Judith Montero, PsyD

Chief Clinical Officer

Dr. Judy Monteroholds a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology with a concentration in Neuropsychology. Before transitioning to the pharmaceutical industry in 2003, she worked in a multidisciplinary clinical setting providing psychological services and conducting neuropsychological assessments for diverse populations. Her work included diagnosis, development, and implementation of behavioral interventions for individuals with neurocognitive disorders.

With over 20 years of experience in the clinical research industry, Dr. Montero has participated in hundreds of clinical trials—both at the site level as an investigator and rater, and within the CRO environment. During her tenure at Syneos Health, her extensive on-site experience proved invaluable in her role as Lead Clinical Scientist within the Clinical Surveillance & Training group.

As Director of Clinical Assessments in a national clinical research network of sites, Dr. Montero developed and implemented a comprehensive rater development program designed to enhance training and oversight across the organization. Her leadership in rater training contributed significantly to minimizing placebo response and ensuring high-quality trial outcomes.

Currently serving as Chief Clinical Officer at NextPhase Research, Dr. Montero oversees all clinical research activities to ensure they are scientifically rigorous, ethically sound, and operationally efficient. She plays a key role in supporting the site’s growth while upholding the highest standards of patient safety and data integrity.

Dr. Montero is fully bilingual in English and Spanish, with extensive experience administering clinical assessments and delivering professional training in both languages.

Curriculum VitaeDownload

Terry Piedra, BS, CCRC

Chief Strategy Officer & Founder | NextPhase Research 

Terry Piedra stands out as a prominent leader in clinical research, recognized for her dedication and enthusiasm for the field. She is excited to announce her latest venture, NextPhase Research, in partnership with Howard Schwartz, MD, Peter Ventre, MD, and Maria Campanioni.

As the Chief Strategy Officer, Terry leverages over 24 years of expertise in clinical trial execution, driving business growth while ensuring the delivery of exceptional outcomes. Her extensive knowledge encompasses all facets of clinical trials, including business development and clinical operations, with a focus on areas such as vaccines, psychiatry, psychedelics, neurology, and metabolic diseases across all trial phases. 

Terry places a strong emphasis on participant safety throughout the entire trial process, maintaining the highest quality standards from start to finish. Her vast experience enables her to adopt a comprehensive perspective, motivating her team to navigate and complete studies with efficiency. Her leadership approach promotes collaboration and fosters innovative solutions, which are crucial for achieving project objectives and enhancing overall success. 

Highly regarded within the industry, Terry has cultivated robust relationships with sponsors and CRO partners, facilitating effective collaboration and contributing to successful project outcomes. Her deep insight into her industry is vital for nurturing and strengthening essential business connections. This commitment to relationship-building is fundamental to the success of her projects and solidifies her reputation as a leader in clinical research.

Outside of her professional endeavors, Terry enjoys her time as a devoted wife and baseball mom, often found at baseball events or indulging in her passion for deep-sea fishing.

Curriculum VitaeDownload

Judith Montero, PsyD

Chief Clinical Officer

■ ABPN Board Certified in Psychiatry
■ Universidad Iberoamericana, 2001
■ Mount Sinai School of Medicine, 2007
■ University of Florida Department of Psychiatry, 2008
■ Founder and CEO of VMA and RCA (2011)
■ Chairman, Department of Psychiatry
■ Broward Health Medical Center

Curriculum VitaeDownload

Maria Companioni, DNP, APRN-BC

Chief Executive Officer & Founder | NextPhase Research 

Dr. Maria Companioni is a driving force in psychiatric and neuromodulation research, with over 100 CNS and vaccine trials executed under her leadership. With a Doctorate in Nursing Practice and dual board certification, she brings deep clinical expertise and operational command to every phase of trial execution.

As CEO of NextPhase Research and Clinical Director of Neuromodulation at My TMS, she has led innovation in patient recruitment, mapping, and protocol adherence across schizophrenia, MDD, bipolar disorder, autism, suicidality, and neurodegenerative conditions. Her work is known for translating patient care precision into high quality, sponsor ready data.
 
Together with Dr. Peter Ventre and Dr. Howard Schwartz, Dr. Companioni is shaping a forward focused clinical research team grounded in speed, scientific rigor, and reliability. Her contributions have been featured at ASCP, ISCTM, and CNS Summit, reflecting her commitment to advancing measurement-based care and collaborative research.

Curriculum VitaeDownload

Dr. Peter Ventre

Chief Psychiatric Officer & Founder | NextPhase Research 

Dr. Peter Ventre stands at the forefront of psychiatric clinical research in Florida. As a board-certified psychiatrist and seasoned Principal Investigator, Dr. Ventre has led hundreds of Phase I–IV trials in schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, MDD, ADHD, Alzheimer’s, and treatment-resistant depression. His two decades of experience in CNS research have shaped some of the most impactful studies in the field.

