Newport Beach Staff
| Amen Clinic Newport Beach – Serving Southern California 4019 Westerly Place, Suite 100 Newport Beach, CA 92660 DIRECTIONS: Click For Directions PHONE: Toll Free (888) 564-2700 FAX: (949) 266-3750 Contact Us: Click here |
Staff Directory
| Arsalan Darmal, M.D. Psychiatrist |
|
| Dr.Darmal is a Diplomate of American Board of Neurology and Psychiatry, he is also Board certified in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. He completed his General Psychiatry Residency and Child Psychiatry Fellowship at Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York in 1995. Since, he has been involved in teaching and training of medical students, general psychiatry residents and child psychiatry fellows at John A. Burns School of Medicine in Honolulu Hawaii. He has served as Chair of, Risk Management Committee at Hawaii State Hospital, Member, Medical Executive Committee at Hawaii State hospital, Member, Quality Assurance Committee: HSH, Kaneohe, HI, Member Peer Review Committee ,Queens Medical Center. He has Grand Round presentation on”Steroid Hormones and Behavior” “Neuro-imaging in psychiatry” for Dept. of Psychiatry 3/2005 “New Strategies in Treatment Refractory Psychosis” for Hawaii State Hospital Staff, Grand Round presentation “Child Psycho Pharmacology” for Queen’s Hospital Family Treatment Center Scientific Forum presentation”Child Psychopharmacology,Mood stabilizers”Kapiolani Medical Ctr. He was a Clinical Preceptor Unit 4 John Burns School of Medicine for 6-8 weeks/year,He has given Seminars on Anxiety Disorder Physiopathology and Child Development He has been involved in a Part Time Private Practice (Child Psychiatry), Honolulu, HI, his areas of interest are ADHD,Anxiety and Mood Disorders. He has received multiple awards including Outstanding Teacher Award 2003-2004,Dept of Psychiatry JABSOM.and Teacher of the year Award 1999-2000,Dept of Psychiatry JABSOM | |
|
|
|
| Diane Highum, M.D. Psychiatrist |
|
| Diane Highum, MD is a staff psychiatrist currently working at the Amen Clinic in Newport Beach, CA. She graduated from Harvard Medical School and went on to complete a four year NIH funded research fellowship at Harvard prior to obtaining post graduate training in psychiatry. She spent the first two years of psychiatric residency training at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, and completed the final two years of training at UCI in Orange, CA. She has worked in both the private and public sectors, and has treated a wide variety of psychiatric disorders. She has spent a significant portion of her career as an academic psychiatrist as a faculty member at UCI. Immediately prior to joining the Amen Clinic, she worked full-time as a research psychiatrist. She has extensive clinical research experience in the areas of pharmaceutical development and neuroimaging, and is interested in the neuropsychiatric aspects of mental disorders. She joined the Amen Clinic due her interest in the application of neuroimaging modalities for diagnosis and treatment of psychiatric disorders. | |
|
|
|
| Larry Momaya, MD Psychiatrist |
|
| Dr. Larry Momaya graduated from the University of California at Irvine’s College of Medicine in 2000, and also completed his Psychiatry Residency from UC Irvine in 2004. He is a Board-Certified Adult Psychiatrist, and enjoys working with people with Mood and Anxiety Disorders, Substance Abuse problems, ADHD, Emotional Overeating, as well as spiritual, relationship, and self-esteem issues. Dr. Momaya, has a keen interest in helping people shift their focus from the place of Mental Dis-Ease to moving towards Mental Wellness and Personal Empowerment, using various techniques including Hypnotherapy, Visualization Exercises, Spirituality and Meditation, Music and Sound, Breathing Techniques, Practicing Presence, several different Psychotherapies, and a life-changing Inquiry process called ‘The Work.’ In fact, he founded a weekly experiential/educational group called The Path of Wellness in early 2009, helping people come closer to finding their own Inner Peace though these various techniques. www.thepathofwellness.net.
