Dr. Lauren Jessell

LCSW, PhD, Founder

  • Psychological evaluations and assessments

  • Expertise in addictive disorders and complex case presentations

  • Research and development consulting

Message to Clients

Welcome and hello! I am the founder of ParityWell, a group practice dedicated to providing mental healthcare thats transparent, caring and effective. I know finding the right therapist, especially in NYC metro can be challenging. I am dedicated to helping you find the right care, whether it be through a comprehensive evaluation and evidence-based treatment plan through our practice or by taking the extra time to find you referrals that best match your needs.

I chose the name ParityWell for our practice in recognition of the landmark Mental Health Parity Act of 1996. The law and its more encompassing successor, the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act of 2008, ended discrimination against mental health and substance use patients by requiring insurance companies to provide them with the same coverage as they do patients with other medical conditions. It was a major step forward for mental heath treatment.

Education

PhD, Social Work
— New York University

Behavioral Health Sciences NIDA T32 pre-doctoral training fellowship
— New York University

Master of Social Work
— Rutgers University

BA psychology (summa cum laude)
— Western Connecticut State University

Teaching and Research

I have taught a range of graduate level research and clinical courses through Fordham University, New York University and Hunter College -CUNY. My research collaborations have been supported by the National Institute on Mental Health (NIMH), the National Institute for Drug Abuse (NIDA) and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).

I supervise a team of psychotherapists specializing in evidence-based practice through ParityWell. My research and consulting aims to improve patient care and the uptake of best practices into real world settings. I also contribute to areas related to addiction science, health policy, and emerging technology.

Affiliations

Full member of:

  • American Psychological Association (APA)

Licensure

  • LCSW in New York and New Jersey