Meet the Providers

Dr. Ferreira completed his internship and residency in pediatrics at the University of Connecticut and Yale University affiliated hospitals. Dr. Ferreira then moved on to complete his adult neurology training at Long Island Jewish Hospital and his pediatric neurology training at Schneider Children's Hospital. He also completed a fellowship in epilepsy and electroencephalography at the University of Miami School of Medicine.

Dr. Ferreira began his clinical research during his adult neurology residency, where he participated in a protocol involving a new treatment for stroke. While at the University of Miami, he started participating in clinical trials for antiepileptic treatments, including new medications and vagal nerve stimulator. To date, Dr. Ferreira has been principal investigator in over 60 multicenter clinical trials in the areas of epilepsy, migraine and neurobehavioral disorders in infants, children and adolescents. His participation in these multicenter research studies has provided significant information necessary for the FDA approval of more than 12 medications for treatment in these areas.

Dr. Carmen Ferreira has been practicing at PENS since 2005. Her specific areas of clinical interest are ADHD, headaches and autism, however she has treated children with a variety of neurological difficulties. She has vast experience working with culturally diverse families and is fluent in both English and Spanish. Dr. Ferreira also enjoys teaching both medical and nursing students.

Dr. Lisa Calvo joined PENS in 2023 as a board-certified pediatric neurologist with special qualifications in child neurology. She completed her residency in Child Neurology at SUNY Downstate Medical Center and earned her medical degree from Universidad Central del Este (UCE) Facultad de Medicina in the Dominican Republic. Dr. Calvo is dedicated to providing comprehensive care for pediatric patients with a focus on epilepsy and neurological disorders.

Dr. Calvo is passionate about advancing pediatric healthcare and is committed to providing exceptional care to her patients. Her expertise in pediatric neurology and epilepsy, coupled with her dedication to patient education and quality improvement, makes her a valuable asset to the PENS team.

Dr. Rubens Garcia joined PENS in 2025 after completing Child Neurology training at Duke University.  Previously, Dr. Garcia trained in general pediatrics at Jefferson Einstein Hospital in Philadelphia, where he worked with children from diverse backgrounds. He has a particular interest in treating functional neurological disorders, headaches, concussions, epilepsy, and a broad range of pediatric neurological conditions.

Dr. Garcia is committed to helping families navigate complex diagnoses with clarity, compassion, and evidence-based care.  He approaches each patient as a unique individual and believes in shared decision-making with families. Originally from New York City, he enjoys rooting for the Yankees, maintaining an active lifestyle, and raising his twins with his wife.

Dr. Michael Enriquez, a board-certified pediatric neurologist, joins Pediatric Epilepsy and Neurology Specialists following his child neurology fellowship at Children’s Hospital Colorado, where he served as education chief. He brings comprehensive expertise in epilepsy, neuroimmunology, stroke, neurogenetics, and neuromuscular disorders.

Dr. Enriquez completed his pediatric residency at the University of Florida – Pensacola, earning recognition as Intern of the Year, and received his medical degree from the Latin American School of Medicine in Havana, Cuba on a full academic scholarship. Most recently, he served as a pediatric neurohospitalist at the Studer Family Children’s Hospital, providing inpatient care across NICU, PICU, and general pediatrics, and interpreting EEGs. He has presented nationally on complex neurological cases.

Dr. Enriquez is committed to delivering compassionate, high-quality care and advancing PENS’ mission through clinical excellence, education, and collaboration.

"At P.E.N.S we care about our patients and their families". Felicia has been working with children and families for over 20 years. After furthering her education in clinical psychology, and as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor her interests continue to be working with children, adolescents, and families providing counseling to assist in improvement of their family relationship challenges within the dynamic. Felicia's goal is to continue with lifelong learning to remain offering services that supports children and families in the community. She provides teaching, and supervision to students in the Master of Counseling Psychology, and Social Worker programs. Felicia is the director of the behavioral/mental health department at P.E.N.S.  Preceding to joining P.E.N.S. Felicia worked with Child Protective Services for the New York State (NYS) Department of Children and Families (DCF).  Felicia enjoys spending time with family, volunteering and mentoring underprivileges children in the Tampa Bay community.

Yaribel Pastrana is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor at Pediatric Epilepsy & Neurology Specialists (PENS), providing behavioral health services to children, adolescents, and their families. She brings experience in individual therapy, behavioral health, developmental disabilities, and care coordination, with an emphasis on creating a supportive and collaborative environment for patients and families.

