[hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”aboveTheFold” /][hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”stroke”][hen-ui-flex direction=”column” gap=”lg”][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Key Takeaways[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”check” marker-color=”secondary”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioners assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions in hospitals, mental health clinics, and correctional facilities.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]To become a PMHNP, you must earn a BSN, gain experience as an RN, complete an MSN or DNP program, and pass the PMHNP-BC exam.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The average PMHNP salary is $125,000 per year as of May 2024, and this career is projected to see a 40% job growth through 2034.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list][/hen-ui-flex][/hen-ui-card][hen-ui-grid columns-md=”3″ gap=”md”] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray” border=”stroke” rounded=”lg” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”text-cap font-bold uppercase mb-2″]How Long to Become[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”text-2xl text-primary-800 font-heading font-bold mt-0″]At least 6 Years[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray” border=”stroke” rounded=”lg” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”text-cap font-bold uppercase mb-2″]Degree Required[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”text-2xl text-primary-800 font-heading font-bold mt-0″]MSN or DNP[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray” border=”stroke” rounded=”lg” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”text-cap font-bold uppercase mb-2″]Required Certification[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”text-2xl text-primary-800 font-heading font-bold mt-0″]PMHNP-BC™[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card][/hen-ui-grid][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/nurse-practitioner/psychiatric/”]Psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNP)[/hen-ui-link] are NPs who focus on mental healthcare services. PMHNPs have broader clinical autonomy than [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/registered-nursing/”]registered nurses (RNs)[/hen-ui-link] and are more specialized than [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/careers/primary-care-nurse/”]primary care NPs[/hen-ui-link].[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]What Is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner?[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]PMHNPs assess, diagnose, and treat patients with mental health conditions. They care for patients and families across the lifespan, helping them address anxiety disorders, behavioral issues, substance use disorders, neurodevelopmental conditions, and more.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]These practitioners can work in hospitals, mental health clinics, community centers, primary care clinics, and correctional facilities, among others. Depending on the [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/nurse-practitioner/np-practice-authority-by-state/”]NP practice rules in your state[/hen-ui-link], you may work independently, in collaboration with other medical professionals, or under the supervision of a physician. (Many states allow full practice authority to NPs). NPs may write prescriptions, offer counseling, and educate patients on mental health issues from medication to lifestyle changes.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]These professionals take a holistic approach to healthcare, considering how physical, environmental, social, and cultural factors might influence a patient’s mental health or care.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-flex gap=”xl” align=”left” direction=”column”][hen-ui-flex gap=”xs” align=”left” direction=”column”][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Popular Online Nursing Programs[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ color=”subtext”]Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-flex][hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”belowTheFold” /][/hen-ui-flex][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Steps to Becoming a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Like all advanced nursing roles, PMHNPs must complete several steps before entering practice as [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/nurse-practitioner/psychiatric/”]psychiatric primary care providers[/hen-ui-link], psychotherapists, consultants, and educators.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]While specific requirements vary by state and employer, PMHNPs typically need valid [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/registered-nursing/rn-licensing-requirements-by-state/”]registered nurse (RN)[/hen-ui-link] licensure in the state where they intend to practice, a graduate nursing degree, and national board certification as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. Most employers also require nurses to obtain certification in basic life support (BLS), along with advanced cardiac life support (ACLS) certification in some cases.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”ordered” bullet-style=”check”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-flex direction=”column” gap=”xxs”] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The path to a PMHNP begins with a [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/degrees/bsn/”]bachelor of science in nursing (BSN)[/hen-ui-link]. You can earn your BSN more quickly if you have an [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/degrees/adn/”]associate degree in nursing (ADN)[/hen-ui-link] and an RN license. You can also go for an [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/degrees/absn/” target=”_blank”]accelerated BSN[/hen-ui-link] if you already have a bachelor’s degree in a field other than nursing.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-flex][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-flex direction=”column” gap=”xxs”] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) to Receive RN Licensure[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]State nursing regulatory boards use the [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.nclex.com/” target=”_blank”]NCLEX-RN[/hen-ui-link] to determine candidate eligibility for nursing licensure. Prospective nurses must first apply for licensure with their state’s nursing regulatory body and then [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/nclex/guide/”]pass the NCLEX-RN[/hen-ui-link]. The exam features between 85-150 questions and allows a maximum of five hours to complete.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-flex][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-flex direction=”column” gap=”xxs”] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Gain Experience as an RN[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]PMHNPs and other [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/nurse-practitioner/best-online-nurse-practitioner-programs/”]nurse practitioner programs[/hen-ui-link] typically require between 1-2 years of nursing experience for admission. Along with meeting admission requirements, clinical experience can prove valuable in figuring out if you enjoy your specialty. You can gain experience in a hospital’s inpatient psychiatric unit, outpatient mental health clinics, and residential treatment centers.