The Office of Independent Practice leads the development of best practices and business operations regarding independent practice with an eye toward marketplace realities and opportunities. The Office works closely with the Office of Health and Health Care Financing and the Office of Legal and State Advocacy to ensure the needs of independent practitioners are included in APA’s efforts to promote psychology.
Marnie G. Shanbhag, PhD
Senior Director, Office of Independent Practice
Marnie Shanbhag is a licensed psychologist with PSYPACT® authorization to practice telepsychology. Before joining APA in 2023, Shanbhag ran her own practice in Orlando, Florida, for more than 16 years. Her independent practice expertise spans both mental health care practice and applied practice, with a special interest in leadership, immigrant communities, and maternal health. Prior to private practice, Shanbhag served as the executive director of a nonprofit agency and coordinating maternal and child health systems. Shanbhag graduated from the University of Pennsylvania and earned her doctorate in counseling psychology from the University of Florida. Her clinical psychology internship was at the South Texas Veteran’s Health Care System in San Antonio, Texas, and she completed postdoctoral work at the University of Florida. Shanbhag remains active with the Florida Psychological Association.