Our Team

Looking for trusted neurologists in Bakersfield CA? At California Neurology Institute, our team of board-certified physicians provides expert care for a wide range of neurological conditions. We are proud to offer advanced diagnostics, compassionate service, and personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs. Whether you’re dealing with migraines, epilepsy, stroke, or nerve disorders, our neurologists are here to help you regain control of your health.

Our Physicians

Maheep Virdi, MD

Neurologist & Neurovascular Specialist

Dr. Maheep Virdi attended the Government Medical College of Patiala in Punjab, India. Upon arriving in the US, he was accepted to the neurology residency program at Westchester Medical Center in Valhalla, New York, and having excelled in residency, Westchester Medical Center accepted Dr. Virdi for the neurovascular fellowship program. In 2015, Dr. Virdi moved to Bakersfield and established his practice.

During residency and fellowship, Dr. Virdi conducted clinical research in neuro-ophthalmology, cerebral vascular disorders, and Alzheimer’s disease. He has been the recipient of much recognition as a clinician and researcher. In the office, he performs EEGs, EMGs, and LP under fluoroscopy for headaches and spasticity, trigger point injections, and treats a host of neurological disorders, including MS, stroke, and Parkinson’s. Dr. Virdi’s patients continually express that he exudes warmth and empathy during visits. Dr. Virdi maintains a pulse on new clinical research literature by routinely reviewing neurology journals and attending national symposiums. He employs the most recent diagnostic and treatment advances in the field of neurology.

Luis Natali, MD

Neurologist & Clinical Neurophysiologist

Dr. Luis Natali obtained his medical degree from La Universidad Autonoma de Guadalajara in 2001. Dr. Natali focused on internal medicine for his PhD at Our Lady of Mercy in Bronx, NY, from 2002-2005. He completed his neurology residency training at NY Medical College in Valhalla, NY, from 2007-2009 and a Neurophysiology Fellowship at Herman Memorial, Houston, TX, from 2009-2010.

Dr. Natali has devoted his career to developing and providing comprehensive and compassionate care in general neurology. In his spare time, Dr. Natali enjoys traveling and getting to experience new cuisines and cultures, especially when it comes to espresso coffee.

Shaun Rajah, MD

Neurologist & Stroke Specialist

I was born in Sri Lanka and grew up in Montral Canada, I went to medical school in the Netherland Antilles and did my neurology residence at the University of lowa where I got to train under some leaders in the field such as Dr. Kimura (electromyography) and Dr. Adams (Vascular). I have practiced in Medford, Or for 5 years where I was the director of neurotogy and Director of Stroke. I have also extensive experience with telemedicine and acute stroke care. We moved to Bakersfield California as my wife is from Bakersfield and we wanted to live closer to family. I love it here as I love warm weather. It is nice to be close to coast.

In my free time I do mixed martial arts (Jiu Jitusu, Muay Thai, Boxing). I did American Kenpo for 5 years before moving here. I am currently the ring side doctor for the local MMA fights. If I am not at work or at the gym I am spending time with my family ( my wife and 4 year old son, 2 cats and 2 dogs).

Our Staff

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Gloria Perry, PA-C
Physician Assistant

Gloria Perry is a physician assistant with experience in primary care, emergency medicine, and neurology. She began her career as a paramedic in 2010 before earning her PA degree from Stanford University. Dedicated to patient-centered, equitable care, she values empathy and clear communication. Outside of medicine, she enjoys dog training, fitness, and family time.

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Cynthia “Cindy” Cortez,
MSN, FNP-C
Family Nurse Practitioner

Cindy Cortez is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner at the California Neurology Institute. With emergency and critical care experience, she specializes in neurological conditions. A bilingual Spanish speaker, she is dedicated to improving access for diverse patients. She earned her BSN and MSN from CSU Bakersfield and enjoys family, fitness, and travel.

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Leslie Perez, FNP-C
Family Nurse Practitioner

Leslie Perez is dedicated to holistic patient care, with backgrounds in Pharmacology, Nursing, and advanced practice as a Clinical Nurse Specialist, Educator, and Family Nurse Practitioner. Active in AAN and CANP, she continues to expand her expertise. Outside of work, she enjoys piano, reading, travel, and wine tasting.