Anorexia Outpatient Treatment in Tempe, AZ | Adult IOP | SMHWI
Anorexia Nervosa Treatment · Tempe, Arizona

Anorexia Outpatient Treatment in Tempe, Arizona

Anorexia nervosa treatment at our Tempe clinic. Our in-person IOP combines ACT, RO-DBT, nutritional rehabilitation, body image work, and medical monitoring in a structured program that supports lasting recovery for medically stable adults 18 and older, 15 minutes from Scottsdale.

Licensed clinicians leading a group therapy session at the SMHWI IOP in Tempe, Arizona
Licensed clinicians In person at our Tempe clinic Most major insurance accepted Treatment starts within days

Specialized Anorexia Nervosa Care

Outpatient anorexia treatment, delivered by a multidisciplinary team

Anorexia nervosa is a serious eating disorder marked by restrictive eating, intense fear of weight gain, and distorted body image. It carries real medical risk and calls for treatment from a team experienced in eating disorder recovery. Anorexia outpatient treatment at Synergy Mental Health & Wellness Integrated (SMHWI) is built for exactly that work, as a dedicated track within our eating disorder IOP in Tempe.

Our IOP is designed for medically stable adults 18 and older who are ready to engage in intensive outpatient treatment, including patients stepping down from residential, inpatient, or partial hospitalization (PHP) programs. The structure provides a soft landing from a higher level of care, or a meaningful step up when weekly therapy and a separate dietitian aren’t enough. Treatment is in person only, because supported meals and other experiential components work best together in the room.

Treatment is delivered by a coordinated multidisciplinary team: licensed therapists, registered dietitians, and psychiatric providers who collaborate on each patient’s individualized recovery plan. Our therapeutic approach draws primarily on ACT, RO-DBT, and polyvagal-informed nervous system work, integrated with nutritional rehabilitation, body image work, and ongoing medical monitoring.

3
Days per week: Monday, Wednesday, Friday
4hrs
Per session, including dietitian time and supported meal practice
1–2 days
From initial call to confirmed intake assessment, with medical readiness evaluated throughout
15min
From central Scottsdale to our Tempe clinic, with free on-site parking
Licensed clinicians leading an anorexia-focused group therapy session at SMHWI IOP in Tempe, Arizona
Anorexia-focused group therapy at our Tempe IOP, led by licensed clinicians.
A licensed clinician conducting an individual anorexia therapy session at SMHWI in Tempe, AZ
Individual therapy sessions address the emotional and behavioral patterns that maintain anorexia.

Begin Your Path Forward

Request your confidential anorexia treatment intake

Complete the confidential form and our admissions team takes it from there. No obligation, and most major insurance plans are accepted.

  1. 1
    Submit the confidential form

    Share some basic information about you and what you’re looking for help with.

  2. 2
    We reach out within one business day

    Our admissions team answers your questions and verifies your insurance benefits before treatment begins.

  3. 3
    Confidential assessment, then your first session

    A licensed clinician confirms the right level of care. Most patients begin within days of reaching out.

This form is NOT for emergencies. If you are in immediate danger, feeling suicidal, or having thoughts of harming yourself or others, do not use this form. Please call 911, go to the nearest emergency room, or call/text 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. This form is not monitored 24/7.

HIPAA-compliant and confidential. Information you submit is handled according to our Notice of Privacy Practices and Privacy Policy.

Signs This Program May Fit

Is outpatient anorexia IOP the right level of care?

Our anorexia IOP sits in the clinically important middle between weekly outpatient therapy and residential or inpatient care. You get the structure, frequency, and multidisciplinary team of intensive treatment while continuing to live at home and hold on to the pieces of your life that are working.

IOP-level anorexia treatment requires medical stability. If you’re stepping down from inpatient, residential, or PHP care, this is a common and well-supported next step. If you’re entering treatment for the first time, our team will carefully assess medical readiness during intake and recommend a higher level of care if that’s what’s clinically indicated.

Not sure which level is right? Our admissions team will listen, coordinate a confidential clinical and medical assessment, and recommend what actually fits.

