Child & Adolescent Providers

As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I am dedicated to helping individuals navigate their mental health challenges with compassion, expertise, and a personalized approach.

Whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, or more complex mental health conditions, my goal is to work with you to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that meets your unique needs.

I take the time to listen to your concerns, understand your individual experiences, and work collaboratively with you to achieve your goals for wellness. My approach is holistic and evidence-based, ensuring that all aspects of your well-being are considered. I aim to empower my patients to take an active role in their mental health, offering both medication management and psychotherapy as needed. I treat children, adolescents, and adults, and am happy to collaborate with the rest of your care team to optimize your care.

James Demer, M.D, is a board certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist. He completed his undergraduate degree at the University of Notre Dame. He then completed medical school at Upstate Medical University in Syracuse, New York. Dr. Demer completed his internship and psychiatry residency at the National Capital Consortium in Washington, D.C. He completed fellowship training in Child Psychiatry at Upstate Medical University.

Over the last 20 years Dr. Demer has devoted his time to both clinical and academic pursuits in the field of Child Psychiatry. He served as the Director of the Child Psychiatry Fellowship Program at Upstate Medical University. He has published several articles and contributed to book chapters on topics related to military psychiatry and the treatment of trauma.

As a Child Psychiatrist over the last two decades Dr. Demer has practiced as an Attending Psychiatrist in multiple settings to include: School-based psychiatry, Day Treatment Programs, Residential Treatment Facilities, Inpatient programs, Outpatient Clinics, consultation to Pediatricians and hospital settings, Emergency Rooms, and private practice. In addition, during his tenure as a Military Psychiatrist he deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom to Afghanistan.

Currently, he is working with young adults who have experienced first-episode psychotic illness. He continues to work with children and youth in a community mental health clinic.

Dr. Demer has received numerous teaching awards in his work with residents and fellows. He is currently a member of the American Psychiatric Association and the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry.

Dr. Demer is the Medical Director and the Chief Psychiatrist of the Child & Adolescent Psychiatry Division at Empire State Psychiatry and is responsible for overseeing the training and supervision of providers in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry.

I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner providing compassionate, comprehensive mental health care to children, adolescents, and adults. I offer both in-person sessions in New York City and convenient remote appointments to support individuals and families across a range of needs.

I earned both my Master’s and Doctorate degrees in Nursing from Columbia University, where I received advanced training in psychopharmacology, psychotherapy, and evidence-based treatment planning.

My approach is person-centered and rooted in empathy, collaboration, and clinical expertise. I specialize in medication management and individualized care planning, always with the goal of helping you feel heard, respected, and empowered in your mental health journey.

I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where you or your child can explore thoughts, emotions, and experiences openly. Education is a key part of my work—I ensure you have the information you need to make confident, informed decisions about your care and long-term well-being.

Together, we’ll build a treatment plan that supports your personal goals and helps you move toward a more balanced, fulfilling life.