professional woman sitting

Meet The Mental Health Team

Solari Mental and Behavioral Health in Charlotte, North Carolina

Solari Mental and Behavioral Health Services

Dr. Carol Cameron-Matthews (Provider)

DNP, MSN, BSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, NP

Dr. Carol Cameron-Matthews is a graduate of Winston Salem State University where she obtained a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. She subsequently completed her Master’s and Doctoral degrees in Advanced Practice Nursing from the University of South Alabama. Dr. Cameron-Matthews prioritizes patient care. Her experiences are varied across the psychiatric lifespan and exceed more than 10 years in outpatient and in-patient psychiatric care settings, including Atrium Health, Life Source, and Outreach Management Services.

Dr. Cameron-Matthews is well-versed in evidence-based care modalities. Innate strengths are her empathy, care, flexibility, integrity, and competency. She practices a modern, scientific, and holistic approach to psychiatric care. Clients will enthusiastically acknowledge her understanding, acceptance, and non-judgmental delivery of exceptional patient care.

Dr. Cameron-Matthews guarantees results. She believes in the power of optimism and stands ready to support all clients across the psychiatric lifespan. She will forever be at your service.

Dr. Rohan Matthews (Provider)

DNP, PMHNP-BC, APRN, NP

Rohan Matthews is a graduate of Winston Salem State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree (BSN). He attended Aspen University, where he attained a Master of Business Administration (MBA), and later attended Walden University, where he earned his Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) in Psychiatry. Mr. Matthews is a Board-Certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) dedicated to supporting the mental health population in Charlotte and the surrounding areas.

For the last 20 years, Mr. Matthews worked in supervisory roles as a nurse manager and supervisor at Novant Health Hospital and Atrium Health. Mr. Matthews has transitioned from Atrium Behavioral Health (Davidson) and is now in private practice at Solari Mental and Behavioral Health Services, providing psychiatric care to clients across the lifespan.

Mr. Matthews pledges evidence-based care delivery. Clients are assured the utmost in confidentiality, reliability, consistency, efficiency, and competent mental health care delivery. His core strengths include patient transparency, communication, respect, client participation, flexibility, and understanding. He is dedicated to client service and stands ready to customize your care for the best clinical outcomes. He is at your service.

Dr. Vikram R. Shukla (Collaborative Physician)

M.D.

Dr. Vikram R. Shukla, M.D., is a distinguished psychiatrist with nearly four decades of experience in the field of mental health. As a respected member of both the American Psychiatric Association and the North Carolina Psychiatric Association, Dr. Shukla has dedicated his career to providing compassionate and effective care to individuals grappling with various mental health challenges.

With over 35 years of experience in private practice, Dr. Shukla has cultivated a reputation for his unwavering commitment to the specialty of Psychiatry. His expertise spans a wide range of mental health conditions, including anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, depression, schizophrenia, and many others. Dr. Shukla approaches each case with empathy, understanding, and a personalized treatment plan tailored to unique needs.

In addition to his clinical practice, Dr. Shukla is actively involved in advancing the field of psychiatry through his contributions to research and education. He has authored numerous scientific presentations and has been published in prestigious journals, including the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA). His dedication to staying abreast of the latest developments in psychiatry ensures that his collaboration provides the highest standard of care informed by evidence-based practices.

Solari Mental and Behavioral Health Services is pleased to have Dr. Shukla as the practice collaborative physician. Dr. Shukla’s role is that of collaboration and consultation. He is not on typically site and does not see patients directly. His expertise is at your service.

Lavonnie Matthews (Practice Manager)

BS, MPH

Lavonnie “Lavie” Matthews is a dedicated and compassionate healthcare professional who enthusiastically serves in the role of Practice Manager at Solari Mental and Behavioral Health Services. Lavonnie currently holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology with an Interdisciplinary Minor in Neuroscience from Davidson College and a Master’s in Public Health from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte (UNCC). She is also in the process of obtaining her PhD in Behavioral Health Leadership from Liberty University. Her previous experience includes Inpatient Rehabilitation, which placed a strong focus on helping patients regain their independence and quality of life.

She also rose to the unprecedented challenge of COVID-19, choosing to travel out of state to provide direct care to COVID-19-positive patients for the duration of the pandemic. Now as the Practice Manager, Lavonnie brings her wealth of experience and education to the forefront; her strong background in Psychology and Neuroscience allows her to understand the complexities of Mental Health, while her Public Health knowledge helps streamline clinic operations and ensure the highest standard of care for all patients. She remains committed to her role and is at your service.

Francis Mensa-Shebra (IT Consultant)

AMBCS, RIT-Tech

Francis Mensa-Shebra has been engaged in Information Technology for the past 17 years. Career roles have spanned IT Consultancy, Systems Analyst, Project Manager, Implementation, and Computer Specialist. Francis’s varied experience draws from IT assignments in West Africa, New York City, and Metro Carolina.

Current IT partnerships exist with Microsoft, Acronis, Intel, and Sophos. Professional certifications include Microsoft Technology Associates (MTA), Dell Certified Systems Expert (DCSE), and HP Master Tech.

Francis holds membership with the Carolina IT Professionals Group (CIPTG) and the British Computer Society (BCS), a Chartered Institute for IT based in the United Kingdom. Francis brings EHR interoperability, information systems optimization, and Cyber Security Advisory Services to Solari Mental and Behavioral Health Services. Clients can be assured of HIPAA confidentiality, regulatory compliance, workflow optimization, and confidence in information flow, data storage, retrieval, and transfers.

Francis supports the mental and behavioral health communities in Charlotte and the surrounding areas with technical experience, knowledge, expertise, and competence. Solari is happy to have him on board.