Severe food restriction, rigid food rules, or avoidance of entire food groups you can’t break on your own

Intense fear of weight gain and body-image distortion that persist even at a low or medically concerning weight

Medical symptoms tied to restriction, such as fatigue, dizziness, hair loss, cold intolerance, or loss of menstrual cycle

Compulsive exercise, meal rituals, or secrecy and withdrawal around eating that are affecting your daily life

You’re stepping down from residential, inpatient, or PHP care, or weekly therapy hasn’t been enough

You’re 18 or older and able to attend in person at our Tempe clinic three mornings a week

Not sure if IOP is the right level of care?
Our team can help you find out.

Start your confidential intake

Schedule & Location

Anorexia IOP schedule at our Tempe clinic

Our anorexia nervosa IOP meets in person three mornings a week for a 4-hour session block, long enough to include dedicated nutritional counseling, supported meal components, and medical coordination alongside group and individual therapy.

Anorexia IOP

TempeArizona · Near ASU

9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
MonWedFri

Our morning block lets patients maintain employment, attend school, or hold family responsibilities in the afternoon. Each 4-hour session includes group therapy, individual check-ins, dietitian-led nutritional counseling, supported meal components, and medical coordination.

1492 S Mill Ave, Suite 206 & 214
Tempe, AZ 85281 · Free parking

Why anorexia treatment here is in person

1492 S Mill Ave in Tempe, near ASU, with free on-site parking. Roughly 15 minutes from central Scottsdale.

Supported meals, dietitian time, and medical coordination are central to anorexia recovery at the IOP level, so sessions are held in person only and not offered by video.

Sessions run Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM at our Tempe clinic, for adults 18 and older. Start your confidential intake to confirm availability.

Program Structure

What happens in each anorexia treatment session

Each session addresses three integrated dimensions of anorexia recovery: rebuilding a healthy relationship with eating, working with the psychological drivers of restriction, and building the skills needed for lasting change.

1 Nutritional Rehabilitation Rebuilding a healthy, sustainable relationship with eating
In this component you’ll focus on
Restoring regular eating patternsChallenging food fears & rulesMeal planning with your dietitianNutritional education
What you’ll gain
  • A structured, clinically guided path to restoring regular eating without the rigid rules, fear, or guilt that maintain restriction
  • Practical nutritional knowledge from a registered dietitian, tailored to your recovery goals and working toward intuitive eating skills within a Health at Every Size (HAES) framework
  • Growing confidence in eating a wider variety of foods as your relationship with nutrition becomes more flexible
Example group topics
  • Supported meal practice with a dietitian in the room
  • Challenging “safe foods” and expanding dietary variety
2 Body Image & Psychological Flexibility Working with the beliefs that drive anorexia nervosa
In this component you’ll focus on
Reducing body checking behaviorsShape & weight concernsPerfectionism and control workIdentity beyond the eating disorder
What you’ll gain
  • A deeper understanding of how distorted body image and the overvaluation of shape and weight maintain anorexia nervosa
  • Tools to loosen the grip of the rigid thoughts and dietary rules that have governed your eating for so long
  • A sense of identity and self-worth that exists independently of your body, weight, or eating behaviors
Example group topics
  • Interrupting body-checking rituals
  • Perfectionism, control, and the function of restriction
3 Emotional Regulation & Recovery Skills Building the emotional tools for sustained recovery
In this component you’ll focus on
Managing anxiety around eatingInterpersonal patternsCoping with emotional triggersRelapse prevention planning
What you’ll gain
  • Practical skills for managing the anxiety, perfectionism, and emotional distress that anorexia nervosa often serves to suppress
  • An understanding of how relationships, trauma, and life stressors connect to the onset and maintenance of your eating disorder
  • A personalized relapse prevention plan for sustaining recovery from anorexia nervosa after IOP ends
Example group topics
  • Addressing exercise compulsion in a healthy, sustainable way
  • Building a recovery roadmap for the months after IOP

Program Curriculum

Part of our 12-week eating disorder curriculum

Rebuilding regular eating and loosening rigid rules happens gradually, at a clinically appropriate pace. This track runs within the same structured 12-week curriculum as our full program, with sessions sequenced so each week builds on the last.
See how the 12-week eating disorder IOP curriculum works

What We Address

Signs anorexia treatment may be needed

Our anorexia outpatient program addresses the behaviors and underlying patterns that keep anorexia nervosa in place. Each patient receives an individualized plan built by clinicians experienced in eating disorder recovery.

