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About Us

Explore our adolescent intensive mental health treatment program at Embrace U in Brentwood, TN.

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Who We Are

Embrace U is an outpatient mental health program designed specifically for the unique needs of adolescents age 10-18. Embrace U was founded on the same evidence-based care present in all Psychiatric Medical Care programs.

Embrace U offers scheduling for participants’ therapy, including after-school hours. It offers structured therapy, education and skills training, medication management if needed, and support from peers. All care is provided by a team of qualified, licensed professionals.

Embrace U follows the philosophy: caring for your child’s health should not mean sacrificing their ability to live their lives. With Embrace U, adolescents gain coping skills and ways to overcome the symptoms of a mental illness, like depression or anxiety. Our outpatient programs provide adolescents with a community of peers who understand their struggles. Parents find support from licensed professionals and fellow parents.

Our Culture

Our company is built on a culture of kindness & accountability.

Kindness

The quality of being friendly, generous, and considerate.

Accountability

The obligation of an individual or organization to account for its activities, accept responsibility for them and transparently disclose the results.

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

Kindness and accountability define Embrace U‘s culture. Part of being kind and accountable is creating a work environment that encourages patients, families, and team members to be their authentic selves and creating a safe space. Diversity, equity, and inclusion, or DEI, have always been a part of our culture. Our culture is instilled with a mindset that promotes belonging, inclusion, empathy, compassion, acceptance, and security. By cultivating and embracing the concepts of DEI, Embrace U can continue to foster and develop patients and team members who are more authentic, secure, and better able to connect with, understand, and support each other.

MEET OUR TEAM

Our Caring Staff

Dr. Anne Fottrell, MD

Child, Adolescent, & Adult Psychiatrist

Nicole Wilcher, BSW

Clinical Partnerships Director

Alyssa Sebastian, MA, LPC-MHSP

Embrace U Administrator

Antonay Rodgers, LCSW

Program Therapist

Matt Schroer, DNP, PMHNP-BC

Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Sonali Hajari, BSHA

Office & Patient Coordinator

Mary Lauren Green, RN, BSN

Program Nurse

MEET OUR FOUNDERS

Who Founded Embrace U?

MEET THE FOUNDER OF EMBRACE U/CEO OF PSYCHIATRIC MEDICAL CARE

J.R. Greene, FACHE

J.R. Greene, FACHE, is the Chief Executive Officer of Psychiatric Medical Care. Having already made his mark at Coca-Cola, Procter & Gamble, and Revlon., J.R became Chief Executive Officer of Psychiatric Medical Care (PMC) in 2009.

In 2022 Mr. Greene, Franklin, Tennessee native, and father of two, became moved by the need for adolescent and teen mental health care in middle Tennessee. When his children started middle school, he heard the outcry for patient-centered and family-focused mental health care.

Seeing the success of Psychiatric Medical Care’s evidence-based IOPs (Intensive Outpatient Psychiatry programs) already implemented for older adults across the country, Mr. Greene, witnessing a significant need for mental health care for children and adolescents in Middle Tennessee, began to explore the concept of opening an IOP program for adolescents in his home State. Conferring with PMC’s clinical leadership team, including his father and founder of PMC, Dr. James Allen Greene, MD, DLFAPA, FACP, a plan to bring this level of care to Tennessee was finalized, and Embrace U was born.

MEET THE FOUNDER OF PSYCHIATRIC MEDICAL CARE

James Allen Greene​, MD, DLFAPA, FACP

Dr. Greene, a native of rural Sneedville, Tennessee, is a distinguished psychiatrist who founded Psychiatric Medical Care, one of the nation’s largest behavioral health management companies, in 2003. Dr. Greene has been instrumental in creating the basis of care for Embrace U along with many other leading mental health professionals.

Dr. Greene’s impressive background included the following accolades:

  • Serving as Chairman of Psychiatry for the University of Tennessee.
  • Serving on The Board of Trustees for the American Psychiatric Association.
  • Served on the board of trustees for the American Psychiatric Association and collaborated in the development of the DSM-5. 

