Leading with Compassion: Dr. Nermica Sarcevic on Transforming Mental Health Care at NYC Health + Hospitals/Jacobi

Although Mental Health Awareness Month officially concluded in May, the conversation around compassionate and inclusive mental health care must continue year-round. Today, we spotlight Dr. Nermica Sarcevic, a dedicated psychiatrist and educator at NYC Health + Hospitals/Jacobi and a provider with Physician Affiliate Group of New York, P.C. (PAGNY), whose leadership is transforming how mental health care is delivered.

With over two decades of service at NYC Health + Hospitals/Jacobi, Dr. Sarcevic exemplifies a deep commitment to transforming mental health care from within. Her leadership and compassion resonate not only through her clinical work but also through her dedication to education, staff development, and system-wide cultural change.

A Legacy of Care and Leadership

Dr. Sarcevic began her journey at Jacobi Hospital in 2001 as an inpatient attending psychiatrist. Her growth within the institution reflects both her expertise and her steadfast dedication. In 2014, she became Director of Inpatient Psychiatry Services, and by 2018, she rose to Vice Chairperson of the Department of Psychiatry. These roles have enabled her to influence policies, elevate standards, and shape a care environment grounded in psychological safety, trauma-informed practices, and patient-centered recovery.

Her leadership has helped Jacobi innovate and enhance programs that expand access and improve outcomes. Central to her approach is engaging patients and families as partners in care—valuing their perspectives to foster genuine healing.

What Drives Dr. Sarcevic's Daily Work

When asked what makes a meaningful difference in her day-to-day work, Dr. Sarcevic reflects on the human connection at the heart of psychiatry. She emphasizes empathy, attentiveness, and a commitment to each patient’s well-being. Building trust is a key element in creating effective diagnosis and treatment plans, and she prioritizes respect for each patient’s dignity and individuality.

Why She Chose PAGNY and NYC Health + Hospitals

Dr. Sarcevic’s choice to serve at Jacobi is rooted in her deep respect for the resilience of her patients and the mission of the institution. She speaks to the challenges of working with individuals living with severe mental illness—and the humbling, rewarding nature of the work. At Jacobi, she and her colleagues ensure that every patient is seen, heard, and treated with dignity.

She finds meaning in working with mission-driven colleagues across all areas of medicine. Advocacy, empowerment, and compassion are as essential to care as clinical interventions, and that holistic commitment defines her work.

PAGNY and NYC Health + Hospitals provide a unique opportunity for healthcare professionals to make a tangible impact in diverse communities. The supportive, collaborative environment, combined with a shared mission to serve with excellence and empathy, makes PAGNY an ideal place to build a meaningful and lasting career.

Continuing the Conversation

Treating mental health happens every day. Dr. Sarcevic’s story is a call to action—to continue advocating for, supporting, and honoring those who lead with empathy in behavioral health.

Let us carry forward the lessons of Mental Health Awareness Month and continue to champion mental health with the urgency and dignity it deserves.