louisiana better understand and treat psychosis, with the goal of getting young people into specialized treatment sooner so they can get back to living their fullest lives. Serena and the CALM team are working across media platforms to educate about symptoms of psychosis and to destigmatize mental illness. Outside of the clinic, Serena is as an Associate Professor in Psychiatry at Tulane School of Medicine and an Adjunct Professor at the Tulane School of Social Work and engaged in national research. Serena received her Master of Social Work and Public Health from the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, Michigan in December 2001 and her Doctorate in Social Work from Tulane University in 2018. When she is not focused on psychosis, Serena is either making Mardi Gras throws or at the beach.

Ashley Toney, LMSW

Director of EPIC Hub & Spoke

Meet Ashley, our Director of EPIC Hub & Spoke, whose personal journey into mental healthcare stems from her first-hand experience as a caregiver’s child. She has more than 15 years of combined leadership experience in healthcare and social service. Her personal challenges and triumphs fueled an unwavering passion and commitment to her work in the field as a servant leader. Fun fact: Ashley’s first job was at Kliebert’s Alligator and Turtle Farm in Yellow Water, Louisiana!

Michael Dyer, LPC, LPC-S

Clinical Director

Michael Dyer is the Clinical Director of the EPIC-NOLA Program. He is a Licensed Professional Counselor, and he also contributes to the clinical care and support that we provide to our patients experiencing psychosis. He is a “true” New Orleans native, born and raised not far from our clinic. He graduated from Loyola University in New Orleans and received his Master’s in Counseling from the University of New Orleans. Over the years since beginning with this clinic with Drs. Weiss and Chaudhry, he has developed a sincere appreciation and understanding of how the experience of psychosis challenges the lives of patients and families. He is a committed leader of what he describes as “the most amazing program that improve the lives of those experiencing psychosis.”

Lisa Joseph

Clinic Manager

Lisa Joseph, Clinic Manager at Tulane Specialty Psychiatry Mid-City Clinic, is a New Orleans native who enjoys this city’s unique culture, food cuisine, eclectic music, custom artwork, architecture, patio dining, festivals, football, dialect and its southern hospitality. She has worked with Tulane for three years and has been with the EPIC-NOLA program since early 2021. She manages the day-to-day clinic operations and structures effective clinical workflows. She is responsible for providing overall leadership and management of the clinic to ensure our clinic is in compliance with state and federal guidelines as well as developing new office policies, procedures and protocols. She helps this extraordinary team of staff and providers to provide excellent customer service and patient care in a safe, healthy and positive environment. She has worked in healthcare for over twenty years, and has a sincere compassion for people that drives her on a daily basis.

Doug Headrick, LPC, LPC-S

Clinical Therapist

Doug Headrick is a Licensed Professional Counselor by training and is a therapist here at EPIC-NOLA since 2017. His focus is on using an interactive psychotherapy called EMDR. It stands for Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing. This type of therapy focuses on both trauma and psychosis, which becomes very valuable because often the experience of psychosis is traumatic. Doug is an avid learner, and has Master’s degrees in both psychology and theology. He has worked with couples, families, dual diagnosis, and even the Wounded Warrior Project. He is dedicated to his family and describes his “beautiful wife” as having “the patience of a saint”. In his spare time he loves playing outside and “pretending I’m not old”. Doug brings warmth to the program along with witty sense of humor, and his commitment to his patients truly recovering in body, mind, and spirit is evident.

Victor Onuoha, LPC, LPC-S

Clinical Therapist

A native of Houston Texas, Victor Onuoha is a Louisiana Licensed Professional Counselor and National Board-Certified Counselor with over 10-years of experience. Victor is well versed in evaluating, diagnosing, and treating people living with mental illness from all cultural, racial, and religious backgrounds. He is a warm, affirming, compassionate, and open-minded therapist who creates a non-judgmental, safe space for clients. He utilizes traditional, new, and cutting-edge therapeutic techniques to help clients address negative thoughts & behaviors that are impacting their lives with the simple goal of supporting and empowering individuals on their path to growth, healing, and change. His interest in psychosis treatment involves integrating virtual-reality as a tool to practice the skills to reintegrate into the community comfortably.