Dr. Momaya is also a certified Master Practitioner of Hypnotherapy, NLP, and Time Empowerment Techniques®, including a relatively rapid process to release negative emotions, as well as Limiting Decisions/Beliefs, using a powerful method called TimeLine Therapy®. He takes an Integrative approach in his work with people, and has helped hundreds of people with various problems using these unique tools. Dr. Momaya also has a variety of other passions, particularly in the creative arts and media. He has hosted his own Psychiatry call-in talk show, as well as a music program on public radio which broadcasted worldwide. In addition, he has also filled in for Dr. Amen on his National radio show “Change Your Brain Change Your Life,” as well as speaking engagements for the Amen Clinics. He co-authored his first book End Emotional Overeating Now: A Breakthrough Program to Take Control Over Food and Your Life with Dr. Amen, which released October 2011. |
|
|
|
|
| Dr. Garrett Halweg Psychiatrist |
|
| Dr. Garrett Halweg was in private practice from July 2003 till May 2009 before joining the Amen Clinics and also holds a position with the Department of Juvenile Justice. He currently serves as Medical Director of the Inpatient Psychiatric Hospital (CTC). He is board certified in General Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Past clinical experience includes several years serving at an outpatient mental health clinic with chronically mentally ill and substance abusing patients, coordinating both pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments as well as case management and rehabilitation services. Responsibilities there included the development of a rehabilitation program for the incarcerated youth of Ventura County, California and organization of the Transitional Age Youth mental health delivery system. Additionally, he served as a Correctional Psychiatrist for the California Department of Corrections at seven institutions including level IV facilities housing the most dangerous mentally ill offenders. His work there was during a time of federal receivership whereby health delivery systems were restructured and thought leaders were gathered to advise the State of California how to revise their health care.Dr. Halweg served as Associate Medical Director of CNS, Medical Affairs for i3 Research in 2007. He gained experience as a medical monitor and consulted on clinical trials for depression, bipolar disorder, and neurological disorders including Parkinson’s and post CVA patients. He has an academic appointment at one of California’s leading Universities and teaches Psychopharmacology to Graduate Students. Previously, he served an Administrative Professorship at the University of Hawaii for thirty-five residents in Psychiatry. | |
|
|
|
| Jennifer Farrell, M.D. Psychiatrist and Addiction Medicine Specialist |
|
|
Dr. Farrell is board certified in psychiatry, addiction psychiatry and addiction medicine, and is a Diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and the American Board of Addiction Medicine. She attended medical school at Loma Linda University School of Medicine, and completed her internship, residency and subspecialty fellowship training at the University of Hawaii. She served as chief resident and as clinical faculty at the University of Hawaii Department of Psychiatry before returning to California to work at a chemical dependency rehabilitation program prior to joining the Amen Clinics. Dr. Farrell is an award-winning researcher and international speaker, interested in the interface between cultural and spiritual factors and overall mental health. She is also suboxone certified. Dr. Farrell’s work focuses on restoring life balance, brain and body health, and helping her patients improve their functioning and satisfaction in life. She considers a wide range of interventions including neutraceuticals, medication, exercise, yoga, psychotherapy, and sleep/relaxation training. Her specialties include: Mood Disorders, Substance Use Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Anger and Irritability, Behavioral Addictions, Co-Occuring Pain and Opiod Dependence. Dr. Farrell is a warm and caring clinician motivated by a deep concern for the well-being of her patients. She is happy to provide consultation and ongoing treatment for patients ages 18 and older. |
|
|
|
Mona Karimpour, M.D. Psychiatrist |
|
Dr. Mona Karimpour is a board certified Psychiatrist. She graduated from medical school at Western University. She completed her psychiatry residency program at the University of Texas at Southwestern in Dallas, Texas. She has worked with college students for several years and has a particular interest in helping college students and women. She currently teaches mental health at Advanced College and the students scored well above the national average on standardized testing. She also conducts site visits as a team member in evaluating other allied health programs in colleges approved by their national accrediting agency. She is well traveled through Europe (Spain, Italy, France), Asia (Japan), Middle East (Egypt, Turkey) and the United States. She is an active council member of Farhang, which is a non-religious, non-political, not-for-profit foundation celebrating Iranian art and culture in Southern California. She is fluent in Farsi, and familiar with Spanish. |
|
|
|
|
| Dr. Christine Kraus, Ph.D. Neuropsychologist |
|
| Dr. Kraus obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration and worked in the field of accounting for a few years before realizing that this area was not her passion. During this time, her brother-in-law developed grade 4 brain cancer and she was intrigued by his changing behavior and became very interested in the subject of neurology and behavior. The neurosurgeon at that time suggested she come and conduct research with him and she did! For 3 years, on her own time, she conducted research particularly in the area of neurodegenerative diseases; during that time she wrote and published papers worldwide with research in the area of Parkinson’s disease and cognitive functioning as a primary focus. She became so interested in this area that she decided to pursue a degree in Clinical Psychology at Loma Linda University.She obtained her Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology and then her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Neuropsychology. She continued to conduct research and publish papers.
