Scottsdale

Dr. Roland Segal, a distinguished psychiatrist, holds the role of Managing Partner and MD Psychiatrist at Synergy Mental Health and Wellness Integrated. Graduating from the University of Arizona, College of Medicine, he pursued his general psychiatry training at Banner Good Samaritan Medical Center in Phoenix, Arizona. Dr. Segal further refined his skills through a forensic psychiatry fellowship at the University of Southern California, Keck School of Medicine.

Dr. Segal has more than 10 years of clinical, administrative, executive and forensic experience. With double board certification in General and Forensic Psychiatry, Dr. Segal brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to our team. He served as the Chief Medical Officer at Valley Hospital in Phoenix, Arizona, president of the Arizona Psychiatric Society, chair of the legislative committee and a member of multiple state and national boards, committees and organizations. Dr. Segal is a clinical assistant professor of psychiatry at the University of Arizona, College of Medicine, where he regularly teaches medical students and residents.

Dr. Segal serves as a psychiatry expert consultant for a number of superior and regional courts including Salt River, Maricopa and Yuma County; city governments including Phoenix, Lake Havasu and Mesa; and organizations including the United Postal Service, Social Security Administration, Immigration Health Services, US Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Security.
Dr. Segal values objectivity, morality, ethics, mindfulness, and cultural awareness in a diverse society.

Dr. Segal’s unwavering commitment to comprehensive psychiatric care serves as a testament to his dedication to enhancing the lives of his patients across the state of Arizona and beyond.

Dr. Ehab Abdallah serves as the Managing Partner and MD Psychiatrist at Synergy Mental Health and Wellness Integrated. A distinguished professional, he earned his medical degree from Alexandria University in Alexandria, Egypt, and completed his psychiatry residency training at West Virginia University. Dr. Abdallah holds triple board certifications in General Psychiatry, Consultation-Liaison (Psychosomatic) Psychiatry, and Addiction Psychiatry and Medicine.

An expert in addiction medicine, Dr. Abdallah is experienced in treating psychiatric illness for those with complex medical and psychiatric conditions. Dr. Abdallah is an invaluable asset to our team with a commitment to providing quality care that is reflected in his unwavering dedication to the well-being of his patients.

Dr. Abdallah is also fellow of the American Psychiatric Association and a clinical assistant professor of psychiatry with the University of Arizona where he teaches medical students and residents.

Dr. Bahar Altaha is an esteemed member of the Synergy Mental Health and Wellness Integrated team, bringing with her a triple board certification in General Psychiatry, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, and Psychosomatic Medicine. With a diverse medical background that encompasses training at the University of Hamburg School of Medicine in Germany, she has refined her expertise in Internal Medicine at Johns Hopkins Hospital and in General Adult and Child-Adolescent Psychiatry at West Virginia University.

Dr. Altaha’s accomplishments are noteworthy, including the receipt of the Community Service Award for Outstanding Leadership from the WVU Department of Behavioral Medicine and Psychiatry. Her influence extends to both national and international psychiatric spheres, contributing to publications such as the Sage Encyclopedia of Abnormal and Clinical Psychology and Current Psychology. Dr. Altaha’s multilingual abilities, encompassing English, German, Farsi, and French, significantly enhance her capacity to provide exceptional care to our patients. Her wealth of experience and dedication underscores our commitment to delivering comprehensive and outstanding mental health care at Synergy Mental Health and Wellness Integrated.

Dr. Fariba Pfitzner is a distinguished board-certified psychiatrist specializing in adult, child, and adolescent psychiatry. Her illustrious career began with medical training at Ludwig-Maximillian University School of Medicine in Munich, Germany, laying the foundation for her impressive expertise. Driven by a commitment to continuous learning, she pursued a residency in adult psychiatry and a two-year subspecialty fellowship program in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at the University of Rochester in Rochester, NY.

Dr. Pfitzner’s professional journey includes a pivotal role as the Director of the Adolescent Inpatient Unit at the Arizona State Hospital. With extensive experience in community mental health clinics, she provided psychiatric services within a multidisciplinary team, fostering collaborative and comprehensive care. Dr. Pfitzner’s treatment approach emphasizes teamwork, involving patients, families, and other healthcare providers in the decision-making process.

Fluent in several languages, Dr. Pfitzner has earned a strong reputation in the Valley, where her contributions significantly support the Adolescent Intensive Outpatient Program at Synergy Mental Health and Wellness Integrated. Her dedication to teamwork and collaborative care reflects her commitment to providing exceptional psychiatric services and enhancing the well-being of her patients.

