Guiding Light Psychiatry - MEET OUR TEAM
Rachel Turner, Founder & CEO
Rachel Turner is a seasoned healthcare administrator, mental health advocate, and organizational leader with more than 25 years of experience across diverse areas of healthcare, including pediatric and adult psychiatry, oncology, and internal medicine. Throughout her career, she has successfully led clinical operations, enhanced patient care initiatives, and championed excellence in healthcare delivery through a patient-centered approach.
Rachel holds specialized certifications as a Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) Coordinator and a Spravato® (REMS Certified) Coordinator. She has also earned professional certifications in Human Resource Management from Stanford University and Leadership and Communication from Harvard University, further strengthening her expertise in healthcare leadership, team development, and organizational growth.
Her dedication to mental health advocacy is deeply rooted in personal experience. Having navigated the challenges of chronic PTSD since childhood, Rachel brings a unique level of empathy, understanding, and authenticity to her work. She is passionate about expanding access to compassionate mental health care and empowering individuals on their journey toward healing, resilience, and hope.
In recognition of her commitment to healthcare and service, Rachel was honored with the American Cancer Society’s Lifetime Inspiration Award for Healthcare Professionals. Today, she continues to be a driving force in advancing mental health awareness, education, and advocacy throughout Alabama and beyond.
"Happiness can be found, even in the darkest of times, if one only remembers to turn on the light." — J.K. Rowling
Dr. Santosh Pillai, BOARD CERTIFIED PSYCHIATRIST & Medical Director
Dr. Santosh Pillai is a board-certified psychiatrist and serves as Medical Director of Guiding Light Psychiatry. With more than 18 years of clinical experience, he specializes in diagnosing and treating a broad range of mental health conditions, combining evidence-based medicine with a compassionate, patient-centered approach. Widely respected by both patients and colleagues, Dr. Pillai is recognized for his dedication to providing thoughtful, individualized care that promotes long term wellness and recovery.
Born in Kerala, India, and raised in Warren, Michigan, Dr. Pillai developed an early passion for understanding human behavior and mental health. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Michigan and a Master of Science in Basic Medical Science from Wayne State University. He went on to receive his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree from A.T. Still University Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine before completing his residency training in psychiatry at the renowned Henry Ford Health System in Detroit, Michigan. Further advancing his expertise, he completed a fellowship in Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy through the Michigan Psychoanalytic Institute.
Throughout his career, Dr. Pillai has cultivated extensive experience in inpatient psychiatry, consultation-liaison psychiatry, and advanced psychiatric treatment modalities. His specialized training includes Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), Spravato® (esketamine) therapy, Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT), and the interpretation of psychotropic pharmacogenetic testing, enabling him to offer innovative, personalized treatment options for patients with complex mental health needs.
Board Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, Dr. Pillai is licensed to practice medicine in Alabama, Florida, and Maryland. He remains committed to advancing the field of psychiatry through compassionate, evidence-based care that empowers individuals to overcome challenges, achieve emotional well-being, and lead more fulfilling lives.
At Guiding Light Psychiatry, Dr. Pillai is committed to providing exceptional mental health care that inspires hope, fosters healing, and empowers every patient to reach their fullest potential.
Alex Bruce, Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Alex Bruce, PMHNP-BC, is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Guiding Light Psychiatry, where he provides compassionate, evidence-based mental health care to adolescents and adults ages 16 and older. He specializes in the treatment of mood disorders, trauma-related conditions, psychotic disorders, substance use disorders, and chronic mental illness, helping patients achieve meaningful and lasting improvements in their mental health and overall quality of life.
Known for his approachable demeanor and strong therapeutic relationships, Alex is dedicated to delivering comprehensive, patient-centered psychiatric care through detailed psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and psychotherapeutic interventions. He combines evidence-based clinical practice with thoughtful observation, professional experience, and a deep commitment to understanding each patient's unique needs and goals.
Alex believes that effective mental healthcare extends beyond symptom management. He values interdisciplinary education, collaborative care, and a whole-person approach that recognizes the connection between mental, emotional, and physical well-being. During initial evaluations, he conducts thorough psychiatric assessments, works closely with patients to establish personalized treatment goals, and provides education regarding diagnoses, treatment options, and long-term wellness strategies.
Prior to becoming a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Alex proudly served as an officer in the United States Air Force, where he developed a strong foundation in leadership, service, and resilience. He later served as a Clinical Nurse Educator with the Department of Veterans Affairs, further expanding his expertise in healthcare education, patient advocacy, and clinical excellence. His diverse professional background enables him to connect with individuals from all walks of life and provide care that is both empathetic and informed.
Tammy Fletcher, Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Tammy Fletcher, PMHNP-BC, is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to helping individuals reclaim their lives through compassionate, evidence-based psychiatric care. With more than a decade of nursing experience and extensive expertise in addiction treatment, crisis intervention, and mental health services, Tammy is passionate about guiding patients toward lasting recovery, emotional wellness, and renewed hope.
