Current Residents

Bryan DeFelice, D.O.

PGY-IV Resident Physician

Medical School: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine, Glendale, AZ
Undergraduate: University of Montana, Missoula, MT, BA

Originally from Spokane, WA, I was drawn to Johnson City for its plethora of outdoor activities. With its moderate climate and diverse landscape, Tennessee offers its inhabitants the opportunity to hike, bike, explore and spelunk. I personally like to mountain bike, trail run, golf and disc golf. I also enjoy any opportunity to hang with my friends and residents, barbeque and explore the East Tennessee area.

I chose ETSU for the camaraderie it offered. Even during virtual interview season, you could tell the residents were all friendly and interacted with each other frequently. After starting here this is more evident than ever, with frequent get togethers and outings. Fellow residents are never more than a phone call away and willing to help, making the transition from medical school an easy one. Faculty take great pride in our experience, giving us dedicated time to voice any concerns during our didactics. ETSU may be in a smaller city but offers a large learning experience from child psych to addiction, and gives you the opportunity to work both in the community and with veterans. I searched residencies with the goal of becoming a capable and competent physician while having the ability to get outside and away from medicine. ETSU and the east Tennessee area easily achieve this balance, and I am proud to be a resident in their psychiatry program.

Neetu Scariya, M.D.

PGY-IV Resident Physician

Medical School: Ross University School of Medicine, Dominica
Undergraduate: University of Alabama in Huntsville, Huntsville, AL, BS

I chose ETSU because of the camaraderie between residents and the friendliness of the people in Johnson City.  I grew up in Huntsville, AL and though I did rotations throughout the US, I always knew I wanted to come back to the South. Southern hospitality is definitely a big part of the culture here. With virtual interviews, I was a little apprehensive about whether the program would be the same way in person. Luckily, everyone was super supportive starting from Match day. We meet every week as residents to talk about how rotations are going and whether anything needs to be changed. 

Also, Johnson City is gorgeous and during the pandemic I got into hiking and I can't wait to explore more of the trails nearby. My other interests include Indian classical dance, exploring food options, and watching an unhealthy amount of Netflix. 

Jared Shelton, M.D.

PGY-IV Resident Physician, Chief Resident

Medical School: American University of Antigua College of Medicine, Antigua and Barbuda
MS in PA Studies: A.T. Still University, Mesa, AZ
Undergraduate: Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, BS

I chose ETSU for several reasons. As a non-traditional student with a wife and children, it was important to me to go to a residency program located in a family friendly area with good schools. Johnson City and the surrounding areas offer those options. During both the interview process and my time spent in the residency program, I have felt very welcome at ETSU. The program is very supportive of my training and goals. I also really appreciate the strong camaraderie amongst the residents, attendings and staff. The program has created a nice, friendly atmosphere where we can receive high quality in-depth training. Additionally, I appreciate that there are multiple training sites all in close proximity which provide for a wide breadth of training and a broader variety of cases. I love the opportunity to give back to those that gave so much while serving our country through training at the VA hospital. 

My family and I have really enjoyed Johnson City. The weather is nice, the people are very friendly, and the low cost of living makes it a great place to raise a family. We have been impressed with the large presence of several medical specialties in the area. There are also plenty of outdoor activities to do that keep us well entertained such as parks, camping, hiking, swimming, mountain biking, and visiting different lakes. 

My hobbies include small DIY projects around the house, spending time with my wife and children, following sports, participating in church activities, outdoor activities and keeping my kids laughing and smiling. 

Kenn Vattathara, M.D.

PGY-IV Resident Physician, Chief Resident

Medical School: Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO
Undergraduate: Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, BS

I chose ETSU because I got the impression that everyone at the program really looked after one another. It was apparent from my interview and time here that residents spent time together outside of the work atmosphere as well. Moveover, our program administration loves to hear the voices of all its residents. One of my favorite things about Johnson City is the many outdoor activities and beautiful attractions you can explore. Vewing the mountains on your way to work every morning is very relaxing. I am from St. Louis, MO, and I love playing basketball, soccer, and volleyball. I recently got into snowboarding and I am looking forward to traversing the slopes near the area in the winter!

Sukhvinder Cheema, M.D.

