Meet our team of experts
Leadership
Dr. Sindhuja Pavuluru
Chief Executive Officer Dr. Sindhuja Pavuluru, Pharm-D, MBA, serves as the Chief Executive Officer at Sunshine Behavioral Health Services, where she has been instrumental in overseeing and enhancing operational strategies for the past four years. Her leadership ensures the delivery of high-quality behavioral health services, fostering a therapeutic and safe environment for clients and staff alike. Before joining Sunshine Behavioral Health Services, Dr. Pavuluru amassed significant experience with global pharmaceutical leaders such as Novartis and Pellets Pharma Ltd. In these roles, she honed her expertise in pharmaceutical operations, quality assurance, and strategic management, contributing to advancements in healthcare solutions on an international scale. Dr. Pavuluru's academic credentials include a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm-D) and a Master of Business Administration (MBA), equipping her with a unique blend of clinical knowledge and business acumen. This combination enables her to navigate the complexities of healthcare management effectively, driving operational excellence and fostering organizational growth. Under her stewardship, Sunshine Behavioral Health Services has seen notable improvements in service delivery and operational efficiency, reflecting her commitment to excellence in behavioral health care. Dr. Pavuluru is an active member of NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness), the Greater Bakersfield Chamber, and NAWBO (National Association of Women Business Owners). Through these organizations, she advocates for mental health awareness, supports local businesses, and empowers women entrepreneurs, reinforcing her dedication to both professional excellence and community service. Outside of her professional endeavors, Dr. Pavuluru enjoys spending time with positive friends and actively participating in community services in Bakersfield. Her passion for helping others extends beyond her career, as she continuously seeks opportunities to give back and make a meaningful impact in her community.
Psychiatrists
Dr. Naga Bodapati (Satish)
Medical Director
Dr. Naga Bodapati (Satish) MD, is a double board-certified psychiatrist specializing in child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry with 7+ years of experience. He completed his Fellowship in Child Psychiatry from the University of Texas Medical Branch and a residency in General Psychiatry at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Dr. Bodapati has extensive training and experience that equips him to provide high-quality mental health care across a wide range of age groups.
Currently serving as part-time Medical Director at Sunshine Behavioral Health Services Inc., Dr. Bodapati provides psychiatry services throughout California. He also collaborates with local clinics and hospitals to ensure comprehensive psychiatric care. In addition, he plays a vital role as Service Director for the Incompetent to Stand Trial Program run by the Department of State Hospitals (DSH) and serves as a clinical instructor for nurse practitioners, AMFTs, and ASCWs. Dr. Bodapati is serving as an Advisor on the panel of NAMI Kern County, further contributing to mental health advocacy.
Dr. Bodapati's previous experience includes serving as Chief Fellow during his Child Psychiatry Fellowship and as Medical Director for Substance Use Disorder at Clinica Sierra Vista. He has made significant contributions to the field through presentations and publications.
Proficient with multiple electronic medical record systems, Dr. Bodapati brings valuable expertise in telepsychiatry, supervision, and peer reviews. He is fluent in English, Hindi, and Telugu, allowing him to provide culturally sensitive care to a diverse range of patients.
In his personal time, Dr. Bodapati enjoys spending quality moments with his family, traveling, watching TV, and playing tennis.
Dr. Sri Venkata Uppalapati, MD
Secretary Dr. Sri Venkata Uppalapati, MD, is a board-certified psychiatrist and sleep medicine specialist with over 20+ years of experience in mental health and sleep disorders. Based in Frisco, Texas, he is affiliated with Corewell Health Lakeland Hospitals and several other medical institutions. He earned his medical degree from Mahatma Gandhi Missions Medical College in 2002, followed by a psychiatry residency at the University of Kansas School of Medicine and a fellowship in sleep medicine at Henry Ford Health. Dr. Uppalapati specializes in treating a wide range of psychiatric conditions, including anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, dementia, and sleep-related issues. His patient-centered approach focuses on providing compassionate and evidence-based care, ensuring individuals receive the best possible treatment for their mental health and sleep wellness. He is known for his ability to clearly explain conditions and treatment plans, making him a trusted and respected professional in his field. Fluent in English, Hindi, and Telugu, Dr. Uppalapati serves diverse communities and holds medical licenses in multiple states, including Texas, California, and Michigan. He has contributed to medical research and publications, particularly in the fields of sleep medicine and preoperative care. Dr. Uppalapati accepts various insurance plans, including Medicare, Aetna, Humana, Cigna, Blue Cross, and United Healthcare, making quality mental health care accessible to a broad range of patients. His commitment to advancing psychiatric and sleep medicine continues to make a lasting impact on the lives of those he treats.
