Psychiatry Residency - PGY3 Residents

Issam Awwad, MD

Undergraduate: Arizona State University
Medical School: University of Arizona College of Medicine – Phoenix
Why Arizona and UArizona College of Medicine – Phoenix​: Arizona has been my home since my family and I moved here when I was 5-years old. This state has provided my family and I with opportunities and assistance beyond what we could have ever hoped for. I wanted to stay here because I want to give back to the community that has done so much for my family. I chose Banner because of the amazing faculty and many available opportunities. As a medical student I rotated at Banner – UMC Phoenix for many of my rotations, and have felt this to be my second home. I am thrilled to come back and train under wonderful faculty to be the best physician and psychiatrist I can be.

Chase Crookham, DO

Undergraduate: Arizona State University
Medical School: Kansas City University College of Osteopathic Medicine
Why Arizona and UArizona College of Medicine – Phoenix​: Born and raised in Phoenix, I knew I wanted to return to the Phoenix area for residency and beyond. I knew UA College of Medicine – Phoenix was the residency for me after rotating through the program as a medical student. I immediately felt welcomed by all the residents and faculty. Everyone was so friendly, supportive and knowledgeable. It was also apparent that I would receive great clinical training here, so the decision was an easy one. Phoenix is an awesome place to live that offers numerous indoor and outdoor activities. I am excited to be a part of the College of Medicine – Phoenix and to call Arizona home again.

Nicki Janajreh, MD, MS

Carrie Lin, MD

Undergraduate: University of Arizona
Medical School: University of Arizona College of Medicine – Phoenix
Why Arizona and UArizona College of Medicine – Phoenix​: Arizona and home are synonymous to me, so I am excited to be near family and friends while continuing to be a Wildcat during residency. It’s been incredible seeing Phoenix develop over the years and exploring the diverse communities and recreational activities the city has to offer. Banner was easily my top choice when choosing a residency because I knew the residents, faculty and staff all exemplified kindness and humanism. I appreciate that residents are genuinely cared for and given autonomy in their education. Furthermore, this program offers a wide variety of opportunities that align closely with my academic and professional goals that will allow me to be a well-rounded physician.

Sara Pousti, MD

Undergraduate: University of Arizona
Medical School: University of Arizona College of Medicine – Phoenix
Why Arizona and UArizona College of Medicine – Phoenix​: I really love the collaborative, friendly culture of the program. The program is growing with lots of academic opportunities, research and fellowships. There is a strong foundation with diverse patient populations, exposure to psychotherapy in second-year and a wide array of electives for fourth-year in residency. Phoenix has been home. I love all the outdoor activities, year-round sunshine and great culture!

Collin Xa, MD

Undergraduate: Claremont McKenna College
Medical School: George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences
Why Arizona and UArizona College of Medicine – Phoenix​: I grew up in Arizona and after moving away for college and medical school, I decided to come back to Arizona for residency because I wanted to be closer to family; and I missed all the outdoor activities Arizona has to offer. I ultimately chose the College of Medicine – Phoenix​ because the faculty were very approachable; there were numerous opportunities to work in both inpatient and outpatient settings with a diverse patient population; and the program provided a good balance between community and academic psychiatry.