PGY-III Resident Physician

Medical School: University of Medicine and Health Sciences, St. Kitts and Nevis
MA: University of Houston, Houston, TX - Psychology
Undergraduate: University of Houston, Houston, TX, BS

I chose ETSU after several interactions with them at conferences, open houses and then finally interview day!  I repeatedly heard about how Dr. Chandraiah and the rest of the staff/faculty were very supportive and committed to improving training for their residents, which is exactly what kind of atmosphere I was looking for. The residents were very easy to get along with virtually and I sensed great personalities with everyone I spoke to.  I appreciated the curriculum and in-depth experiences that a resident gets here, which will prepare them very well once they graduate.  Through my short time here, I have experienced warm welcomings and positive vibes from everyone in the program and in Johnson City!

Coming from Houston, Texas I am most excited about living in the mountains and the hiking adventures. I love being outdoors and the greenery here is just breathtaking. I also enjoy staying active so I like to run, walk, bike, dance (Giddha/Bhangra), lift weights and do yoga. My other interests include: watching sunsets, drinking way too much chaa & coffee, trying out new food recipes, chilling on roof tops, spending time with my family, trying to sing and listening to Punjabi music especially Sidhu Moosewala.

Gregory DeRoo, M.D.

PGY-III Resident Physician

Medical School: ETSU James H. Quillen College of Medicine
MBA: East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN
Undergraduate: Middle Tennessee State University, BS
University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa, BBA

Being an ETSU Quillen College of Medicine graduate, I was already familiar with the program and wished to remain in the area whilst completing residency training. My wife is currently a medical student here and will be graduating in 2024. My wife and I have two children, and we have found living in this area to be a huge benefit for us as a family. There are great schools, parks, and entertainment opportunities for families here as well as within a short drive from here. Having two parents in the medical field is challenging, but we have received a significant amount of support from the program as well as the College of Medicine.  ETSU Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences has a very supportive environment, and everyone has been a pleasure to work with. I consider myself fortunate to be able to attend this program. 

Joseph DiFrancesco, M.D.

PGY-III Resident Physician

Medical School: ETSU James H. Quillen College of Medicine
MBA: American Public University; American Military University, Charles Town, WV
Undergraduate: United States Military Academy, BS

After 10 years in the Army, I was blessed to have the opportunity to go to Medical School here in Johnson City at the Quillen College of Medicine.  I fell in love with the area, the patients, and the faculty.  I got the opportunity to stay when I matched here into ETSU Psychiatry.

In my free time, you'll find me with the love of my life.  We'll be out paddle boarding, ice skating, hiking, skateboarding, or tackling home projects. The Tri-Cities truly is a playground for outdoors enthusiasts.  I am proud to call this home.

Zachary Pierson, D.O.

PGY-III Resident Physician

Medical School: Lincoln Memorial University - DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine
Pre-Med: Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA
Undergraduate: College of William and Mary, Williamsburg, VA, BS

I lived in central VA in one place or another for my whole life before coming to Tennessee for med school and first experiencing "The Volunteer State". From there ETSU and Johnson City were obvious choices since I wasn't too far away and also got to interact with ETSU residents/sites while on my clinical rotations.

My major draws to the area were the opportunities for outdoor recreation and the healthy lifestyle they encourage, as well as the low cost of living while still having great options for leisure activities and restaurants/bars.

The program itself does a fantastic job of making you feel welcomed and supported. As a resident the expectations and responsibilities start to ramp up, and the best thing you can ask for are program faculty and fellow residents that are readily available to give you all the help you need to succeed.

When I'm not on the job or stretching my legs outside I enjoy reading, poker and other strategy games, investing, and other sporadic creative projects.

Kenneth Pomeroy, M.D.

PGY-III Resident Physician

Medical School: University of Queensland School of Medicine, Australia
Undergraduate: University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, BS
El Camino Community College, Torrance, CA, AS

Growing up in Redondo Beach, California I played a lot of sports and enjoyed outdoor activities like snowboarding, surfing, skateboarding, wakeboarding, rock climbing, hiking, and camping. As a kid my parents took my brother, sister, and me camping frequently. As I grew up, pursuing education, I always tried to end up in places that were close in proximity to nature, where I could continue to play outside.  

