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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Transforming the Future of Medicine


Contributing to the development of new medications by conducting trials at the highest ethical standards.

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Our Commitment

Mission and Vision of NextPhase Research

Our Mission Statement

Driven by decades of clinical research excellence, we are dedicated to shaping the future of medicine. By combining proven expertise, innovative technology, and compassionate, patient-centered care, we support the discovery and refinement of new therapies. Our mission is to accelerate meaningful progress and deliver better outcomes—today and for generations to come.

Our Vision

We envision a world where groundbreaking medical advancements lead to improved health outcomes, providing hope and innovative solutions to patients and communities globally.

Our Journey

The Story Behind NextPhase Research

Founded with a passion for improving patient lives, NextPhase Research has become a trailblazer in clinical trials. Our journey is marked by countless partnerships, innovative scientific explorations, and a steadfast commitment to transforming healthcare for the better.

Every trial and breakthrough we create reflects our dedication to patient welfare and medical advancement, guiding our mission to foster a healthier tomorrow.

Our areas of expertise

Comprehensive Clinical Research Solutions

  • Mental Health (CNS)
  • Gastroenterology / Hepatology
  • Vaccines
  • Psychedelic Work
  • Substance Abuse & Addiction
  • Women’s Health
  • Sleep Studies
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Our Impact in Numbers

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Over 1000 successful clinical trials completed, contributing to advancements in various medical fields.
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A 100% of studies that met enrollment.

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What Our Patients Say

★★★★★

NextPhase Research provided unparalleled support during my clinical trial, leading to life-changing treatments for my condition.

John Smith

★★★★★

I felt cared for and valued throughout the research process; my experience exceeded all expectations.

David Brown

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