Meet Janice Tolentino-Cahambing, RN-MSN, ANP-BC, PMHNP-BC
I had the pleasure of being interviewed by CanvasRebel and I'm excited to share the feature with you all! In the interview, I talk about my journey, the lessons I've learned, and what continues to drive my work. You can check it out here:
https://canvasrebel.com/meet-janice-cahambing
What did your parents do right and how has that impacted you in your life and career?
My parents gave me values, not just rules. They raised us to take responsibility for our actions, to never walk past someone in need, and to stay humble regardless of how much success comes our way. They didn’t shelter us from the world—they prepared us for it. They taught us that integrity matters more than recognition and that success means very little if it isn’t shared.
These lessons shaped the way I approach life and work. I take ownership seriously—whether in leading a team, making a mistake, or making a tough call. I naturally gravitate toward roles and projects where I can make a difference in people’s lives, not just chase performance metrics. And no matter what achievements come my way, I’m always aware that they rest on a foundation of support, sacrifice, and values passed down to me. That’s what keeps me grounded and hungry to give back.
Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
From a young age, I was drawn to understanding human emotions and behavior. Growing up in a culture where mental health was often stigmatized and misunderstood, I witnessed too many people suffering in silence. That experience inspired me to pursue a career where I could help break that silence, offer support, and make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.
I began my journey by earning my Bachelor of Science in Nursing in the Philippines. I later moved to the U.S., where I completed my Master of Science in Nursing at the University of Connecticut, specializing in Adult/Gerontology Primary Care. To deepen my focus on mental health, I earned a Post-Master’s Degree in Psychiatric Mental Health from the University of California, San Francisco.
With a strong foundation in both the medical and psychological aspects of care, I now work as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner providing personalized, culturally informed treatment. My approach is compassionate and holistic—addressing not just symptoms, but the deeper emotional and environmental factors affecting mental well-being.
As an immigrant, I’ve been fortunate to experience and understand cultural diversity in a deeply personal way. This perspective allows me to support clients from all walks of life with empathy, openness, and respect for their unique experiences.
What I Offer:
Culturally sensitive psychiatric care
Holistic, customized treatment plans
A safe and nonjudgmental space to be heard and understood
Compassionate support grounded in clinical knowledge and lived experience
What I’m Most Proud Of:
I’m proud to be a trusted guide for people navigating life’s emotional challenges. Seeing my clients find clarity, calm, and confidence in themselves is the most rewarding part of what I do.
What I Want You to Know:
Mental health matters. Seeking help isn’t a weakness—it’s one of the bravest things you can do. You don’t have to go through it alone. I’m here to support you with care, understanding, and a commitment to your well-being.
We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.
My journey began when I moved to the United States at an early age, filled with hope, uncertainty, and the quiet determination to build a better life. Like many immigrants, I started from scratch—navigating a new culture, building a support system, and learning how to find my place in a world that often felt unfamiliar.
I explored the path of life step by step—starting a family, growing through personal challenges, and finding strength in the everyday moments of sacrifice and perseverance. Even when the road wasn’t easy, I held on to my purpose: to grow, to contribute, and to become someone who could make a difference in the lives of others.
That purpose led me back to school—not once, but twice—as I pursued my calling in healthcare. I earned my certification as a Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, and later, followed my deeper passion to specialize in Psychiatric Mental Health. Becoming dual-certified allowed me to bridge the gap between physical and mental health, something I’ve always believed should never be treated separately.
Now, after years of education, personal growth, and clinical experience, I’m here—not just as a provider, but as someone who has lived through the process of rebuilding, reimagining, and rising. I understand what it means to juggle roles, carry responsibilities, and silently manage emotional weight—because I’ve been there.
Why I Do This Work
I believe that mental health is just as important as physical health, and that we all deserve the chance to live a full, joyful, and balanced life. My mission is to support others as they work through their own challenges, offering both compassion and clinical expertise to help them heal, grow, and thrive.
This is more than a profession—it’s personal. And every step I’ve taken to get here has shaped the care I give today.
If you could go back, would you choose the same profession, specialty, etc.?
Absolutely. I truly believe I was born to be of service to others. I didn’t always realize it, but I’ve come to understand that my greatest tools—compassion, the ability to truly listen, and a heart for helping—have always been within me. This path has only deepened that calling.
Contact Info:
Website: https://www.moodwellness.us
Instagram: moodwellnessgoals
Facebook: Mood Wellness
Other: Tiktok @moodwellness