Victoria Conway, LMSW

Clinical Therapist

A native of San Jose, California, Victoria moved to New Orleans to study psychology and sociology at Tulane University. After graduating magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Science, Victoria went on to pursue a Master of Science in Social Work at Columbia University. As a Licensed Master Social Worker at EPIC-NOLA, they provide psychotherapy and community-based services, and they feel blessed to be working alongside an incredible team of people. Victoria is passionate about expanding their clinical knowledge, particularly surrounding holistic approaches to therapeutic intervention. Outside of the office, Victoria enjoys photography, live music, long walks on the bayou, and hanging out with their two cats, Huxley and Ozzy.

Patricia Hawley, LCSW, BACS

Clinical Therapist

Patricia is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and therapist at EPIC-NOLA, bringing over 13 years of experience to her practice. She is a graduate of Tulane School of Social Work and is trained in multiple trauma-based approaches, including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). Patricia works collaboratively with clients to develop insight and curiosity, often focusing on self-compassion. A resident of New Orleans for 20 years, she enjoys gardening, home improvement projects, and spending time with her dogs, Roscoe and Rosie.

Marion Wineinger, LMSW

Clinical Therapist

Marion is a Licensed Master Social Worker and native New Orleanian. Driven by a desire to support individuals facing life’s challenges, Marion’s approach to therapy is rooted in empathy and a strong belief in the power of human connection. She is dedicated to creating a supportive and non-judgmental environment where individuals can explore their concerns, discover inner strengths, and develop strategies for managing psychosis. Her therapeutic style integrates elements of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and psychodynamic therapy tailored to meet each person’s needs. Before transitioning to a career in mental health, Marion worked as a human resources professional in the hospitality industry. With this background Marion brings a unique perspective to therapy, blending her understanding of interpersonal dynamics and organizational behavior into her work as a therapist. With Marion, you’ll find a compassionate ally committed to walking alongside you on your journey toward healing and personal growth.

Dani Takai-Castioni, MD

Attending Psychiatrist

Dr. Dani Takai-Castioni is thrilled to be a part of the EPIC-NOLA family. She is Adjunct Faculty at the Tulane School of Medicine. She also works at the VA. An eternal kid at heart, Dr. Takai-Castioni first discovered her interest in transition age youth mental health while working as an EMT in college and serving as the EMS representative for her university’s Behavioral Health Crisis Intervention Team. She continued to pursue these interests in medical school, working to increase access to mental health services in public schools. When not in class, Dr. Takai-Castioni could usually be found working in the psychiatric emergency department. It was here she discovered her passion in helping those who were experiencing psychosis. Throughout medical school and to this day, Dr. Takai-Castioni has also been a strong disability advocate. She has primarily worked with undergraduate administrators to improve access to and provide reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities. Presently, she remains part of a joint collaboration between her home state’s Department of Health, Governor’s Commission on Disability, and researchers for the state’s youth risk behavior survey. This advisory committee is tasked with creating an improved biennial survey to ensure equitable access to those with disabilities, including disabilities related to mental health (such as psychosis.) In her free time, Dr. Takai-Castioni enjoys hanging with her friends around the city. She is also a proud mother to her cat (Professor McGonagall) and her snake (Wishbone), and she loves playing video games and watching the NY Giants — and the Saints, of course.

Russell Macaluso

Peer Support Specialist

Russell Macaluso is a highly motivated, dynamic team member, and dedicated professional with background experience effective in Peer Support, Human Relations, hospital discharge planning and advocacy that ensures each Peer receives the best service. He is often seen praising, challenging, and helping other meet their life goals, one day at a time. The unknown excites him, challenges, and motivates him; his experience keeps him grounded. His work with this first-episode psychosis team involves helping young people find their way back into work and school during their recovery. He assists with other needs as well such as navigating insurance systems, disability, and if often the liaison between hospitals and our clinic.

Karl Lewis, BS

Peer Support Specialist

Karl Lewis is an avid outdoor adventurer. When he’s not at work, you can find him backpacking in the mountains, kayaking, snow skiing, scuba diving or practicing yoga. Karl has many successful years in recovery and loves nothing more than sharing the awareness he’s gained through it. He’s found the field of mental health to be a natural outgrowth of his enduring commitment to helping others. He leads peer support groups for our young people in recovery from psychosis, he provides endless coordination of care that our patients and families need, and supports people in getting back to their daily lives in a meaningful way.

