Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation is a drug-free, FDA-cleared treatment for major depression, OCD, and anxious depression. Delivered in-office at SMHWI clinics across Arizona and Texas, physician-supervised, most insurance accepted.
What Is TMS Therapy
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) uses focused magnetic pulses, the same underlying physics as an MRI machine, to activate the specific brain circuits that regulate mood. In depression, those circuits are often quieter than they should be. TMS wakes them back up.
What makes TMS different from every antidepressant on the market is what it doesn’t do. Nothing enters your body. There’s no chemical circulating through your bloodstream, no serotonin flooding your gut, no weight gain, no sexual side effects, no emotional flatness. The intervention is targeted to one region of the brain and stops when the session stops. The therapeutic effect builds over weeks because your brain is literally rewiring the connections that manage mood.
TMS has been FDA-cleared for major depression since 2008. It was later cleared for OCD, for depression that comes with heavy anxiety, and as a short-term aid for smoking cessation. Deep TMS variants extend the same principle to different brain regions and different clinical targets. Across SMHWI clinics in Arizona and Texas, TMS is delivered by trained clinical staff under the supervision of board-certified psychiatrists as part of a coordinated psychiatric care plan.
How TMS Works
TMS isn’t theoretical. Here’s what happens during a session and why the effect keeps building after treatment ends.
The TMS Protocol
TMS at SMHWI follows the standardized clinical protocol developed through two decades of FDA-cleared practice. Here’s the structure of a typical course — the facts of what happens, independent of any individual patient’s outcome.
Every patient’s treatment plan is individualized by their physician based on diagnosis, medical history, prior medication trials, and response as treatment progresses. Standardized rating scales at regular check-in intervals keep adjustments grounded in measurable data rather than guesswork.
Where To Get TMS
Pick your closest SMHWI clinic to see local hours, insurance, and the physician overseeing TMS at that site. Each clinic is physician-led and coordinates TMS with your full psychiatric care.
Conditions TMS Treats
TMS isn’t a first-line treatment for everything. It’s recommended when clinical evidence and patient history point to a strong chance of benefit.
Major depression that hasn’t responded to one or more antidepressants at adequate dose and duration. This is the primary reason patients pursue TMS.
Depression careDeep TMS is FDA-cleared as an added treatment for adults whose OCD keeps returning even with ERP therapy and medication. Works alongside standard care, not as a replacement.
Explore servicesDepression tangled up with heavy anxiety is uniquely exhausting and uniquely hard to treat. TMS is FDA-cleared for exactly this presentation.
Depression careDeep TMS is FDA-cleared as a short-term aid for adults trying to quit smoking. Available on evaluation for the right candidates.
Request evaluationGrowing evidence supports TMS as part of a broader psychiatric plan for PTSD, especially when depression is also present.
PTSD careConsidered case-by-case for adults with persistent anxiety that hasn’t responded to standard treatment. Requires individual physician evaluation.
Explore servicesWhy SMHWI for TMS
TMS works best when it’s part of a coordinated plan. At every SMHWI location, the team delivering your TMS is the same practice managing your medication and following up on your progress.
Every candidate is evaluated by a board-certified psychiatrist, not a nurse working from a checklist.
Your TMS provider is the same practice managing your medications and therapy — nothing gets lost between providers.
Clinics in Arizona and Texas. Pick the location closest to you and stay with the same team throughout treatment.
We verify benefits, secure prior authorizations, and confirm your out-of-pocket cost before your first session.
How TMS Compares
Different treatments suit different patients. This overview is for orientation only, not for choosing on your own. Your psychiatrist weighs the option that fits your history.
Insurance
Coverage typically requires documentation that at least one antidepressant didn’t work. Prior authorization is almost always required, and each SMHWI location’s admissions team handles the paperwork before your first session. Coverage details vary by state, plan, and location.
Frequently Asked Questions
TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) is a non-invasive, FDA-cleared treatment that uses focused magnetic pulses to activate underactive neural circuits in the prefrontal cortex — the part of the brain that regulates mood. It’s most often prescribed for adults with depression that hasn’t responded to antidepressant medication. Sessions are done in-office, awake, with no sedation.