For the past 10 I have moved around a lot, from Los Angeles to San Diego to Australia and then to New Orleans, dragging my partner along while she supported me through the challenging road of medical school. We had spent time in Tennessee before, visiting family, and fell in love with the natural beauty. Having family and friends nearby and being able to enjoy our favorite outdoor hobbies, it just made sense to join ETSU.  

Megan Taylor, D.O.

PGY-III Resident Physician

Medical School: Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine, Blacksburg, VA


Undergraduate: University of Virginia's College at Wise, Wise, VA, BS

I am originally from Southwest Virginia, just outside of East Tennessee. I grew up learning how to appreciate nature, especially in the mountains. Outside of medicine, I enjoy hiking, kayaking, and camping. The majority of my friends and family live in the area, so my weekends usually include Sunday dinner back at home.

I chose ETSU because I have a passion for rural medicine. Being from the area, I never had an interest in leaving. Between the beauty of the mountains and the culture of the Appalachian region, I knew this is where I wanted to pursue my career. Being a part of such a supportive resident cohort is just an added bonus!

Noah Anderson, M.D.

PGY-II Resident Physician

Medical School: St. George's University School of Medicine, Grenada
Undergraduate: University of Denver, Denver, CO, BA

I chose ETSU for several reasons, the most important of which was the atmosphere cultivated by the residents and faculty. This program is dedicated to creating a friendly, supportive, and collegial environment. Johnson City has a population of 80,000 people, but the hospitals here serve a community in the hundreds of thousands. This gives the residents exposure to a wide demographic with issues ranging from minor and major, acute and chronic. I know my experience here will prepare me for whatever career I choose and enable me to work anywhere in the country.  

Johnson City is rapidly growing, and the geography is stunning. Having spent most of my life either living in Texas or Colorado, I knew I wanted somewhere in the south and near mountains. I couldn’t have found a better place than Johnson City. In my free time, you’ll find me hanging out with friends and family, playing my guitar, binge-watching TV shows, and losing at chess. Also, that is just about the worst photo I have ever taken! 

Samuel Baden, D.O.

PGY-II Resident Physician

Medical School: Lincoln Memorial University - DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine
Undergraduate: Pfeiffer University, Misenheimer, NC, BS

I have always found myself living in places where I can easily get involved with a variety of outdoor activities. I love to do anything outside like hiking, cycling, running, and soccer. I enjoy being in a place where I can become part of the community and get involved in different ways. During medical school, I did my clinical rotations nearby in Norton, VA where I made many connections within the tri-state area, and I had the opportunity to coach the local high school soccer team. Over my 2 years in Norton, I really got to know the people and the surrounding areas and it just began to feel like home.

Going into residency, I really wanted to be in a place similar to where I had been previously. Johnson City offered that for me. It is a beautiful area with plenty to do and many opportunities to be involved in the community if you want. The people within the program all give off such a welcoming feel and I couldn't picture myself being anywhere else.

Stephanie Castlewhite, M.D.

PGY-II Resident Physician

Medical School: East Tennessee State University James H. Quillen College of Medicine, Johnson City, TN, MD / MPH
Undergraduate: University of TN Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, BS, Nursing
Undergraduate: University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, Chattanooga, TN, BFA

I am from Chattanooga, TN and moved to Johnson City for medical school. My husband (an air traffic controller) and I got married during medical school and decided to stay here for residency. Our first child was born during the first few months of residency, and I cannot express how grateful I am to have joined such a supportive program. I have found it to be a very family-friendly program thus far.

Aside from residency, I work part-time as a Public Health Director for the Tennessee Department of Health. My main hobby is whitewater kayaking, but I enjoy hiking, mountain biking, paddleboarding and other outdoor activities. We enjoy a short ski season with two resorts within an hour drive. There are numerous whitewater rivers to enjoy within a few hours drive, as well as our backyard run on the Nolichucky Gorge. Overall, we’ve been very happy to call Johnson City home.

Michael Harber, D.O.

PGY-II Resident Physician

Medical School: Lincoln Memorial University - DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine
Undergraduate: Middle Tennessee State University, Murfreesboro, TN, BS

Growing up in Middle Tennessee my entire life, I desired to stay in the Volunteer State for my residency. After moving to East Tennessee for medical school, I quickly fell in love with the breath-taking views of the mountains and outdoor activities that come with them. East Tennessee has a welcoming environment that made me feel right at home, and Johnson City has a special charm about it that made me excited to join ETSU’s program. Our program possesses a supportive and selfless culture that I am thankful to be a part of. 

