Our Advanced Practice Providers are highly skilled practitioners dedicated to providing excellent and compassionate care that ensures the continuity of care for our patients and their families. Their expertise and commitment are integral to our mission of delivering exceptional healthcare services.
Claudia Afiuni Akl, APRN
Advanced Practice Registered Nurse, Stroke Neurology
Biography: Claudia is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse specializing in stroke neurology at the University of Miami. She earned her Master of Science in Nursing with a focus in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care from the University of Miami. With over six years of experience as a registered nurse in neurocritical care, she brings extensive clinical expertise and a strong commitment to providing evidence-based, compassionate care to patients with complex neurological conditions.
Since joining the stroke neurology team, Claudia has focused on acute stroke management, secondary prevention, and patient education. Her dedication to advancing neurological care is rooted in her passion for improving outcomes and quality of life for patients and their families.
Katherine Almonte, PA-C
Physician Assistant, Cognitive Neurology
Biography: Katherine is a Physician Assistant working in the Division of Cognitive Neurology with a focus on research and collaborative care. She partners closely with neurologists and other healthcare professionals to support advancements in understanding and treating Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, and related neurodegenerative disorders. Fluent in English and Spanish Katherine enhances communication with patients and supports participation in research. Katherine earned dual bachelor’s degrees in psychology and Neuroscience & Behavior from Florida Atlantic University in 2013 and completed a Master of Physician Assistant Studies at Eastern Virginia Medical School in 2019.
Andrea Buehler MSN, APRN, FNP-BC
Advanced Practice Registered Nurse, Cognitive Neurology
Biography: Andrea is a Research Nurse Practitioner in the Division of Cognitive Neurology at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine’s Comprehensive Center for Brain Health in Boca Raton, where she has been serving since January 2023. Andrea graduated from Florida Atlantic University with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2004 and practiced as a Registered Nurse at Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital for 12 years. While working at Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital, Andrea cared for pediatric patients with hematologic and oncologic disorders. She served as a charge nurse and team leader as well as a preceptor to new and experienced nurses. Andrea earned a Master of Science in Nursing in 2016 from Florida Atlantic University and practiced as an Advanced Practice Nurse in Internal Medicine for 3 years caring for adult/geriatric patients in Skilled Nursing Facilities, Assisted Living Facilities and Nursing Homes.
Yosdely Cabrera, MSN, ARNP
Advanced Practice Registered Nurse, Stroke Neurology
Biography: Yosdely is an Acute Care Nurse Practitioner with a strong background in neurophysiology and cerebrovascular diagnostics. She holds a Master of Science in Nursing and is currently completing the ARNP Acute Care Master’s Program at Florida National University in Miami. Her medical career began with a Doctor of Medicine degree from the Instituto Superior de Ciencias Médicas in Havana, Cuba, followed by an Associate of Science in Nursing. Since 2005, she has been part of the Neurology Stroke Division at Jackson Memorial Hospital, where she specializes in Transcranial Doppler (TCD) studies to support stroke diagnosis, monitoring, and care. She is dedicated to delivering compassionate, evidence-based patient care, integrating clinical research to enhance outcomes. As a member of the American Nurses Association and the American Association of Nurse Practitioners, she remains committed to advancing best practices in neurovascular health.
Mario G. Del Valle, MSN, FNP-C
Advanced Practice Registered Nurse, Cognitive Neurology
Biography: Mario is a licensed Family Nurse Practitioner in the Division of Cognitive Neurology at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine’s Comprehensive Center for Brain Health. Originally trained as a neurologist in Havana, Cuba—where he earned his medical degree and completed a neurology residency—Mario brings over 17 years of nursing experience in the U.S.
Before transitioning to nursing, he practiced as a neurologist in Cuba, specializing in stroke, epilepsy, neurodegenerative, and neuromuscular disorders. After immigrating to the U.S., he applied his strong clinical background across various nursing roles in acute care, internal medicine, and neurology. In 2022, he earned his Family Nurse Practitioner degree, returning to advanced practice with a focus on patient-centered care.
Mario is a member of the American Academy of Neurology and is passionate about blending his neurology expertise with family medicine. His bilingual, multicultural background enhances his ability to serve diverse communities with empathy, clinical insight, and cultural sensitivity.