TMS is FDA-cleared for major depression (including treatment-resistant depression), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), depression with anxious features, and as a short-term aid for smoking cessation. Off-label clinical use includes PTSD and generalized anxiety when standard care hasn’t been enough.
Clinical trials and real-world data consistently show that roughly 50–60% of patients with treatment-resistant depression respond to TMS, and 30–40% achieve full remission. Response typically begins within 2–3 weeks and often keeps building for weeks after the course ends. Individual results depend on your history, the protocol selected, and adherence.
For most adults with treatment-resistant depression, yes. Major commercial plans, Medicare, and Tricare cover TMS when medical necessity is documented — typically proof that at least one antidepressant didn’t work. Prior authorization is usually required. Coverage varies by state and plan; your local SMHWI clinic verifies benefits before your first session.
The most common effect is mild scalp discomfort or a headache during the first week, both of which usually settle down as treatment continues. Unlike antidepressants, TMS doesn’t cause weight gain, sexual side effects, fatigue, stomach problems, or emotional flatness. Serious side effects are rare. Your psychiatrist reviews your individual risk profile before recommending TMS.
TMS and ECT are often confused but are genuinely different treatments. ECT uses electrical current, requires anesthesia, and induces a controlled seizure. TMS uses focused magnetic pulses, no anesthesia, no seizure. You’re awake during TMS, you drive yourself home, and you’re back to your day. Side effect profiles are very different.
In most cases, yes. TMS works alongside virtually every psychiatric medication, and many patients stay on their current antidepressants throughout treatment. Your psychiatrist reviews everything you’re taking at evaluation and adjusts anything that could affect TMS response or safety.
TMS is available at SMHWI locations in Scottsdale, AZ, Tempe, AZ, and Rockwall, TX. Each clinic is physician-led and coordinates TMS with your full psychiatric care plan.
Pick the SMHWI location closest to you. Each clinic verifies your insurance before you commit to anything, and most patients start treatment within about two weeks.
In a crisis
SMHWI is an outpatient practice and cannot respond to emergencies. If you or someone you know is in danger or thinking about suicide, use these free, confidential resources, available 24/7.
Deborah was a nurse for 19 years before becoming a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Deborah became a Licensed Practical Nurse in 2004 and then graduated as a Registered Nurse with her Associate of Applied Science Degree in Nursing in 2012 from Excelsior College. In 2019 Deborah earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Capella University. Then Deborah graduated from Walden University in 2022 where she received her Master of Science in Nursing/Psychiatric Mental Health.
Before starting her journey of 7 years as an RN in mental health, Deborah worked in a variety of medical settings such as ER, Urgent Care, Oncology, Hospice, Med-Surg., Phone Triage, etc. But it was while working in the jail setting as a traveling nurse that she found her interest and passion for mental health since the prevalence of mental disorders within its population is high.
She then realized that many of the inmates were incarcerated for behaviors caused by their mental illness and that these types of facilities are not meeting the demand for treatment of psychiatric disorders. After finishing her travel assignment, Deborah decided to start working as a Psychiatric nurse and worked for institutions including Banner Behavioral Health, Phoenix Childrens Hospital, and Arizona State Hospital where she obtained experience with the children, adolescents, and adult population.
Deborah is passionate about mental health since she believes that individuals’ mental well-being is just as important as physical health. She has seen the impact it can have on individuals and society. Mental health is an often an overlooked aspect of overall health, and she believes that it is time for society to pay attention to it. Deborah believes that through advocacy she can work towards reducing the stigma surrounding mental health, ensuring that individuals receive the help they need without judgment or discrimination.
Deborah is eager to empower individuals to seek help, promote early intervention, and foster a supportive environment where her patients can thrive mentally and emotionally.
Hi! I am Arianna Saenz-Ochoa, a licensed professional counselor, and my journey towards helping others started when I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education & Special Education from Arizona State University and Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Grand Canyon University. I am a EMDRIA Certified EMDR Therapist and have completed advanced trainings and continue consultation in the application of EMDR with a focus on parts work, dissociation, and complex-attachment trauma.
