“My approach to treatment is to partner with my clients on their goals for improving mental health symptoms and wellness.”
Cindy Bello-Utu, MSW, MSN, PMHNP-BC, is a psychiatric nurse practitioner who graduated from Seattle University in 2014.
Prior to receiving her nursing degree, she attended the University of Washington and completed her undergraduate and graduate degrees in social work in 2000 and 2002.
With her valuable professional experiences as a social worker and PMHNP at a community mental health as well as RN at an acute inpatient psychiatric unit, she is now in her private practice as a PMHNP.
She serves on the AAPPN Education Committee and continues to pursue new learning opportunities not only for herself but for other members. She enjoys connecting with other members and their specialties.
We asked Cindy to tell us a little about her journey to becoming a PMHNP.
I have worked as a social worker, providing counseling services to children, youth, and their families. I have been dedicated to providing services to underserved and vulnerable populations. I wanted to expand on my knowledge and skills to the populations I worked with. In addition, I wanted to provide education and reduce the stigma of mental health in AAPI communities.
My sister is a registered nurse, and I saw the type of care and relationship she had with patients. I made the decision to return to school and pursue a degree in nursing. Although my initial thought was to apply into the Family Nurse Practitioner program, I eventually accepted my calling in mental health and entered into the PMHNP program at Seattle University.
Tell us about your practice.
As a social worker and PMHNP, I have worked in a community mental health setting. I have worked with patients across the developmental lifespan and most often adults with co-occurring disorders. I took a step back from this setting to focus solely on building my private practice in 2023. A part of me will always have a place for community mental health and hope to eventually incorporate the work into my practice again in the future.
What is your private practice approach to treatment.
My approach to treatment is to partner with my clients on their goals for improving mental health symptoms and wellness. Together, I may focus on other topics that impact the individual client’s mental health. I take a collaborative approach to treatment decisions with my clients.
What do you do for your own self-care practice?
During graduate school, I found exercise (mainly strength training) as a way to manage stress. Although it has been challenging with working and raising a family, I try to incorporate some form of physical activity daily. Other ways in which I practice self-care are reading, traveling (when possible), and spending time with family.
What role has AAPN played in your career?
AAPPN has been a great place to network and meet new people. It has allowed me to stay updated and engaged in the profession. I have been involved or participated in various aspects of AAPPN and greatly appreciate the support of the members.
What drew you to volunteer for the Education Committee, and what keeps you engaged?
I am constantly seeking ways to stay updated in my practice. The education committee has been a great way to see what learning opportunities are available and how to make those available to our members. It is also another way to learn about our members and their particular specialties, especially when considering speakers for the classes and conferences.