Severe Food Restriction

Significantly limiting caloric intake, avoiding entire food groups, or following rigid food rules that cannot be broken on your own, even when you want to.

Intense Fear of Weight Gain

Persistent, overwhelming anxiety about gaining weight, even at a low or medically concerning weight. The fear doesn’t subside with reassurance, and it drives the restriction.

Distorted Body Image

Seeing your body as larger than it is, overvaluing shape and weight in self-evaluation, and body-checking rituals that quietly structure the day.

Medical Symptoms of Restriction

Fatigue, dizziness, hair loss, cold intolerance, irregular heartbeat, or loss of menstrual cycle tied to restricted eating. These require medical attention alongside therapy.

Compulsive Exercise & Rituals

Driven exercise that can’t be skipped, meal rituals, portioning rules, and avoidance of social eating or shared meals. Our team addresses exercise compulsion as a core part of recovery.

Co-Occurring Conditions

Anorexia rarely shows up alone. Our team integrates care for the anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, and trauma that commonly travel with anorexia nervosa, so the whole clinical picture is addressed at once.

Our Approach

Core components of our anorexia IOP

Our Tempe anorexia outpatient program uses a multidisciplinary framework addressing the psychological, nutritional, physical, and emotional dimensions of recovery. Our primary therapeutic modalities are ACT, RO-DBT, and polyvagal-informed care, delivered by licensed clinicians.

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

ACT helps you make room for fear, anxiety, and body-image distress without letting them dictate what you eat, and reconnect with the values and identity that exist beyond anorexia.

RO-DBT

Radically Open Dialectical Behavior Therapy was developed for patterns of emotional over-control. It targets the perfectionism, rigidity, and social isolation that commonly keep anorexia nervosa in place, building flexibility, openness, and connection.

Polyvagal-Informed Care

Drawing on polyvagal theory, we help you recognize the nervous system states that surface around meals and body-image work, and practice regulation skills that help eating feel safer over time.

Nutritional Rehabilitation

Registered dietitians help you restore regular eating patterns, address food fears, build meal plans, and rebuild a healthy relationship with nutrition at a clinically appropriate pace, working toward intuitive eating skills within a HAES framework as recovery progresses.

Medical Monitoring

Ongoing coordination with your medical team to monitor vital signs, lab values, and physical health markers throughout treatment. Essential for medical safety at the IOP level of care for anorexia nervosa.

Group, Individual & Family Sessions

Peer-supported groups and one-on-one therapy with a licensed therapist address triggers, perfectionism, and interpersonal factors. With the patient’s consent, family education and therapy sessions help loved ones offer recovery-supportive communication at home.

Ready to talk with our team about anorexia outpatient treatment?
Admissions follows up within one business day.

Start your confidential intake

Admissions & Intake

How to start anorexia outpatient treatment at SMHWI

Our admissions process is designed to be supportive and straightforward. From your first call to your first session, our team handles insurance verification, clinical and medical assessment, and scheduling so you can focus on recovery.

The anorexia IOP enrollment process

Most patients begin treatment within days of initial contact. Here’s what to expect.

1

Initial contact

Same day

Submit the confidential intake form on this page. We gather basic information and answer your initial questions about anorexia outpatient treatment.

2

Insurance verification

Within 24 hours

We verify your coverage for anorexia IOP, including benefits, deductibles, and any out-of-pocket costs, before treatment begins.

3

Clinical & medical assessment

1–2 days

A licensed clinician conducts a confidential evaluation to assess anorexia nervosa presentation, medical stability, and the appropriate level of care. If a higher level is clinically indicated, we help coordinate the referral.

4

Begin treatment

Within days

Start attending anorexia IOP sessions in person at our Tempe clinic. Your individualized treatment plan is ready from day one.

Your first week in anorexia IOP

The first week focuses on getting oriented and building your treatment foundation. You won’t be expected to share more than you’re ready to.