When I am not practicing psychiatry, you can find me doing recreational swimming, exploring the wilderness that surrounds me, touring the Tri-cities, or binging my new favorite TV show.  You may also see me downtown with my Australian Shepherd who loves to see people and new places!

Phillip Spurlock, D.O.

PGY-II Resident Physician

Medical School: Lincoln Memorial University - DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine
Undergraduate: Ohio University, Athens, OH, BA

Coming from southern Ohio, there are many things that pulled me to Johnson City and ETSU as the residency where I wanted to continue my education. The city has plenty to do for a growing family while still holding that small-town feel you love to have in a place you hope to call your future hometown. It's planted perfectly within the Appalachian Mountains giving you a great view any direction you look and plenty of opportunities for great hiking. To top it all off, the residency program has been full of welcoming and nurturing individuals who only want to see you succeed at every turn. Overall, I couldn't ask for a better training environment. 

Aside from being a psychiatry resident, I ensure to keep up with my hobbies to keep myself sane! I play MTG and video games when I can and enjoy theatre and musicals. I have two little ones at home who keep me plenty busy, and life is always an adventure with them around!

Daniel Caydyn Westwood, M.D.

PGY-II Resident Physician

Medical School: Ross University School of Medicine, Barbados


Undergraduate: Dixie State University, St. George, UT, BS

During medical school, I had the opportunity to live in East Tennessee for a few months. During that time, my wife and I fell in love with the area. After we left, we frequently talked about how great it would be to return to Tennessee either for residency or afterwards. Being from Utah, we have always loved being in the outdoors and we love the mountainous scenery Johnson City, and the surrounding areas have to offer. While the Appalachian Mountains may not be as tall as the Rocky Mountains we grew up with, we still appreciate their unique beauty and love to get out and explore. I had many hobbies growing up including playing sports like football, baseball, basketball, and golf. I also enjoy wake surfing, mountain biking, horseback riding, and snowboarding when I get the chance. These days, when I’m not working, I spend most of my time with my wife and kids.

When I was applying to residency programs, I was searching for one with a strong sense of comradery and friendship among the residents. As soon as I finished my interview with ETSU, I knew it was the one for me. The faculty and staff are amazing, the location is amazing, and the program offers a variety of training/educational experiences. I’m glad to be part of ETSU and look forward to my time here in East Tennessee.

Zachary Ames, M.D.

PGY-I Resident Physician

Medical School: St. George's University School of Medicine, Grenada
Undergraduate: Utah Valley University, UT, B.A.

Having never set foot in the south prior to starting residency I had no idea what to expect out of moving to Tennessee. I grew up in Utah and the Rocky Mountains and did my medical school rotations in New Jersey and New York City and I have to say that coming to ETSU honestly feels like coming home. I have dragged my family with me all the way through medical school and starting residency here is probably the best thing I could have done for my family. 

When I am not learning how to be a better doctor, I am with my family exploring waterfalls, farmers markets and adding new restaurants to my map of places to try. I love going to the movies, reading/listening to fantasy novels, and sneaking in a video game or two when I can. I sold all of my rock climbing gear to buy a computer for medical school, but I am desperate to get back into it and exploring more of the beautiful smoky mountains. 

I have wanted to be a psychiatrist ever since I watched the TV show ‘Monk’ as a kid and learned that you can get paid to talk with interesting people! I declared my major as psychology after I spent two years in Germany talking with some of those interesting folks and have devoted the last 10 years to starting a psychiatry residency. I am so excited to finally be here starting my dream job in the best place I could imagine. 

Megan De Roo, M.D.

PGY-I Resident Physician

Medical School: ETSU Quillen College of Medicine, Johnson City, TN
Undergraduate: MTSU, Murfreesboro, TN, B.S.

