Meet Cristi Bundukamara | EdD, PMHNP, Founder of Mentally STRONG

We had the good fortune of connecting with Cristi Bundukamara and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Cristi, how does your business help the community?
The Mentally STRONG brand, which includes both the Outpatient Mental Health Clinic in Colorado Springs and the Mentally STRONG Academy, has a clear mission to empower individuals to embrace the journey of mental strength. By providing outpatient mental health services, accepting most insurance and accepting urgent walk ins, Mentally STRONG improves access to treatment for mental health challenges. This, in turn, contributes to improved mental health and well-being in the community. The Mentally STRONG Academy plays a crucial role in educating individuals about the importance of mental strength and providing them with the tools and resources to enhance their mental resilience. This knowledge benefits individuals not only in their personal lives but also in their professional endeavors. Through community outreach partnerships, Mentally STRONG actively engages with the local community. Mentally STRONG’s commitment to empowering individuals on their mental strength journey has a multifaceted social impact by improving access to mental health and providing education and support.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’ve spent more than two decades in the world of psychiatric nursing, striving to make a difference. My journey began back when I served as an Army Medic, and that experience laid the foundation for everything that followed. I pursued my education at Florida International University, where I earned a Master’s degree in Psychiatric Nursing. But I didn’t stop there. My drive to improve mental health care led me to pursue a doctorate in Healthcare Education, solidifying my reputation as a thought leader in the field. One of the most exciting chapters in my career was the creation of the Mentally STRONG Clinic in the vibrant community of Colorado Springs, CO. Here, I put my extensive experience and innovative approach to work, helping countless individuals transform their lives. But I didn’t want to stop at just clinical practice. That’s why I founded the Mentally STRONG Academy, a place dedicated to learning and empowerment. I’m passionate about building mental strength, and I share that passion through speaking engagements. My dynamic presentations offer deep insights into handling emotions and provide practical strategies for cultivating mental strength.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
When my best friend visits Colorado Springs, we love to go hiking. We start at Garden of the Gods to see the stunning red rocks and then head to Cheyenne Mountain State Park for a different kind of nature. For dinner I would choose, ‘The Rabbit Hole’ downtown is a unique and artsy choice.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to recognize the leadership team at Mentally STRONG, Heather, Kim and Tara, and the rest of the incredible staff. Thank you for believing in my mission to empower all humanity to embrace the journey of mental strength.

Website: www.cristibundukamara.com

Instagram: instagram.com/cristibundukamara

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cristi-bundukamara-ed-d-pmhnp-bc-dr-b-713432b0/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/cristibundukama

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mentallystrongacademybyDr.B/

Youtube: www.youtube.com/c/drbmentallystrong

Image Credits
Photography by Ashography