

Hackensack residents can access compassionate mental healthcare through Headway's extensive network of 658 providers specializing in anxiety, relationships, grief, and more. Whether you're in Polifly, The Racks, or other Hackensack neighborhoods, find therapists with availability as soon as next day. Many sessions are covered by insurance with zero or low copays.
I’m a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a background in both medical and behavioral health care. My approach is collaborative, compassionate, and grounded in real-world experience—helping clients feel understood while working together toward meaningful change.
My professional journey has included years of practice across inpatient, community, and outpatient settings, where I’ve supported individuals and families navigating mental health challenges, substance use recovery, and life transitions. I value creating a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients can explore their goals and develop strategies for wellness and resilience.
I believe effective care blends clinical knowledge with empathy, respect, and open communication. My goal is to meet you where you are, honor your unique story, and help you move toward a more balanced and fulfilling life.
Stimulants, Suboxone and Benzodiazepines are prescribed in this practice with DEA guidelines. Dr. Padilla is a Doctor of Nursing Practice from the New York tri-state area and has over 30 years of experience in healthcare. He treats children from 6 years old through adulthood, focusing on psychiatric medication management. He specializes in mental health and has extensive experience in the field of psychiatry. Dr. Padilla takes a “start low and go slow” approach to prescribing, paying special attention to medication potency and potential interactions with other medications prescribed by other providers. Dr. Padilla earned his Doctorate in Clinical Practice Nursing from Rutgers University–New Brunswick. He also holds bachelor’s degrees from Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, and the University of Miami, as well as an associate’s degree from Bergen Community College.
Hi there! I'm the heart behind Joyful Minds Mental Health Services LLC, where I believe that truly caring for someone means caring for the whole person. I offer a simple, safe, and compassionate space where you are always seen, heard, and respected, not just your symptoms, but your story. Everyone story looks different, whether it's anxiety, depression, or just trying to get back to feeling like yourself, I will work closely with you to create treatment plan tailored to your unique needs. Ensuring you receive the support and expert guidance needed to live a fulfilling life.











Headway makes it easy to find support for your mental health — from finding the right provider, to understanding costs, to scheduling with ease.
Finding psychiatrists in Hackensack starts with understanding what kind of care fits your needs. Psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners can diagnose mental health conditions, prescribe medication, and manage medication over time. Therapists provide talk therapy and may work with a prescriber as part of your care. If you are looking for support with anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, or medication management, review each psychiatrist’s listed specialties, training, and approach before booking.
Hackensack is a smaller city within Bergen County, so nearby in-person psychiatric options may be more limited than in larger New Jersey markets. Virtual appointments can expand your search while still keeping care covered through your insurance plan. Psychiatric medication management visits are usually shorter and less frequent than therapy sessions, though some psychiatrists also offer therapy. As you compare options, look at appointment availability, whether the psychiatrist is accepting new patients, and what their bio says about communication style and session structure.
Psychiatric care in Hackensack can be a significant expense without insurance. Using in-network insurance is one of the most reliable ways to lower your out-of-pocket costs. Headway helps you find psychiatrists who match your needs, take your plan, and are accepting new patients. You can enter your insurance details, see an estimated session cost before you book, review psychiatrist bios, and book directly when you’re ready.
If you're already taking psychiatric medication and considering switching providers, talk to your current prescriber before changing or stopping any medication — most psychiatric medications shouldn't be stopped abruptly. Anyone experiencing thoughts of self-harm or in acute crisis should call 988 or go to the nearest emergency department rather than wait for an outpatient appointment.
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