Nurse Practitioners
Amandeep Kaur
PMHNP-C Amandeep Kaur is a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-C) with over five years of experience in mental health care. She is certified by the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) and has extensive experience working with adults, adolescents, and children in inpatient and outpatient psychiatric settings, including those with substance use disorders. Amandeep earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and Master of Science in Nursing Leadership and Management from Western Governors University. She then pursued her Post-Master’s Certificate in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing from Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, Los Angeles. Fluent in English, Hindi, and Punjabi, Amandeep is committed to providing culturally sensitive and inclusive mental health care. Her multilingual abilities allow her to connect with a diverse range of patients, ensuring they feel understood and supported in their mental health journey. She began her healthcare career as a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) at Bakersfield Behavioral Healthcare Hospital (BBHH), where she developed a strong foundation in psychiatric care. She later worked as a Registered Nurse (RN) in the Medical-Surgical Unit at Mercy Southwest Hospital, enhancing her clinical expertise in managing complex patient needs. Additionally, she served as an outpatient psychiatric nurse with Kern County, working with underserved populations and gaining a deep understanding of the barriers to mental health care access. As a PMHNP, Amandeep specializes in the treatment of mood disorders, psychotic disorders, substance use disorders, and chronic mental health conditions through comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and medication management. She believes in a holistic and patient-centered approach, tailoring treatment plans to each individual’s unique needs. Dedicated to improving mental health outcomes, Amandeep integrates evidence-based practices with a compassionate approach, ensuring her patients receive the highest standard of care. She values collaboration with other healthcare providers to create a well-rounded, integrative treatment experience that prioritizes long-term wellness. Amandeep’s mission is to empower her patients, guiding them toward stability, resilience, and a better quality of life through compassionate, high-quality mental health care.
Pavneet Kaur
PMHNP-C
Pavneet Kaur is a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-C) with eight years of nursing experience in the psychiatric field. She has worked with adults, adolescents, and children in inpatient psychiatric settings and has experience in substance abuse treatment.
She earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and Master of Science in Nursing Leadership and Administration from Western Governors University. She then pursued her Post-Master’s Certificate in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing from Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science.
As a PMHNP, Pavneet specializes in the treatment of mood disorders, psychotic disorders, substance use disorders, and chronic mental health illnesses through comprehensive psychiatric assessments and medication management. She is passionate about providing compassionate, high-quality, and holistic mental health care.
Pavneet follows evidence-based guidelines while integrating her clinical experience and personal observations to deliver effective treatment. She sees her role as multifaceted, serving as a clinician, educator, and mental health advocate. She values collaboration with skilled clinicians and is dedicated to coordinating care that best meets her clients’ needs.
Therapists
Desiree M. Haddad
Associate Marriage and Family Therapist Desiree M. Haddad is an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist with a Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy from Chapman University and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Nevada, Reno. With extensive experience in various clinical settings, Desiree works with children, families, and individuals, specializing in trauma-informed care, crisis intervention, and systemic therapy approaches. She has provided therapy services in community mental health environments, facilitated empowerment groups for children and adolescents, and co-led parent support groups for families impacted by disabilities. Her therapeutic work is grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Narrative Therapy, and Intergenerational Family Therapy. Desiree brings a creative and innovative approach to therapy, helping clients connect to their personal stories in meaningful ways. She guides individuals in healing and rewriting their narratives, fostering empowerment and resilience. Dedicated to working with adults, adolescents, children, and families, Desiree is committed to navigating the path to healing while also advocating for systemic change in mental health care.
What our clients say
Very Happy!
I felt very comfortable talking to Dr. Bodapati. He listened to my concerns and made questions in order to better understand my situation. I really feel he understood everything that was going on. I am very happy I have found him.
Always great!
I have been seeing Dr. Bodapati for 6 months and I am so thankful I found BHS! Appointments are always available within a few days, very convenient and Dr. Bodapati is always great
Beyond Happy!
Sunshine Behavior Health is highly recommended. The receptionist is always so sweet and nice and is very well mannered and psychiatrist AHILA is very recommended she listens to what you have to say and is actually there to do her job as a psychiatrist. I am beyond happy with them and I will continue to stay with them for as long as I need. Thank you Sunshine Behavior Health
Great Listener
Sunshine BHS was able to provide an urgent appointment within a few days of the request. The provider answering questions about services was informative. The treating provider was a great listener and addressed all concerns presented.
