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Synergy: Mental Health & Wellness Integrated

THIS NOTICE IS REQUIRED BY LAW (FEDERAL REGULATION 45 CFR PARTS 160 & 164) AND DESCRIBES HOW HEALTH INFORMATION ABOUT YOU MAY BE USED AND DISCLOSED AND HOW YOU CAN GET ACCESS TO THIS INFORMATION.
PLEASE REVIEW IT CAREFULLY.
THIS PRIVACY OF YOUR HEALTH INFORMATION IS IMPORTANT TO US.


WHO WILL FOLLOW THE PRIVACY PRACTICES IN THIS NOTICE
We provide health care to our patients. This Notice of Privacy Practices (“Notice”) describes how we will use and disclose medical information. The privacy practices described in this Notice will be followed by:
• Any member of our workforce authorized to access your medical record.

I. OUR COMMITMENT TO SAFEGUARD YOUR MEDICAL INFORMATION

Each time you visit our facility, a record of your visit is made. The information we create or receive about your past, present or future physical or mental health is called protected health information (“PHI”). Your medical record is a means of communication among the health professionals who care for you. PHI may include documentation of your symptoms, examination, test results, diagnoses, and treatment. It also includes documents related to billing and payment for care provided.

We are committed to protecting the privacy of your medical information. We are required by law to:

  • maintain the privacy of your medical information;
  • provide you with this Notice about our privacy practices that explains how, when, and why we use and disclose your PHI;
  • abide by the terms of the current Notice;
  • make a good faith effort to obtain your written acknowledgment that you have received this Notice; and
  • notify you following a breach of your unsecured PHI.


II. HOW WE MAY USE AND DISCLOSE MEDICAL INFORMATION ABOUT YOU
This Notice informs you about the ways in which we may use and disclose medical information about you. The following categories describe different ways that we use and disclose medical information. For each category of uses or disclosures, we explain what we mean and give some examples to help you better understand the meaning. If a use or disclosure is not included in one of these categories, we will seek your permission first.


Uses and Disclosures Without Your Permission
The following categories describe different ways that we are permitted to use and disclose your medical information without your permission (which is called an “authorization” under HIPAA).

For Treatment. We may use and disclose your medical information to provide you with medical treatment and services. We may disclose medical information about you to doctors, nurses, technicians, medical students, and other health care personnel who provide you with health care services or are involved in taking care of you. You may also be referred outside our facility for treatment and information will be shared to facilitate that referral.

For Payment. We may use and disclose your medical information to bill and collect payment for the treatment and services provided to you. This information may include your diagnoses, procedures and supplies used. For example, we may need to give your health insurance plan information about your visit so your health insurance plan will pay us for the visit. We may also contact your health insurance plan to obtain prior approval for treatment you are going to receive or to determine whether it is covered by your plan. We also may provide information about you to other health care providers that have treated you or provided services to you to assist them in obtaining payment.

For Health Care Operations. We may use and disclose your medical information for operations necessary for our facility to function and make sure our patients receive quality care. For example, we may use your medical information in order to evaluate the quality of health care services that you received or to evaluate the performance of the health care professionals who provided health care services to you. This information may also be used in an effort to continually improve the quality and effectiveness of the health care and services we provide. We may disclosure your medical information to another health care provider or a health plan that you have a relationship with, for their operations’ activities.

Business Associates. We may disclose your medical information to other companies that help us. These business associates may include billing companies, claims processing companies, collection agencies, accountants, attorneys, consultants, and others that assist us with payment activities or health care operations. We contractually require our business associates to safeguard the privacy and security of your PHI.

Individuals Involved in Your Care or Payment for Your Care. We may disclose medical information about you to a family member, personal representative, or other person involved in your care or responsible for payment of your health care services. We may also discuss your condition with your family or friends. If you do not want us to share information with your family or others involved in your care, please contact the person listed in Section V of this Notice.

Food and Drug Administration (FDA). We may disclose your medical information to a person or company subject to the jurisdiction of the FDA to report adverse events, product defects or problems or biologic product deviations; to track FDA-regulated products; to enable product recalls; or for other purposes related to the quality, safety or effectiveness of a product or activity regulated by the FDA.

