I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner who has been in practice for about 9 years. I graduated with Master’s degree in nursing in 2015 from SUNY Upstate Medical University. I started my career as a CNA in a nursing home. I then became a LPN and then obtained my RN. I spent about 2 years working in a neurology unit before I decided to return to school and get my bachelor's in nursing. I attended Keuka College for my bachelor's degree and shortly after that attended Upstate Medical University for my masters. I have experience working in neurology, the emergency department, and in inpatient and outpatient psychiatric settings. I enjoy helping people and working with people to better themselves and their lives. I particularly enjoy working with college students and pregnant/postpartum women. I am certified in perinatal mental health. I also enjoy learning about people and our differences. I learn from you as much as you learn from me!

What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?

I will ask a lot of questions. I will ask you questions from a nonjudgmental stance. I will try to give you an idea of what your working diagnosis is and what treatment options are available. I will want to learn as much as I can about you so I can get to know you and be of assistance to you in your journey of healing. Getting treatment is a big step. Congrats to you on that.

Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.

I am easy to talk to, down to earth, and have no agenda other than to help people overcome their mental illness.

About Shelyagh Kennedy