Brandon Nelson, BA

Wellness Coach

Brandon comes to EPIC-NOLA with over 15 years’ experience in the fitness industry, as an athletic director, strength and conditioning coach, and business owner. He has committed this next phase of his career to helping young people at EPIC-NOLA build and develop healthy lifestyles. Brandon has a track record of developing custom health and wellness programs for both corporate and individual clients needs. No matter the current level of fitness, he can design a plan with attainable goals to meet individual needs. “I believe everyone can feel their best and live in balance. Many of us struggle with finding time and space to live a healthier life. I am here to help you welcome in your healthiest self without restrictive diets and hours in the gym”. Brandon has been able to show the young people at EPIC-NOLA that through simple changes to your habits, you can bring in balance and live a healthier life.

Melissa Cooper, LPN

EPIC Nurse

Melissa Cooper is our amazing EPIC Nurse. She is an LPN by training and a California native. She started her clinical work in community health providing case management to patients in board and care homes. Since then, she has worked for large health systems and addiction programs in both California and Louisiana. She is a team player and is genuinely interested in helping her patients get better, both body and mind. At EPIC, she supports the psychiatry team and refill medications, administers injections, and assists with prior authorizations for medication and treatment. She is your ‘go-to’ person for questions and concerns about your medication.

Marquisha Duncan, NCMA

Medical Office Assistant

Marquisha (Qui) our magnificent Medical Office Assistant. She joined our wonderful team at EPIC-NOLA in April of 2023. She started her healthcare in 2019, after finishing her Medical Assistant training in 2019 at Delgado Community College. Here in the clinic, She supports the psychiatry team and refills medications, administers injections, and triages before appointments. She brings lots of joy, laughter, and a great personality to our clinic. She enjoys making our clinic a comfortable and family-like environment for patients, families, and other members of the team. When not at work, Qui enjoys reading books, shopping, watching the saints (WHO DAT), and going out for tacos.

Mary Bordelon, MS

Clinical Research Coordinator

Mary Bordelon is the Clinical Research Coordinator here at EPIC-Nola since 2023. Mary earned her Bachelor’s in Psychology from the University of New Orleans, where she continues to pursue her undergraduate research endeavors. Mary earned her Master’s in Neuroscience from Tulane University, during which she discovered her passion for learning and research. She is excited to be in this role here at EPIC-NOLA where she can oversee data collection that will promote a better understanding of psychosis and clinical care. She’s involved in the National Institute of Mental Health’s EPINET project, where data is collected from both patients and clinicians to inform us as to how to improve our clinical treatment for those experiencing psychosis. When she’s not working on research, Mary loves taking her dog, Mako, on walks around the local dog park and having fun game nights with friends.

Gia Rushing

Community Health Worker

Meet Our Newest Community Health Worker! A proud native of New Orleans, Louisiana, Gia brings a passion for community and holistic health. When she’s not championing mental health initiatives, you can find her embracing wellness through journaling, biking, and yoga, or exploring the natural beauty of the Crescent City.

Max

Office Dog + Support Animal

Maximum Pressure (Max for short) hails from Kentucky but he has called New Orleans home since 2-months old. He has an affinity for kids, teenagers, and young adults. He loves hanging out at the clinic to cheer people on in their journey (Cheering=snorting and nudging). And if you’d prefer to not see him, that works too!

PREVIOUS EPIC TEAM MEMBERS

Rob Roy, MS

Clinical Research Coordinator

Rob is EPIC-NOLA’s first ever research coordinator and came aboard when EPIC-NOLA became part of the National Institute of Mental Health’s EPINET project. He moved here from Philadelphia and has fallen in love with New Orleans and with working at EPIC-NOLA. His job is to conduct federally funded studies designed to help us improve care for people experiencing their first episode of psychosis, and investigate whatever else interests this team which is primarily how to help young people access first episode psychosis care in the quickest and efficient way possible. He is “de facto IT guy” for the clinic. Outside the clinic he is a self-described bookworm, writer, cook, and drink mixer. If you’re ever interested in participating in a study at EPIC-NOLA he is your connection!