Throughout her career, Tammy has worked with individuals facing a wide range of mental health and substance use challenges, providing comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and individualized treatment planning. She has served patients across both inpatient and outpatient settings, including leadership and clinical roles with Bradford Health Services, CPC Psychiatry, and Guiding Light Psychiatry. Her diverse experience allows her to provide thoughtful, patient-centered care tailored to the unique needs of each individual.
Tammy's commitment to behavioral healthcare is rooted in both professional experience and personal understanding. Having witnessed firsthand the devastating effects of addiction, suicide, and untreated mental illness, she was inspired to advance her nursing career and pursue specialized training in psychiatric mental health. These experiences continue to shape her empathetic approach and unwavering dedication to supporting individuals and families affected by substance use disorders and psychiatric illness. A recognized advocate for recovery-oriented care, Tammy specializes in helping patients navigate the complex journey of addiction recovery while addressing co-occurring mental health conditions. She believes that recovery is possible for every individual and strives to create a supportive, judgment-free environment where patients feel empowered to heal, grow, and rebuild their lives.
Tammy's goal is simple: to help individuals discover hope beyond addiction, strength beyond adversity, and the opportunity to build a healthier, more fulfilling future.
Laura Kappen, DNP, Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Laura Kappen, PMHNP-BC, is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner committed to providing thoughtful, evidence-based psychiatric care rooted in compassion, respect, and patient advocacy. She is passionate about helping individuals strengthen their emotional well-being through personalized treatment planning, education, and supportive therapeutic interventions.
Laura’s approach to care is centered on partnership. She believes patients should feel informed, empowered, and actively involved in their treatment journey. By creating a safe and supportive environment, she helps individuals feel heard, understood, and equipped with practical coping strategies to navigate life’s challenges with greater confidence and resilience.
Throughout her nursing career, Laura has remained a strong advocate for patient rights, safety, and quality healthcare. As a member of the Birmingham VA Medical Center Safe Patient Handling Committee, she helped educate healthcare professionals and promote best practices focused on patient safety, injury prevention, and compassionate care delivery.
Her dedication to excellence was recognized in 2020 when she received the Birmingham VA Medical Center Excellent Nursing Award, honoring her commitment to patient-centered care and clinical professionalism.
At Guiding Light Psychiatry, Laura is known for bringing warmth, steadiness, and genuine compassion to every patient interaction. Through her commitment to healing and well-being, she strives to be a true light in the darkness for those facing emotional pain, uncertainty, or mental health challenges—helping each patient move toward hope, resilience, and a healthier quality of life.
Autumn hyatt, Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Autumn Hyatt, PMHNP-BC, is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to helping individuals navigate life's challenges with confidence, resilience, and hope. Drawing on a diverse clinical background across multiple areas of nursing, she brings a well-rounded perspective to mental healthcare and is committed to delivering personalized treatment that supports the whole person—mind, body, and emotional well-being.
Autumn's practice is grounded in the belief that meaningful healing begins with trust, understanding, and collaboration. She works closely with patients to develop individualized treatment plans that reflect their unique experiences, goals, and strengths. Through comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, psychotherapy, patient education, and crisis intervention, she empowers individuals to take an active role in their mental health journey.
A passionate advocate for accessible and equitable mental healthcare, Autumn has extensive experience serving veterans and individuals in underserved communities through her work with the Department of Veterans Affairs in Jasper. These experiences strengthened her commitment to meeting patients where they are and providing compassionate care that addresses both immediate concerns and long-term wellness.
Autumn is dedicated to staying at the forefront of psychiatric practice by incorporating evidence-based treatment approaches and continually expanding her professional knowledge. As an active member of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association and The Society for Collegiate Leadership & Achievement, she remains engaged in ongoing education and professional development to ensure her patients receive the highest standard of care.
Known for her approachable nature and genuine compassion, Autumn strives to create an environment where patients feel comfortable, respected, and supported. Her goal is not only to help individuals manage symptoms but to empower them to build healthier relationships, strengthen emotional resilience, and achieve a greater sense of fulfillment and well-being. At Guiding Light Psychiatry, Autumn is committed to helping every patient discover their strengths, overcome obstacles, and move forward with renewed purpose and confidence.
Our Dedicated Support Team
At Guiding Light Psychiatry, exceptional patient care extends far beyond the provider's office. Our dedicated support team plays a vital role in ensuring every patient feels welcomed, supported, and cared for throughout their mental health journey.
- Kelsey, Medical Assistant, provides compassionate clinical support and helps ensure patients receive attentive, personalized care throughout their treatment experience.
- Karen, Billing Manager, works diligently behind the scenes to assist patients with billing and insurance questions, helping make the administrative process as smooth and stress-free as possible.
- Lana and Abby, Patient Intake Care Coordinators, are often the first friendly faces our patients see and hear. They guide individuals through the intake process with compassion, professionalism, and a commitment to helping patients access the care they need.
Together, our support team embodies the mission of Guiding Light Psychiatry by treating every patient with kindness, respect, and understanding. Their dedication, compassion, and commitment to excellence help ensure our practice operates efficiently and that each patient feels valued from their first contact with our office through every step of their mental health journey.
We are grateful for the heart, professionalism, and unwavering support they bring to our patients and our community every day.