My experience in providing therapy is mainly based in aiding others to find post-traumatic growth from childhood trauma and neglect, sexual abuse, and recovery from relationships with unhealthy dynamics of power / control. This also includes symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and self-harming behaviors. Most of my experience has been working in the outpatient individual setting with adults and teens.
I utilize a combination of skill developing approaches such as CBT, DBT, Parts Work, psychoeducation, and mindfulness training. As a result of client’s gaining enhanced self-awareness and lifestyle shifts, I encourage them when ready to process past negative experiences, utilizing the evidence-based therapy of EMDR, for sustained treatment progress.
I chose this profession due my own personal journey of post-traumatic growth from childhood trauma and negative cycles of behaviors. With lived experience, I find it an honor to create a meeting space where my clients can feel less judgement, be asked the tough questions, and release what pains them to find resolution.
Being born and raised in Arizona, you can find me escaping the heat with an iced coffee in hand, A/C blasting, and getting lost in a good book. You can also find me at community events supporting marginalized and oppressed folks, or on sniff-walking adventures with my pug mix, Lulu. These moments keep me balanced and energized to support my clients.
My name is Lamia Abdouni, and I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a background in both family and psychiatric nursing. I became a Registered Nurse in 2007 after earning my nursing degree from Mercy College of Northwest Ohio. In 2016, I obtained my Family Nurse Practitioner degree from Walden University, and in 2019, I earned my Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner degree from Binghamton University. I have been working in the field of mental health since 2014.
I specialize in the evaluation and treatment of a wide range of psychiatric disorders, with a particular focus on depression, anxiety disorders, and trauma-related conditions. I consider myself an interventional healthcare provider and believe in utilizing comprehensive treatment approaches tailored to each individual’s needs. My areas of focus include higher levels of care such as Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP), Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP), and residential treatment. I also have a strong interest and focus in innovative psychiatric treatments, including Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and ketamine therapy.
I chose this profession because I have always been passionate about helping people navigate some of the most challenging periods of their lives. I believe that mental health care requires compassion, understanding, and a commitment to finding effective, individualized solutions. The most rewarding part of my work is witnessing patients regain hope, improve their quality of life, and achieve meaningful progress in their mental health journey.
Outside of work, I enjoy swimming, roller skating, and strength training. These activities help me maintain balance, resilience, and energy, allowing me to continue providing thoughtful and compassionate care to my clients.
Danielle Siragusa, LCSW, is a behavioral health leader with a strong track record of building and scaling high-impact clinical programs. As Vice President of Behavioral Health, she brings a unique blend of clinical expertise, operational strategy, and people-centered leadership to her work, with a focus on delivering accessible, high-quality care.
Danielle began her career as a clinician, which continues to shape her leadership approach today. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, she has extensive experience working with individuals and families across a range of behavioral health needs. Her clinical foundation allows her to design programs that are not only evidence-based, but also practical, compassionate, and responsive to the real-world needs of clients and providers.
Throughout her career, Danielle has held progressive leadership roles, where she has led multidisciplinary teams, developed integrated care models, and overseen complex behavioral health operations. She is known for her ability to translate vision into execution, whether that’s launching new service lines, optimizing clinical workflows, or driving system-wide improvements in quality, access, and outcomes. Her operational strengths include program development, financial and performance management, regulatory compliance, and building scalable infrastructure to support growth.
A collaborative and mission-driven leader, Danielle is passionate about developing high-performing teams and fostering a culture of accountability, innovation, and continuous improvement. She values strong partnerships, both internally and across communities, and is committed to advancing behavioral health solutions that are sustainable, impactful, and person-centered.
My name is Barbara Reed, MSN, RN, PMHNP-BC, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Synergy Mental Health & Wellness in Rockwall, Texas. I earned my Master of Science in Nursing from Saint Louis University in 2014, building upon earlier years of service as a Hospital Corpsman in the United States Naval Reserve.
I specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, OCD, and mood disorders, working primarily with adults, and veterans. My approach to care is collaborative, holistic, and strengths-focused, and I often use medication management, CBT-informed strategies, motivational interviewing, and supportive therapy to support my clients.
I chose this profession because I believe every person deserves compassionate, dignified, and scientifically grounded mental health care, and I find it most rewarding to partner with clients in their healing journey—helping them rediscover stability, confidence, and the ability to thrive in their daily lives.
Outside of work, I enjoy cooking, learning new things, staying active with my family, staying current with psychiatric research, and attending AANP Health Policy Conferences, and I believe these activities help me stay balanced and energized to support my clients.
My name is Theresa Ngozi Onyia, and I am a Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner at Synergy Mental Health & Wellness Integrated in Rockwall, Texas. I earned my Master’s and post-master’s degrees from Walden University and hold certifications in Family/Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with AANP and ANCC.
I specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, adolescent care, working primarily with adults, teens, families, veterans. My approach to care is patient-centered, collaborative, evidence-based, and strengths-focused, and I often use CBT, DBT, mindfulness-based interventions to support my clients.
I chose this profession because I believe in the uniqueness of every patient and, thus, the importance of individualized patient needs and care. My goal is to apply the uniqueness of each patient to their treatment recommendations to address their health issues best for a greater outcome. Each patient deserves the most optimal mental well-being.
Meet Alejandra Vasquez, a dedicated board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner passionate about providing holistic and trauma-informed care to individuals across the lifespan. She earned her Master of Science in Nursing from Northern Arizona University and brings years of experience in psychiatric nursing, including crisis stabilization, detox and recovery, inpatient, and outpatient community mental health.
Alejandra has a special interest in supporting young adults as they navigate life transitions and mental health challenges. Her integrative and collaborative approach blends evidence-based psychopharmacology, psychotherapy, and lifestyle interventions to promote emotional balance, recovery, and wellness. Guided by compassion, empowerment, and education, Alejandra strives to create a safe and supportive environment where patients feel heard, valued, and actively involved in their care, helping them build resilience and achieve lasting wellness.
Outside of her clinical work, Alejandra values mindfulness, connection, and balance in her own life. She believes that healing is a journey best supported by compassion, self-awareness, and collaboration. Her passion for mental health stems from witnessing the profound impact of empathy and strength of resilience, inspiring her to walk alongside patients as they build meaningful, fulfilling lives.
Dr. Andrea Raby is a diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in General Psychiatry, holding additional certifications in Tele-Mental Health and Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT). Her educational journey commenced with a Psychology and Chemistry Undergraduate degree at Arizona State University, where she was a distinguished member of the Honors College. Dr. Raby furthered her medical training at the University of North Texas Health Science Center and completed her residency at Maricopa Integrated Health/County Hospital.
With over fifteen years of clinical experience in both community and hospital-based psychiatry, Dr. Raby brings a wealth of expertise to our team. Her commitment to the field is demonstrated through her provision of forensic evaluations and court testimonies. Currently serving as an Inpatient Attending at Valley Hospital, she showcases her broad proficiency in both inpatient and outpatient settings.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Dr. Raby’s life is enriched by her love for family, including her five children, and her dedication to endurance running. Her commitment to excellence and passion for improving lives make her an integral part of our exceptional team of psychiatrists at Synergy Mental Health and Wellness Integrated. We eagerly anticipate the privilege of serving you and guiding you on your journey to mental well-being. Your path to healing and hope begins with us.
Dr. Fariba Pfitzner is a distinguished board-certified psychiatrist specializing in adult, child, and adolescent psychiatry. Her illustrious career began with medical training at Ludwig-Maximillian University School of Medicine in Munich, Germany, laying the foundation for her impressive expertise. Driven by a commitment to continuous learning, she pursued a residency in adult psychiatry and a two-year subspecialty fellowship program in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at the University of Rochester in Rochester, NY.