Meet your treatment team

Connect with your therapist, dietitian, and group members. Review confidentiality, expectations, and your individualized recovery plan.

Nutritional assessment

Your registered dietitian conducts a comprehensive assessment of current eating patterns, food fears, and medical nutrition needs to build your rehabilitation plan.

Group & individual sessions

Begin attending anorexia-focused group therapy and individual therapy sessions as part of your structured Monday, Wednesday, Friday schedule.

Medical coordination begins

We initiate communication with your medical provider to establish baseline monitoring and ensure your physical health is supported throughout treatment.

Welcoming reception area at SMHWI Tempe where patients begin anorexia nervosa outpatient treatment

Insurance

In-network with most major insurance plans

Our admissions team verifies your plan and quotes your out-of-pocket cost before your first visit. Federal parity laws require most plans to cover IOP on par with other medical care.

Aetna Blue Cross Blue Shield Cigna Evernorth Humana Magellan Health Medicare Tricare UnitedHealthcare Plus other major carriers

Frequently Asked Questions

Anorexia outpatient treatment, answered

Yes. IOP-level anorexia treatment requires that you are medically stable, meaning your vital signs and lab values are within a safe range. Our team assesses medical readiness during intake and can help coordinate a higher level of care if you need stabilization before beginning IOP.

Our IOP is commonly used as a step-down from residential or partial hospitalization programs. We coordinate directly with your previous treatment team to ensure continuity of care and a smooth transition into our Tempe program.

Outpatient IOP allows you to live at home and maintain daily responsibilities while receiving intensive therapy three days per week. PHP provides structured full-day treatment while you live at home. Inpatient treatment provides 24-hour supervision and is reserved for individuals who require medical stabilization or cannot maintain safety outside a clinical setting.

Our anorexia outpatient treatment follows the same structured 12-week curriculum as our eating disorder IOP, meeting in person at our Tempe clinic on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. It is not offered virtually, because supported meals and medical coordination are central to anorexia recovery at this level of care. Length of stay is guided by your progress and medical status.

Our primary therapeutic modalities are Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Radically Open Dialectical Behavior Therapy (RO-DBT), and polyvagal-informed nervous system work. These are integrated with dietitian-led nutritional rehabilitation from a Health at Every Size (HAES) framework, body image work, and ongoing medical monitoring.

Yes. Our treatment team addresses exercise compulsion as a core component of anorexia recovery. We work with patients to develop a healthy and sustainable relationship with physical activity as part of the overall treatment plan.

Yes. With the patient’s consent, family members can participate in family therapy sessions, education groups, and treatment planning discussions. Family involvement often strengthens anorexia recovery outcomes.

Most major insurance plans cover outpatient anorexia treatment, including IOP, when medically necessary. The Mental Health Parity Act requires insurance coverage for eating disorders on equal terms with other medical conditions. Our team verifies benefits before treatment begins. Start your confidential intake for a free insurance check.

Our anorexia nervosa IOP is located at SMHWI Tempe, 1492 S Mill Ave, Suite 206 & 214, Tempe, AZ 85281, and is open to adults 18 and older. Free parking is on-site.

Submit the confidential intake form on this page. Our admissions team verifies your insurance, conducts a confidential clinical assessment including medical readiness, and schedules your first session. Most patients begin within days of initial contact.

Still have questions? Start your confidential intake and our admissions team will answer them directly.

Explore Related Programs

More ways SMHWI can help

Anorexia recovery often sits alongside other mental health needs. Explore related SMHWI programs that may pair well with the anorexia IOP or offer a better match depending on where you are in recovery.

Dr. Roland Segal, MD

Medically reviewed

Reviewed by Roland Segal, MD

Double board-certified psychiatrist and member of the Arizona Psychiatric Society. Clinical oversight for SMHWI Intensive Outpatient Programs across Arizona, including the anorexia nervosa IOP in Tempe.

Meet Dr. Segal Last reviewed October 2026

Anorexia recovery is possible, and you don’t have to do it alone

Our anorexia treatment team can answer your questions, verify your insurance, and schedule your confidential assessment, often within the same week.

