Program Faculty
Program director
Julia Triggs, MD
Adjunct faculty, University of North Carolina School of Medicine
Bio: Dr. Julia Triggs is a seasoned psychiatrist and dedicated educator with nearly two decades of experience in clinical care and medical education. She earned her medical degree from the West Virginia University School of Medicine and completed her psychiatry residency at the University of Maryland Sheppard Pratt.
She began her academic leadership as Associate Program Director at the University of Maryland/Sheppard Pratt Psychiatry Training Program (2007–2009), followed by work at the Prince Frederick County Mental Health Clinic (2009–2012), where she served as Medical Director and at a short-term crisis stabilization clinic in Annapolis, Maryland.
Since joining Novant Health in 2012, Dr. Triggs has been in many leadership roles and has been instrumental in developing the psychiatry residency program. In addition to the department chair and medical director roles for the department of psychiatry, she also served as the hospital chief of staff for the 2023 calendar year. She has served as Program Director since the residency program’s inception, leading the effort from the initial concept through the writing and submission of the application to establish the program. Her leadership and vision have guided its development and continued success. In recognition of her contributions, she was nominated for the 2024 Novant Health Distinguished Physician Award, and under her direction, the residency program was named a co-winner of the Teichner Award for academic year 2025. This award provides the opportunity for programs to work with a Teichner Scholar in the development of robust psychodynamic psychotherapy curriculum, through faculty development and one-on-one sessions with the residents, both of which are facilitated by the Teichner Scholar.
Dr. Triggs' medical interests include severe and persistent mental illness, and she is deeply committed to improving care for individuals with complex psychiatric needs.
Outside of work, Dr. Triggs finds joy in life’s simple and meaningful moments. She loves spending time with her family and especially treasures the experience of seeing the world through the eyes of her two-year-old grandson—moments she describes as sheer joy. A devoted dog lover, she is a passionate advocate for animal welfare and actively supports rescue groups and shelters, often lending her time and voice to causes close to her heart. She delights in discovering hidden restaurant gems while traveling, and although she wishes she had more time for it, she enjoys reading for pleasure and taking long walks on the beach. For her, the mountains are more than a destination—they’re a place of peace and renewal.
Education: Medical school - West Virginia University School of Medicine; Residency - University of Maryland Medical System Psychiatry
Medical interests: Severe persistent mental illness
Core faculty
Tara McKinney, MD
Teaching faculty
Bio: Dr. Tara McKinney is a dedicated psychiatrist who works primarily in the Behavioral Health Observation Unit within the Emergency Department at Novant Health. She earned her medical degree from St. George’s University School of Medicine and completed her psychiatry residency at Rutgers School of Dental Medicine.
Dr. McKinney brings a calm, focused presence to acute care settings and is passionate about supporting patients during moments of crisis and transition. Outside of medicine, she enjoys snowboarding and spending time with her family—especially cheering on her son at his lacrosse games. She values the fast-paced, team-oriented environment of emergency psychiatry and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in patients’ lives during critical moments.
Education: Medical school - St. George's University School of Medicine; Residency - Rutgers School of Dental Medicine Psychiatry
Lora Pacaldo, MD
Adjunct faculty, University of North Carolina School of Medicine
Bio: Originally from East Tennessee, Dr. Lora Pacaldo earned her medical degree from East Tennessee State University School of Medicine and completed her psychiatry residency at East Carolina University Health Medical Center. Now enjoying life in North Carolina with her family, she embraces the best of both worlds—easy access to both the beach and the mountains. She values the strong collaboration within the psychiatry and interdisciplinary teams and is passionate about mentoring the next generation of mental health professionals. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time near the water, supporting loved ones in recreational sports and community theater, and connecting with friends and family.
Education: Medical school - East Tennessee State University School of Medicine; Residency - East Carolina University Health Medical Center Psychiatry
Michelle Page, MD
Adjunct faculty, University of North Carolina School of Medicine
Bio: Dr. Michelle Lucia Page is a board-certified psychiatrist at Novant Health Psychiatry in Wilmington, NC. She earned her undergraduate degree from Fordham University (magna cum laude), followed by her medical degree and psychiatry residency at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Dr. Page brings experience from both inpatient and outpatient settings, including UNC Hospitals and Central Regional Hospital. She is passionate about evidence-based, compassionate care and has presented on topics such as PTSD and neuroleptic malignant syndrome. She is also a recipient of the Circle of Teaching Excellence Award for her commitment to education and mentorship.
Education: Medical school - University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill School of Medicine; Residency - University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill Psychiatry
Alyssa Thompson, MD
(Effective Sept. 2025)
Adjunct faculty, University of North Carolina School of Medicine
Bio: Dr. Alyssa Thompson serves as the Medical Student Director for the psychiatry program at Novant Health, where she plays a key role in mentoring and guiding future physicians during their clinical training. She earned her medical degree from the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine and completed her psychiatry residency at The University Hospital Cincinnati.