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Dr. Anne Fottrell, MD

Anne Austin Fottrell, M.D. specializes in child and adolescent psychiatry. She’s been in private practice in the Nashville area since 1993, after completing a residency and fellowship in psychiatry at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. Dr. Fottrell currently serves as the clinical director of psychiatry at Mercy Community Healthcare, and medical director at Bella Jace Center for Health.

She completed her undergraduate degree at Middle Tennessee State University and attended medical school at the University of Tennessee College of Medicine. Dr. Fottrell has held a variety of positions throughout her career, including roles as an assistant clinical professor at Vanderbilt University and Meharry Medical College. She also served as medical director for a youth sex offender program at Scarab Behavioral Health and is currently the clinical director of psychiatry at Allied Behavioral Health Solutions. She enjoys education and mentorship, having supervised several nurse practitioners in the field of psychiatry. Outside of her work, Dr. Fottrell enjoys traveling, camping, kayaking, going to church, and spending time with friends and her dogs.

Nicole Wilcher, BSW
Growth & Outreach Coordinator

Advice To My Younger Self: “Learn how to set healthy boundaries with people, to not worry so much about what other people think, and it’s okay to say no. I would also tell myself to stop eating double cheeseburgers from McDonalds, wear sunscreen, and wash my face before bed. “

Education:

  • Bachelor of Social Work- Middle Tennessee State University

Why did you choose to work with adolescents? As a social worker I always knew I wanted to work with children and families. I wanted to be able to provide families and children with the resources that would have benefited my family when I was a teenager. 

What is one thing you wish adolescents knew about l health/treatment? That physical health and mental health are both very important. Learning how to care for your body (proper nutrition and exercise) and mind is something we should teach our children at a young age. 

Did you participate in any activities for bs, activities, or passions when you were aged 10-18? What were they? Did you ever feel pressure/stress? Would group therapy have benefitted you/your peers? I was a cheerleader in middle and high school. I did feel pressure and stress from school, activities, and home life. Group therapy would have been beneficial because I would have been with people who felt or experienced similar feelings and issues. I would not have felt so alone and could have learned healthier coping skills. 

Alyssa Sebastian
Program Administrator

Advice To My Younger Self: “In any given moment we have two options: to step forward into growth or step back into safety.” -Abraham Maslow

Education:

  • Trevecca Nazarene University – Master of Arts, Mental Health
  • Tennessee Tech University –  Bachelor of Science in Psychology

Experience:  Prior to becoming a program administrator at Embrace U, Alyssa was the executive director at Connections Wellness Group (Vertava Health) in Nashville, TN. She is trained in EMDR, including a wide range of trauma-focused interventions. She is a licensed professional counselor and mental health service provider. 

Why did you choose to work with adolescents? “I wanted to expand my experience to working with adolescents to be well versed in helping a wide variety of populations. After making this career shift, I learned that I enjoy working with adolescents, as well as the whole family unit. I have always had a passion for helping those in need.”

What is something you’ve learned from your work with adolescents that has been a key takeaway? “Adolescents need someone there for them too. I am the type of leader that likes to give all patients a chance, regardless of their history. It doesn’t matter if they have a history of multiple treatments or behavioral problems. I want to make sure everyone is given a chance to start fresh and be the best they can be. Everyone deserves that.”

Did you play sports or participate in any activities when you were younger? “I played French Horn in my high school band during concert season. When it was marching season, you could either find me with a flag on the color guard or holding a Mellophone with the rest of the instruments. I spent every summer on Dale Hollow Lake with friends and family.”

What is one thing you wish adolescents understood about mental health? “It is okay not to be okay. It is okay to ask for help, even if you are embarrassed to do so. We are here to help with no judgement. This season in your life isn’t forever..”

