Tempe

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

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

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

Dr. Regan O’Brien obtained her medical degree from Northeast Ohio Medical University. In 2015, she came to the Phoenix area to undergo residency training at Creighton University School of Medicine Valleywise Health Center (formerly Maricopa County Hospital). Throughout her training, she focused on working closely with the underserved population and gained expertise in treating individuals with complex and serious mental illnesses. Dr. O’Brien’s diverse background includes various experiences in outpatient settings, providing care to patients of different cultural, ethnic, and socio-economic backgrounds. After completing her four-year residency training, she served as an inpatient psychiatric consultant at Valleywise Health in Phoenix, AZ, before transitioning primarily to outpatient work. Dr. O’Brien has a robust foundation in psychotherapy, with a particular interest in treating young professionals.

Dr. Akshay Lokhande holds double board certification in General Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. He earned his medical degree from Grant Medical College in Mumbai, India, and completed his psychiatry internship at Saint Elizabeth’s Hospital in Washington DC. Dr. Lokhande pursued his General Psychiatry residency and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry fellowship at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, where he served as the Chief Fellow in his final year. Additionally, he holds a master’s degree in health care administration from the University of Southern California.

With extensive research experience in neuroscience and psychiatry, Dr. Lokhande has contributed to peer-reviewed journals. His treatment approach integrates biological, psychological, and social elements, delivering compassionate and evidence-based care through medication management and psychotherapy. Dr. Lokhande has expertise in addressing a diverse range of psychiatric conditions.

In his leisure time, he enjoys family moments, cooking, traveling, and hiking. Fluent in English, Hindi, and Marathi languages, Dr. Lokhande is dedicated to excellence and strives to enhance lives. Our team of outstanding psychiatrists at Synergy Mental Health and Wellness Integrated is ready to guide you on your path to mental well-being, offering support, compassion, and a commitment to your healing journey.

Vanessa Plumley, MSN, PMHNP-BC, is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a dedicated commitment to holistic care. Vanessa commenced her mental health journey in 2015 at Change Point, a level one psychiatric hospital in Show Low, AZ. Starting as a paraprofessional psychiatric aid, she developed a profound passion for mental health.

Vanessa obtained her Applied Science Practical Nursing Certificate in 2017 and earned her Associate of Applied Science Degree in Nursing in 2018 from Northland Pioneer College. In September 2021, she graduated from Frontier Nursing University in Kentucky with a Master of Science in Nursing/Psychiatric Mental Health.

Throughout her career, Vanessa has worked with diverse populations, including those struggling with substance abuse disorders, mental health disorders, and serious mental illness (SMI). Her experience includes roles as a Licensed Practice Nurse and Registered Nurse at Valley Mental Health and Chemical Dependency Hospital in Phoenix.

Vanessa strongly believes in the interconnectedness of mental and physical health, aiming to guide individuals toward a balanced well-being. Her holistic approach incorporates the latest evidence-based research into treatment plans. Emphasizing patient-centered and collaborative care, Vanessa envisions working as a team to provide individuals with the tools needed to achieve their unique goals. Recognizing the uniqueness of each person’s journey, Vanessa is dedicated to assisting individuals in developing their personalized and effective treatment plans.

Meet Ashlyn Tellers, an accomplished Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner bringing a wealth of experience to SMHWI. In 2020, Dr. Tellers earned her Doctorate in Nursing Practice from the University of Arizona, underscoring her unwavering commitment to advancing her expertise in the field.

With a decade devoted to serving mental health patients, Ashlyn has finely tuned her skills to deliver compassionate and effective care. Originating from Orange County, California, she embarked on a transformative journey by relocating to Arizona in 2011. This shift has granted her a unique perspective and a profound understanding of the diverse needs of individuals seeking mental health support.

Specializing in treating adult patients between the ages of 18 and 64, Ashlyn focuses on a variety of conditions, including anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, and ADHD. Her passion lies in making a positive impact on the lives of her patients, and she is dedicated to fostering holistic well-being. With a comprehensive approach and a rich background, Dr. Tellers stands as an asset to the SMHWI team, contributing her expertise to enhance the mental health care provided to the community.

In her free time Ashlyn enjoys Irish dancing, playing cornhole, shopping, exercising , and playing with her Weiner dog. Her favorite food is Fettucine Alfredo.

Shelly Ehmann, MA, LPC, brings over 28 years of counseling expertise, holding a master’s in counseling since 1994. Throughout her extensive career, Shelly has worked with families, individuals, and groups, offering services both in-office and within client homes. Specializing in various traumas and diagnoses, she has facilitated groups addressing substance abuse, depression, and domestic violence, working with survivors and perpetrators.