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-flex][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-flex direction=”column” gap=”xxs”] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Enroll in a Nursing Graduate Program[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]PMHNPs need a [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/degrees/msn/”]master of science in nursing (MSN)[/hen-ui-link] at minimum, which typically takes about two years to complete. A [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/degrees/dnp/”]doctor of nursing practice (DNP)[/hen-ui-link] may add 3-4 years to this, though accelerated [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/degrees/dnp/best-online-msn-to-dnp-programs/”]MSN-to-DNP[/hen-ui-link] bridge programs are available. Many DNP programs offer psychiatric mental health specializations with coursework and nursing clinical experiences tailored to your career interests.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-flex][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-flex direction=”column” gap=”xxs”] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Pursue Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certification and Nurse Practitioner Licensure[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”xs”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]PMHNPs next require a specialized [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/how-to-prepare-for-np-certification-exam/”]board certification[/hen-ui-link] called the psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner board certification (PMHNP-BC). This credential requires a passing score on the certification exam from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), which tests your clinical knowledge and skills. To qualify for the exam, you need an MSN with at least 500 faculty-supervised clinical hours.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Each state nursing board establishes its own specific psychiatric nurse practitioner requirements for licensure and certification, but they typically include:[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-flex][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]An active, unencumbered RN license in the state[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]PMHNP board certification[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]An application and application fee[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A clean background check[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-flex direction=”column” gap=”xxs”] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Find Employment[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”xs”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Your job search can (and probably should) begin while you’re still in school — leveraging your [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/networking-in-nursing/”]faculty and clinical network[/hen-ui-link] and your school’s career services department. As you progress through your program, identify your target patient population and ideal work setting, and [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/nursing-resume-writing-tips/”]fine-tune your resume[/hen-ui-link] and interview skills.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]When you’re ready, you can search for openings on job boards and employer career pages. You can also join professional nurse practitioner associations and attend their events to network and find more job opportunities, such as the [hen-ui-link href=”https://napmhnp.enpnetwork.com/” target=”_blank”]National Association of Psychiatry Mental Health Nurse Practitioners[/hen-ui-link] and the American Association of Nurse Practitioners.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-flex][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Education[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]PMHNPs can access the profession from various educational pathways. Those who pursue a DNP, the terminal degree in the field, could take an additional 3-4 years after earning their MSN to complete their educational and clinical requirements for licensure.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]If you take the ADN and RN licensure pathway instead, you can accelerate your BSN degree with transfer credits or an [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/degrees/rn-msn/”]RN-to-MSN[/hen-ui-link] program. This educational pathway is one of the fastest routes if you complete your clinical requirements during your studies.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]While the time to licensure is an important consideration, it’s not the only factor. You need to [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/applying-to-nursing-school/”]choose a pathway[/hen-ui-link] that fits your schedule, learning style, and career goals.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray” border=”stroke”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]BSN Degree[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]With a [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/degrees/bsn/”]BSN degree[/hen-ui-link], you can qualify for RN licensure and admission into a nursing graduate program. If you plan on becoming a PMHNP or any other type of APRN, you’ll need this degree.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Admission Requirements: BSN programs typically require a high school diploma and resume. Many schools also ask for a minimum 3.0 GPA and [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/prerequisites-for-nursing-school/”]science prerequisites[/hen-ui-link], such as biology, chemistry, anatomy, and physiology.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Program Curriculum: Most BSN programs feature a combination of coursework and clinical experiences. [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/articles/common-courses-you-will-take-for-your-rn-degree/”]Typical nursing courses[/hen-ui-link] include physiology, pharmacology, psychology, and mental health. You also complete simulated and/or on-site nursing practice courses for hands-on training.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Time to Complete: In general, BSN programs take four years to complete when studying full time. If you transfer credits from an ADN, your program may only take 1-2 years.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Skills Learned: BSN programs provide foundational nursing and patient care skills, such as patient assessments, transport, and medication management. You will learn how to perform CPR, diagnostic tests, and other medical procedures. You also develop critical thinking and communication skills.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card][hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray” border=”stroke”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]MSN Degree[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/degrees/msn/”]MSN degree[/hen-ui-link] is a requirement for any APRN license. These programs allow nurses to specialize and focus their studies and careers on psychiatric-mental health. MSN degrees can also help graduates pursue senior-level and leadership positions in the healthcare field.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Admission Requirements: MSN programs typically require a BSN with a minimum 3.0 GPA, valid RN licensure, and 1-2 years of nursing experience. You also need to submit a resume, personal statement, and letters of recommendation, plus GRE scores in some cases.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Program Curriculum: In a PMHNP MSN program, your studies will include core courses like pathophysiology and pharmacology, as well as specialized courses like mental health diagnosis and disease management. You also complete a substantial clinical component that usually includes roughly 500 hours of hands-on practice.