Andrea Symes (Supervising Therapist)

MSW, LCSW, CGCS

Andrea Symes is a dedicated and compassionate social worker and therapist specializing in Mental health. She earned a Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice from John Jay College and a Master’s in Social Work from Boston University. Over the years, she has helped numerous individuals navigate the complex challenges of Depression, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Anxiety, Trauma, and the various complexities of life transitions. Andrea is deeply attuned to unique challenges such as marriage/divorce, motherhood, career shifts, and the life changes associated with Behavioral Health.

In her practice, Andrea combines faith-based interventions, and evidence-based therapeutic techniques with a holistic approach in both individual and couple’s therapy. Recognizing the interconnectedness of mental wellness, emotions, diet, and physical health are also promoted.

During her supervisory role, Andrea directs a plethora of therapeutic modalities to ensure that individuals feel heard and understood. Each supervisory session is tailor-made to meet the unique needs of each individual trainee. Associates are empowered to embrace clients with a safe and nurturing space for healing and growth.

Andrea aids her associates with navigating the complexities of their role in finding a path toward self-discovery and healing. Associates are assisted with reclaiming control over their competencies while defining their strengths. Andrea is not just a supervisor; she is a role model, practicing therapist, and dedicated advocate for the well-being of the Behavioral Health Population. She is dedicated to the promotion of mental health and resilience. Andrea creates a supportive environment where clients can explore their thoughts and feelings, develop wellness strategies, and embark on a journey toward a positive transformation.

Through the Solari Network, Andrea continues to promote a path of healing and self-discovery. She is committed to assisting those with creating positive change, developing practical healing mechanisms, achieving resilience, and gaining an unequivocal outlook on the future.

Tayona Huntley (Clinical Therapist)

BS, MSW, LCSWA

Tayona Huntley is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate and has been in the field since 2020. Tayona completed her Master’s of Social Work (MSW) at The Catholic University of America located in the District of Columbia. Tayona has worked with individuals ranging from preteens to geriatrics from every walk of life. Populations serviced includes clients living with HIV, LGBTQ+ communities, Women’s Issues, PTSD, anxiety, depression, individuals navigate a major life change, and couples finding healthy skills and strategies to better coexist in their life together.

Tayona’s therapy style is very relatable and consistently uses a more holistic approach to life’s obstacles. Active listening, goal setting, meditation, visual imagery, research, and mindfulness are all a part of her daily approach to meeting her clients where they are. Tayona’s massage chair or virtual office is a safe space created with no judgment. Sessions are rooted in trustworthiness, transparency, empowerment, choice, cultural acceptance, historical biases, and gender identity concepts. Be who you are. Mankind is often stronger than we realize.

Tayona takes pride in professionally supporting clients and reminding them of the power they truly have. Clients who have the desire to change or just enough effort to try can reach every realistic and attainable goal they set out for themselves. Together you and Tayona will collaborate on tools and techniques to overcome life challenges, stressors, and triggers. You are worthy of peace, joy, and self-love. Tayona will support you every step of the way. She is forever at your service.

Anthony Butler (Clinical Therapist)

BFA, MSW, LCSWA

Anthony Butler is a practicing associate-level Licensed Clinical Social Worker from New York City. After graduating from NYU with his Master’s in Social Work in 2016, Anthony worked in the field as a Social Worker for Young Men of Color at the Kings County District Attorney’s Office. After staying there for 2 1/2 years, Anthony transitioned to work as a Recovery Specialist working with individuals who were living with a dual diagnosis. During the pandemic, Anthony relocated to Minneapolis, where he worked as a Therapist for offenders of Sex Crimes. At the end of 2021, Anthony and his family relocated to Charlotte, North Carolina, where he now calls home. While living in Charlotte, Anthony has worked as a psychotherapist at an in-patient rehabilitation clinic for individuals living with severe mental health diagnoses and Substance Use dependency. Anthony has also worked as a Mental Health Therapist for disenfranchised populations living with co-occurring disorders.

Anthony Butler specializes in but is not limited to trauma-informed care, co-occurring disorders, substance use dependency, navigating symptoms of grief, depression, anxiety, identity, family therapy, areas surrounding sexual orientation, race, and intimate partner violence. Growing up in a low-socioeconomic household and living with a disability, Anthony has demonstrated the ability to work with all marginalized groups and has worked with a plethora of individuals of all ethnicities, identities, cultures, and demographics. Anthony has also lived in several places and feels like his exposure to different populations and cultures assists him with his ability to practice compassion, empathy, and work from a person-centered framework. Anthony remains at your service.

Donovan Hall (Clinical Therapist)

BA, MSW, LCSWA

Donovan Hall is a dedicated Licensed Clinical Social Work Associate at Solari Mental and Behavioral Health Services, driven by a passion for supporting individuals and families facing societal and mental health challenges. Inspired by personal experiences with friends and family navigating these issues, Donovan is committed to being a compassionate resource within the community.

With a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of South Carolina and a Master of Social Work from Winthrop University, Donovan has developed a comprehensive skill set in various therapeutic modalities. Donovan specializes in play therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), trauma-focused care, and grief and loss navigation, allowing him to effectively engage with clients across all demographics.

Prior to joining Solari, Donovan served as a Residential Counselor at the Children’s Attention Home, where he provided nurturing care and transformative services to youth aged birth to 21. His commitment to empowerment is further exemplified through the initiation of the therapeutic mentorship group, “From Boys to Men,” aimed at helping elementary-aged boys address challenges such as anger, anxiety, and depression.

In addition to individual therapy, Donovan has facilitated group therapy sessions for individuals and families coping with grief and loss, utilizing specialized techniques to foster healing and resilience. His holistic approach underscores a deep understanding of the complex interplay between personal struggles and broader societal influences.