Scottsdale's Experienced Mental Health Professionals Team Synergy Mental Health and Wellness Integrated

Scottsdale's Experienced Mental Health Professionals Team Synergy Mental Health and Wellness Integrated

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Licensed and Board-Certified Providers

Meet our distinguished team in Scottsdale, Arizona, where our licensed and board-certified professionals are wholeheartedly dedicated to integrative mental health and physical wellness. Driven by the expertise of our founders, Dr. Roland Segal, and Dr. Ehab Abdallah, both esteemed psychiatrists boasting multiple board certifications and over a decade of experience, our team is committed to offering holistic psychiatric treatment and integrative care.

We take great pride in our active involvement in regional and national professional organizations, emphasizing our commitment to staying at the forefront of advancements in mental health. Additionally, our affiliation with the University of Arizona as Clinical Assistant Professors of Psychiatry reflects our dedication to education and continuous learning.

Get acquainted with our exceptional team members below and their unique expertise providing you with compassionate, effective care. Your complete well-being is our top priority, and we are here to support you on your journey towards mental healing and physical wellness.

Managing Partners

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Dr. Roland Segal, M.D.

Managing Partner and MD 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.

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Dr. Ehab Abdallah, M.D.

Managing Partner and MD 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.

Psychiatrists Expertise

Within the realm of Synergy Mental Health and Wellness Integrated, our team of distinguished psychiatrists is unwaveringly committed to providing exceptional care to our valued patients. Each team member contributes a wealth of experience and expertise across diverse aspects of psychiatry, guaranteeing that our clients benefit from the utmost standard of treatment. From substantial research contributions to a global presence and a steadfast dedication to tele-mental health, our psychiatrists stand at the forefront of their respective fields, delivering compassionate care that has the power to transform lives.

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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.

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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.

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Dr. Andrea Raby, D.O.

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.

With a commitment to excellence and a passion for improving lives, our team of exceptional psychiatrists stands as the cornerstone of Synergy Mental Health and Wellness Integrated. We look forward to the privilege of serving you, guiding you on your journey to mental well-being. Your path to healing and hope starts with us.

Your Primary Care Partner

At Synergy Mental Health and Wellness Integrated, our Primary Care Provider (PCP) assumes a crucial role in guiding your journey towards enhanced mental and physical health. Prioritizing the vital connection between mind and body wellness, our dedicated PCP is committed to ensuring that your overall well-being is expertly managed. Experience the transformative impact our PCP can have on your life as we strive to elevate your health and happiness.

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Dr. Gargi Dwivedi, M.D.

Dr. Gargi Dwivedi, M.D., embarked on her medical journey at M.G.M. Medical School, Mumbai, India in 1999. Answering her calling, she completed her residency at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Phoenix, Arizona, in 2005, earning her board certification in Family Medicine. With nearly two decades of devoted service, she has become an integral part of the Scottsdale community, providing comprehensive office-based integrated care.

Dr. Dwivedi’s commitment extends to ensuring continuity of care, spanning multiple generations within families. Her passion lies in women’s health, advocating for mind-body wellness and championing lifestyle modifications and integrated medicine. Beyond her medical practice, she finds joy in quality time with her three children, indulging in her love for cooking, music, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle through activities like yoga. Dr. Dwivedi embodies a holistic approach to healthcare, enriching the lives of her patients and their families.

As our Primary Care Provider, Dr. Dwivedi is at the heart of our commitment to your well-being. With a deep dedication to comprehensive, integrated care, she brings decades of experience to the Scottsdale community. From adolescent to adulthood, our provider specializes in delivering personalized healthcare with a focus on women’s health and lifestyle modifications. We eagerly anticipate partnering with you on your journey to optimal health, offering support, continuity of care, and a holistic approach to wellness.

Our Primary Care Provider is at the heart of our commitment to your well-being. With a deep dedication to comprehensive, integrated care, she bring decades of experience to the Scottsdale community. From childhood to adulthood, our provider specialize in delivering personalized healthcare with a focus on women's health and lifestyle modifications. We look forward to partnering with you on your journey to optimal health, offering support, continuity of care, and a holistic approach to wellness.