Professional Experience:

Prior to joining PENS, Yaribel provided mental health therapy to children and adolescents at Health Connect America. Her experience includes completing biopsychosocial and clinical assessments, developing individualized treatment plans, and utilizing therapeutic approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), narrative therapy, and solution-focused therapy. She also has experience conducting diagnostic assessments using DSM-5-TR criteria.

Yaribel’s behavioral health background also includes experience as a Targeted Case Manager, where she supported individuals with mental health conditions through assessment, treatment planning, advocacy, care coordination, and connection to community resources.

Lizbeth Arroyo joined Pediatric Epilepsy and Neurology Specialists in 2011. She graduated from the University of South Florida Family Nurse Practitioner program in 2010. She received her bachelor's degree and masters degree from the University of South Florida accelerated program.  She has 6 years experience at Tampa General Hospital's surgical transplant step down unit, ICU rotation program, and emergency room nurse. Lizbeth and her husband Luis, originally from Puerto Rico, reside in Tampa Florida. She enjoys traveling, volunteering in the community for underprivileged families and spending time with her family. 

Ms. Quinn is a dedicated Pediatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in neurology, with a profound commitment to providing compassionate care to children and adolescents. Since joining PENS in 2017, she has been instrumental in delivering comprehensive care to pediatric patients facing neurological challenges.

With a Doctorate in Nursing from the University of South Florida, Ms. Quinn brings a wealth of expertise to her practice. Her doctoral dissertation focused on the management of sleep issues in children with autism, demonstrating her dedication to improving the quality of life for children with complex neurological conditions. She is a recognized expert in ADHD management, offering invaluable support to families navigating this condition. In addition to her clinical role, Ms. Quinn serves as a Pediatrics Instructor at the University of South Florida, where she shares her knowledge and passion with the next generation of nurses.

Ms. Fritch joined Pediatric Epilepsy & Neurology Specialists (PENS) in 2017. She earned her Master of Science in Nursing from the University of South Florida’s Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Program in 2016. With a special interest in epilepsy and genetics, she is passionate about providing compassionate, evidence-based care while advancing patient education, awareness, and advocacy.

Beyond her clinical responsibilities, Ms. Fritch serves as Vice President of the Epilepsy Services Foundation, where she dedicates her time and expertise to supporting individuals living with epilepsy and their families. She is also committed to shaping the next generation of healthcare professionals, serving as a preceptor for nurse practitioner students at the University of South Florida (USF).

Through her clinical expertise, community involvement, and dedication to education, Ms. Fritch continues to make a meaningful impact on the lives of her patients, their families, and future healthcare providers.

Ms. Arbelaez joined PENS in 2018. She graduated from the University of South Florida Pediatric Nurse Practitioner program with a Master of Nursing degree in 2016. She has 8 years of clinical nursing experience working at St. Joseph's Children's Hospital's float team providing comprehensive care to a variety of pediatric patients ranging from acute to chronic care. Ms. Arbalaez loves working with children and their families. She enjoys spending time with her family and participating in triathlons. 

Carron Schweiger joined PENS in 2023, bringing a wealth of experience and expertise in pediatric neurology and pediatric neuromuscular disorders. She earned her Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) from Vanderbilt University School of Nursing and her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from The Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing. Carron is passionate about patient-centric care, leading nursing teams, and implementing innovative medical treatments.

Professional Experience:
Carron has an extensive background in pediatric care, having worked at Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital, Better Health Medical Center, and The Docs, Endocrinology, Diabetes & Metabolic Specialists. She has managed a diverse range of patients, conducted inpatient rounds, supported outpatient clinic care, and participated in significant research studies. Her skills in physical assessment, care planning, and patient education are complemented by her ability to speak Spanish proficiently.

Jessica Zahran joined PENS in July 2024, bringing a strong background in pediatric and family medicine to the practice. She earned her Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) from the University of South Florida and has a deep passion for providing comprehensive, patient-centered care. Jessica’s expertise spans pediatric neurology, ADHD, epilepsy, and developmental delays, ensuring children and their families receive compassionate and informed support.

Professional Experience:

Jessica has worked extensively in both inpatient and outpatient settings, including the Pediatric Intensive Care Units at Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital and Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital. Her experience includes managing acute and chronic conditions, collaborating with multidisciplinary teams, and educating families on complex medical care.