In a crisis

Get help right now

SMHWI is an outpatient practice and cannot respond to emergencies. If you or someone you know is in danger or thinking about suicide, use these free, confidential resources, available 24/7.

  • Call 911Life-threatening emergency, or someone at immediate risk of harm.
  • Call or text 988Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, 24/7. Chat at 988lifeline.org/chat.
  • Dial 988, then press 1Veterans Crisis Line, or text 838255.
  • Text HOME to 741741Crisis Text Line, free 24/7 support with a trained counselor.
Deborah Baum

Deborah Baum, PMHNP,

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.

Roseanne Charles, DNP, PMHNP-BC

Rosanne Charles,
DNP, PMHNP-BC

My name is Dr. Rosanne Charles, DNP, PMHNP-BC, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Synergy Mental Health & Wellness Integrated. I graduated from Florida International University and have dedicated more than two decades to a career in nursing and mental health care.

I specialize in psychiatric medication management for anxiety disorders, depression and other mood disorders, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and substance use concerns. I work with teens ages 14–17, adults, and older adults, and I have experience caring for diverse populations, including LGBTQ+ individuals, military members and veterans, and first responders.

My approach to care is compassionate, thoughtful, collaborative, and evidence-based. I believe effective mental health treatment should be both clinically sound and practical for everyday life. I take time to listen carefully, understand each patient’s unique circumstances, establish accurate diagnoses, and develop individualized treatment plans that support stability, clarity, and improved quality of life. In addition to medication management, I incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based strategies, and principles of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to support long-term mental wellness.

I chose this profession because I have always wanted to make a difference in the lives of others. After beginning my nursing career more than two decades ago, I have found it deeply rewarding to support people through some of their most challenging moments and help them move forward with greater confidence and stability. What I find most rewarding about my work is helping others and knowing that the care I provide can make a meaningful difference in their lives.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with family, cooking, traveling, sightseeing, painting, dancing, and listening to music. I also enjoy staying active through biking, bowling, and mini golf. These interests allow me to maintain balance, creativity, and connection in my own life.

Arianna Saenz-Ochoa, MS, LPC

Arianna Saenz-Ochoa, MS, LPC

Hi! I am Arianna Saenz-Ochoa, a licensed professional counselor, and my journey towards helping others started when I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education & Special Education from Arizona State University and Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Grand Canyon University. I am a EMDRIA Certified EMDR Therapist and have completed advanced trainings and continue consultation in the application of EMDR with a focus on parts work, dissociation, and complex-attachment trauma.

My experience in providing therapy is mainly based in aiding others to find post-traumatic growth from childhood trauma and neglect, sexual abuse, and recovery from relationships with unhealthy dynamics of power / control. This also includes symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and self-harming behaviors. Most of my experience has been working in the outpatient individual setting with adults and teens.

I utilize a combination of skill developing approaches such as CBT, DBT, Parts Work, psychoeducation, and mindfulness training. As a result of client’s gaining enhanced self-awareness and lifestyle shifts, I encourage them when ready to process past negative experiences, utilizing the evidence-based therapy of EMDR, for sustained treatment progress.

I chose this profession due my own personal journey of post-traumatic growth from childhood trauma and negative cycles of behaviors. With lived experience, I find it an honor to create a meeting space where my clients can feel less judgement, be asked the tough questions, and release what pains them to find resolution.

Being born and raised in Arizona, you can find me escaping the heat with an iced coffee in hand, A/C blasting, and getting lost in a good book. You can also find me at community events supporting marginalized and oppressed folks, or on sniff-walking adventures with my pug mix, Lulu. These moments keep me balanced and energized to support my clients.

 

Lamia Abdouni, PMHNP

Lamia Abdouni,
PMHNP-BC

My name is Lamia Abdouni, and I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a background in both family and psychiatric nursing. I became a Registered Nurse in 2007 after earning my nursing degree from Mercy College of Northwest Ohio. In 2016, I obtained my Family Nurse Practitioner degree from Walden University, and in 2019, I earned my Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner degree from Binghamton University. I have been working in the field of mental health since 2014.

