Kara Rafael MSN, APN, PMHNP-BC
Kara Rafael is a distinguished board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, renowned for her comprehensive expertise in adolescent and adult mental health. With a solid educational foundation, Kara embarked on her journey at Drexel University, earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology, which was followed by an accelerated nursing program at New Jersey City University, leading to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. She further advanced her specialization in Psychiatry and Mental Health with a Master’s Degree from Monmouth University.
Kara’s professional path is marked by significant experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings, where she has adeptly managed a spectrum of mental health diagnoses. Her practice is grounded in a holistic assessment approach, emphasizing the importance of understanding each individual’s unique circumstances to tailor the most effective treatment plans. Kara’s proficiency extends to psychopharmacology and crisis management, utilizing evidence-based treatments to enhance patient care outcomes.
Collaboration has been a cornerstone of Kara’s career, working alongside multi-disciplinary teams to craft and execute personalized treatment strategies for patients facing a variety of psychiatric challenges. Her commitment to delivering exceptional mental health care is driven by a deep-seated belief in treating the person, not just the diagnosis, ensuring that each patient receives the attention and care necessary to navigate their journey towards wellness.
Kara has extensive experience in the following areas:
- Anxiety Disorders
- Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
- Behavioral Issues
- Depression
- Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
- Oppositional Behaviors
- Personality Disorders
- Trauma / PTSD
Kara Rafael was incredibly thorough and comprehensive in her evaluation when I came to her struggling with anxiety. She made herself available throughout the entire process, always ready to answer questions and provide the support I needed. Her approach not only helped me manage my symptoms but also made me feel truly cared for and understood.”