Specialized outpatient treatment for avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID). Our IOP combines graduated food exposure, CBT for ARFID, registered dietitian support, and medical monitoring to help you build a more flexible relationship with food. In-person in Tempe (15 minutes from Scottsdale) or virtually throughout Arizona.
Specialized ARFID Care for Adults
Avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID) is a recognized DSM-5 feeding and eating disorder, not a phase or a preference. Many adults with ARFID have lived with these patterns since childhood and assumed treatment wasn’t available or was only meant for kids. The outpatient ARFID program at Synergy Mental Health & Wellness Integrated (SMHWI) in Tempe is built specifically for adult ARFID presentations.
Unlike anorexia or bulimia, ARFID is not driven by concerns about weight or body shape. It’s driven by sensory sensitivities to texture, taste, smell, or appearance; by fear of adverse food experiences such as choking, vomiting, or allergic reactions; or by low interest in food and eating. Each of those presentations needs a different clinical approach, and our team is trained in all three.
Treatment is delivered by a coordinated multidisciplinary team: licensed therapists trained in CBT for ARFID, registered dietitians, and psychiatric providers who collaborate on each patient’s individualized plan. Our approach integrates graduated food exposure, CBT, nutritional rehabilitation, and ongoing medical monitoring within a structured three-days-per-week IOP framework, paced carefully to build tolerance without overwhelming you.
Begin Your Path Forward
HIPAA-compliant and completely confidential. Responses within one business day. No obligation. Most major insurance accepted, benefits verified before treatment begins.
Signs ARFID Treatment May Fit
ARFID in adults often goes unrecognized because restrictive eating can look to others like picky eating. It’s not. ARFID is a clinical condition that affects nutrition, physical health, work, relationships, and quality of life, and it responds well to structured, specialized treatment.
Our ARFID IOP sits in the clinically important middle between weekly outpatient therapy and higher levels of care. IOP-level treatment requires medical stability. If you’re not sure whether your eating patterns rise to the level of ARFID or whether IOP is the right fit, our team will listen, conduct a confidential clinical and nutritional assessment, and recommend what actually fits.
ARFID is treatable at any age. If you recognize yourself in the signs on the right, specialized help is available.
A very limited list of “safe foods,” often tied to specific brands or preparations, with real distress when they’re unavailable or changed
Strong sensory reactions to texture, smell, color, or consistency that go beyond preference and cause real distress
Intense, persistent fear of choking, vomiting, or an allergic reaction that significantly limits what you’ll eat
Low interest in eating overall. Forgetting to eat, experiencing food as a chore, or relying on supplements to meet nutritional needs
Avoiding restaurants, work lunches, dinner parties, or relationships because of food-related anxiety or lack of safe options
Not sure if IOP is the right level of care?
Our team can help you find out.
Schedule & Location
Our ARFID IOP meets three mornings a week for a 4-hour session block. The extended session length allows dedicated time for graduated food exposure work alongside group therapy, individual sessions, and nutritional counseling.
Our morning block lets patients maintain employment, attend school, or hold family responsibilities in the afternoon. Each 4-hour session includes graduated food exposure work, group therapy, individual check-ins, dietitian time, and medical coordination.
Our Tempe clinic is approximately 15 minutes from central Scottsdale and easily accessible from Phoenix, Mesa, Chandler, Gilbert, and Glendale via Loop 202 or Scottsdale Road. Free parking is on-site.
For medically stable patients who prefer remote care, our virtual ARFID IOP delivers the same schedule, the same specialized clinicians, and the same evidence-based protocols through secure, HIPAA-compliant video throughout Arizona.
Sessions run Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Virtual IOP follows the same schedule statewide. Call to confirm availability and begin a confidential intake.
Program Structure
Each session integrates three components of ARFID recovery: graduated food exposure, CBT for the anxiety and avoidance patterns that maintain ARFID, and nutritional rehabilitation with a registered dietitian.
Monthly Treatment Calendar
Every session integrates all three components. The grid below shows how the emphasis within each component rotates week to week, so patients cover the full arc of ARFID recovery over a four-week cycle.
What We Address
ARFID shows up differently in different people. Our Tempe program treats the full range of adult ARFID presentations with an individualized, evidence-based plan.
Strong reactions to texture, taste, smell, color, or consistency that go beyond preference. Treatment uses graduated exposure paced to your sensory profile, not forced desensitization.
Intense, persistent anxiety about adverse food experiences, often linked to a past traumatic event with food. Treatment uses CBT and exposure-based work to directly address the fear.
Little drive to eat, forgetting meals, or experiencing food as a chore. Treatment combines behavioral scheduling, structured intake, and dietitian support to rebuild adequate nutrition.
Weight loss, fatigue, hair loss, or lab findings tied to too-restricted intake. Registered-dietitian-led rehabilitation addresses deficiencies and reduces supplement reliance where appropriate.
Avoiding restaurants, work lunches, or relationships because of food-related anxiety. We help you rebuild the social side of eating alongside the exposure work.
ARFID commonly co-occurs with anxiety disorders, autism spectrum, ADHD, OCD, and sensory processing differences. Our team addresses these alongside ARFID so care is coordinated, not fragmented.
Our Approach
ARFID requires a specialized approach distinct from other eating disorders. Our Tempe program uses a multidisciplinary team to address the behavioral, sensory, nutritional, and anxiety-based dimensions of ARFID recovery.