Pavel Figueredo, APRN, FNP-C
Advanced Practice Registered Nurse, Sleep Medicine
Biography: Pavel is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, with a clinical focus on the care and management of patients with epilepsy. He earned his Master of Science in Nursing from Miami Regional University and maintains an active Nurse Practitioner license in the state of Florida.
Mr. Figueredo is dedicated to delivering comprehensive, patient-centered care, emphasizing effective communication and meticulous attention to detail. He is committed to enhancing the quality of life for individuals living with epilepsy through evidence-based practice and ongoing patient education.
Fluent in both English and Spanish, Mr. Figueredo is devoted to fostering a welcoming and supportive environment for all patients. Outside of his professional responsibilities, he enjoys spending time with his family and participating in community activities throughout Miami.
Jeffrey Hernandez, DNP, APRN, MSCN
Supervisor, Advanced Practice Providers, Multiple Sclerosis
Biography: Dr. Jeffery Hernandez is a Nurse Practitioner in the Division of Multiple Sclerosis at the University of Miami’s MS Center of Excellence, where he has worked since 2010. Starting as a medical assistant, he advanced through nursing, earning his NP degree in 2018 and a Doctor of Nursing Practice in 2020. He is a board-certified MS nurse through the International Organization of MS Nurses (IOMSN).
He provides expert care by evaluating, managing, and supporting patients with MS and related neurological disorders. In addition, he serves as the supervisor of MS Clinical Operations and actively participates in clinical research to advance the understanding and treatment of MS. He is committed to patient education and frequently serves as a speaker and expert at national and international forums, including the National MS Society’s 1st annual Hispanic/Latinx MS Experience Summit. He has contributed scientific literature on neuroimmunology, including a textbook chapter and research publications.
In May 2025, he was re-elected to the IOMSN Board of Directors, highlighting his continued leadership in the MS community.
Mirna Payan-Garcia, APRN
Advance Practice Provider, Team Manager, Pediatric Neurology
Biography: Mirna is a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner with over 13 years of experience working with children and 9 years of advanced practice experience. She earned her Master of Science in Nursing from Florida International University and is board certified through the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB).
For the past 7 years, Mirna has specialized in pediatric neurology, with a strong clinical focus on ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and Developmental Delays. She provides compassionate, evidence-based care that supports the growth, development, and well-being of every child she serves.
Massiel Millan Gomez, DNP, MSN, APRN, PPCNP-BC
Advanced Practice Registered Nurse, Pediatric Neurology
Biography: Massiel Millan Gomez is a board-certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), bringing over 15 years of nursing experience and a deep commitment to compassionate, evidence-based care. She earned her Doctorate in Nursing Practice from Florida International University in 2023, following her master’s degree as a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner in 2016 (also from FIU) and her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Barry University in 2010.
With a strong background in pediatric emergency medicine, primary care, and pediatric neurology, Dr. Gomez is passionate about supporting neurodivergent children and their families. She is ADOS certified and holds certifications in Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), and Basic Life Support (BLS). Bilingual in English and Spanish, she is known for building meaningful relationships with families and delivering care that honors each child’s unique needs and abilities.
Outside of her clinical work, Dr. Gomez enjoys reading, crafting, and spending time with her family. She goes by the term “Limitless,” because for her, where limits end, excellence begins.
Ginna Gonzalez, DNP, FNP-c, APRN
Advanced Practice Director, Neuromuscular Neurology
Biography: Ginna went to college at University Javeriana in Bogota Colombia. She received her master’s degree as a Nurse practitioner at the University of Miami and did her training in Primary Care. She received her Dr.NP, Doctorate in Nursing Practice at the University of Miami in 2009. She is working at the Neurology Department at the University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine since 1997. She implemented and developed the ALS and MDA multidisciplinary clinic in the same Department. She is currently Director of Practice at the Kessenich Family MDA-ALS Center and dedicated to see patients with neuromuscular diseases. She has cared for patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, neuromuscular diseases and participates in different research studies to find the cause and cure of the conditions for more than 20 years.
