New Orleans thrives on its vibrant culture, but beneath the city’s lively exterior, many residents face the quiet weight of mental health challenges. The need for skilled psychiatrists — or “shrinks” — is more evident than ever, and Black professionals are rising to the occasion with expertise and empathy.
These five standout Black psychiatrists in the Crescent City bring unique perspectives and tailored care, helping locals navigate everything from anxiety to life’s toughest transitions. Rooted in a community that’s weathered storms both literal and figurative, they’re healing minds with a blend of science and soul. Here’s why they’re among the best in New Orleans for lifting your spirit.
Dr. Denese Shervington blends resilience and renewal
Dr. Denese Shervington stands as a pillar in New Orleans’ mental health landscape, leading as president of The Institute of Women and Ethnic Studies. A native of the city, she’s spent decades honing her craft, with degrees from NYU and Howard University, plus a master’s in public health from Tulane. Her work zeroes in on trauma, especially among communities of color, drawing from her own experience of losing her home to Hurricane Katrina.
At her Uptown practice, she tackles PTSD, depression, and cultural stressors with a mix of therapy and medication management. Known for her community outreach — like post-disaster recovery programs — she’s a lifeline for those rebuilding their minds as much as their lives. Dr. Shervington’s approach feels like a warm embrace, grounded in New Orleans’ enduring strength.
Dr. Brittany Hinkle-Johnson brings fresh energy
Dr. Brittany Hinkle-Johnson, based in Gretna just across the river, is a newer voice making waves in 2025. Board-certified and bursting with enthusiasm, she runs Serenity Mental Health Services, offering virtual and in-person care for kids, teens, and adults. Her focus spans ADHD, mood disorders, and personality challenges, with a knack for connecting across generations.
A New Orleans native, she gets the city’s pulse — its joys and its pressures — and uses that insight to craft plans that stick. Her telehealth options make her a flexible choice for busy locals, while her warm, homegrown vibe puts patients at ease. Dr. Hinkle-Johnson’s energy is a jolt of hope, proving healing can feel personal and approachable.
Dr. Samantha R. Harris bridges mind and body
Dr. Samantha R. Harris, a double-boarded psychiatrist in psychiatry and internal medicine, offers a rare holistic lens in New Orleans. Practicing near Lakeview, she’s spent more than 20 years weaving mindfulness into her sessions, thanks to her training as a yoga and meditation teacher.
Her specialties include anxiety, depression, and substance use, but she’s just as adept at tackling the physical toll of mental strain — think sleep issues or stress-related fatigue. A local through and through, she understands the city’s high-spirited chaos and its hidden burdens. Dr. Harris’s Mid-City office is a calm retreat where patients leave feeling lighter, her integrative style a perfect fit for a town that loves to balance revelry with recovery.
Dr. Erika Parker-Hamilton spans generations
Dr. Erika Parker-Hamilton, rooted at Ochsner Health near the Garden District, carries a global perspective shaped by years in the Caribbean, UK, and Czech Republic. A Tulane-trained psychiatrist with a forensic fellowship under her belt, she’s a master at untangling complex cases — ADHD, PTSD, mood disorders, you name it.
Her multicultural upbringing in New Orleans shines through, making her a natural for the city’s diverse fabric. She sees patients of all ages, from restless kids to weary elders, blending sharp assessments with a gentle touch. In 2025, her practice buzzes with families seeking care that feels culturally in tune, her worldly wisdom a steady anchor for minds adrift.
Dr. Morgan Feibelman nurtures young spirits
Dr. Morgan Feibelman, a veteran with over two decades at Children’s Hospital New Orleans, is the city’s go-to for youth mental health. A Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association, he’s board-certified in child and adolescent psychiatry, though his Audubon-area practice welcomes adults too. His expertise covers ADHD, eating disorders, and depression, often pairing therapy with practical lifestyle shifts. In a city gearing up for Super Bowl LIX, he’s a rock for families navigating the excitement and stress of growing up here. Dr. Feibelman’s collaborative style — think teaming up with parents and schools — builds a safety net for young minds, while his steady hand helps adults find their footing too.
