Alexa Chapman, MD
Hi! My name is Alexa. I'm a Georgia native who was born here in Augusta but spent much of my formative years in Tyrone. Where is that? Next to Peachtree City. Yes, golf carts are the main mode of transportation. So naturally I stayed in Georgia for all of my higher education - UGA, Mercer University, and now Augusta. You'll often find me complaining about the heat while playing with my dogs outside or running trails. Going into psychiatry was a no brainer (pun intended), and I look forward to serving the children and adolescents of Georgia.
Valerie Ivanovic, MD
Hello! My name is Valerie Ivanovich. Thank you for your interest in our program. I was raised in Trujillo Alto, Puerto Rico, surrounded by vibrant culture and natural beauty of an island. I had the privilege of pursuing my education at the University of Puerto Rico. The rich cultural backdrop and the spirit of resilience in my community have greatly influenced my journey towards understanding and advocating for mental health.
Throughout my academic endeavors, I have developed a profound interest in comprehending and promoting mental well-being. Witnessing the transformative power of appropriate diagnosis and treatment in mental health has ignited my desire to contribute to healing journeys. Currently, I am captivated by several areas within psychiatry. I am particularly drawn to Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, focusing on gender and sexual minorities, as I believe that early intervention and support are crucial for nurturing resilient individuals. Additionally, I am intrigued by the possibilities offered by Integrative Medicine, Psychotherapy, and Nutritional Psychiatry, recognizing the importance of a holistic approach to mental health.
Outside of my professional pursuits, I find joy in various activities. I enjoy playing different sports like softball, tennis, and basketball since it allows me to stay active while challenging myself both physically and mentally. Spending quality time with cherished friends and family is a crucial aspect of my life, as their support and connection energize me. There's something truly mesmerizing about watching the sunset and spending time in nature, as it serves as a reminder to appreciate the beauty in the world.
I am thrilled to embark on a transformative journey of exploration and growth, where I will have the opportunity to engage with diverse patient populations and contribute to their healing processes. AU equips me with the necessary knowledge, skills, and comprehensive training to excel in the field of psychiatry and make a lasting positive impact on the lives of others.
Mariam Kyarunts, MD
“Hi there! I’m Mariam and welcome to our program. I grew up amidst the vibrant cultures of Armenia and California. I studied Anthropology and Biology at Stanford University, before diving into medicine at Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine. In my free time, you’ll find me swimming at the local lap pool, watching the latest binge-worthy TV show, reading, strolling along the Savannah River, and spending time with friends and my cat, Choco.”
Aliyeh Mahdavi, MD
Hi! I'm Aliyeh. I was born in Germany and grew up partly there but mainly in Iran. I attended medical school in Tehran and worked as a physician for a while before coming to the United States. I conducted research at McLean Hospital in Massachusetts before beginning my residency. I'm thrilled to be a part of MCG and was drawn to the program's diversity, well-rounded training, and the supportive environment and leadership that foster personal growth and development. Currently, my personal interests lie in geriatric psychiatry, child & adolescent psychiatry, early onset bipolar, and psychosis. During my free time, I enjoy hiking, exploring new places, spending quality time with my loved ones, watching TV and movies, playing “Setar”, and savoring a good cup of coffee!
Sambit Panda, MD
Hello! My name is Sambit Panda. I was originally born in Cuttack, India but spent most of my life in Georgia. I was in Augusta University’s BS/MD program and completed my bachelors in cellular and molecular biology at Augusta University and my medical school at MCG. I became interested in psychiatry after having spent time as a student clinical coordinator at the Free Mental Health Clinic here in Augusta. I am currently interested in Addiction Psychiatry and General Psychiatry but excited to explore the whole field in general throughout residency. I am thrilled to be back at MCG for residency and am excited to work in such a supportive learning environment where the staff are dedicated to teaching. Outside of work, I enjoy playing and watching basketball and weightlifting.
Hamzah Shroof, DO
Hello! I Grew up in Warner Robins, GA, went to undergrad at Mercer University, and went to med school at PCOM-GA. I’ve always had an interest in the mental health field but I didn’t start medical school thinking I’d do psych. It wasn’t until my Psych rotation that I realized Psych is the field I find most rewarding and fascinating. My main interests in psychiatry include addiction, mood disorders, and psychotic disorders, and in my free time, I enjoy playing video games, weightlifting, trying new restaurants, and spending time with family.
Halie Zastre, MD
Hi! My name is Halie Zastre, I was raised in Athens, Ga but I’m originally from Canada. I'm a double bear as I went to Mercer University for undergrad and medical school. I first became interested in psychiatry during my clinical rotations of medical school. Psychiatry as a specialty allows me to explore all my passions including forensics, women’s mental health, and neuromodulation. When I'm not working, I enjoy Pure Barre workout classes, spending time with my cats, reading a good murder mystery novel and watching Love Island.
