Health Solutions student strives to improve mental, behavioral health care while overcoming personal challenges

Editor’s note: This story is part of a series of profiles of notable fall 2024 graduates.

With more than two decades of experience as an advocate for mental health Obonganwan (Teresa) Umanah, a graduate student of the doctorate in behavioral health (management) program at the College of Health Solutions, persevered these last three years to earn her doctorate between brain surgery and the death of her mother.

In June 2017, it was determined she had a pituitary tumor. Umanah made the tough decision to undergo brain surgery to have the tumor removed in August 2022.

“Thankfully, my professors were incredibly supportive, providing the flexibility I needed to manage my coursework while recovering,” Umanah said. “Even when I faced further medical complications soon after the surgery, the empathy and accommodations I received enabled me to persevere.”

Umanah's strength and perseverance were tested again when a little over a year and a half later, in the last year of her degree, her mother passed away suddenly. She juggled selecting the topic for her capstone project, an internship, classes and a new job, all while arranging a funeral in Nigeria from the U.S.

“Navigating the grief while coordinating her funeral from the U.S. to Nigeria added significant stress,” Umanah said. “This experience, though painful, deepened my resolve to finish my degree and honor my parents.”

Question: What was your “aha” moment when you realized you wanted to study in the field you majored in?

Answer: My “aha” moment happened while working in a behavioral health facility, where I saw firsthand the depth of mental health challenges people face. It opened my eyes to the fact that many of us live in a bubble, often unaware of the struggles others endure. This experience sparked my passion to address mental health, reduce stigma and advocate for health equity and whole-person care. I also witnessed the profound impact that integrated behavioral health could have on individuals dealing with complex medical and mental health issues. By bringing these areas together, we could truly focus on whole-person care, not just isolated symptoms. This inspired me to pursue a path where I could help close health care gaps and promote accessible, affordable care that addresses both mental and physical health.

Q: Why did you choose ASU?

A: I chose ASU after carefully researching various programs. Many other schools offered doctorates in fields like social work or organizational leadership, but I wanted a program deeply rooted in health care without the licensure track. ASU’s Doctorate in Behavioral Health program was a perfect fit — each course aligned with my goals and drew on my 25 years of experience in health care. ASU’s College of Health Solutions provided a unique environment where I could learn from leaders in integrated health care and engage in real-world applications of behavioral health management, which aligned perfectly with my career aspirations. It was a clear choice after seeing the program’s focus and support.

Q: What’s something you learned while at ASU — in the classroom or otherwise — that surprised you or changed your perspective?

A: One thing that shifted my perspective was learning about psychosomatic illnesses. I knew mental health issues could affect physical health, but I was surprised by the extent of that connection. Conditions like anxiety and stress can manifest as physical ailments, from stomach pain to back issues, showing how deeply intertwined our mental and physical health care. I also learned the importance of systems thinking and how even small changes in one area of health care can have meaningful impacts across the entire care continuum. This knowledge has made me more aware of how trauma and stress can be at the root of physical symptoms, often overlooked in traditional health assessments.

Q: Which professor taught you the most important lesson while at ASU?

A: Dr. Lesley Manson taught me invaluable lessons, not only in the classroom but also about resilience and dedication to patient-centered care. Her unwavering commitment to student growth and her expertise in integrated initiatives have been incredibly influential in my journey, and I feel truly honored to have her guidance. Dr. Manson has shown me the power of compassion and dedication — there was a time I reached out to her with a question, even though she wasn’t my professor for that course. She not only took the time to help but also followed up to ensure I felt fully supported. The Doctor of Behavioral Health faculty professors are truly remarkable.

Q: What was your favorite spot on campus, whether for studying, meeting friends, or just thinking about life?

A: Since my program was online, I didn’t have a specific spot on campus. However, I truly enjoyed connecting with my classmates — especially those based in Los Angeles — through online group projects. Meeting people from diverse backgrounds who shared my commitment to health care was inspiring, and it was empowering to know that we were all on this journey together.

Q: What’s the best piece of advice you’d give to those still in school?

A: Never give up, and don’t hesitate to reach out when you need help. ASU has an incredible faculty who genuinely want to support students. If you’re in an online course, take the time to connect with your professors and attend virtual office hours or webinars. Building those relationships makes the experience more fulfilling and helps you feel supported. I would also advise staying curious and embracing challenges — the field of health care is always evolving, and the ability to adapt, keep learning and think critically will serve you well in your studies and career. Embrace each class and every challenge, keep pushing toward your dreams and remember that your professors are there to help you succeed.

Q: What are your plans after graduation?

A: After graduation, I plan to build my own health care consulting business focused on closing health care gaps through integrated health care and behavioral health interventions. I want to help bridge these gaps, promote overall wellness and support organizations in delivering comprehensive, patient-centered care integrated care. My goal is to make health care more accessible, particularly in underserved areas both in the U.S. and Nigeria, where I was raised. I look forward to giving back and supporting communities by advocating for health equity and expanding access to holistic, quality care.

Q: If someone gave you $40 million to solve one problem on our planet, what would you tackle?

A: I would invest in health care, as it forms the foundation for everything else in life. I’ve experienced the impact of limited access firsthand, having lost both of my parents to inadequate health care. I would address health care access disparities in underserved communities, funding initiatives that integrate behavioral health care into primary care, offer community-based health education and provide training for health care providers. My mission would be to create sustainable, holistic change so that everyone, regardless of their background, has access to quality, compassionate care.