Meridian Psychiatrists in Woodstock, IL

Welcome to Independence Health & Therapy, where compassionate care meets expertise. Located in Woodstock, Illinois, we offer comprehensive behavioral health services through both in-person and hybrid telehealth sessions. Our dedicated team of Psychiatrists, Mental Health Nurse Practitioners, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselors, and Licensed Clinical Social Workers are committed to providing exceptional therapy and medication management services to clients of all ages.
Welcome to Independence Health & Therapy, where compassionate care meets expertise. Located in Woodstock, Illinois, we offer comprehensive behavioral health services through both in-person and hybrid telehealth sessions. Our dedicated team of Psychiatrists, Mental Health Nurse Practitioners, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselors, and Licensed Clinical Social Workers are committed to providing exceptional therapy and medication management services to clients of all ages.

Dr. Michael Raida is a Psychiatrist specializing in mood disorders, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, and psychiatric symptoms associated with dementia. Dr. Raida graduated from The Chicago Medical School in 2001 and completed his residency in Adult Psychiatry from Duke University in 2005. In 2006 he completed a Fellowship in Geriatric Psychiatry at Northwestern University. He has been practicing since 2006 at Independence Health & Therapy.
Dr. Michael Raida is a Psychiatrist specializing in mood disorders, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, and psychiatric symptoms associated with dementia. Dr. Raida graduated from The Chicago Medical School in 2001 and completed his residency in Adult Psychiatry from Duke University in 2005. In 2006 he completed a Fellowship in Geriatric Psychiatry at Northwestern University. He has been practicing since 2006 at Independence Health & Therapy.

Most mental disorders I treat are a result of dysfunction in brain, that could have resulted from multiple factors, including genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors. I believe that making an appropriate diagnosis after a thorough evaluation is a necessary first step in the treatment. My main approach to treatment is pharmacological, to be combined with referral to psychotherapy as needed.
Most mental disorders I treat are a result of dysfunction in brain, that could have resulted from multiple factors, including genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors. I believe that making an appropriate diagnosis after a thorough evaluation is a necessary first step in the treatment. My main approach to treatment is pharmacological, to be combined with referral to psychotherapy as needed.

Kindness first. We all have had our own hardships that we have had to overcome. Each experience is unique, even in the same family. I can only understand what it has been like for you by listening to you and getting to know you as a person. Who you are and how you identify matters to me. Once I better understand you, we can formulate a plan of care for you (with your care team, family, supportive people) that is safe, beneficial, and realistic.
Kindness first. We all have had our own hardships that we have had to overcome. Each experience is unique, even in the same family. I can only understand what it has been like for you by listening to you and getting to know you as a person. Who you are and how you identify matters to me. Once I better understand you, we can formulate a plan of care for you (with your care team, family, supportive people) that is safe, beneficial, and realistic.
More Psychiatrists Nearby

Khyati Patel is a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner. She has experienced working with adults and adolescents. She has exceptional clinical skills in treating both pediatric and adult population. She is specializing in Adhd, Anxiety, Depression, and Ptsd. Khyati, approaches her patient Holistic rather than focusing on their diagnosis. She believes it is important to understand the patient holistically to receive benefits from the treatment. Listening to patients’ concerns is one of her empower skills that she carries with her.
Khyati Patel is a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner. She has experienced working with adults and adolescents. She has exceptional clinical skills in treating both pediatric and adult population. She is specializing in Adhd, Anxiety, Depression, and Ptsd. Khyati, approaches her patient Holistic rather than focusing on their diagnosis. She believes it is important to understand the patient holistically to receive benefits from the treatment. Listening to patients’ concerns is one of her empower skills that she carries with her.

Now Accepting New Patients – Compassionate Psychiatric Care for Children, Adolescents, and Adults
Are you or a loved one struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, or other mental health challenges? I’m Devika Patel, PMHNP, a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and I am here to help.
With years of experience providing compassionate, patient-centered care, I specialize in psychiatric evaluations and medication management for individuals ages 5 and up. I believe in a collaborative approach, working closely with you to develop a treatment plan that fits your unique needs and goals.
Now Accepting New Patients – Compassionate Psychiatric Care for Children, Adolescents, and Adults
Are you or a loved one struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, or other mental health challenges? I’m Devika Patel, PMHNP, a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and I am here to help.
With years of experience providing compassionate, patient-centered care, I specialize in psychiatric evaluations and medication management for individuals ages 5 and up. I believe in a collaborative approach, working closely with you to develop a treatment plan that fits your unique needs and goals.

Joseph Marchese earned his Master’s in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Northern Kentucky University in 2023 and is ANCC Board Certified. With over six years of diverse experience in inpatient psychiatric units, emergency psychiatric care, and outpatient settings, Joseph has worked at top institutions like Mount Sinai in NYC, MacNeal Hospital in Illinois, and St. Joseph’s in Joliet.
Joseph Marchese earned his Master’s in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Northern Kentucky University in 2023 and is ANCC Board Certified. With over six years of diverse experience in inpatient psychiatric units, emergency psychiatric care, and outpatient settings, Joseph has worked at top institutions like Mount Sinai in NYC, MacNeal Hospital in Illinois, and St. Joseph’s in Joliet.