Keri Greenfield
Advanced Practice Registered Nurse, Cognitive Neurology
Biography: Keri K. Greenfield is a licensed Adult Geriatric Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of experience caring for adult and elderly patients. At the University of Miami’s Comprehensive Center for Brain Health, she specializes in diagnosing, managing, neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease, Lewy Body Dementia, Vascular Cognitive Impairment, and Frontotemporal Degeneration.
Keri is known for delivering personalized, concierge-level care and supporting patients and families through the challenges of cognitive decline. She integrates precision medicine tools like GeneSight® to guide medication choices and uses advanced diagnostics such as the DISCERN™ and SYN-One™ tests to improve early detection and treatment planning.
In addition to her clinical work, Keri leads the Integrative Nutrition Health Coaching Program and is actively involved in research. She holds degrees from Columbia University, Florida Atlantic University, and NYU, and is a certified Integrative Nutrition Health Coach.
Elizabeth Guerra, APRN
Advanced Practice Registered Nurse, Pediatric Neurology
Biography: Elizabeth Guerra is a board-certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner with the University of Miami’s Division of Pediatric Neurology. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing and her Master of Science in Nursing with a focus on pediatrics from Florida International University. She is certified by the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB).
Mrs. Guerra specializes in the diagnosis and management of autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, learning disorders, and developmental delays. She is fluent in both English and Spanish.
Diego Guerrero-Farfan, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC
Advanced Practice Registered Nurse, Sleep Medicine Neurology
Biography: Diego Guerrero-Farfan is a Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner currently practicing within the Department of Neurology, specializing in Sleep Medicine. He provides both in-person and virtual care, with a clinical focus on the diagnosis and management of sleep disorders, including Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Narcolepsy.
Diego began his affiliation with the University in 2019, initially serving in the Department of Surgery. Since then, he has earned both his Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Master of Science in Nursing from the institution. He is currently pursuing plans to obtain a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree, with the goal of further expanding his clinical expertise and leadership within the field.
Diego is committed to improving patient outcomes through evidence-based practice, interdisciplinary collaboration, and patient-centered care. His professional interests also include health equity in sleep medicine and the integration of technology in long-term management of chronic sleep conditions.
Idelis Martinez, APRN, FNP-BC
Advanced Practice Registered Nurse, Multiple Sclerosis
Biography: Idelis is a dedicated Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) in the Division of Multiple Sclerosis at the University of Miami. She specializes in treating patients with different types of neuro-immunology disorders using a holistic approach. She also has an extensive background in family medicine and gastroenterology. In 2016, she earned a master’s degree in the Science of Nursing from Florida International University, and two years prior a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Miami Dade College. She is certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) as a Family Nurse Practitioner and by the American Heart Association in Basic Life Support provider (BLS). Providing culturally competent and patient centered care, in English and Spanish allows her to communicate effectively with a very diverse patient population.
Alexandra Brett Millard, MPAS, MPH, PA-C
Physician Assistant, Neuro-Oncology
Biography: Alexandra Brett Millard, MPAS, MPH, PA-C, is a board-certified Physician Associate. She serves as the dedicated inpatient provider for the Neuro-oncology team, acting as a liaison between hospital and outpatient teams to ensure comprehensive quality care for our acute patients.
Brett earned dual master’s degrees in physician assistant studies and public health from Northeastern University. Her career in healthcare began as a paramedic in Boston, Massachusetts, reflecting a deep-rooted commitment to frontline service and clinical excellence. She has extensive experience as a CPR instructor, EMS educator, and former clinical research coordinator in the Department of Neurology.
Brett's professional interests center on promoting health equity, improving access to care, and fostering sustainable healthcare delivery systems.
Mary Ocel, MSN, APRN, FNP-C
Advanced Practice Registered Nurse, Neuro-Oncology
Biography: Mary Ocel is a board-certified family nurse practitioner with a clinical focus in neuro-oncology. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Rhode Island College and Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Miami. She has been part of the Department of Neurology for 2 years providing comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care to patients with complex neurological cancers.
She brings specialized clinical expertise in performing diagnostic lumbar punctures and administering intrathecal chemotherapy, contributing to both the diagnostic and therapeutic aspects of neuro-oncologic care. In addition to her clinical work, she plays an active role in mentoring and training new advanced practice providers (APPs), helping to support the growth and strength of the APP team.
Dedicated, skilled, and collaborative, Mary is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-centered care while advancing excellence within the neuro-oncology team.
