Our Team
Alex Sanchez, PMHNP-BC
Alex Sanchez is a Board-Certified, licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). He received his education with honors from California State University Long Beach (CSULB) and University of California Los Angeles (UCLA). He is a member of American Psychiatric Nurses Association, California Association for Nurse Practitioners, and Professor for a large private university. He is a California native who offers expert mental health care for anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, stressful life events, and many more conditions. Alex brings over 5+ years of professional mental health experience. His goal is to help his clients live their best lives using modern, evidence-based care. He is an expert in modern psychopharmacology and helps personalize treatment solutions to best meet patient needs. He is also part of the leadership team with Nu Leaf Mental Health Group.
Julie Chu, PMHNP-BC
Julie Chu is a Board-Certified, licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who obtained her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from West Coast University and her Masters in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from California State University Long Beach. With an extensive background in inpatient psychiatric care as well as inpatient chemical dependency, she specializes in primary mental health or dual diagnosis concerns. Approachable and meticulous in providing individualized care, she seeks to continuously provide a supportive treatment plan for her patients through compassionate care. She specializes in optimizing mental health via medication management, therapy, comprehensive diagnostic evaluations. She aims to establish trust and rapport with her patients by tailoring treatment plans to account for each person’s unique circumstances. In her free time, she loves to spend time with her family, explore good food around the area, and is always up to try something new.
Vanessa Diaz, PMHNP-BC
Offers Care in English/Spanish
Vanessa Diaz is a dedicated Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). Born and raised in Orange County, she has deep roots in her community, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from West Coast University. Her commitment to excellence led her to pursue further education, graduating with honors from Maryville University with a Master of Science in Nursing.
Vanessa's practice philosophy is both evidence-based and client-centered, firmly rooted in the belief that every individual deserves personalized care tailored to their unique needs and goals. With a holistic approach to patient care, Vanessa integrates evidence-based treatment modalities, including pharmacologic management and psychotherapeutic interventions. But what truly sets her apart is her commitment to fostering a collaborative environment without judgment, where patients feel heard, valued, and empowered to embark on their journey towards stability, healing, and the restoration of mental health.
Vanessa's expertise spans across diverse populations and mental health settings. She deeply understands the vital importance of cultivating a secure and trustworthy therapeutic connection, especially when navigating through challenges such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and beyond.
During her free time, Vanessa finds joy in spending quality time with her family and challenging herself through physical activities.
Sahil Mehta, PMHNP-BC
Sahil Mehta, PMHNP-BC, is a distinguished Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner known for his unwavering commitment to exceptional patient care. His journey began with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from West Coast University, followed by a Masters in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Walden University, establishing a solid foundation for his practice.
Drawing from extensive experience in inpatient psychiatric care and chemical dependency treatment, Sahil specializes in addressing primary mental health concerns and concurrent dual diagnosis cases. His personalized approach to treatment is marked by meticulous attention to detail, crafting tailored treatment plans that seamlessly align with each patient's unique needs and circumstances.
Sahil's holistic methodology integrates medication management, therapy, and comprehensive diagnostic assessments to optimize mental health outcomes. Central to his practice is the cultivation of trusting relationships, fostering an environment of empathy and empowerment where patients feel valued and supported. His commitment to excellence and patient-centered care help him facilitate positive transformations in the lives of those he serves.
Outside of his professional pursuits, Sahil finds joy in cherishing moments with his beloved wife, indulging in his passion for golf, and immersing himself in the natural beauty of the outdoors during his leisure time.