Physician Assistants: Your Dedicated Partners in Well-Being

Encounter our team of compassionate and highly skilled Physician Assistants, an essential component of our unwavering commitment to your mental health and overall well-being. Armed with extensive clinical experience and specialized expertise, they play a pivotal role in delivering comprehensive care. Whether conducting forensic evaluations or providing outpatient support, our Physician Assistants bring forth dedication and a patient-centered approach to every interaction. Explore the collaborative spirit and compassionate care they contribute as valued members of the Synergy Mental Health and Wellness Integrated family.

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Tara M. Iacono, DMSc, PA-C

Your Compassionate Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine Specialist

Allow us to introduce Tara Iacono, a nationally certified physician assistant with a profound specialization in psychiatry and addiction medicine. Graduating with honors from the St. John’s University Physician Assistant program in 2006, Tara has established herself as a dedicated professional in the field. Her commitment to advancing her expertise led her to achieve a Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) with a focus on healthcare administration and leadership from Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions in 2021.

More than just a healthcare provider, Tara is a compassionate advocate for her patients, especially during their most challenging times. Her approach to patient care is characterized by a holistic perspective, collaboration, and a genuine sense of compassion. Tara Iacono stands as a trusted specialist, ready to guide individuals on their journey to mental health and recovery in the realms of psychiatry and addiction medicine.

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Victoria Emanuelson, MPAS, PA-C

Your Dedicated and Empathetic Physician Assistant

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.

Our team of 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. Our team of 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.

Nurse Practitioners: Your Compassionate Partners in Comprehensive Psychiatric Care

Discover our devoted team of Nurse Practitioners, integral in providing comprehensive psychiatric care. Committed to patient well-being and grounded in evidence-based practices, they bring a wealth of experience to the Synergy Mental Health and Wellness Integrated. Allow us to introduce you to these compassionate healthcare professionals who stand ready to support and guide you on your mental health journey.

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Samantha Willen, DNP, PMHNP-BC

Your Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Meet Samantha Willen, a dedicated Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Samantha embarked on her academic journey, earning a Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Sciences from Oregon State University in 2012. Subsequently, she pursued a master’s in science, Entry to Nursing in 2013 and achieved a Doctor of Nursing Practice in Psychiatric/Mental Health in 2018 from the University of Arizona.

With a background that includes two years at Maricopa Integrated Health Services (now Valley wise) and the past year at Lifewell Behavioral Wellness, Samantha has focused on working with individuals diagnosed with Serious Mental Illness (SMI). Samantha employs an individualized approach to mental health, utilizing evidence-based medicine to deliver high-value care to those she serves.

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Emina Foci, PMHNP-BC

Your Compassionate Adult Psychiatric/Mental Health Practitioner

Emina Foci holds a Doctorate in Nursing Practice with a specialization in Adult Psychiatric/Mental Health, complemented by a master’s in science and leadership. As a board-certified Adult Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, she brings a wealth of expertise to her practice.

Commencing her career as an RN in 2003 at Barrow Neurological Institute, Emina gained invaluable skills as a healthcare professional. In 2010, she transitioned into the role of a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, concurrently stepping into the realm of academia as a professor to pursue her passion for teaching and patient care simultaneously.

Throughout her career, Emina has worked across diverse areas of the mental health field, including inpatient, crisis, outpatient, SMI, and general mental health. Drawing from her extensive experience and natural problem-solving abilities, she approaches even the most complex cases with eagerness.

Emina’s genuine empathy and deep understanding of human experience manifest in her humanistic and down-to-earth approach. She is dedicated to improving your quality of life, emphasizing evidence-based practices to ensure your care is both safe and efficacious. With Emina Foci, rest assured that your mental health journey is met with compassion, understanding, and a commitment to evidence-based excellence.

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Logan Carton, NP PMHNP-BC

Your Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Meet Logan Carton, a dedicated Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Logan earned his bachelor’s in nursing from Grand Canyon University in 2014 and furthered his education by obtaining a Master’s of Science in Nursing with a specialization in Psychiatric Mental Health in 2022.