Dr. Pfitzner’s professional journey includes a pivotal role as the Director of the Adolescent Inpatient Unit at the Arizona State Hospital. With extensive experience in community mental health clinics, she provided psychiatric services within a multidisciplinary team, fostering collaborative and comprehensive care. Dr. Pfitzner’s treatment approach emphasizes teamwork, involving patients, families, and other healthcare providers in the decision-making process.
Fluent in several languages, Dr. Pfitzner has earned a strong reputation in the Valley, where her contributions significantly support the Adolescent Intensive Outpatient Program at Synergy Mental Health and Wellness Integrated. Her dedication to teamwork and collaborative care reflects her commitment to providing exceptional psychiatric services and enhancing the well-being of her patients.
Dr. Bahar Altaha is an esteemed member of the Synergy Mental Health and Wellness Integrated team, bringing with her a triple board certification in General Psychiatry, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, and Psychosomatic Medicine. With a diverse medical background that encompasses training at the University of Hamburg School of Medicine in Germany, she has refined her expertise in Internal Medicine at Johns Hopkins Hospital and in General Adult and Child-Adolescent Psychiatry at West Virginia University.
Dr. Altaha’s accomplishments are noteworthy, including the receipt of the Community Service Award for Outstanding Leadership from the WVU Department of Behavioral Medicine and Psychiatry. Her influence extends to both national and international psychiatric spheres, contributing to publications such as the Sage Encyclopedia of Abnormal and Clinical Psychology and Current Psychology. Dr. Altaha’s multilingual abilities, encompassing English, German, Farsi, and French, significantly enhance her capacity to provide exceptional care to our patients. Her wealth of experience and dedication underscores our commitment to delivering comprehensive and outstanding mental health care at Synergy Mental Health and Wellness Integrated.
Meet Victoria Emanuelson, a nationally certified Physician Assistant, whose expertise enriches our team. Victoria’s professional journey took her from Stephens College in Columbia, Missouri, to the vibrant Phoenix area. Throughout her training, she acquired invaluable experience working with diverse patient populations across various clinical and geographic settings.
Passionate about patient care, Victoria specializes in serving individuals aged 17 and older. Her comprehensive services encompass psychiatric assessments, diagnoses, treatment plans, and medication management. Proudly affiliated with the American Academy of Physician Assistants and the Arizona State Association of Physician Assistants, Victoria is recognized for her empathy and collaborative approach to patient care. She places a special emphasis on patient education and strives to enhance the overall quality of life for those under her care. Welcome to the compassionate and dedicated support provided by Victoria Emanuelson, where your well-being is at the forefront of her commitment.
Meet Jose A. Rodriguez, a dedicated board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Jose earned his Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Oregon Health & Science University in 2013, followed by a Master of Science in Nursing with a specialization in Psychiatric Mental Health in 2021 from Frontier Nursing University.
Specializing in treating patients across their lifespan, Jose is particularly passionate about supporting military veterans dealing with PTSD, depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. With 9 years of experience as a critical care nurse and crisis nurse in Boise, Idaho, and a total of 20 years in the United States Army Infantry, including six years in active duty, Jose brings a unique and comprehensive perspective to his practice.
Jose is an Army Infantry Combat Veteran and retired Honorably as a Sergeant First Class from the United States Army after 20 years of faithful service. He spent time in the Middle East, Korea, and numerous places in the United States.
Not only does Jose provide evidence based pharmacological therapies to help patients struggling with their mental health, but he also utilizes a patient centered approach which individualizes the plan of care to the patient.
My name is Samantha Willen, and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner at SMHWI. I earned my Doctor of Nursing Practice from the University of Arizona and am board certified in Psychiatric-Mental Health.
I specialize in anxiety, depression, and substance use disorders, working primarily with adults with co-occurring disorders. My approach to care is collaborative and strengths-focused, emphasizing each client’s unique resilience and capacity for growth. I often use cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and mindfulness-based interventions to help clients build insight and develop practical coping skills.
I chose this profession because I have a family member who struggled with mental health challenges, and that experience showed me how important compassion and understanding are in the healing process. I find it most rewarding to build meaningful relationships with my clients and help them feel better and more hopeful about their lives.