Dr. Neal Adams, MD, MPH
Neal Adams, MD, MPH, is a Distinguished Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. He is a Supervising Psychiatrist for Nu Leaf Mental Health’s Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners. He received his MD from Northwestern University, his MPH from Harvard University and completed his psychiatry residency at Stanford where he also served for two years as a Robert Wood Johnson Clinical Scholar. He was also a fellow in the California Health Care Foundation’s Leadership Program. Dr. Adams has served as President of the American College of Mental Health Administration and as Medical Director at the California Institute for Mental Health. Dr. Adams’ writings include a book entitled Person Centered Treatment Planning for Metal Health and Addiction Recovery as well as numerous policy monographs and journal articles. He has presented at local, national and international conferences and provides training on treatment plans, clinical outcomes management and evidenced based practice implementation. Dr. Adams has served in both clinical, administrative and leadership positions. He is also psychiatrist at Nu Leaf Mental Health Group
Elizabeth Pham MSN, FNP-BC
Patient Care Coordinator
Elizabeth Pham is an experienced patient care coordinator at a Nu Leaf Mental Health. She brings a wealth of knowledge, experience, and compassion to the clients she serves. Elizabeth is a Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner. She has been working in the field of healthcare for the past 6 years, providing individual and group counseling, case management, and connecting patients with appropriate resources. She is passionate about helping her patients and their families find the best path for recovery. Elizabeth is a great listener and is always willing to go the extra mile to support her clients. She creates a safe, therapeutic environment for her clients and is dedicated to finding the best possible solutions for them. Elizabeth is committed to providing the highest level of care and is passionate about helping her clients reach their goals.
Katie Han, PMHNP-BC, AGNP-BC
Katie Han is a compassionate and dedicated Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, holding a dual specialty certification in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care. She earned her Master of Science in Nursing degree from California State University of Long Beach. With numerous years of clinical experience, Katie has developed a wealth of expertise in managing a wide range of mental health conditions. These include anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and many others.
What sets Katie apart is her holistic approach to mental health care. Katie understands that every person is unique, and she tailors her care to meet the individual needs of each patient. Her treatment plans are thoughtfully designed to align with patients’ values and preferences, all while incorporating the latest evidence-based care approaches. She places a strong emphasis on holistic well-being, exploring therapeutic techniques, encouraging lifestyle changes, and promoting self-care practices that foster mental wellness and resilience.
Outside of her professional life, Katie enjoys spending quality time with her family. She’s an avid traveler with a passion for exploring diverse cultures and cuisines around the world
Dr. Codie Vassar, MD
Dr. Codie Vassar, a dedicated psychiatrist that is passionate about helping people and has a strong background in mathematics and science. With his expertise in psychiatry, he specializes in diagnosing, treating, and preventing mental illnesses for individuals aged six and above.
Dr. Vassar completed his undergraduate studies at the prestigious University of Wisconsin-Madison and earned his medical degree from the renowned Medical College of Wisconsin. Fluent in English and Spanish, he ensures effective communication with a diverse range of patients.
Dr. Vassar’s patient care philosophy revolves around collaboration, empowerment, and psychoeducation. He actively involves his patients in their treatment journey, encouraging shared decision-making and ensuring they have a thorough understanding of their condition and available treatment options.
Offering medication management and evidence-based psychotherapy, Dr. Vassar provides comprehensive care to promote mental health and well-being. He tailors treatment plans to each patient’s unique needs and values, embracing cultural sensitivity in his approach.
Patients can expect a warm and caring environment when visiting Dr. Vassar. His genuine concern for their well-being and commitment to their success in both health and overall quality of life create a trusting and supportive therapeutic relationship. Whatever the need may be—medication management or psychotherapy—Dr. Vassar’s expertise and genuine care will guide patients towards improved mental well-being.
Dr. Robert Nastasi MD
Dr. Nastasi is board-certified Psychiatry, Interventional Pain Management and Addiction Medicine Physician. He is a Supervising Psychiatrist for Nu Leaf Mental Health’s Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners. He is currently a Veteran’s Administration (VA) practitioner who serves as the Chief of VISN 9 Clinical Resource Hub TelePain Section. He oversees a multispecialty section that looks to help rehabilitate veterans and improve the quality of life for those suffering from chronic pain. He also serves in the role of VISN 9 Pain Consultant. He has extensive knowledge and experience in serving patients in the outpatient setting through Telehealth (Telepsychiatry). He has experience as a medical director of an inpatient psychiatric and addiction service hospital. He graduated with a Medical Doctorate from the State University of New York (SUNY) Upstate Medical University. He went on to complete his Transitional Year in Johnson City, NY. He then completed his residency trainings and fellowship at SUNY Upstate Medical University. He started his residency training in Anesthesia. After completion of his first year of residency in Anesthesia, he transferred to the Psychiatry Department where he completed his residency and also served as the Co-Chief. Following completion of his residency, he completed his fellowship in Interventional Pain Management.
He enjoys spending time with his family and two dogs. He also spends his free time training for triathlons, and surfing.