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, 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.

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 in the contexts of Relationships, Family, Spirituality, Personal Growth and Development, Career, and Health and Fitness, using these unique tools. And more often than not, people are cured of phobias, addictions, food cravings, haunting memories, and bad habits such as nail biting.

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. He invites you to come meet him for a consultation visit.

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.

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 has been a medical expert on the Dr. Phil show.

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 Opioid Dependence. She is Suboxone certified.

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.

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. 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.

Mike McWherter started with the Amen Clinics, Newport Beach in October of 2000 and has since scanned over 70,000 patients. His calm and professional demeanor puts patients at ease during the scanning process and he continually receives rave reviews for patient satisfaction. Mike earned his bachelor’s degree at CSU Sacramento, and his nuclear medicine technology degree in North Haven, CT. He resides in southern California with his wife and two sons. Mike enjoys coaching baseball, bike riding, swimming, and camping.

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.

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 mentoring, advising and counseling to adolescents, couples, and families. Lara has facilitated Divorce and Separation support groups as well as Women’s Recovery groups throughout her career. Lara and her husband Matt reside in Newport Beach with their miniature dachshund, Rolo. When she is not helping patients achieve optimal brain health, she enjoys traveling, watching football, working on her family tree, and cooking.

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.

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.

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 graduated from California State University of Long Beach in 2010 with a Bachelors Degree in Kinesiology with a concentration in Sport Psychology and Coaching. Prior to working at the Amen Clinic, Abi worked as a Personal Trainer and a Martial Arts instructor. Call Abi at (949) 266-3700.

Jasleen is currently attending California State University, Fullerton and is scheduled to obtain her Bachelors in Psychology and Minor in Biology in May of 2012. Jasleen has held different positions at the Amen Clinics including doctors assistant, patient care coordinator, weight loss group assistant, and research assistant. Her favorite part of working at the clinic is watching the dramatic improvements and tremendous growth in the patients. Call Jasleen at (949) 266-3700.

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.

Our call center intake coordinators are able to assist new patients with clinic information, general inquiries and scheduling new appointments. Call Michelle at (888) 564-2700.

Bree is a psychology major at California State University Long Beach. Her goals for the future include finishing my bachelor’s degree in psychology in hopes of moving on to a PhD program in cognitive neuropsychology. Bree enjoys playing or participating in any active sports and spending time with friends and family.

Heather graduated from Vanguard University in 2006 with a degree in Liberal Studies and went on to Graduate School for a teaching credential. She has been working at the Amen Clinics since 2009.

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, infusions, and clinical trials. Cherri joined Amen Clinics, Inc in May of 2004, and assists with appropriate referrals to the clinics, pre-reading SPECT scan results, consults, patient medication management, and assists with conscious sedation. Cherri is ACLS and PALS certified.

Nycole Hamm received her B.S. in Child and Adolescent Studies from California State University of Fullerton in 2008. Before joining our team, she worked as a Behavioral Therapist with children with Autism. She is currently working as a Doctor’s Assistant.

Kim attended the University of California Santa Barbara and received her Bachelor’s degree in Sociology. Kim previously worked with children and is currently a Patient Care Coordinator at the Amen Clinic.

Kimberly graduated from the University of North Carolina Wilmington with a degree in Communication Studies & Journalism, with a concentration on Public Relations and Marketing. Upon graduating, she moved cross country to continue her volleyball training and also begin coaching. Aside from volleyball, prior to her start at the Amen Clinic, Kimberly was the Public Relations & Marketing Director for The Retreat in Laguna.

Chelsea Durham received her undergraduate education at the University of California Santa Cruz where she obtained bachelor's degrees in Psychology and Theatre Arts. She later moved to Chicago, Illinois where she participated in autism research and worked as a behavioral therapist for children with pervasive developmental disorders. In 2009, Chelsea returned to California where she attended the Graduate School of Education and Psychology at Pepperdine University. She was honored to join the Amen team in August of 2011. When she isn't seeing patients or pursuing her interests in psychology, Chelsea enjoys horseback riding and spending time with her English bulldog, Elliott.