I utilize a holistic and comprehensive treatment approach. By combining genetic testing with a variety of assessment screenings (done before your first appointment with me) and fasting lab work- I collect, review, diagnose and then treat to identify just exactly what your body needs to feel well again.
I utilize a holistic and comprehensive treatment approach. By combining genetic testing with a variety of assessment screenings (done before your first appointment with me) and fasting lab work- I collect, review, diagnose and then treat to identify just exactly what your body needs to feel well again.

Known for her unwavering empathy and understanding, Kendra is driven to break down stigmas. Kendra has over 10 years of acute in-patient hospital experience and two years of outpatient prescribing experience, blending the art & science of psychopharmacology. Kendra uses years of experience to offer patient-centered care specific to persons unique needs. Kendra’s patients include trauma, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, OCD, schizophrenia and chemical dependency issues. Kendra works well with patients across the lifespan starting at age 6 years, and offers services for prescribing with or without therapy.
Known for her unwavering empathy and understanding, Kendra is driven to break down stigmas. Kendra has over 10 years of acute in-patient hospital experience and two years of outpatient prescribing experience, blending the art & science of psychopharmacology. Kendra uses years of experience to offer patient-centered care specific to persons unique needs. Kendra’s patients include trauma, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, OCD, schizophrenia and chemical dependency issues. Kendra works well with patients across the lifespan starting at age 6 years, and offers services for prescribing with or without therapy.

I accept Illinois Medicaid plans: Blue Cross Blue Shield Community options, Aetna Better Health, Molina, Meridian and County Care plans.
Do you miss your old self? Do you still enjoy the things that you once upon a time found very enjoyable? Are you struggling with keeping up with your work, daily tasks and social life? Are you overwhelmed by the general worries of life? My goal is to help you get back to your optimal mental health by bringing you back to a place where you can do your work, take care of things at home, or get along with other people without any difficulty.
I accept Illinois Medicaid plans: Blue Cross Blue Shield Community options, Aetna Better Health, Molina, Meridian and County Care plans.
Do you miss your old self? Do you still enjoy the things that you once upon a time found very enjoyable? Are you struggling with keeping up with your work, daily tasks and social life? Are you overwhelmed by the general worries of life? My goal is to help you get back to your optimal mental health by bringing you back to a place where you can do your work, take care of things at home, or get along with other people without any difficulty.

Alexandra Whitaker has treated patients with depression, postpartum depression, anxiety, PTSD, personality disorders, Bipolar depressive disorder, ADHD, and substance use. She believes that mental health is as important as physical health. She aims to deliver the best evidence-based care with respect and compassion. She has experience working with patients from various cultures and socioeconomic backgrounds and is fluent in Polish. She recognizes each person for their individuality which is reflected in her holistic treatment plans. She enjoys collaborating with patients to help them identify and overcome barriers.
Alexandra Whitaker has treated patients with depression, postpartum depression, anxiety, PTSD, personality disorders, Bipolar depressive disorder, ADHD, and substance use. She believes that mental health is as important as physical health. She aims to deliver the best evidence-based care with respect and compassion. She has experience working with patients from various cultures and socioeconomic backgrounds and is fluent in Polish. She recognizes each person for their individuality which is reflected in her holistic treatment plans. She enjoys collaborating with patients to help them identify and overcome barriers.

Accepting new patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or any other mental health issue that is adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $109. Accepting some insurance plans.
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or any other mental health issue that is adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $109. Accepting some insurance plans.

*****NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS**** Whether you need psychiatric evaluation and treatment for addiction, anxiety, depression, a mood disorder, ADHD, PTSD, or another mental health problem, as your provider, my goal is to help you get the solutions that will let you feel better soon. The belief in giving help with deep caring, and my style of listening, form the soul of my practice today. I see all patients as unique in their own way, and I value the privilege of giving the best care that my private practice in psychiatric medicine can provide.
*****NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS**** Whether you need psychiatric evaluation and treatment for addiction, anxiety, depression, a mood disorder, ADHD, PTSD, or another mental health problem, as your provider, my goal is to help you get the solutions that will let you feel better soon. The belief in giving help with deep caring, and my style of listening, form the soul of my practice today. I see all patients as unique in their own way, and I value the privilege of giving the best care that my private practice in psychiatric medicine can provide.

As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner I understand the importance of treating the whole person. Sometimes life can feel so complex that we forget laughter can be the best medicine. What makes you laugh? For me it’s a good stand up comedy show with one of my favorite comedians. What makes you happy? For me it’s a clear schedule and my comfy couch. What motivates you? For me it’s touching lives one by one even it’s it’s via tele-visit.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner I understand the importance of treating the whole person. Sometimes life can feel so complex that we forget laughter can be the best medicine. What makes you laugh? For me it’s a good stand up comedy show with one of my favorite comedians. What makes you happy? For me it’s a clear schedule and my comfy couch. What motivates you? For me it’s touching lives one by one even it’s it’s via tele-visit.