Aileen Rodriguez, MSN, APRN, FNP-C
Advanced Practice Registered Nurse, Neuro-Oncology
Biography: Aileen Rodriguez is a board-certified family nurse practitioner with a clinical focus in neuro-oncology. A lifelong Miami native, she is proud to serve her community by delivering specialized care to patients facing some of the most complex neurological cancers. She began her nursing career after earning her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Nova Southeastern University in 2017. Her passion for advanced practice and dedication to patient-centered care led her to complete her Master of Science in Nursing at the University of Miami in 2022, with a focus on family practice.
With over eight years of nursing experience, Ms. Rodriguez brings a deep understanding of the physical and emotional challenges neuro oncology patients face. She is committed to delivering compassionate, evidence-based care with a strong emphasis on education, empowerment, and quality of life. Her clinical interests include primary brain and spinal tumors, symptom and side effect management throughout treatment, and survivorship care planning.
Ms. Rodriguez is also actively involved in clinical research and academic initiatives aimed at advancing treatment options and improving patient outcomes. She collaborates closely with a multidisciplinary team to support ongoing clinical trials and innovative approaches in neuro-oncology.
Driven by empathy and excellence, Ms. Rodriguez strives to ensure that each patient receives comprehensive, personalized care throughout every stage of their journey.
Nicole Mendez Rosario, APRN, FNP-BC
Advanced Practice Registered Nurse, Cognitive Neurology
Biography: Nicole is a dedicated Research Nurse Practitioner in the Division of Cognitive Neurology at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine’s Comprehensive Center for Brain Health (CCBH) in Boca Raton, where she has been serving since October 2021. Nicole earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from Louisiana College in 2010 and went on to complete her Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) at the University of Miami in 2016, where she was awarded the Advanced Education Nursing Traineeship grant. With a rich background in acute care, occupational health, and clinical research, Nicole brings a unique blend of experience and compassion to her work in Alzheimer’s and dementia research field that holds personal significance for her.
Gretchell Tarrau, MSN FNP-BC
Supervisor, Advanced Practice Providers, Stroke Neurology
Biography: Gretchell is a board-certified family nurse practitioner specializing in stroke neurology. She provides comprehensive care to patients experiencing acute and chronic cerebrovascular conditions, with a focus on rapid assessment, treatment, and recovery support. With a background in both critical care and neurological nursing, she brings a compassionate, evidence-based approach to stroke management.
Gretchell earned her Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) from the University of Miami. She is passionate about patient education, secondary stroke prevention, and multidisciplinary collaboration to improve outcomes for individuals affected by stroke.
Dalissa Tejera, PhD(C), MSN, APRN, ANP-C
Supervisor, Advance Practice Providers, Neuro-Oncology
Biography: Dalissa Tejera is a board-certified nurse practitioner and supervisor of advanced practice providers in the neuro-oncology division at the University of Miami. A Miami native, she brings over 20 years of nursing experience and 13+ years in oncology advanced practice. She holds BSN and MSN degrees from Florida International University and is currently pursuing a PhD at Florida Atlantic University, focusing on health equity and social determinants of health.
Dalissa was the first NP dedicated to Phase 1 clinical trials in hematology/oncology at UM, playing a key role in launching the Phase 1 Experimental Therapeutics Clinic. She now leads a multidisciplinary team, integrating supportive care and survivorship planning across the neuro-oncology service.
Actively involved in clinical trials, Dalissa focuses her research on improving diversity in cancer studies. In 2023, she presented strategies to enhance Hispanic participation in neuro-oncology research at the Society for Neuro-Oncology Annual Meeting, underscoring her commitment to equity, innovation, and patient-centered care.
Marcia Walker, ARNP, FNP-BC
Supervisor, Advanced Practice Providers, Cognitive Neurology
Biography: Marcia is a Research Nurse Practitioner in the Division of Cognitive Neurology at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine’s Comprehensive Center for Brain Health. She earned her BSN from the University of Florida and her MSN from Florida Atlantic University. Marcia has extensive research experience in Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD), with a focus on cognitive assessment, healthy brain aging, dementia prevention, and personalized care. She serves as a Sub-Investigator on clinical and investigator-initiated research studies.
