Meet the team

Meet our Physicians

Maheep Virdi, MD

Neurologist & Neurovascular Specialist

Dr. Maheep Virdi completed his medical education at the Government Medical College of Patiala in Punjab, India. After relocating to the United States, he was accepted into the neurology residency program at Westchester Medical Center in Valhalla, New York, where his exceptional performance led to his selection for the center’s neurovascular fellowship. In 2015, Dr. Virdi moved to Bakersfield and established his neurology practice.

Throughout his residency and fellowship, Dr. Virdi conducted clinical research focused on neuro-ophthalmology, cerebrovascular disorders, and Alzheimer’s disease, earning recognition for his work as both a clinician and researcher. In his practice, he performs EEGs, EMGs, and lumbar punctures under fluoroscopy for headaches and spasticity, as well as trigger point injections. He treats a wide range of neurological conditions, including multiple sclerosis, stroke, and Parkinson’s disease.

Patients consistently describe Dr. Virdi as warm, compassionate, and thorough in his approach to care. He remains actively engaged in the latest advancements in neurology by regularly reviewing current medical literature and attending national symposiums. Dr. Virdi is committed to applying the most up-to-date diagnostic and treatment strategies to improve patient outcomes.

Luis Natali, MD

Neurologist & Clinical Neurophysiologist

Dr. Luis Natali obtained his medical degree from La Universidad Autonoma de Guadalajara in 2001. He went on to focus on internal medicine during his PhD training at Our Lady of Mercy in Bronx, New York, from 2002 to 2005. Dr. Natali completed his neurology residency at New York Medical College in Valhalla, New York, from 2007 to 2009, followed by a Neurophysiology Fellowship at Herman Memorial in Houston, Texas, from 2009 to 2010.

Throughout his career, Dr. Natali has been dedicated to delivering comprehensive and compassionate care in general neurology. His clinical approach is rooted in deep medical knowledge, attentive listening, and a commitment to patient-centered care.

Outside of medicine, Dr. Natali enjoys traveling, exploring diverse cuisines and cultures, and perfecting his appreciation for espresso coffee.

Shaun Rajah, MD

Neurologist & Stroke Specialist

Dr. Shaun Rajah was born in Sri Lanka and raised in Montreal, Canada. He completed his medical education in the Netherland Antilles before pursuing his neurology residency at the University of Iowa, where he trained under leading experts such as Dr. Kimura in electromyography and Dr. Adams in vascular neurology. Following his training, Dr. Rajah practiced in Medford, Oregon, for five years, serving as the Director of Neurotology and Director of Stroke, and gaining extensive experience in telemedicine and acute stroke care.

Dr. Rajah later relocated to Bakersfield, California, to be closer to family. He appreciates the warm climate and enjoys having easy access to the coast. His clinical focus includes stroke care, vascular neurology, and comprehensive neurological evaluations.

Outside of medicine, Dr. Rajah is passionate about mixed martial arts, including Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, and boxing, and previously practiced American Kenpo for five years. He also serves as a ringside physician for local MMA events. When not training or working, he spends time with his wife, young son, two cats, and two dogs.

Meet our Team

Cynthia “Cindy” Cortez, MSN, FNP-C

Nurse Practitioner

Cynthia “Cindy” Cortez is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner at the California Neurology Institute. She brings a strong background in emergency care and a passion for neurology to her advanced practice role, where she specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of a wide range of neurological conditions.

Cindy began her nursing career as an Emergency Registered Nurse, gaining valuable experience in acute and critical care environments. She earned both her Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Master of Science in Nursing from California State University, Bakersfield.

A bilingual Spanish speaker, Cindy is dedicated to improving communication and access to quality neurological care for diverse patient populations. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family, staying active through physical fitness, and exploring new places, cultures, and experiences through travel.

Leslie Perez, FNP-C

Family Nurse Practitioner

Leslie Perez is a dedicated Family Nurse Practitioner committed to providing holistic, patient-centered care. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Pharmacology from the University of California, Santa Barbara, and later completed her Bachelor of Science in Nursing. She went on to obtain a Master of Science in Nursing with specializations as a Clinical Nurse Specialist and Nurse Educator.

Driven by a passion for helping others and continuous learning, Leslie further advanced her training by earning a Post-Master’s Certificate as a Family Nurse Practitioner. She remains professionally engaged through active involvement in organizations such as the American Association of Nurses (AAN) and the California Association for Nurse Practitioners (CANP).

Outside of her clinical work, Leslie enjoys playing the piano, reading, and exploring new cultures through travel and wine tasting. Her compassionate nature, strong educational foundation, and genuine dedication to her patients allow her to make a meaningful impact on every individual she cares for.

Gloria Perry, PA-C

Physician Assistant – Neurology

Gloria Perry, PA-C, is a dedicated physician assistant with a broad clinical background spanning primary care, emergency medicine, and pre-hospital care. Her medical career began in 2010 as a paramedic, later expanding into emergency and primary care before transitioning into neurology practice in January 2025.

Gloria’s approach to patient care is guided by three core principles: intentional listening, clear and compassionate communication, and humility. She strives to create a space where patients feel heard, respected, and empowered, and she is committed to lifelong learning and the thoughtful practice of medicine.

A graduate of Stanford University’s Physician Assistant Program in Palo Alto, Gloria believes access to quality healthcare is a fundamental right. She actively advocates for inclusive, equitable, and patient-centered care, working to close gaps within the healthcare system.

Outside of medicine, she enjoys dog training, functional fitness, and spending meaningful time with her family. Gloria aims to live with purpose, balance, and integrity—values she carries into every patient interaction.