Hi, I'm Victoria Strickland, DNP, PMHNP-BC, and I’m truly passionate about supporting individuals through their mental health journeys. I understand how challenging it can be to face mental health struggles, and I’m here to walk alongside you, providing the care and guidance you deserve.
Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of working in a variety of settings, from inpatient and residential psychiatric care to community health roles. These experiences have given me a well-rounded perspective on how to best support individuals facing a wide range of mental health challenges.
Hi, I'm Victoria Strickland, DNP, PMHNP-BC, and I’m truly passionate about supporting individuals through their mental health journeys. I understand how challenging it can be to face mental health struggles, and I’m here to walk alongside you, providing the care and guidance you deserve.
Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of working in a variety of settings, from inpatient and residential psychiatric care to community health roles. These experiences have given me a well-rounded perspective on how to best support individuals facing a wide range of mental health challenges.

Dr. Jennie Elizabeth Zavaleta
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
22 Endorsed
Wheeling, IL 60090
I am in network with Blue Cross, Meridian Aetna and Medicare for commercial insurances.
I completed my Doctor of Nursing Practice and Masters of Nursing at Capella University. My post-master’s degree in Psychiatry and Mental Health from Frontier University in Versailles, Kentucky. I worked with children/pediatrics during the 2020 pandemic. I have also worked in a psychiatric hospital setting. Experienced working with grief, loss and life transitions. Specializing in ADHD, anxiety, bipolar II, PTSD, OCD, insomnia, and depression.
My focus is creating a personalized treatment plan with a preventative holistic approach. I understand each condition affecting people isn’t a simple or single disorder. I treat Ages 6-75.
I am in network with Blue Cross, Meridian Aetna and Medicare for commercial insurances.
I completed my Doctor of Nursing Practice and Masters of Nursing at Capella University. My post-master’s degree in Psychiatry and Mental Health from Frontier University in Versailles, Kentucky. I worked with children/pediatrics during the 2020 pandemic. I have also worked in a psychiatric hospital setting. Experienced working with grief, loss and life transitions. Specializing in ADHD, anxiety, bipolar II, PTSD, OCD, insomnia, and depression.
My focus is creating a personalized treatment plan with a preventative holistic approach. I understand each condition affecting people isn’t a simple or single disorder. I treat Ages 6-75.

Don't settle for a generic psychiatrist for drug and alcohol issues. You deserve help that actually helps you feel happy again. (And, that's in-network with your insurance).
Don't settle for a generic psychiatrist for drug and alcohol issues. You deserve help that actually helps you feel happy again. (And, that's in-network with your insurance).

Aleksandra Besterfeldt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, AGNP, FPA, RN
11 Endorsed
Libertyville, IL 60048
As a dual-certified Nurse Practitioner in Adult-Geriatric Acute Care and Psychiatric Mental Health (PMHNP), I have years of experience helping people with conditions like anxiety, depression, ADHD, Bipolar disorders, Insomnia, PTSD, and Schizophrenia. I'm skilled at assisting older adults facing challenges like dementia, mood changes, and sleep troubles.
As a dual-certified Nurse Practitioner in Adult-Geriatric Acute Care and Psychiatric Mental Health (PMHNP), I have years of experience helping people with conditions like anxiety, depression, ADHD, Bipolar disorders, Insomnia, PTSD, and Schizophrenia. I'm skilled at assisting older adults facing challenges like dementia, mood changes, and sleep troubles.

I’m a double board-certified nurse practitioner in family medicine and psychiatry with over a decade of experience supporting children, adolescents, and adults. My approach is trauma-informed, inclusive, and rooted in the belief that healing is unique to each individual. I provide evidence-based medication support for mood disorders, anxiety, depression, and more. I’ve worked in outpatient psychiatric clinics, substance use treatment programs (detox, IOP, PHP), and integrated care settings, helping clients navigate mental health with compassion and clarity.
I’m a double board-certified nurse practitioner in family medicine and psychiatry with over a decade of experience supporting children, adolescents, and adults. My approach is trauma-informed, inclusive, and rooted in the belief that healing is unique to each individual. I provide evidence-based medication support for mood disorders, anxiety, depression, and more. I’ve worked in outpatient psychiatric clinics, substance use treatment programs (detox, IOP, PHP), and integrated care settings, helping clients navigate mental health with compassion and clarity.

Jennifer has experience treating patients with a multitude of diagnoses including depression, anxiety, trauma, bipolar, schizophrenia, dementia, grief, stress, and substance use, and believes in treating symptoms through a variety of means. She also has extensive experience addressing women’s mental health and LGBTQ-related concerns, ensuring inclusive and supportive care for these communities. She prides herself in being a strong patient advocate and providing compassionate care. Jennifer is dedicated to meeting her patients where they are in their treatment and recovery.
Jennifer has experience treating patients with a multitude of diagnoses including depression, anxiety, trauma, bipolar, schizophrenia, dementia, grief, stress, and substance use, and believes in treating symptoms through a variety of means. She also has extensive experience addressing women’s mental health and LGBTQ-related concerns, ensuring inclusive and supportive care for these communities. She prides herself in being a strong patient advocate and providing compassionate care. Jennifer is dedicated to meeting her patients where they are in their treatment and recovery.
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