Public Safety. We may disclose medical information for public safety purposes in limited circumstances. We may disclose medical information to law enforcement officials in response to a search warrant or a grand jury subpoena. We also may disclose medical information to assist law enforcement officials in identifying or locating a person, to prosecute a crime of violence, to report deaths that may have resulted from criminal conduct, and to report criminal conduct at the facility. We also may disclose your medical information to law enforcement officials and others to prevent a serious threat to health or safety. Judicial and Administrative Proceedings. We may disclose medical information if we are ordered to do so by a court, for an administrative hearing, or if we receive a subpoena or a search warrant. You will receive advance notice about this disclosure in most situations so that you will have a chance to object to sharing your medical information.

Coroners, Medical Examiners and Funeral Directors. We may disclose health information consistent with applicable law to coroners, medical examiners, and funeral directors to assist them in carrying out their duties.

Research. Under certain limited circumstances, we may use and disclose your medical information for research purposes. For example, a research project may involve comparing the health and recovery of all patients who receive one medication to those who receive another for the same condition. All research projects are subject to a special approval process. Before we use or disclose medical information for research, the project will have been approved through this research approval process.

Reports Required by Law. We will disclose your medical information when required to do so by federal, state, or local law. For example, we make disclosures when a law requires that we report information to government agencies and/or law enforcement personnel about victims of abuse, neglect, or domestic violence; to report reactions to medications or problems with products; or to notify people of product recalls.
Health Oversight Activities. We may disclose medical information to a health oversight agency for activities authorized by law, such as audits, investigations, inspections, and licensure.

Workers’ Compensation. We may disclose your medical information to the extent necessary to comply with laws relating to workers’ compensation or similar programs providing benefits for work-related injuries or illness.

Military, Veterans, National Security and Other Government Purposes. If you are a member of the armed forces, we may release your health information to military command authorities or to the Department of Veterans Affairs if they require us to do so. We may also disclose medical information for certain national security purposes and to the Secret Service to protect the president. Correctional Institutions. If you are or become an inmate of a correction institution or under the custody of a law enforcement official, we may disclose your medical information to the correctional institution or law enforcement official. This disclosure may be necessary for the institution (i) to provide you with health care; (ii) to protect your health and safety or the health and safety of others; or (iii) for the safety and security of the correctional institution.

Appointment Reminders. We may use or disclose your medical information to provide you with appointment reminders, such as voicemail messages, postcards, or letters.

Laboratory/Pathology/Culture Results. All patients are attempted to be notified of their results by telephone. It is your ultimate responsibility to call our office for your results if we are unable to reach you


Uses and Disclosures Requiring Your Permission
Other uses and disclosures of medical information not covered by this Notice will be made only with your written permission. If you provide us
permission to use or disclose medical information about you, you may revoke that permission, in writing, at any time. If you revoke your permission, we
will no longer use or disclose medical information about you for the reasons covered by your written authorization, but we cannot take back any
disclosures we have already made based on the permission you gave us before. If you want to revoke your permission, please contact the person listed in
Section V of this Notice.
Marketing Activities. We will not use or disclose your PHI to sell you products or services to a third party unless you provide permission. We may suggest
products or services to you during our face-to-face communications.

Sale of PHI. We will not sell your PHI to third parties without your permission.
Medical Information That Has Special Protection
Mental Health Records. The use and disclosure of information obtained in the course of providing mental health services are protected by federal and
state laws. We may communicate information for treatment purposes to qualified professionals, for payment purposes or if we receive a court order.
Otherwise, we may not disclose any of your mental health information without your permission.
Alcohol and Drug Abuse Patient Records. Use and disclosure of any medical information about you relative to alcohol or drug abuse treatment
programs, is protected by federal law. Generally, we will not disclose any information identifying you as a recipient of alcohol or drug abuse treatment
unless: (i) you have consented in writing; (ii) we receive a court order requiring the disclosure; or (iii) the disclosure is made to medical personnel in a
medical emergency or to qualified personnel for research, audit, or program evaluation.
HIV/AIDS Information. Use and disclosure of any medical information about you relative to HIV testing, HIV status, or AIDS, is protected by federal and
state law. Generally, we will need your permission to disclose this information; however, state law may allow for disclosure of information for public
health purposes.