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my husband and two daughters, and indulging in my guilty pleasure of watching Bravo shows.
Angela Ross, MS, LPC, is a Licensed Professional Counselor and a proud Arizona native. She earned her Master’s degree in Professional Counseling from Grand Canyon University in 2020. Angela has extensive experience working with individuals facing mental health challenges in both outpatient and inpatient settings. She specializes in working with adolescents, adults, and families, utilizing a variety of therapeutic approaches, including CBT, DBT, EMDR, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused therapy.
With a robust background in both individual and group counseling, Angela creates a supportive, collaborative space where clients feel safe to engage in meaningful self-exploration and growth. Her authentic and non-judgmental approach fosters strong therapeutic relationships, empowering clients to reach their full potential.
Outside of her professional work, Angela enjoys spending time outdoors, embracing the serenity and beauty of nature. She is deeply committed to helping individuals enhance their well-being, guiding them toward greater clarity, fulfillment, and overall quality of life.
My name is Dafna Oz and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker at Synergy Mental Health & Wellness Integrated. I earned my Master of Social Work from the University of New England and hold certifications EMDR and couple’s counseling.
I specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma and working primarily with adults. My approach to care is working together as a team to navigate challenges and achieve a healthier life, and I often use CBT, DBT, motivational interviewing interventions to support my clients.
I chose this profession because of my deep belief in compassion, resilience and the power of human connection, and I find it most rewarding to witness my client’s growth and healing, seeing them gain insight, strength and hope as they create positive changes in their lives.
Outside of work, I enjoy music, exploring new places and spending time with my family. and I believe these activities help me stay balanced and energized to support my clients.
Dr. Roland Segal, a distinguished psychiatrist, holds the role of Managing Partner and MD Psychiatrist at Synergy Mental Health and Wellness Integrated. Graduating from the University of Arizona, College of Medicine, he pursued his general psychiatry training at Banner Good Samaritan Medical Center in Phoenix, Arizona. Dr. Segal further refined his skills through a forensic psychiatry fellowship at the University of Southern California, Keck School of Medicine.
Dr. Segal has more than 10 years of clinical, administrative, executive and forensic experience. With double board certification in General and Forensic Psychiatry, Dr. Segal brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to our team. He served as the Chief Medical Officer at Valley Hospital in Phoenix, Arizona, president of the Arizona Psychiatric Society, chair of the legislative committee and a member of multiple state and national boards, committees and organizations. Dr. Segal is a clinical assistant professor of psychiatry at the University of Arizona, College of Medicine, where he regularly teaches medical students and residents.
Dr. Segal serves as a psychiatry expert consultant for a number of superior and regional courts including Salt River, Maricopa and Yuma County; city governments including Phoenix, Lake Havasu and Mesa; and organizations including the United Postal Service, Social Security Administration, Immigration Health Services, US Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Security.
Dr. Segal values objectivity, morality, ethics, mindfulness, and cultural awareness in a diverse society.
Dr. Segal’s unwavering commitment to comprehensive psychiatric care serves as a testament to his dedication to enhancing the lives of his patients across the state of Arizona and beyond.
Dr. Ehab Abdallah serves as the Managing Partner and MD Psychiatrist at Synergy Mental Health and Wellness Integrated. A distinguished professional, he earned his medical degree from Alexandria University in Alexandria, Egypt, and completed his psychiatry residency training at West Virginia University. Dr. Abdallah holds triple board certifications in General Psychiatry, Consultation-Liaison (Psychosomatic) Psychiatry, and Addiction Psychiatry and Medicine.
An expert in addiction medicine, Dr. Abdallah is experienced in treating psychiatric illness for those with complex medical and psychiatric conditions. Dr. Abdallah is an invaluable asset to our team with a commitment to providing quality care that is reflected in his unwavering dedication to the well-being of his patients.
Dr. Abdallah is also fellow of the American Psychiatric Association and a clinical assistant professor of psychiatry with the University of Arizona where he teaches medical students and residents.