I fell in love with East TN after my first visit to the area some 15 years ago. Shortly thereafter, I set my sights on attending Quillen. Fast forward a few years and I am a proud Quillen graduate and have called Johnson City “home” for the last 7 years. I was born and raised in a busy South African city, worked in large hospitals as a speech pathologist and audiologist, immigrated to the Nashville area for several years, and finally settled in East Tennessee, and I can assure you that this is the best place to live and raise a family. My husband, who is a PGY-3 Psychiatry Resident, couldn’t agree more! Choosing ETSU for residency was an easy choice, and the fact that I knew how amazing the upper-class residents and faculty were made it an even easier choice! During my time off, you can find me spending time with my husband, 2 wonderful children, and miniature schnauzer! I love to be outside and am an avid gardener. Other interests include going to church, hiking, wood working/DIY projects, and traveling or visiting family all over the world.

Joshua Hansen, D.O.

PGY-I Resident Physician

Medical School: Rocky Vista University College of Osteopathic Medicine, Irvins, UT, D.O.
Undergraduate: Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, B.S.

Having lived in many different parts of the country I can honestly say that the Southern United States has a special place in my heart. The people, the food, and natural beauty were all draws to East Tennessee when deciding where to apply for residency. I am excited to not only learn at the many wonderful medical institutions that service the area, but also to call this place home. 

My passion in psychiatry is rooted in the unique story that defines each and every one of our lives. I am grateful for the opportunity to be a part of my patients’ stories. Every story is distinctive and every life remarkable.

Tyler Indranoi, M.D./MPH

PGY-I Resident Physician

Medical School: ETSU Quillen College of Medicine, Johnson City, TN, M.D.
Undergraduate: East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, B.S.

Johnson City and ETSU have been my home the entire time I have pursued a career in medicine, so it was an easy choice to stay here to finish my journey. I have enjoyed every one of my eight years learning, hiking, exploring with my dogs, snowboarding, making friends, and growing as a person in this beautiful town. This is also the place I met my partner whom I couples matched here with. She is an OB/GYN resident. Johnson City has a lot to offer from a diversity of quality restaurants to its never-ending list of outdoor activities available. It is this along with the amazing atmosphere and opportunities that the psychiatry department offers that have kept me here and excited to call myself a resident doctor.  

Hunter Evan Mason, M.D.

PGY-I Resident Physician

Medical School: ETSU Quillen College of Medicine, Johnson City, TN, M.D.
Undergraduate: Middle Tennessee State University, Murfreesboro, TN, B.S.

I'm a first-year psychiatry resident with a passion for exploring both the human mind and the great outdoors. Originally from Tennessee, I've spent my entire life reveling in the natural beauty of this state, nurturing my love for hiking, kayaking, and all things outdoors. I pursued my undergraduate studies at MTSU and initially worked as an environmental chemist, where I developed a deep appreciation for the intersection of science and the environment. When not immersed in psychiatry, I can often be found enjoying board games with friends or spending time with my beloved dogs, who bring endless joy and companionship to my life.

Naomi Velez Hernandez, M.D.

PGY-I Resident Physician

Medical School: San Juan Bautista School of Medicine, Caguas, Puerto Rico, M.D.
Undergraduate: University of Puerto Rico, Rio Pedras campus, San Juan, PR, B.S.

I chose ETSU for my training because, even from my interview, I noticed how the program fostered a collaborative and supportive environment for its residents. When speaking about the program, all the residents agreed that one of the best things about the program was the support between peers. Being now a resident here, I can attest to its verity. This enhances the training experience, providing a strong support network. Although I was unfamiliar with the area, once I visited, I appreciated how Johnson City is a blend of Southern small-town charm with spectacular views of the mountains, offering visitors adventures everywhere. Being surrounded by the beautiful Appalachian Mountains, plus the lower cost of living, definitely adds to the appeal, making ETSU an ideal place to train and raise a family.

Furat Zamil, MBBS

PGY-I Resident Physician

Medical School: Yarmouk University Faculty of Medicine, Jordan, MBBS.

Born and raised in Jordan, I’ve experienced a very different atmosphere. Leaving my family behind and moving to a new place has been quite an adventure! The more people I meet, the more I learn about myself, and honestly, I know nothing yet. Johnson City is a wonderful place; the people here are what make this place great, plus the incredible, breathtaking nature! If you ever find yourself in need of help, there is always someone willing to lend a hand. Guidance and support are always available.

 In my free time, I enjoy the activities of an average grandma: cooking, caring for my small garden, exploring thrift stores, and taking long drives in the beautiful Appalachia.