I specialize in the evaluation and treatment of a wide range of psychiatric disorders, with a particular focus on depression, anxiety disorders, and trauma-related conditions. I consider myself an interventional healthcare provider and believe in utilizing comprehensive treatment approaches tailored to each individual’s needs. My areas of focus include higher levels of care such as Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP), Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP), and residential treatment. I also have a strong interest and focus in innovative psychiatric treatments, including Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and ketamine therapy.

I chose this profession because I have always been passionate about helping people navigate some of the most challenging periods of their lives. I believe that mental health care requires compassion, understanding, and a commitment to finding effective, individualized solutions. The most rewarding part of my work is witnessing patients regain hope, improve their quality of life, and achieve meaningful progress in their mental health journey.

Outside of work, I enjoy swimming, roller skating, and strength training. These activities help me maintain balance, resilience, and energy, allowing me to continue providing thoughtful and compassionate care to my clients.

Danielle Siragusa, LSCW

Danielle Siragusa,
VP of Behavioral Health, LCSW

Danielle Siragusa, LCSW, is a behavioral health leader with a strong track record of building and scaling high-impact clinical programs. As Vice President of Behavioral Health, she brings a unique blend of clinical expertise, operational strategy, and people-centered leadership to her work, with a focus on delivering accessible, high-quality care.

Danielle began her career as a clinician, which continues to shape her leadership approach today. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, she has extensive experience working with individuals and families across a range of behavioral health needs. Her clinical foundation allows her to design programs that are not only evidence-based, but also practical, compassionate, and responsive to the real-world needs of clients and providers.

Throughout her career, Danielle has held progressive leadership roles, where she has led multidisciplinary teams, developed integrated care models, and overseen complex behavioral health operations. She is known for her ability to translate vision into execution, whether that’s launching new service lines, optimizing clinical workflows, or driving system-wide improvements in quality, access, and outcomes. Her operational strengths include program development, financial and performance management, regulatory compliance, and building scalable infrastructure to support growth.

A collaborative and mission-driven leader, Danielle is passionate about developing high-performing teams and fostering a culture of accountability, innovation, and continuous improvement. She values strong partnerships, both internally and across communities, and is committed to advancing behavioral health solutions that are sustainable, impactful, and person-centered.

Jeremy Edwards

Jeremy Edwards, DNP, PMHNP-BC

My name is Jeremy Edwards, I am board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of experience in the behavioral health field, working across a wide range of settings including schools, group homes, residential treatment centers, outpatient clinics, and inpatient hospitals. I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Colorado, followed by a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and a Doctorate of Nursing Practice degree from Creighton University.
 
My passion for mental health care is deeply rooted in my own life experiences. Having overcome significant adversity, I was inspired to become part of the solution and to support others on their healing journeys. I take great pride and joy in helping individuals discover their strengths and reach their full potential. I strongly believe that each patient’s journey is unique, and I am committed to meeting patients where they are. Through collaboration, empathy, and patient-centered care, I work with each individual to develop a personalized treatment plan that supports growth, resilience, and long-term well-being.
Barbara Reed

Barbara Reed,
MSN, RN, PMHNP-BC

My name is Barbara Reed, MSN, RN, PMHNP-BC, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Synergy Mental Health & Wellness in Rockwall, Texas. I earned my Master of Science in Nursing from Saint Louis University in 2014, building upon earlier years of service as a Hospital Corpsman in the United States Naval Reserve.

I specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, OCD, and mood disorders, working primarily with adults, and veterans. My approach to care is collaborative, holistic, and strengths-focused, and I often use medication management, CBT-informed strategies, motivational interviewing, and supportive therapy to support my clients.

I chose this profession because I believe every person deserves compassionate, dignified, and scientifically grounded mental health care, and I find it most rewarding to partner with clients in their healing journey—helping them rediscover stability, confidence, and the ability to thrive in their daily lives.

Outside of work, I enjoy cooking, learning new things, staying active with my family, staying current with psychiatric research, and attending AANP Health Policy Conferences, and I believe these activities help me stay balanced and energized to support my clients.

Ngozi Theresa Onyia

Theresa Ngozi Onyia,
MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC

My name is Theresa Ngozi Onyia, and I am a Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner at Synergy Mental Health & Wellness Integrated in Rockwall, Texas. I earned my Master’s and post-master’s degrees from Walden University and hold certifications in Family/Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with AANP and ANCC.

I specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, adolescent care, working primarily with adults, teens, families, veterans. My approach to care is patient-centered, collaborative, evidence-based, and strengths-focused, and I often use CBT, DBT, mindfulness-based interventions to support my clients.

I chose this profession because I believe in the uniqueness of every patient and, thus, the importance of individualized patient needs and care. My goal is to apply the uniqueness of each patient to their treatment recommendations to address their health issues best for a greater outcome. Each patient deserves the most optimal mental well-being.

Alejandra Vasquez

Alejandra Vasquez, PMHNP-BC

Meet Alejandra Vasquez, a dedicated board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner passionate about providing holistic and trauma-informed care to individuals across the lifespan. She earned her Master of Science in Nursing from Northern Arizona University and brings years of experience in psychiatric nursing, including crisis stabilization, detox and recovery, inpatient, and outpatient community mental health.

Alejandra has a special interest in supporting young adults as they navigate life transitions and mental health challenges. Her integrative and collaborative approach blends evidence-based psychopharmacology, psychotherapy, and lifestyle interventions to promote emotional balance, recovery, and wellness. Guided by compassion, empowerment, and education, Alejandra strives to create a safe and supportive environment where patients feel heard, valued, and actively involved in their care, helping them build resilience and achieve lasting wellness.

Outside of her clinical work, Alejandra values mindfulness, connection, and balance in her own life. She believes that healing is a journey best supported by compassion, self-awareness, and collaboration. Her passion for mental health stems from witnessing the profound impact of empathy and strength of resilience, inspiring her to walk alongside patients as they build meaningful, fulfilling lives.

Dr. Andrea Raby,

Dr. Andrea Raby, M.D.,

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.

Dr. Fariba Pfitzner, M.D.,

Dr. Fariba Pfitzner, M.D.,

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. Bahar Altaha, M.D.,

Dr. Bahar Altaha, M.D.,

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.

Victoria Emanuelson, MPAS, PA-C,

Victoria Emanuelson, MPAS, PA-C,

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.

Jose A. Rodriguez, PMHNP-BC,

Jose A. Rodriguez, PMHNP-BC,

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.

Samantha Willen, DNP, PMHNP-BC,

Samantha Willen, DNP, PMHNP-BC,

My name is Samantha Willen, and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner at SMHWI. I earned my Doctor of Nursing Practice from the University of Arizona and am board certified in Psychiatric-Mental Health.

I specialize in anxiety, depression, and substance use disorders, working primarily with adults with co-occurring disorders. My approach to care is collaborative and strengths-focused, emphasizing each client’s unique resilience and capacity for growth. I often use cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and mindfulness-based interventions to help clients build insight and develop practical coping skills.

I chose this profession because I have a family member who struggled with mental health challenges, and that experience showed me how important compassion and understanding are in the healing process. I find it most rewarding to build meaningful relationships with my clients and help them feel better and more hopeful about their lives.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my husband and two daughters, and indulging in my guilty pleasure of watching Bravo shows.

Angela Ross, MS, LPC,

Angela Ross, MS, LPC,

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.

Dafna Oz, LCSW,

Dafna Oz, LCSW,

My name is Dafna Oz and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker at Synergy Mental Health & Wellness Integrated. I earned my Master of Social Work from the University of New England and hold certifications EMDR and couple’s counseling.

I specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma and working primarily with adults. My approach to care is working together as a team to navigate challenges and achieve a healthier life, and I often use CBT, DBT, motivational interviewing interventions to support my clients.

I chose this profession because of my deep belief in compassion, resilience and the power of human connection, and I find it most rewarding to witness my client’s growth and healing, seeing them gain insight, strength and hope as they create positive changes in their lives.

Outside of work, I enjoy music, exploring new places and spending time with my family. and I believe these activities help me stay balanced and energized to support my clients.

Dr. Roland Segal, M.D., Managing Partner, Scottsdale Psychiatrist

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, M.D., psychiatric physician profile

Dr. Ehab Abdallah, M.D., Managing Partner, Psychiatrist

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.