Structured, step-by-step exposure to avoided foods at a pace you can tolerate. The goal is to reduce food-related anxiety and expand variety without overwhelming sensory or fear responses.
Cognitive behavioral therapy adapted for ARFID. Addresses the anxiety, avoidance patterns, and safety behaviors that maintain the condition, including fear of choking or vomiting and perfectionism around food.
Registered dietitians address nutritional deficiencies, establish adequate intake, and develop a realistic, individualized plan to expand food variety over time while respecting your sensory profile.
One-on-one sessions addressing personal ARFID history, trauma around food, co-occurring anxiety or sensory differences, and individualized recovery goals with a licensed eating disorder therapist.
Peer-supported sessions with others navigating ARFID recovery. Reduces the isolation and shame that commonly accompany ARFID in adults, and provides accountability in a safe clinical setting.
Coordination with your medical provider and board-certified psychiatric providers to monitor nutritional markers and manage co-occurring conditions throughout treatment, so ARFID recovery is medically safe at the IOP level of care.
Admissions & Intake
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 nutritional assessment, and scheduling so you can focus on recovery.
Most patients begin treatment within days of initial contact. Here’s what to expect.
Call our Tempe admissions team or submit the online form. We gather basic information and answer your initial questions about adult ARFID treatment.
We verify your coverage for ARFID treatment, including benefits, deductibles, and any out-of-pocket costs, before treatment begins.
A licensed clinician and registered dietitian conduct a comprehensive ARFID evaluation covering eating history, nutritional status, medical stability, sensory profile, and co-occurring conditions.
Start your individualized ARFID treatment at our Tempe clinic or via virtual IOP. Your exposure hierarchy, nutritional goals, and treatment plan are ready from day one.
The first week focuses on getting oriented and building your treatment foundation. You won’t be expected to try anything you’re not ready for.
Connect with your therapist, dietitian, and group members. Review your ARFID history, treatment goals, and how the program is structured.
Your registered dietitian conducts a comprehensive nutritional evaluation and begins building your personalized food-expansion and nutritional rehabilitation plan.
Work with your therapist to create a gradual, personalized hierarchy of food exposures, starting with the least anxiety-provoking and building systematically.
Begin ARFID-specific group therapy and individual sessions, focused on understanding your personal relationship with food and building foundational skills for expansion.
IOP Programs
Explore our full suite of intensive outpatient programs across Arizona and Texas. In-person and virtual options are available for all programs.
Insurance
Each location’s 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.
Frequently Asked Questions
ARFID (avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder, ICD-10 F50.82) is characterized by highly restricted eating due to sensory sensitivities, fear of choking or vomiting, or low interest in food, rather than concerns about body weight or shape. Unlike anorexia or bulimia, ARFID is not driven by body image distortion. It is a recognized DSM-5 clinical diagnosis that responds well to specialized treatment.
Yes. ARFID is commonly diagnosed in adults who have experienced restricted eating patterns since childhood. Many adults with ARFID have never received treatment, assuming their eating patterns were simply a personal preference rather than a treatable clinical condition. Our Tempe program specializes in ARFID treatment for adults.
Treatment includes graduated food exposure therapy to expand variety, CBT targeting anxiety and avoidance patterns, nutritional rehabilitation with a registered dietitian, individual therapy, and group sessions with peers navigating similar experiences. Treatment is paced carefully to build tolerance without overwhelming the patient.
IOP-level ARFID treatment requires that you are medically stable. Our intake assessment evaluates nutritional status and medical readiness. If stabilization is needed first, our team can coordinate an appropriate level of care before beginning IOP.
ARFID treatment focuses on expanding food variety, reducing sensory-based avoidance, and addressing fear of adverse food experiences, rather than addressing body image or weight concerns. The exposure hierarchy, pacing, and therapeutic approach are tailored specifically to the ARFID presentation, which is why working with a team experienced in ARFID is essential.
Most major insurance plans cover ARFID treatment when medically necessary. The Mental Health Parity Act requires coverage of eating disorders including ARFID on equal terms with other medical conditions. Our team verifies your benefits at no cost before treatment begins. Call (623) 288-3656 for a free insurance check.
Yes, for medically stable patients. Our virtual IOP for ARFID uses the same evidence-based protocols delivered through secure HIPAA-compliant video sessions, available to adults throughout Arizona.
Call (623) 288-3656 or submit the online form. Our admissions team verifies your insurance, conducts a confidential clinical and nutritional assessment, and schedules your first session. Most patients begin within days of initial contact.
Explore Related Programs
ARFID commonly travels with anxiety, autism-spectrum presentations, OCD, and sensory differences. Explore related SMHWI programs that may pair well with ARFID treatment or offer a better match depending on where you are in recovery.
Medically reviewed
Double board-certified psychiatrist and member of the Arizona Psychiatric Society. Clinical oversight for SMHWI Intensive Outpatient Programs across Arizona, including the specialized adult ARFID treatment program in Tempe.
Our specialized ARFID team understands the complexity of this condition in adults. We can answer your questions, verify your insurance, and schedule your confidential assessment, often within the same week.
In a crisis
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.
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.
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.
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.
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, 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.
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.
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.
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 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 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 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.
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 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.
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, 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.
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, 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.