What are your favorite things to do outside of work? “I mostly enjoy spending time with my husband, daughter, and Golden Retriever (Winston). They are my world. It doesn’t matter what we are doing if we are all together.”

 

 

Antonay Rodgers, LCSW
Therapist

Advice to My Younger Self: “Trust yourself and embrace your journey.” .” It’s important to recognize that self-doubt is natural, but believing in your own abilities and staying true to your values can guide you through challenges and help you grow. 

Education:  

  • Master of Social Work – Clark Atlanta University
  • Bachelor of Science in Sociology – Florida State University

Why do you like working with adolescents?  

I chose to work with adolescents because this stage of life is a critical period of growth and development. Adolescents are navigating complex changes, including emotional, social, and cognitive shifts, and they are beginning to shape their identities and future paths. Being part of their journey offers a unique opportunity to make a positive impact during this formative time. I find it rewarding to support them as they explore their potential, face challenges, and build resilience, helping them to develop the skills and confidence they need to thrive.

What is something you have learned from working with adolescents?  

One key takeaway from working with adolescents is the immense value of empathy and active listening. Adolescents often grapple with intense emotions and uncertainties, and providing a supportive, non-judgmental space where they feel heard can make a significant difference in their lives. I’ve learned that even small gestures of understanding, and validation can foster trust and openness, enabling them to explore their feelings and challenges more freely.

Did you play any sports or participate in any activities when you were younger?  

Yes, I was involved in cheerleading and was very active with my church youth department when I was younger. Cheerleading taught me teamwork, discipline, and the importance of supporting others, while my involvement with the church youth department helped me develop leadership skills and a deep sense of community. Both experiences were formative and have influenced how I connect with and support adolescents today.  

What is one thing you wish adolescents understood about mental health?  

I wish adolescents understood that mental health is just as important as physical health and that it’s okay to seek help when they need it. Mental health challenges are a normal part of life, and addressing them openly and early can lead to better outcomes. It’s important for them to know that seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness, and that they don’t have to face their struggles alone. Building a strong support system and developing healthy coping strategies can make a significant difference in their overall well-being.

What are your favorite things to do outside of work? 

I love spending time with my loved ones and creating memorable experiences together. Whether it’s sharing a meal, going on adventures, or simply enjoying each other’s company, these moments are incredibly meaningful to me. I also have a passion for traveling the world, exploring new cultures, and discovering different perspectives. Both activities bring joy and enrichment to my life and help me stay connected and inspired.

Matt Schroer, DNP, PMHNP-BC
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Advice To My Younger Self: “Trust your gut. You know way more than you think you do.”

Education and Experience:

Matt worked at Centerstone for 9 years and most recently at Mercy Community Healthcare for 6 years.

  • Master’s degree in counseling from Trevecca Nazarene University
  • MSN from Vanderbilt University School of Nursing
  • Doctor of Nursing Practice from Maryville University

Why did you choose to work with adolescents?
I love the spirit, energy, and drive in adolescents. Helping them to find their place in the world is a special gift.

What is something you’ve learned from your work with adolescents that has been your takeaway?
That accepting people for who they are, not what they aren’t is what everyone wants, but that is so true for adolescents.

Did you play sports or participate in any activities when you were younger?
I played in a band for all of high school, college, and part of graduate school. Music was always an outlet for me to be creative, and I loved the relationships I formed with my bandmates, and they are still some of my best friends to this day.

What is one thing you wish adolescents understood about mental health?
That help is available to them, and there are people who want to listen and help. You just have to ask.

What are your favorite things to do outside of work?
I love to spend time with my family, cook, play the guitar, do photography, and play video games.

Sonali Hajari, BSHA
Office and Patient Coordinator

Advice to My Younger Self: “Don’t rush to grow up and don’t be afraid of making mistakes. Take your time and listen to yourself. You are smarter than you think, and you must remind yourself that everything will work out exactly how its supposed to even if it doesn’t always feel like it.”