Logan’s professional journey includes two years as an ACT nurse at Terro’s before transitioning to the inpatient setting at Banner Behavioral Health Hospital. At Banner, he progressed from a floor nurse to a unit manager and eventually a house supervisor. Passionate about adopting a patient-centered approach, Logan is committed to being an integral part of a treatment team that contributes to individuals’ healing processes.

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Laura Hickman, FPMHNP-BC

Your Board-Certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Meet Laura Hickman, a dedicated Board-Certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (FPMHNP-BC). Laura’s academic journey began with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree from the University of Iowa in 2002, followed by the attainment of a Master’s of Science Degree in Nursing (MSN) from Saint Louis University in 2013.

Laura’s extensive training includes medication management internships at various private practices in Minnesota from 2009-2013, where she also received substantial training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy. With nearly a decade of experience, Laura has been providing evidence-based medication management and therapy care to adolescents and adults across the lifespan.
Having worked in Community Mental Health clinics and private practices in both Phoenix and Tucson, Laura brings a diverse and comprehensive perspective to her practice. Additionally, she has received training in advanced techniques such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT).

Laura’s provider approach is centered on empowering patients through team-based care, emphasizing collaboration between herself and the individual. She strives to instill hope and motivation, working alongside her patients to maximize the road to wellness. With Laura Hickman, rest assured that your mental health journey is met with expertise, compassion, and a commitment to comprehensive care.

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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.

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Sara Johansen

Sara Johansen is a highly skilled Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner and an esteemed member of the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners. In 2012, she earned her bachelor’s degree in nursing from Brigham Young University, marking the beginning of a diverse and impactful career in healthcare.

Throughout her professional journey, Sara has garnered extensive experience in various hospital settings, including medical, surgical, oncology, and orthopedic floors, as well as the ICU. Her outstanding contributions were recognized with three Daisy award nominations during her tenure in the hospital setting. Sara’s commitment to advancing her expertise led her to graduate magna cum laude with a master’s degree from Frontier Nursing University.

Driven by a passion for psychiatric and mental health, Sara is actively pursuing board certification in this specialty. Her experience in family medicine has fueled her desire to bridge the gap in primary care, providing comprehensive healthcare that addresses both physical and mental well-being.

Sara takes a patient-centered approach, prioritizing lifestyle changes to mitigate chronic illnesses. She emphasizes education and open discussion to create personalized and effective health and wellness plans with her patients.
Originally from northern California, Sara has lived in Utah, Hawaii, and has called Arizona home since 2015. In her leisure time, she enjoys a variety of outdoor activities such as running, hiking, camping, skiing, and paddleboarding. Traveling and spending quality time with her children, family, and friends are also cherished aspects of Sara’s life.

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Jose A. Rodriguez, PMHNP-BC

Your Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

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 18 years in the United States Army Infantry, including six years in active duty, Jose brings a unique and comprehensive perspective to his practice.

Currently serving as a Sergeant First Class in the Oregon Army National Guard, Jose recently relocated to Arizona with his wife and two sons, eager to explore the wonders of the “Grand Canyon State.” Beyond providing evidence-based pharmacological therapies for mental health challenges, Jose adopts a patient-centered approach that tailors the plan of care to everyone.

Experience exceptional psychiatric care with our dedicated team of Nurse Practitioners. Committed to evidence-based practice and armed with a compassionate approach, they stand ready to support you on your journey to mental wellness. Each practitioner contributes unique expertise, ensuring a holistic and individualized approach to your care. At the core of our mission is the belief in empowering you to achieve the best possible quality of life, and our Nurse Practitioners play a crucial role in fulfilling that commitment. Join us on the path to well-being, where your mental health is our top priority.

Administrative Staff

To reach out to our dedicated support staff, including our admissions department or practice administrator, please don’t hesitate to send an email to:
admin@smhwi.com
admissions@smhwi.com
MA@smhwi.com
Checkin@smhwi.com
Ma130@smhwi.com
Ma125@smhwi.com
or call our main line.

Billing: Billing@smhwi.com

If you or a loved one are experiencing a crisis or life-threatening emergency, please dial 911

· Central Arizona Crisis Line: (602) 222-9444 or (800) 631-1314
· National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: (800) 275-8255 (TALK)
· Teen Lifeline (www.teenlifeline.org): (602) 248-8336 (TEEN)

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