Minors. As a general rule, we disclose PHI about minors to their parents or legal guardians. However, in instances where state law allows minors to
consent to their own treatment without parental consent (such as HIV testing), we will not disclose that information to a minor’s parents without the
minor’s permission unless otherwise specifically allowed under state law.

III. YOUR RIGHTS REGARDING YOUR MEDICAL INFORMATION
The following section describes your rights:

The Right to Inspect and Obtain a Copy of Your Medical Information. You have the right to see and receive a paper or electronic copy of medical
information, with limited exceptions. (The law requires us to keep the original record.) Usually, this includes your medical and billing records. To inspect
and/or receive a copy of your medical information, you must make a request in writing. If you request a copy of the information, we may charge you $25.00.
If your records are transferred to another physician, there is no fee charged.
The Right to Amend. If you believe that medical information, we have about you is incorrect or incomplete, you have the right to request that we correct
the existing information or add missing information. To request an amendment, you must make the request in writing along with your reason for the
request to the person listed in Section V below.

The Right to a List of Disclosure. You have the right to request a list of certain disclosures of your medical information. To request this list or accounting
of disclosures, you must submit a request in writing indicating a time period, for the past 6 years to the person listed in Section V below. The first list you
request within a 12-month period will be free. For additional lists during the same year, we may charge you for the costs of providing the list. We will
notify you of the cost involved and you may choose to withdraw or modify your request at that time before any costs are incurred.
The Right to Request Restrictions on How We Use and Disclose Your Medical Information. You may ask us not to use or disclose your medical
information for a particular reason related to treatment, payment, or health care operations. We will consider your request, but we are not legally
obligated to agree to a requested restriction except in the following situation: if you have paid for services out-of-pocket in full, you may request that we
not disclose information related solely to those services to your health plan.


We are required to abide by such a request, except where we are required by law to make the disclosure. To request restrictions on the use or
disclosure of your PHI, you may do so at the time you register for services or by contacting the person listed in Section V below.

The Right to Request Confidential Communications. You have the right to ask that medical information about you be communicated to you in an
alternate confidential manner, such as asking that appointment reminders not be left on an answering machine, that mail be sent to an alternate address,
or that notices or reminders be sent by e-mail instead of regular mail. We will agree to all reasonable requests so long as we can easily provide it in the
format you request. To request medical information be sent to an alternative address or by other means, please contact the person listed in Section V
below in writing, or in a clinic setting, please contact the practice manager.
The Right to Breach Notification. You have the right to be notified in the event of a breach in the privacy or security of your protected health information.

IV. COMPLAINTS
If you believe that we may have violated your rights with respect to your medical information, you may file a written complaint with the person listed in
Section V below. You also may send a written complaint to the Office for Civil Rights, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 200 Independence
Avenue S.W., Room 515F, HHH Building, Washington, D.C. 20201 within 180 days of an alleged violation of your rights. You will not be penalized for filing a
complaint about our privacy practices. You will not be required to waive this right as a condition of treatment.

V. PERSON TO CONTACT FOR INFORMATION ABOUT THIS NOTICE OR TO COMPLAIN ABOUT OUR PRIVACY PRACTICES
If you have any questions about this Notice or wish to make a complaint about our privacy practices, please contact our Privacy Officer at (480) 508-0882. Formal complaints must be in writing to ATTN: Privacy Officer, Synergy Mental Health & Wellness Integrated, 8350 Raintree Dr. Suite 130, Scottsdale, AZ, 85260.

VI. CHANGES
We reserve the right to change the terms of this Notice and our privacy policies at any time. We reserve the right to make the revised Notice effective for medical information we already have about you as well as any information we receive in the future. Before we make an important change to our policies, we will promptly change this Notice and post a new Notice in our registration area. The Notice will contain the effective date. You can also request a copy of this Notice from the contact person listed in Section V.

VII. ACKNOWLEDGMENT
We are required by law to make a good faith effort to provide you with our Notice of Privacy Practices. Your continued use of our site will be considered an acknowledgment from you that you received.

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.