As CEO of My Psychiatrist, one of South Florida’s most influential psychiatric practices Dr. Ventre has built a powerful bridge between real world clinical care and cutting-edge research. Today, he serves as Cofounder and Chief Psychiatric Officer of NextPhase Research, working in close collaboration with Dr. Howard Schwartz, and Dr. Maria Companioni to establish a sponsor ready ecosystem focused on scientific integrity, executional excellence, and speed.
 
With a proven track record contributing to multiple FDA approvals, Dr. Ventre continues to be a trusted partner for sponsors and CROs seeking rapid startup, reliable patient populations, and high-quality data. His leadership brings together innovation, integration, and compassion delivering research that advances both science and care.

Curriculum VitaeDownload

Dr. Howard I. Schwartz

Chief Medical Officer & Founder | NextPhase Research

Dr. Howard I. Schwartz is a pioneer in CNS clinical research with more than 1,000 Phase I–IV trials led across psychiatry, neurology, and vaccines. Board-certified in Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology, he has translated decades of clinical precision into a leadership role advancing Florida’s psychiatric research landscape.

As a founding partner at NextPhase Research, Dr. Schwartz is part of a unified team alongside Dr. Peter Ventre, and Dr. Maria Companioni, driving operational excellence and scientific advancement in high impact, multi-site trials. His work spans early phase innovation, rare populations, and pivotal studies, making him a valued partner for CROs and sponsors aiming to accelerate development without sacrificing quality.
 
With a deep history in advisory, DSMB participation, and medical monitoring, Dr. Schwartz is passionate to work with pharmaceutical, Biotech and CRO sponsors on projects that require significant medical oversight and early proof of concept trials. Dr. Schwartz brings strategic clarity and regulatory foresight to every trial. For sponsors looking to re-enter Florida’s trial market with a seasoned, high-performing site network. Dr. Schwartz and the NextPhase team offer proven experience and trusted execution.

Curriculum VitaeDownload

Participate in Clinical Research

Join a community of volunteers helping advance medical science while receiving expert care and contributing to future treatments.

Why Participate in a Clinical Study?

Clinical trials offer many benefits for participants while helping to advance medical research.

Expert Care

Receive close monitoring and care from leading medical professionals throughout your participation.

No Cost

Study-related care, tests, and medications are provided at no cost to participants.

Compensation

Participate in a clinical trial and get compensation for your time and travel.

Make a Difference

Help advance medical research and improve treatments for future patients.

Current Studies Recruiting

We’re currently enrolling participants for studies in various therapeutic areas.

Obesity Phase 3b
Pre-Enrolling

Obesity – GLP-1

Patient Stipend $4,650
Age Range ≥18 years
Duration Add some info
Learn More & Apply ›
Vaccines Phase 4
Enrolling

Covid Vaccine 1273/1283

Patient Stipend $380
Age Range 50-64
Duration Add some info
Learn More & Apply ›
Schizophrenia Phase 3
Enrolling

Schizophrenia – Outpatient

Patient Stipend $6,555, potential travel reimbursement
Age Range 18-65
Duration Add some info
Learn More & Apply ›
Schizophrenia Phase 3
Enrolling

Schizophrenia – Inpatient Stabilization

Patient Stipend $5,855, $200/per night, potential travel reimbursement
Age Range 18-65
Duration Add some info
Learn More & Apply ›
MDD Phase 3
Enrolling

Major Depressive Disorder – Outpatient

Patient Stipend $775
Age Range 18-65
Duration Add some info
Learn More & Apply ›
MDD Phase 3
Enrollment Closed

Major Depressive Disorder

Patient Stipend $1,625 plus $1 daily for dose taken
Age Range 18-65
Duration Add some info
Learn More & Apply ›

Your Rights as a Participant

Your safety, privacy, and well-being are our top priorities.

Voluntary Participation

You can leave a study at any time for any reason without penalty or loss of benefits.

Privacy Protection

Your personal information and medical records are kept strictly confidential and secure.

Full Information

You have the right to ask questions and receive clear answers about the study at any time.

What to Expect

Participating in a clinical study is a straightforward process designed with your comfort and safety in mind.

Initial Screening

We’ll review your medical history and assess if you qualify for available studies.

Informed Consent

Our team will explain the study in detail so you can make an informed decision.

Regular Visits

Attend scheduled appointments for monitoring, assessments, and treatment.

Ongoing Support

Our medical team is available 24/7 for questions and support throughout the study.

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to Join a Study?

Contact us today to learn more about current opportunities and see if you qualify.

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