Dr. Thompson is passionate about medical education and fostering meaningful learning experiences for students exploring the field of psychiatry. She values the opportunity to support learners at a formative stage in their careers and is committed to creating a welcoming, inclusive, and intellectually engaging environment.
Education: Medical school - University of Cincinnati College of Medicine; Residency - The University Hospital Cincinnati Psychiatry
Nina Yokochi-Funkhouser, DO
Adjunct faculty, University of North Carolina School of Medicine
Bio: Born in Kawasaki, Japan, and raised in Florida and West Virginia, Dr. Nina Yokochi-Funkhouser earned her medical degree from the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine and completed her psychiatry residency at Allegheny General Hospital in Pittsburgh—a city she still holds dear. Drawn to Wilmington for its coastal charm and family-friendly atmosphere, she enjoys the balance of small-town living with easy travel access. In her free time, she loves traveling with her family, exercising, exploring interior design, watching tennis, and spending time with her mini golden doodle, Mochi.
Education: Medical school - West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine; Residency - Allegheny General Hospital Psychiatry
Faculty
Aaron Albert, MD
Adjunct faculty, University of North Carolina School of Medicine
Bio: A New Jersey native, Dr. Aaron Albert brings a vibrant and multifaceted personality to the Wilmington medical community. He earned both his medical degree and completed his psychiatry residency at Wake Forest School of Medicine. Dr. Albert enjoys cooking, playing Pokémon Go, ballroom dancing, performing in drag, and singing karaoke. A fan of anime and a passionate foodie, he appreciates Wilmington for its access to theater and its welcoming, queer-friendly events and spaces.
Education: Medical school - Wake Forest School of Medicine; Residency - Wake Forest School of Medicine Psychiatry
Tesfa-Alem Gebremeskel, MD
Teaching faculty
Bio: Originally from Ethiopia, Dr. Tesfa-Alem Gebremeskel earned both his medical degree and completed his psychiatry residency at Addis Ababa University. He brings a global perspective and thoughtful approach to his medical practice. He enjoys reading history, traveling, taking long walks, playing soccer, and watching MLS and NBA games. He is also deeply interested in population growth and sustainable development in developing countries. Dr. Gebremeskel appreciates Wilmington’s slower pace, friendly community, and easy access to Carolina beaches—plus the convenience of its airport (weather permitting!).
Education: Addis Ababa University
Anand Joshi, MD
Adjunct faculty, University of North Carolina School of Medicine
Bio: Dr. Anand Joshi is a compassionate and detail-oriented psychiatrist who brings a strong clinical foundation and a commitment to patient-centered care. He earned his medical degree from St. Matthew’s University School of Medicine – Grand Cayman, completed his psychiatry residency at Sanford USD Medical Center, and went on to complete a fellowship in psychiatry at the same institution.
Dr. Joshi is dedicated to providing thoughtful, evidence-based care and values the opportunity to support patients through a wide range of mental health challenges. His training and experience have equipped him to work effectively across diverse clinical settings, and he is passionate about fostering therapeutic relationships built on trust and empathy.
Education: Medical school - St. Matthew's University School of Medicine - Grand Cayman; Residency - Sanford USD Medical Center Psychiatry; Fellowship - Sanford USD Medical Center Psychiatry
Teaching faculty
Shantanu Baghel, DO
Teaching faculty
Bio: Originally from the New Jersey/New York area, Dr. Shantanu Baghel brings a well-rounded perspective to patient care, with a strong interest in the intersection of legal issues and mental health. He earned his medical degree from Nova Southeastern University School of Medicine – Orlando Campus, completed his psychiatry residency at Albany Medical Center South, and pursued a fellowship in Forensic Psychiatry at the University of Rochester. He values the supportive and collaborative environment at Novant Health—especially the people who make it exceptional. Outside of medicine, he enjoys skiing, reading, exercising, and gardening.
Education: Medical school - Nova Southeastern University School of Medicine Orlando Campus; Residency - Albany Medical Center South Psychiatry; Fellowship - University of Rochester Forensic Psychiatry
Jordan Spellman, MD
Adjunct faculty, University of North Carolina School of Medicine
Bio: Dr. Jordan Spellman brings a unique blend of curiosity and creativity to his life and work. He earned his medical degree from Avalon University School of Medicine and completed his psychiatry residency at East Carolina University Health Medical Center. A passionate wildlife enthusiast and dedicated beekeeper, he is also on track to become a certified master chocolatier. In his free time, he enjoys baking alongside his wife and exploring new culinary adventures.
Education: Medical school - Rutgers School of Dental Medicine Psychiatry; Residency - East Carolina University Health Medical Center Psychiatry