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Same-Day Psychiatric Evaluation | Arizona & Texas | SMHWI
Urgent access · Same business day

Same-Day Psychiatric Evaluation when it can’t wait

When things are escalating faster than a scheduled appointment can handle, a same-day visit with a board-certified psychiatrist can get you a safety plan, a bridge prescription when it’s appropriate, and a real next step the same day you call.

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Same-day psychiatric evaluation at SMHWI across Arizona and Texas

What A Same-Day Visit Is

A bridge between what you’re feeling now and the care you need next

A same-day psychiatric evaluation is an urgent-access visit with a board-certified psychiatrist, available the same business day at participating SMHWI clinics. It’s built for the space between “this can wait two weeks” and “this is an emergency.” Most mental health crises live in that space, and most people don’t know what to do when they’re in it.

A same-day visit is shorter than a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation on purpose. The goal is rapid risk assessment, a bridge medication when it’s clinically appropriate, a written safety plan when relevant, and a scheduled follow-up before you leave. It’s not a replacement for a full diagnostic workup, and it’s not an ER visit. It’s what sits between them.

Call your closest SMHWI location first thing in the morning for the best chance of a same-day slot. The admissions team will tell you honestly whether same-day is the right level and route you to the right next step if it isn’t.

How It Works

What a same-day visit covers in 30 to 45 minutes

Shorter than a comprehensive evaluation on purpose. Focused on getting you safe, stable, and scheduled for the right next step.

1Call & triageCall your closest SMHWI location first thing in the morning. Admissions will ask a few quick questions to confirm same-day is the right level and verify your insurance.
2Rapid risk assessmentYour psychiatrist focuses on what’s driving the escalation right now: symptoms, triggers, substances, medications, safety.
3Bridge Rx when appropriateA short bridge prescription to stabilize the immediate situation, with a clear plan to review and adjust at follow-up. Not every visit requires medication.
4Written safety planIf risk is elevated, a written safety plan: warning signs, coping steps, people to call, 24/7 resources. You leave with a copy.
5Follow-up scheduledYour next visit (usually within 1–2 weeks) is booked before you leave. Often a comprehensive evaluation if the deeper workup is next.
6Higher level of care if neededIf a same-day outpatient visit isn’t enough, we tell you directly and help you get to the right level, including the ER or an inpatient referral.

When To Use This

Fits same-day. Doesn’t fit same-day.

The right level matters. Here’s how to tell.

Fits Same-Day

Your symptoms are escalating this week

Panic that’s now daily. Depression that’s worse than it’s been in months. Sleep collapsing. The baseline you were managing has clearly shifted and you need a psychiatrist to look.

Call a clinic
Fits Same-Day

A medication just stopped working or is causing side effects

Your current prescription suddenly isn’t cutting it, or something new is causing issues. A same-day visit can adjust the plan without waiting weeks for a scheduled slot.

Call a clinic
Fits Same-Day

Discharge from the hospital, needing urgent follow-up

You left an ER or inpatient unit with a prescription and no outpatient psychiatrist in place. A same-day visit bridges you into ongoing care.

Call a clinic
Does Not Fit Same-Day

You’re in immediate danger

Actively planning suicide, a method accessible, an intent today. Someone else at immediate risk of harm. Severe psychosis you can’t manage at home. These need 911, 988, or the ER, not an outpatient visit.

Call 988 now

Which Level Of Care Fits

Same-day vs. comprehensive vs. ER

Three different levels, three different problems they solve.

Consideration
Same-Day Psychiatric
Comprehensive Eval
ER / 988
Timing
Today, call morning-of
Scheduled, 1–2 weeks
Immediate / 24/7
Length
30–45 minutes
60–90 minutes
Variable, often hours
Best for
Escalating symptoms, med changes, bridge Rx
Diagnostic clarity, new patient, second opinion
Immediate danger, suicidal intent, psychosis
What you get
Safety plan, bridge Rx, follow-up booked
Full diagnosis, written treatment plan
Stabilization, possible admission
Cost
Outpatient visit, in-network
Outpatient visit, in-network
ER rates, often higher out-of-pocket

Participating Locations

Call your closest SMHWI clinic for same-day availability

Same-day slots are subject to availability on the day you call. First thing in the morning gives you the best chance. If a same-day slot isn’t open, we’ll book the next urgent slot and discuss interim resources.

Insurance

Covered by most insurance plans

Same-day psychiatric evaluations are billed as outpatient psychiatric visits and covered by most major commercial plans, Medicare, and Tricare. Admissions verifies your plan and quotes out-of-pocket cost before the visit.

AetnaBlue Cross Blue ShieldCignaEvernorthHumanaMedicareTricareUnitedHealthcarePlus other major carriers

Frequently Asked Questions

Same-day psychiatric evaluation, answered

A shorter urgent-access visit with a board-certified psychiatrist, available the same business day at participating SMHWI clinics. Designed for adults whose situation is escalating but who don’t require emergency department care. Focuses on rapid risk assessment, bridge medication when clinically indicated, a written safety plan, and scheduling the next step before you leave.

Choose same-day when your mental health is actively worsening, you can’t wait 1–2 weeks, and the situation doesn’t meet 911 or 988 criteria. If you’re safe but your current medication isn’t working, your anxiety has become unmanageable this week, you’re experiencing a flare of panic, or you need urgent review after a hospital discharge, same-day fits. If you have time to plan and want full diagnostic depth, a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation is the better choice.

No. SMHWI is an outpatient practice and cannot respond to true emergencies. If someone is in immediate danger of harming themselves or others, or is actively planning suicide, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department. Call or text 988 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. A same-day psychiatric evaluation sits between urgent care and a scheduled appointment, not between urgent care and the ER.

Same-day slots are offered at participating SMHWI clinics subject to availability on the day you call. Call your closest location first thing in the morning for the best chance of a same-day slot. If one isn’t available, admissions will book the next urgent slot and discuss interim resources.

Often yes, when clinically appropriate. A same-day visit frequently includes a bridge prescription to stabilize the immediate situation, with a plan to review and adjust at follow-up. Decisions about controlled substances are made by the psychiatrist based on history and clinical judgment and may not always happen at the first same-day visit.

Same-day psychiatric evaluations are typically billed as an outpatient psychiatric visit and covered by most major commercial plans, Medicare, and Tricare when SMHWI is in-network. Admissions confirms your plan and quotes any out-of-pocket cost before the visit.

You leave with a written safety plan when relevant, any prescriptions started during the visit, and a scheduled follow-up (usually within 1–2 weeks). If the situation calls for a deeper diagnostic workup, your psychiatrist will often recommend a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation as the next visit.

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 same-day psychiatric evaluations across Arizona and Texas.

Meet Dr. Segal Last reviewed October 2026

If today is the day it stopped waiting, call us

Call your closest SMHWI location first thing in the morning for the best shot at a same-day slot. If today is a true emergency, call 911 or 988.

See all locationsBecome a patient

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.