Dr. Andrea Raby is a diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in General Psychiatry, holding additional certifications in Tele-Mental Health and Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT). Her educational journey commenced with a Psychology and Chemistry Undergraduate degree at Arizona State University, where she was a distinguished member of the Honors College. Dr. Raby furthered her medical training at the University of North Texas Health Science Center and completed her residency at Maricopa Integrated Health/County Hospital.

With over fifteen years of clinical experience in both community and hospital-based psychiatry, Dr. Raby brings a wealth of expertise to our team. Her commitment to the field is demonstrated through her provision of forensic evaluations and court testimonies. Currently serving as an Inpatient Attending at Valley Hospital, she showcases her broad proficiency in both inpatient and outpatient settings.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Dr. Raby’s life is enriched by her love for family, including her five children, and her dedication to endurance running. Her commitment to excellence and passion for improving lives make her an integral part of our exceptional team of psychiatrists at Synergy Mental Health and Wellness Integrated. We eagerly anticipate the privilege of serving you and guiding you on your journey to mental well-being. Your path to healing and hope begins with us.

Meet Victoria Emanuelson, a nationally certified Physician Assistant, whose expertise enriches our team. Victoria’s professional journey took her from Stephens College in Columbia, Missouri, to the vibrant Phoenix area. Throughout her training, she acquired invaluable experience working with diverse patient populations across various clinical and geographic settings.

Passionate about patient care, Victoria specializes in serving individuals aged 17 and older. Her comprehensive services encompass psychiatric assessments, diagnoses, treatment plans, and medication management. Proudly affiliated with the American Academy of Physician Assistants and the Arizona State Association of Physician Assistants, Victoria is recognized for her empathy and collaborative approach to patient care. She places a special emphasis on patient education and strives to enhance the overall quality of life for those under her care. Welcome to the compassionate and dedicated support provided by Victoria Emanuelson, where your well-being is at the forefront of her commitment.

Meet Samantha Willen, a dedicated Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Samantha embarked on her academic journey, earning a Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Sciences from Oregon State University in 2012. Subsequently, she pursued a master’s in science, Entry to Nursing in 2013 and achieved a Doctor of Nursing Practice in Psychiatric/Mental Health in 2018 from the University of Arizona.

With a background that includes two years at Maricopa Integrated Health Services (now Valley wise) and the past year at Lifewell Behavioral Wellness, Samantha has focused on working with individuals diagnosed with Serious Mental Illness (SMI). Samantha employs an individualized approach to mental health, utilizing evidence-based medicine to deliver high-value care to those she serves.

Meet Laura Hickman, a dedicated Board-Certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (FPMHNP-BC). Laura’s academic journey began with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree from the University of Iowa in 2002, followed by the attainment of a Master’s of Science Degree in Nursing (MSN) from Saint Louis University in 2013.

Laura’s extensive training includes medication management internships at various private practices in Minnesota from 2009-2013, where she also received substantial training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy. With nearly a decade of experience, Laura has been providing evidence-based medication management and therapy care to adolescents and adults across the lifespan.
Having worked in Community Mental Health clinics and private practices in both Phoenix and Tucson, Laura brings a diverse and comprehensive perspective to her practice. Additionally, she has received training in advanced techniques such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT).

Laura’s provider approach is centered on empowering patients through team-based care, emphasizing collaboration between herself and the individual. She strives to instill hope and motivation, working alongside her patients to maximize the road to wellness. With Laura Hickman, rest assured that your mental health journey is met with expertise, compassion, and a commitment to comprehensive care.

Deborah was a nurse for 19 years before becoming a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Deborah became a Licensed Practical Nurse in 2004 and then graduated as a Registered Nurse with her Associate of Applied Science Degree in Nursing in 2012 from Excelsior College. In 2019 Deborah earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Capella University.
Then Deborah graduated from Walden University in 2022 where she received her Master of Science in Nursing/Psychiatric Mental Health.
Before starting her journey of 7 years as an RN in mental health, Deborah worked in a variety of medical settings such as ER, Urgent Care, Oncology, Hospice, Med-Surg., Phone Triage, etc. But it was while working in the jail setting as a traveling nurse that she found her interest and passion for mental health since the prevalence of mental disorders within its population is high.
She then realized that many of the inmates were incarcerated for behaviors caused by their mental illness and that these types of facilities are not meeting the demand for treatment of psychiatric disorders. After finishing her travel assignment, Deborah decided to start working as a Psychiatric nurse and worked for institutions including Banner Behavioral Health, Phoenix Childrens Hospital, and Arizona State Hospital where she obtained experience with the children, adolescents, and adult population.
Deborah is passionate about mental health since she believes that individuals’ mental well-being is just as important as physical health. She has seen the impact it can have on individuals and society. Mental health is an often an overlooked aspect of overall health, and she believes that it is time for society to pay attention to it. Deborah believes that through advocacy she can work towards reducing the stigma surrounding mental health, ensuring that individuals receive
the help they need without judgment or discrimination. Deborah is eager to empower individuals to seek help, promote early intervention, and foster a supportive environment where her patients can thrive mentally and emotionally.