Post-doctoral experience was at the Pediatric Assessment Program at Loma Linda University. She maintained the position of Supervisor of Doctoral Students who conducted psychological and neuropsychological assessments in children and adolescents with various disorders. It was during this time that Dr. Kraus realized she wanted to find a treatment for these children that was more natural, yet effective. After extensive research, she found EEG Biofeedback, or Neurofeedback. Using Neurofeedback, Dr. Kraus has treated individuals from age 3 to 87, for disorders ranging from autism to peak performance, including depression, anxiety, bipolar, migraines, sleep disorders, anger or frustration issues, and memory. Dr. Kraus practices Clinical Neuropsychology, Neuropsychological Testing, Neurofeedback, Cognitive Rehabilitation, Therapy, and Hypnosis. |
|
|
|
|
| Cherri, PA Physician Assistant |
|
| Cherri completed a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from the University of California at Irvine in 1990, and a Bachelor of Science for Physician Assistant from Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science in Los Angeles, CA. Cherri holds national certification as a Physician Assistant. Upon graduation, she became a faculty member with the Physician Assistant Program at Charles R. Drew University. She has past experience in the field of neurology, working with migraine and MS patients. Cherri joined Amen Clinics, Inc in May of 2004, and assists with appropriate referrals to the clinics and pre-reading SPECT scan results. | |
|
|
|
| Mike Nuclear Medicine Technologist |
|
| Mike McWherter has been a nuclear technologist for six years. He earned his bachelor’s degree at CSU Sacramento, and his nuclear medicine technology degree in North Haven, CT. | |
|
|
|
| Haley Historian |
|
| Haley is a registered Marriage and Family Therapist, Intern. She has been working at the Amen clinics since 2006, doing in depth histories and providing therapy for individuals, couples, and families. Haley has her Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pepperdine University; she completed her Bachelor of Science in Child and Adolescent Studies at California State University, Fullerton. She has specialized training in Mediation/Conflict Resolution and she is trained as a Prepare/Enrich Facilitator, which is a specialized program that offers personalized assessments for couples to identify strengths and growth areas in their relationships and teaches proven relationship skills. Haley has over 10 years of experience working with children, adolescents and their families in a variety of environments including school and clinical settings. She has co-led an anxiety and depression group and she will be leading a group for parents/guardians of pre-adolescent children starting April 2009. Haley and her husband have a three year old daughter and twin boys. | |
|
|
|
| Blaire, M.A. Historian and Registered MFT Intern |
|
| Blaire Rummel received her B.S. in psychology at Mississippi State University. She played 4 years of NCAA-Division 1 softball for Mississippi State University and received All-American Academic awards for her achievements as a student-athlete. She received her M.A. degree in Clinical Psychology, with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy, at Pepperdine University. In addition to working as a historian for the Amen Clinic, she provides therapy for clients as a registered MFT Intern at the Amen Clinic and co-facilitates a depression/anxiety support group at Mariner’s Church one night a week. She is passionate about helping people who suffer from emotional distress, specifically individuals with mood and anxiety disorders. She resides in Corona with her husband Beau. | |
|
|
|
| Jeremy Historian |
|
| Jeremy Paxton graduated from Baylor University in 2008 with a B.A. in psychology. After graduation, he worked with older adults struggling with schizophrenia at an out-patient psychiatric facility in Houston, Texas. He moved out to California where he is currently a student at Pepperdine University. He is studying to obtain a master’s degree in clinical psychology, with an emphasis in marriage and family therapy. He enjoys working with a wide variety of patients and hopes to one day pursue a PhD in clinical psychology. He enjoys running, photography, and anything having to do with the outdoors. Jeremy has worked at the Amen Clinic since November of 2010. | |
|
|
|
| Lara Historian |
|
| Lara Wokasch received her B.S. in Psychology and Community Health Education from the University of Wisconsin. She holds a Master’s Degree in Marriage and Family Counseling from the Adler School of Professional Psychology. Over the last 10 years, Lara has provided counseling, mentoring and advising to adolescents, couples as well as families. Lara has facilitated Divorce and Separation support groups as well as Women’s Recovery groups throughout her career in the mental health field. She is a certified Stress Management instructor and enjoys helping others discover the path to serenity and inner peace in their lives. Lara enjoys assisting patients and their families in discovering the road to wellness and optimal brain health at the Amen Clinic. Lara and her husband reside in Newport Beach and enjoy weekend road trips as well as spending time with their dog, Rolo. | |