Education: 

  • Master of Healthcare Administration – Purdue University Global
  • Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration – East Tennessee State University

Why do you like working with adolescents?  

I find that working with adolescents is fascinating. This is because they are at a unique stage of development and exploring their identity. It is a period of intense growth and change; therefore, we are here to help navigate these challenges.

What is something you have learned from working with adolescents? 

– One key takeaway I have learned from working with adolescents would be the importance of empathy and active listening. Providing a supportive, non-judgmental space for them where they feel seen and heard can make a significant impact.

Did you play any sports or participate in any activities when you were younger?  

I played soccer and softball when I was super young. Then, around middle school I started cheering and did that up until my senior year of high school. I did school cheer along with competitive where I would travel and compete.

What is one thing you wish adolescents understood about mental health?  

That it is okay to feel your emotions and seek help. Understanding that mental health challenges are common but also treatable. You are not alone in what you’re feeling and seeking support is a sign of strength not weakness.

What do you like to do when you’re not at Embrace U?  

Some of my favorite things to do outside of work are hang out with friends and family, shop, go to the movies, binge watch TV shows, and read books.

Hailey Mercer, LMSW
Program Therapist

Advice to My Younger Self: “When we feel hopeless or helpless, it is most valuable to speak up and talk to someone supportive- whether it be a friend, family member, therapist, or school counselor.”   

Years of Experience: Hailey has over four years of mental health experience.

  • Master of Social Work – University of Tennessee at Chattanooga
  • Bachelor of Science in Psychology – University of Tennessee at Chattanooga 

Why do you like working with adolescents?  

Adolescents are extremely complex, especially in today’s times. I want to help them understand that their feelings are valid, meant to be heard, and not experienced alone. I want them to know that they matter and deserve to thrive. I have always enjoyed learning from my adolescents as much as I hope to help teach them.    

What is something you have learned from working with adolescents?  

Adolescents sometimes believe their feelings are not important enough to discuss and should be ignored, but that is not true. All feelings are meant to be experienced, and you must push through them instead of pushing them aside. I have learned that speaking up for yourself is one of the most valuable things you can do.  

Did you play any sports or participate in any activities when you were younger?  

I attended the Health Sciences Academy in high school, and it kick-started my passion to work in healthcare/mental health. I took both a sociology and psychology class, and it was a game changer. I experienced anxiety, school difficulties, and self-esteem issues during my adolescence. I had family and friends to rely on for support; however, I always felt pressure to perform and push through my feelings. Now, I see where mental health support would have helped me process my difficult emotions.  

What is one thing you wish adolescents understood about mental health?  

Mental health and treatment can set a person up for long-term success. Mental health is just as important as physical health. If we break a bone, we go to the doctor; if we are struggling, we ask for help from the right resources. Getting help takes great courage, vulnerability, and dedication.  

Mary Lauren Green, RN, BSN
Program Therapist

Advice to My Younger Self: “This too shall pass. Often as a teenager it is hard to see anything other than the here and now. I can remember feeling so powerless to change anything around me, but I had no idea the freedom that would come with time as I graduated high school and entered college.”

Experience and Education: Mary Lauren worked as an inpatient Psychiatric Nurse at Rolling Hills Hospital and a Preoperative Nurse at Saint Thomas Midtown.

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology- University of Mississippi
  • Bachelor’s Degree in Science of Nursin- University of Mississippi Medical Center

Why did you choose to work with adolescents? I chose to work with adolescents because the period of life from 10-17 is full of growth, development, and many challenging times. I want to be a safe person for these kids and that they know they are supported and loved when they walk into my office. 

What is something you’ve learned from your work with adolescents that has been your takeaway? I have learned about the immense pressure that social media puts on children from a young age. Limiting screentime and investing in hobbies like sports, instruments, acting, and reading are so important developmentally at this age and can help children find ways to express themselves when they cannot find the words to communicate.