Meet Jose A. Rodriguez, a dedicated board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Jose earned his Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Oregon Health & Science University in 2013, followed by a Master of Science in Nursing with a specialization in Psychiatric Mental Health in 2021 from Frontier Nursing University.

Specializing in treating patients across their lifespan, Jose is particularly passionate about supporting military veterans dealing with PTSD, depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. With 9 years of experience as a critical care nurse and crisis nurse in Boise, Idaho, and a total of 20 years in the United States Army Infantry, including six years in active duty, Jose brings a unique and comprehensive perspective to his practice.

Jose is an Army Infantry Combat Veteran and retired Honorably as a Sergeant First Class from the United States Army after 20 years of faithful service.  He spent time in the Middle East, Korea, and numerous places in the United States.

Not only does Jose provide evidence based pharmacological therapies to help patients struggling with their mental health, but he also utilizes a patient centered approach which individualizes the plan of care to the patient.

As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I’ve had extensive experience in both acute inpatient hospital units and outpatient clinics, treating a wide range of mental health challenges.

I worked for many years in AZ Department of Corrections Mental Health Unit. I also served in the USN in Desert Storm. I am particularly sensitive to the needs of our military and first responders. I strive to make even the most guarded patient feel at ease. Being of service has been my calling.

One of the reasons I entered the psychiatric field was, as a nurse, I felt many patients were overmedicated. My personal philosophy of medication management is pretty conservative, try to get the best result with the least amount. I was also dismayed by providers who never looked up from the chart. I promise to do my best to make you feel seen and heard.

Jonni Santschi is am a licensed Professional Counselor and Clinical Supervisor in Arizona with 18 years of Psychotherapy experience. She is a Certified Complex Trauma Provider and works mainly with IFS, DBT, CBT models; she is also working towards her certification in Neurofeedback Therapy. Jonni is a huge Neuroscience “nerd” and loves metaphors so she use psychoeducation and stories to help explain the physiology behind mental health. Jonni was also a certified personal trainer and a sports nutrition coach, so she loves the intersection of mind and body health. She has experience in helping clients in both individual and group therapy by coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, mood disorders, and other life changes. Jonni grew up a military Brat and has lived or travelled to many places in the world—she still loves traveling and being curious about the world—and people in general. Jonni believes in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. She will tailor your dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. Jonni is here to support & empower you in that journey.

Dafna is a licensed clinical social worker with a master’s degree in social work and extensive experience across various therapeutic modalities. Embracing a strength-based philosophy, she creates a safe and empowering environment for her clients. Dafna is trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and EMDR, and has significant experience in couples counseling and group facilitation to promote healing.

Committed to a collaborative approach, Dafna views her clients as the experts in their own lives, working together as a team to navigate challenges and achieve a healthier life. Her warm, non-judgmental demeanor fosters a genuine therapeutic relationship, meeting clients where they are on their journey.

“Angela Ross, MS, LPC, is a Licensed Professional Counselor and a proud Arizona native. She earned her Master’s degree in Professional Counseling from Grand Canyon University in 2020. Angela has extensive experience working with individuals facing mental health challenges in both outpatient and inpatient settings. She specializes in working with adolescents, adults, and families, utilizing a variety of therapeutic approaches, including CBT, DBT, EMDR, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused therapy.

With a robust background in both individual and group counseling, Angela creates a supportive, collaborative space where clients feel safe to engage in meaningful self-exploration and growth. Her authentic and non-judgmental approach fosters strong therapeutic relationships, empowering clients to reach their full potential.

Outside of her professional work, Angela enjoys spending time outdoors, embracing the serenity and beauty of nature. She is deeply committed to helping individuals enhance their well-being, guiding them toward greater clarity, fulfillment, and overall quality of life.”