

Schenectady residents can access talk therapy and medication management through Headway's expansive network of 1,202 providers. Whether you're in Stockade, Mont Pleasant, or Bellevue, find compassionate care with open availability as soon as next day, supported by major insurance plans.
My name is Gillian Foster and I am a board-certified Nurse Practitioner with dual certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC). I take a holistic approach to care, addressing both mental and physical health needs. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and stress-related concerns using evidence-based, individualized treatment plans. My approach is collaborative, supportive, and nonjudgmental, with a focus on helping clients feel heard, balanced, and in control of their well-being.
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I am committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care in a supportive and judgment-free environment. I work with adults experiencing depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, ADHD, schizophrenia, and substance use disorders.
My goal is to help clients feel heard, understood, and actively involved in their treatment. I believe in building a strong therapeutic relationship through trust, empathy, and collaboration. Together, we’ll develop a personalized treatment plan that aligns with your goals and may include medication management, supportive therapy, and practical strategies to improve your overall well-being.
I understand that seeking mental health care can feel overwhelming, and I strive to make the process approachable and comfortable. Whether you’re beginning treatment for the first time or looking for a new provider, I look forward to partnering with you on your journey toward healing and lasting wellness.
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and I offer psychiatric services through Telehealth, allowing clients to attend appointments from the comfort and privacy of their own space.
Starting mental health care can feel overwhelming, and many people seek support when they feel stressed, stuck, or unsure how to cope. I provide a compassionate, nonjudgmental space where you can speak openly. Together, we’ll work to understand your challenges and develop strategies that support healing, resilience, and lasting emotional well-being.
I’m a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I believe health is a human experience, not simply a clinical checklist. My background in traditional psychiatry has given me a strong understanding of mental health across diverse settings, grounded in evidence-based practice.
I take a compassionate, collaborative, and structured approach to care. I believe in creating a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard and supported. I work closely with each individual to develop personalized treatment plans that may include medication management and supportive therapy, always focusing on realistic and meaningful progress.
My goal is to help clients better understand their mental health, build effective coping strategies, and feel empowered in their treatment journey.
Hi, I'm Ruthellen, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 28 years of experience supporting people through some of life's most challenging moments. Mental health has always been personal to me — watching my own family navigate those struggles is what called me into this work, and giving back to my community is what keeps me going. Outside of the office, you'll find me cheering on my favorite teams or staying active, because I truly believe movement and joy are part of the whole picture.
I have been in practice since 2013 and worked with people from all walks of life. I am sensitive to context, goal oriented and will work with you to find a solution that works for you.
I began my psychiatric nursing career after graduating from Columbia University School of Nursing in 2009. Several years later, I pursued an advanced practice degree, also at Columbia University, and earned a PhD. I lived in Poland and France before I arrived to the United States at the turn of this century. Given my international experience, I work in three languages: English, French, and Polish. I offer therapy and medication management and the clients and me decide on the best approach.
I’m a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 17 years of experience supporting adolescents, adults, and older adults on their mental health journeys.
My approach is warm, collaborative, and empowering. I believe that understanding yourself is the foundation of healing, and I focus on giving my clients practical tools, education, and guidance they can use every day—not just during sessions.
In our first session, I take the time to truly listen and understand your story, your goals, and the challenges you’re facing. Together, we’ll create a personalized and realistic treatment plan designed to support your growth, emotional well-being, and long-term success.
I am committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care that helps you feel seen, supported, and equipped to move forward. My goal is to help you build confidence, develop lasting skills, and become the strongest version of yourself—one step at a time.











Headway makes it easy to find support for your mental health — from finding the right provider, to understanding costs, to scheduling with ease.
Finding psychiatrists in Schenectady starts with understanding what kind of mental health care you want. Psychiatrists and psychiatric nurse practitioners can diagnose mental health conditions, prescribe medication, and manage ongoing medication plans. Therapists provide talk therapy and may work with you on different goals. If you want support for anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, OCD, or medication management, a psychiatrist may fit your search. Review each psychiatrist’s listed specialties, training, and approach so you can choose someone whose background matches your needs.
In a smaller city like Schenectady, local psychiatry options may be more limited than in larger parts of New York. Virtual appointments can expand your search while still helping you find care that fits your schedule. Medication management visits are often shorter and less frequent than therapy sessions, though some psychiatrists also provide therapy. Some people see both a therapist and a psychiatrist as part of their care. As you compare profiles, look at appointment availability, whether the psychiatrist is accepting new patients, and whether a free phone consultation is offered.
Psychiatric care in Schenectady can be a significant expense without insurance. Using in-network coverage is one of the most reliable ways to reduce session costs and understand what you may pay before you book. Headway lets you enter your insurance details, view estimated out-of-pocket costs, and browse psychiatrists who are accepting new patients with your plan. You can compare bios, choose between virtual and in-person options when available, and book directly when you’re ready.
If you're already taking psychiatric medication and considering switching providers, talk to your current prescriber before changing or stopping any medication — most psychiatric medications shouldn't be stopped abruptly. Anyone experiencing thoughts of self-harm or in acute crisis should call 988 or go to the nearest emergency department rather than wait for an outpatient appointment.
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