|
|
|
| Annie Historian |
|
| Annie Huff graduated from Butler University in 2008 with a B.A. in Psychology. After graduation, she worked as an Adoption Counselor at the Humane Society of Indianapolis. She recently moved to California and has been working with the Amen Clinic since 2009. She has a passion for guiding and supporting others, especially on their path to better brain health. Annie resides in Orange, and enjoys exploring Southern California and spending time with her cat, Vienna and dog, Beefy. | |
|
|
|
| Krystle Office Manager and E-Center Director |
|
| Krystle Johnson graduated from California State University of Fullerton in 2007 with a Bachlors Degree in Communications. Krystle is in charge of Patient Care for the Newport Beach office and will assist you with any questions that you may have. She has worked with the Amen Clinics since 2004. When she’s not managing the Newport Beach office, she is spending time with her little boy Michael, daughter Emma and her husband Ryan. You can reach Krystle by calling the Newport Beach office at 949-266-3700. | |
|
|
|
| Michelle Patient Care Coordinator |
|
| Our patient care coordinators are our patients primary contact person. Patient care coordinators will assist you in all your patient related matters. Call Michelle at (949) 266-3700. | |
|
|
|
| Alisa Patient Care Coordinator |
|
| Our patient care coordinators are our patients primary contact person. Patient care coordinators will assist you in all your patient related matters. Call Alisa at (949) 266-3700. | |
|
|
|
| Cornell Patient Care Coordinator |
|
| Our patient care coordinators are our patients primary contact person. Patient care coordinators will assist you in all your patient related matters. Call Cornell at (949) 266-3700. | |
|
|
|
| Teresa Patient Care Coordinator |
|
| Our patient care coordinators are our patients primary contact person. Patient care coordinators will assist you in all your patient related matters. Call Teresa at (949) 266-3700. | |
|
|
|
| Abi Patient Care Coordinator |
|
| Our patient care coordinators are our patients primary contact person. Patient care coordinators will assist you in all your patient related matters. Call Abi at (949) 266-3700. | |
|
|
|
| Jasleen Patient Care Coordinator |
|
| Our patient care coordinators are our patients primary contact person. Patient care coordinators will assist you in all your patient related matters. Call Jasleen at (949) 266-3700. | |
|
|
|
| Kristi Patient Care Coordinator |
|
| Our patient care coordinators are our patients primary contact person. Patient care coordinators will assist you in all your patient related matters. Call Kristi at (949) 266-3700. | |
|
|
|
| Reema, MA, MFT Call Center Manager |
|
| Reema Wehbe received her B.A. in psychology from Cal State Fullerton. While working with Amen Clinics she completed her M.A. degree in Clinical Psychology, with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy. Reema did her training with Hope Counseling Center and has experience working with the elderly population, Depression, Anxiety, and various mood disorders. Reema has a passion for helping others. You can reach Reema by calling her at (949) 266-3700 or (888) 564-2700. | |
|
|
|
| Chris Call Center Intake Coordinator |
|
| Our call center intake coordinators are able to assist new patients with clinic information, general inquiries and scheduling new appointments. Call Chris at (888) 564-2700. | |
|
|
|
| Lauren Call Center Intake Coordinator |
|
| Our call center intake coordinators are able to assist new patients with clinic information, general inquiries and scheduling new appointments. Call Lauren at (888) 564-2700. | |
|
|
|
“Thank you, thank you, thank you. Alex has never been better. I feel like his real personality and his soul have been released. He is happy! He is at peace. He doesn’t worry, panic or over-react. He tells me about his day, he is funnier and more perceptive than ever. He is meeting the challenges of school without frustration. Socially, he is thriving. The ‘before’ picture and the ‘after’ picture of our life is striking”.
Gilian T. Ontario, Canada
Gilian T. Ontario, Canada
Schedule Your Appointment Now!
Join Our
Community
Community
Be Thinner,
Smarter, and
Happier
Smarter, and
Happier
Brain Healthy Store
Books, dvds,
supplements , etc.
that will help you
get thinner,
smarter and
healthier.
supplements , etc.
that will help you
get thinner,
smarter and
healthier.
More Resources
