About Amy Shefftz
Focus areas
Anxiety Disorder
Depression
Psychiatric Medication Management
Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Medication Management
Social Anxiety
Autism Spectrum Disorder
Phobia
Clientele seen
Children (<13)
Young adults (18-24)
Adults (25-64)
Individuals
Seniors (65+)
Treatment approaches
Motivational Interviewing
Identity
Gender
FemaleLanguages spoken
English
Getting to know Amy Shefftz
I'm Amy Shefftz, a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who specializes in children, adolescents, and young adults. With my Master's from UC San Francisco and more than a decade of experience, I offer a distinctive blend of clinical expertise and educational background in mental health care.
My focus is delivering comprehensive psychiatric care for young people facing today's challenges. I recognize that pediatric mental health calls for specialized attention, family involvement, and developmentally appropriate strategies. Whether a child is struggling with anxiety, ADHD, mood changes, or behavioral concerns, I take the time to listen carefully, gather a full picture, and develop a treatment plan tailored to their specific needs and stage of development.
What sets me apart is my diverse background. As a former elementary educator with Montessori training, I have a deep understanding of child development and learning differences. This foundation shapes my patient-centered approach, allowing me to connect naturally with young clients and break down complex concepts in age-appropriate, easy-to-understand ways. My experience coordinating care among teachers, therapists, and families ensures well-rounded support.
Outside of clinical work, my community involvement reflects a genuine commitment to youth wellbeing. I volunteer with youth cycling programs, serve on AYSO's Board of Directors as Child Protection Advocate, and hold National Ski Patrol certification. These activities keep me closely connected to the interests, experiences, and real-world challenges young people face every day.
My approach centers on building trust, reducing stigma, and equipping families with the knowledge and tools for lasting success on their mental health journey. I want every young person and family who walks through my door to feel heard, supported, and confident in the path forward.
What should a new client know about working with you?
Please note: EAP programs are not accepted.
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner focused on medication management, I treat individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and other mental health concerns.
Our first appointment is comprehensive and never rushed. We'll review your current symptoms and their impact on your everyday life, your medical and treatment history, what has or hasn't helped in the past, and the goals most important to you. Taking this time early creates a solid foundation and helps minimize unnecessary trial and error down the road.
To make the most of our first visit, consider bringing a list of your current medications and supplements, any previous psychiatric records, and the questions you'd like to discuss. There's no need to have it all figured out.
Your care is designed around you. I combine evidence-based medicine with a personalized approach, and each recommendation takes into account your diagnosis, any co-occurring conditions, your current medications, possible side effects, cost, and your own preferences.
You'll always know what's ahead. I use clear, plain language to explain how each medication works, realistic timelines for improvement, and which side effects to monitor. Questions are always encouraged, since the best results come from a true partnership.
Support doesn't stop between appointments. Regular follow-ups allow us to track your progress, refine your plan, and address any concerns as they arise. I'm available between visits and collaborate with your wider care team whenever it benefits your well-being. Continuity of care is central to my practice, never an afterthought.
Whether you're beginning psychiatric medication for the first time or fine-tuning your current regimen, my goal is to provide reliable, knowledgeable care that relieves your symptoms and helps you feel better in your daily life. Above all, I want you to feel heard and comfortable.
What is your typical process for working with clients?
Please note that I do not accept EAP benefits. Reaching out for psychiatric care takes courage, and from our first conversation, I want you to feel truly heard and supported. I meet everyone with compassion, respect, and an open mind, without judgment. Our first appointment centers on getting to know you: your history, the difficulties you're facing, and what you'd like to see improve.
This initial visit is a 60-minute comprehensive evaluation. I'll ask about what's been on your mind, how it's impacting your daily life, and the changes you hope to make. We'll go over the key details, including the type and severity of your symptoms, when they began, any past diagnoses or treatment, medications you've tried and how effective they were, your medical history, family mental health history, alcohol or substance use, any history of trauma, and the biggest stressors in your life today.
I'm equally interested in your strengths, the relationships that sustain you, and the coping skills you've built. Even during your hardest moments, you have resilience and resources that deserve recognition. You are far more than what you're facing right now.
Once I have a full picture, I'll share my diagnostic impressions and recommendations in clear, straightforward language suited to your situation. If medication could be helpful, I'll offer thoughtful options that match your circumstances and the goals you've chosen for your treatment.
Follow-up appointments usually last 20 to 30 minutes and are scheduled every few weeks in the beginning. In these visits, we'll review changes in your symptoms, any side effects, how well your medication is working, and how you're managing day to day. I adjust your treatment based on your response, and I always explain the reasoning behind my recommendations. As you progress and feel more stable, we can gradually space out your appointments. Above all, I want you to feel supported and confident at every stage of your care.
Is this doctor in your insurance network?
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In-network insurances
Aetna
BlueCross BlueShield
Cigna
UnitedHealthcare
Education and background
Practice names
Board certifications
- American Nurses Credentialing Center
Education and training
- University of California San Francisco Parnassus Campus, Master's in Nursing
NPI number
1184937260
How soon can I make an appointment with Amy Shefftz?
Generally, Amy Shefftz has appointments available on Zocdoc within 1 week. You can see Amy Shefftz's earliest availability on Zocdoc and make an appointment online.
Is Amy Shefftz accepting new patients?
Amy Shefftz generally accepts new patients on Zocdoc. You can see Amy Shefftz's earliest availability on Zocdoc and schedule an appointment online.
Does Amy Shefftz accept my insurance?
Choose your insurance plan to verify if Amy Shefftz is in-network.
Can I make an appointment with Amy Shefftz online?
Yes, you can make an appointment online with Amy Shefftz using Zocdoc. It’s simple, secure, and free.
What practice does Amy Shefftz work with?
Amy Shefftz works with Mental Health Practitioners.
Which board certifications does Amy Shefftz have?
Amy Shefftz is certified by American Nurses Credentialing Center.
What are common reasons for patients to see Amy Shefftz?
Amy Shefftz frequently sees patients for Anxiety, Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Depression, Psychiatry Consultation, and Sleep Problems. You can see other visit reasons for Amy Shefftz on their profile.
What languages does Amy Shefftz speak?
Amy Shefftz speaks English.
Zocdoc›Adult Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioners›Amy Shefftz, APRN, RN, PMHNP, PMHNP-BC, NP