Joseph Elfar, MD

About Dr. Joseph Elfar

Dr. Joseph Elfar is a board-certified adult psychiatrist dedicated to delivering thoughtful, personalized, and evidence-based care. He combines clinical expertise with a grounded, commonsense approach to help patients understand themselves more deeply and heal at the root—rather than simply manage symptoms.

Dr. Elfar completed his undergraduate studies at Rutgers University – Newark, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Philosophy and graduating with highest honors. He went on to receive his medical degree from Rutgers – New Jersey Medical School (formerly UMDNJ) in Newark. He completed his residency training in psychiatry at Westchester Medical Center in Valhalla, New York, where he served as Chief Research Resident during his final year.

His clinical interests include the intersection of philosophy and psychiatry, psychopharmacology, and the long-term treatment of mood and anxiety disorders. He is especially passionate about equipping patients with insight, tools, and clarity—not just prescriptions—so they can move forward with confidence in their lives.

Education & Credentials

• Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry

• Residency – Psychiatry, Westchester Medical Center, Valhalla, NY

• M.D. – Rutgers New Jersey Medical School

• B.A. in Philosophy – Rutgers University – Newark, Summa Cum Laude

A Personal Note from Dr. Elfar

I chose psychiatry because I believe that mental health care should be both scientifically grounded and deeply human. Long before medical school, my academic background in philosophy shaped the way I think about people, suffering, and healing. It taught me to approach each patient not as a collection of symptoms, but as a whole person with a unique story, set of values, and capacity for growth.

In my clinical work, I aim to balance evidence-based treatment with a thoughtful, individualized approach. I take the time to understand what matters most to my patients—beyond diagnoses or checklists—and strive to create a space where they feel respected, safe, and genuinely heard.

Outside of clinical practice, I remain committed to lifelong learning and the thoughtful communication of complex ideas. I am active on social media where I share information about medications, diagnoses and some of my reflections on mental health. I find it to be a fun and creative outlet for me. I enjoy writing, reading literature and philosophy, and staying physically active. I believe that clarity, honesty, and trust are essential not only to effective treatment, but to any meaningful human connection.