Our Supportive Services Team
Abebe Belete, DNP, PMHNP-BC
Dr. Abebe Belete is a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree, earned with honors. He brings years of experience working in a wide range of mental health settings, including outpatient clinics, inpatient psychiatric units, skilled nursing facilities, and intensive residential treatment programs. Dr. Belete specializes in treating individuals with complex psychiatric and co-occurring disorders, including mood disorders, psychosis, substance use, and dual diagnoses. He works closely with patients, families, and multidisciplinary teams to develop personalized, evidence-based treatment plans that promote stability, recovery, and overall well-being. Known for his compassionate approach and strong clinical judgment, Dr. Belete is committed to supporting each patient’s unique journey toward mental wellness.
Sifa Herady Bandale, MSW, LSWAIC
“My name is Sifa Herady Bandale, and I am a social worker at Northwest Medical Specialties. As a dedicated social worker, I emphasize our patients’ mental health and emotional well-being.
I aim to help patients by establishing connections to inclusive practical, social, and emotional resources. I am committed to positively impacting the lives of those coping with illness via perseverance, optimism, and unwavering determination. Through my job, I aim to foster an inclusive community that respects and celebrates cultural variety while giving everyone a sense of belonging.”
Jamie Hennessey, Supportive Services Coordinator
“My name is Jamie Hennessey, and I am a Supportive Services Coordinator serving all Northwest Medical Specialties locations. It is my honor to work with such an amazing team to serve our patients and help them navigate through their care journey.
I understand there can be many obstacles along the way, and I am here to help provide support and reduce barriers by connecting you with resources that may be helpful, including assistance with transportation, food, housing, utilities, and other community resources.
Everyone’s needs are different, and I look forward to supporting you and helping connect you with the resources that best fit your unique situation.”
Jessica Metlak, MSW
“My name is Jessica Metlak and I am a Social Worker on the Supportive Services team at Northwest Medical Specialties. I have the honor of working closely with patients and their support systems to navigate complex systems and advocate for them throughout their unique journey. My focus is on patient mental health, processing emotions, clarifying goals of care, community resource linkage, and bridging communication for improved patient support. I am passionate about providing distinguished care that demonstrates cultural humility, faith and spiritual support, and inclusivity.
I hold an MSW and a BASW from California State University Long Beach, as well as an AA in Social and Behavioral Sciences from SDCCD. Through evidence-based practices, my goal is to ensure that every patient feels seen, heard, and supported from day one.”
Kimberly Ngouv, MSW, LSWAIC
“Hi, my name is Kim Ngouv and I am one of the Social Workers at Northwest Medical Specialties. As one of the Social Workers on the Supportive Services team, I am privileged and honored to be in service wherever you are in your journey of treatment/recovery as a patient at NWMS.
I am committed to providing culturally responsive care and believe that every person is unique and navigates the world differently when impacted by various illnesses. With that in mind, I understand that there is no one-size-fits-all approach and will do my best to meet you and/or your support system in embracing your perspective to access community resources that best fits your needs.
Outside of the social work world, I enjoy traveling, baking, building Legos and crafting different iced lattes and matcha latte recipes!”
Kate Travis, MSW, LSWAIC
“My name is Kate Travis, and I am a licensed social worker specializing in Collaborative Care at Northwest Medical Specialties. I work alongside multidisciplinary medical teams and a psychiatric consultant to provide integrated, evidence-based support for patients facing behavioral health challenges such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, and substance use disorders.
I’m deeply committed to fostering meaningful, compassionate connections in an open, inclusive, and judgment-free space. It’s a privilege to walk with patients through some of life’s most difficult moments, and I approach each interaction with empathy, respect, and purpose. By using proven therapeutic interventions, my goal is to help individuals build resilience, find balance, and move toward holistic wellness.”