Natalie Turaniczo joined Pediatric Epilepsy & Neurology Specialists (PENS) in September 2024, bringing a diverse background in pediatric and neurological care. Her dedication to patient care and professional growth is reflected in her extensive experience in nursing and advanced practice.

Professional Experience:

Natalie has an impressive history of working in high-acuity and specialized medical environments. Prior to joining PENS, she served as a charge nurse at Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital in the General Pediatrics Clinic and as a registered nurse in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, where she provided care to critically ill and post-operative patients. Her roles also included preoperative and post-anesthesia care at Shady Grove Fertility Clinic, highlighting her versatility and expertise across specialties.

Gina Hoyos joined PENS in 2025, bringing extensive clinical experience in acute care, pediatric neurology training, and a strong background in patient and family education. Her approach to care is rooted in collaboration, empathy, and evidence-based practice. 

Professional Experience:

Gina has over five years of progressive nursing experience across multiple hospital systems, including roles in progressive care units and clinical nurse pool settings. She has provided care to medically complex patients, performed advanced clinical procedures, and collaborated closely with interdisciplinary teams to support patient safety and outcomes. She has also served as a preceptor to nursing students and fellow nurses, supporting professional development and team-based care.

During her nurse practitioner training, Gina gained specialized experience in pediatric neurology. At PENS, she focuses on delivering comprehensive neurological care, assisting children and families with assessment, treatment planning, and ongoing management of neurological conditions. Gina emphasizes clear communication, cultural sensitivity, and a holistic approach to pediatric care.

Jessica Saldarriaga joined Pediatric Epilepsy & Neurology Specialists (PENS) in 2025, bringing a strong foundation in pediatric care, neurology, and high-risk clinical settings. She combines compassionate, family-centered care with a commitment to evidence-based practice and patient education. 

Professional Experience:

Jessica has over six years of experience as a registered nurse, with a clinical background rooted in high-risk obstetrics and pediatric care at a Level III perinatal center. Her nursing experience includes labor and delivery, postpartum and antepartum care, neonatal resuscitation, and collaboration with NICU teams during obstetric and neonatal emergencies.

As a Family Nurse Practitioner, Jessica completed diverse clinical rotations across family medicine, pediatrics, neurology, asthma and immunology, dermatology, and psychology. Her neurology training included the evaluation and management of pediatric patients with seizure disorders, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, headaches, and developmental delays. At PENS, she focuses on providing comprehensive neurological care, emphasizing preventive health, patient education, and collaborative decision-making with families.

Marguerithe Leo, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC

Marguerithe Leo is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner who brings a unique and extensive clinical background to Pediatric Epilepsy & Neurology Specialists. Before beginning her nursing career in the United States, Marguerithe trained and practiced as a physician in Haiti, including completing a pediatric residency and providing care in emergency, inpatient, and outpatient settings. She is fluent in English, French, and Creole and also speaks basic Spanish.

Professional Experience:

Marguerithe brings more than eight years of direct patient care experience across a variety of clinical settings. Prior to becoming a nurse practitioner, she worked as a physician in Haiti, including at Saint Damien Hospital, where she provided care in emergency, inpatient, and outpatient settings. She also worked as a physician and researcher at the GHESKIO Centers, affiliated with Weill Cornell Global Health, and served in an emergency response unit following the 2010 Haiti earthquake.

Amber Tipker is a board-certified Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner with a strong background in both outpatient pediatrics and pediatric neurology. Her experience caring for children with neurological and developmental conditions, combined with her background in pediatric primary care, provides her with a well-rounded foundation for caring for children and families at Pediatric Epilepsy & Neurology Specialists.

Professional Experience:

Prior to joining PENS, Amber worked as a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner at St. Petersburg Pediatrics, providing comprehensive primary care to infants, children, and adolescents. Her responsibilities included developmental screenings, management of acute and chronic conditions, diagnostic testing, medication management, specialty referrals, and patient and family education.

Before becoming a nurse practitioner, Amber spent nearly four years as a Registered Nurse at Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital on a specialized neurology and neurosurgery unit. There, she cared for children with epilepsy and seizure disorders, cerebral palsy, developmental delays, neuromuscular disorders, traumatic brain injuries, and other complex neurological conditions.