Board-Certified Psychiatrist | Substance Use Specialist | Health Disparities Scholar About Dr. Chemar D. Dr. Chemar D. is a compassionate and highly skilled board-certified psychiatrist with a strong foundation in academic research and clinical excellence. Currently serving as a staff psychiatrist in the Substance Use Department at the James A. Haley VA Hospital, Dr. D. brings advanced expertise in the treatment of complex psychiatric and neurocognitive disorders. With additional certification as a Health Disparities Scholar, their work is grounded in evidence-based care, cultural humility, and a deep commitment to equity in mental health treatment. Dr. D. trained at the University of South Florida, where they completed both medical school and psychiatry residency with a focused concentration in health disparities. Their research background includes work on the neurobiology of psychiatric disorders and clinical risk factors for conditions such as serotonin syndrome and cognitive impairment. Dr. D. is the recipient of the VA’s I-CARE National Award for Patient Care and has mentored psychiatry residents in both clinical and research settings. Collaborative Philosophy Dr. D. believes that collaboration with nurse practitioners should be built on trust, mutual respect, and shared goals. Their approach is supportive, consultative, and empowering—designed to help NPs feel confident and independent in their clinical practice. Areas of Support • Complex Case Consultation: Expertise in managing severe mental illness, including co-occurring substance use disorders, treatment-resistant schizophrenia, and rare syndromes such as Cotard delusion. • Advanced Psychopharmacology: Guidance on medication regimens involving complex polypharmacy, management of serotonin syndrome, and psychotropic interactions in medically ill patients. • Cultural Competency & Health Equity: Deep insight into delivering culturally sensitive, equitable care across diverse patient populations. • Efficient Communication: All scheduling and messaging is streamlined through a secure, HIPAA-compliant platform to ensure reliability and ease of use. Credentials • Board-Certified in Psychiatry • Staff Psychiatrist, James A. Haley VA Hospital • MD, University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine • Health Disparities Certification • BLS and ATLS Certified • Former Research Co-Chair and Resident Mentor, USF With a calm, thoughtful presence and a passion for clinical excellence, Dr. Chemar D. is an ideal partner for NPs seeking supportive, high-level collaboration in psychiatry and substance use care.

Board Certifications

American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology

Additional Certifications

Graduate Certificate in Health Disparities