As a Certified Trauma-Informed Professional, Shelly provides person-centered and trauma-informed care. She employs diverse therapeutic modalities tailored to individual needs, drawing from a systems theory background and cognitive-behavioral therapy. Understanding the intricate interplay of people and events, she collaborates with clients to identify personalized treatment plans and goals.

Shelly’s approach is characterized by a laid-back demeanor coupled with goal-focused therapy. Her warmth, interactivity, and a good sense of humor create a supportive environment for clients. Shelly believes in acknowledging and addressing individuals’ experiences, fostering a therapeutic journey centered on understanding and healing.

Paula Kaye Martin, LISAC, holds a master’s in counseling and a master’s in leadership, bringing over three decades of experience to her counseling practice. Since 1990, Paula has provided services to individuals, families, children, and groups.

Guided by the Strengths-Based Philosophy, Paula empowers clients by leveraging their existing strengths to enhance their quality of life. With a versatile skill set, she employs various modalities tailored to each client’s unique needs. Paula has been a licensed Independent Substance Abuse Counselor since 2004 and is a Certified Trauma-Informed Professional.

Paula’s therapeutic approach is characterized by a relaxed yet goal-oriented demeanor. She frequently incorporates humor to navigate through issues with individuals, fostering an environment conducive to growth. With a philosophy of working hard and playing hard, Paula is not only a dedicated professional but also an avid traveler who finds joy in exploring new places.

Nicole Morin, MMS, PA-C, is a nationally certified physician assistant committed to delivering comprehensive and collaborative care. Graduating with honors in Health and Human Sciences from the University of Southern California in 2019, she later earned her master’s degree in physician assistant studies from Midwestern University in 2022 after relocating to Arizona.

With a background in various medical settings, Nicole is passionate about providing integrated care using evidence-based medicine. She advocates for her patients with an understanding and compassionate approach, ensuring their well-being is prioritized.

Alexandra Thomas, PA-C, is an experienced psychiatric provider dedicated to mental and behavioral health. Since 2020, Lexy has been working with children, adolescents, and adults in both inpatient and outpatient settings. She holds an undergraduate degree in psychology and Spanish from the University of Arizona. Before attending PA school, Lexy pursued a master’s in biomedical sciences at Midwestern University in Glendale, AZ. She completed her PA master’s degree at Chapman University in Orange, California, where she discovered her passion for mental health, gaining diverse experience in drug and alcohol rehabilitation, acute inpatient, and adolescent psychiatry. Lexy is adept at treating patients aged 10 and up.

In her free time, Lexy enjoys outdoor activities, exploring Phoenix’s culinary scene, and spending quality moments with her family, friends, and French Bulldog.

Alexandra “Lexy” has been a psychiatric provider 2020, working with children, adolescents, and adults. Lexy has worked in both the inpatient and outpatient settings. She completed her undergraduate degree at the University of Arizona studying psychology and Spanish. Prior to attending PA school, she first completed a master’s in biomedical sciences at Midwestern University in Glendale, AZ. Lexy completed her PA master’s degree at Chapman University in Orange, California which is where she found her passion for mental and behavioral health, working in many settings to include drug and alcohol rehabilitation, acute inpatient, and adolescent psychiatry. Lexy is experienced in treating patients 10 and up.

During her free time, she enjoys being active outdoors, exploring Phoenix’s growing culinary scene, and spending time with her family, friends, and French Bulldog.

Devon Mittelstaedt, MMS, PA-C, is a board-certified Physician Assistant dedicated to providing compassionate care in the field of Psychiatry. Graduating with a degree in biology from the University of Arizona, with an emphasis in biomedical sciences, Devon continued her education by earning a Master of Medical Sciences degree at Midwestern University in Glendale, Arizona. During her studies, she developed a passion for Psychiatry and a commitment to treating individuals with psychiatric ailments. Devon is devoted to delivering quality, inclusive care to diverse patient populations. In her leisure time, she enjoys reading, spending moments with loved ones, and embarking on adventures with her one-year-old doodle puppy.

Our team of highly skilled Physician Assistants brings extensive expertise and a compassionate approach to patient care. They focus on enhancing the quality of life and providing holistic support. As integral members of our team at Synergy Mental Health and Wellness Integrated, they play a crucial role in guiding individuals on their mental health journey. Your well-being is our top priority, and with our Physician Assistants, you’re in capable and caring hands.