OUR TEAM
COMPASSIONATE CARE PROFESSIONALS
Alter Mental Health is all about making people feel that they are welcome and in very good hands. From the receptionist to the primary care professionals, our team is empathetic and understanding of the unique needs that come with neurodivergent conditions. From start to finish, we will make sure every person that steps through our door seeking treatment feels welcome and at home.
Dr. Araz Tawfique, MD
Dr. Araz Tawfique, M.D. is an award-winning, Board Certified psychiatrist in La Jolla, CA with over ten years of experience working with people with of diverse needs. He pursued his true passion for psychiatry and completed his psychiatric residency training at the University of Reno, Las Vegas, A San Diego native, he returned to Southern California to receive additional training in mental health, and start his private practice. His specialties are psychiatry and psychotherapy, which are techniques that facilitate a better understanding of thoughts, feelings, and motivations. His approach explores the interplay of biology, psychology, and sociology in shaping individuals and their relationships.
Dr. Tawfique’s experience includes delivering comprehensive addiction treatment at substance abuse centers in San Diego County, work as the Medical Director of Consultation/Liaison Psychiatric Services at Sharp Coronado Hospital, providing psychiatric emergency evaluations at San Diego County Psychiatric Hospital, and private practice experience.

Dr. Araz Tawfique, M.D.
Medical Director/Psychiatrist
Stacy Dawish, PMHNP
Stacy brings to Alter the ability to assess complex medical cases, improving quality care, and develop consultative strategies for superior patient outcomes and case efficacy.
She provides health education and essential emotional support to patients’ families. As an articulate communicator and team player, effective at building positive relationships with patients, family members, and professionals of all levels, she is a welcome addition to the Alter team.

Stacy Dawish, PMHNP
Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Amber Ontiveros, CADC3
PROGRAM MANAGER
Amber began her journey in behavioral health by obtaining a degree in Psychology and becoming a Certified Drug and Alcohol Counselor. Amber has a passion for helping people move forward and achieve their goals. Amber considers it an honor to provide a safe environment for people to explore their needs and reach their highest potential. Amber leads with integrity, empathy, and understanding.

Amber Ontiveros, CADC3
Program Manager
Niloufar Nekou, LMFT

Niloufar Nekou, LMFT
VP - Executive Clinical Director
William Lemme

Willliam Lemme
Operations Manager
Benjamin Maxson, AMFT

Benjamin Maxson, AMFT
Primary Therapist
Tracy Foust

Tracy Foust
Operations Supervisor
Teralyn MacArthur

Teralyn MacArthur
Case Manager
Eva Norton, MSW, ACSW

Eva Norton, MSW, ACSW
Primary Therapist