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Time to Complete: Most MSN programs take 2-3 years for full-time students, but accelerated programs can shorten that timeframe, while an [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/degrees/rn-msn/”]RN-to-MSN bridge program[/hen-ui-link] may take longer.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Skills Learned: PMHNP programs help you develop foundational APRN skills, such as patient assessment, intervention, and management. You also learn how to prescribe medication and analyze test results.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card][hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray” border=”stroke”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]DNP Degree[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/degrees/dnp/”]DNP degree[/hen-ui-link] is the terminal degree in the nursing field and one that can lead to many promising careers. DNP programs offer the same or more specialization opportunities as an MSN, allowing you to tailor your studies to the PMHNP field. These degrees can qualify you for NP licensure, healthcare leadership positions, and teaching and research roles in academia.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Admission Requirements: DNP programs require at least a BSN with a minimum 3.0 GPA, plus a valid nursing license and clinical nursing experience. [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/degrees/dnp/best-online-bsn-to-dnp-programs/”]Online BSN-to-DNP programs[/hen-ui-link] can be a strong option for many students. Other requirements include a resume, letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, and possibly standardized test scores.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Program Curriculum: PMHNP DNP programs typically feature advanced core coursework in pathophysiology and health assessments. Students also take specialized courses on mental disorders and neurobiology. The curriculums also include extensive clinical practicums and clinical management simulations.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Time to Complete: Most DNP programs take 3-4 years for most full-time students, but part-time and accelerated options may be available.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Skills Learned: DNP programs teach students how to conduct psychosocial assessments, promote healthy living, and make clinical decisions. Students also learn advanced diagnostic and research skills.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Licensure and Certification[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]PMHNPs need board certification and state licensure at both the RN and APRN levels. Licensure is managed at the state level by each state’s board of nursing or related agency, while certification is managed by national organizations.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Certification[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]PMHNPs need the PMHNP-BC from the ANCC to qualify for state APRN licensure. This certification is valid for five years and has the following eligibility requirements:[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]RN license[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]PMHNP MSN or DNP[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]APRN courses in physiology, pharmacology, and health assessment[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Clinical experience in two psychotherapeutic treatment modalities[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]To renew the PMHNP-BC credential, you need to complete at least 75 continuing education hours. Other useful certifications include [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.pncb.org/pmhs” target=”_blank”]pediatric primary care mental health specialist[/hen-ui-link] (PMHS) and the [hen-ui-link href=”https://ancbonline.org/Examination” target=”_blank”]certified addictions registered nurse – advanced practice[/hen-ui-link] (CARN-AP) credential.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Licensing[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Along with state RN licensure, PMHNPs need APRN state licensure. While the requirements vary by state, the vast majority require board certification. Depending on your practice, you may also need a license from the [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/drugreg/registration.html” target=”_blank”]Drug Enforcement Agency[/hen-ui-link] to prescribe controlled substances. Every state has its own renewal requirements, but most states require NPs to renew every 1-5 years and complete a number of continuing education credits along the way.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Working as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-grid columns-md=”3″ gap=”md”] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray” border=”stroke” rounded=”lg” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”text-cap font-bold uppercase mb-2″]Average Annual Salary[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”text-2xl text-primary-800 font-heading font-bold mt-0″]$125,325[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”text-sm”]Source: [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.payscale.com/research/US/Job=Psychiatric_Nurse_Practitioner_(NP)/Salary” target=”_blank”]Payscale[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray” border=”stroke” rounded=”lg” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”text-cap font-bold uppercase mb-2″]Projected Job Growth[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”text-2xl text-primary-800 font-heading font-bold mt-0″]40% for all NPs (2024-2034)[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”text-sm”]Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray” border=”stroke” rounded=”lg” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”text-cap font-bold uppercase mb-2″]Projected New Job Openings[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”text-2xl text-primary-800 font-heading font-bold mt-0″]128,400 for all NPs[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”text-sm”]BLS[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card][/hen-ui-grid][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The NP profession features one of the strongest professional outlooks in any industry, with a unique combination of exceptionally strong projected growth and high earning potential. PMHNPs enjoy independence in most states, but your place of work will largely influence your duties and responsibilities.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Your tasks may include:[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Prescribing medications[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Performing psychiatric assessments and evaluations[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Referring patients to appropriate specialty providers, if needed[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Collaborating with the healthcare team[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Addressing psychiatric emergencies[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Start thinking about your interests and career goals early on, so you can tailor your studies and practicums to your field. You can also lean on your network and professional associations to help you find the most relevant employment.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Where do Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioners Work?[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The majority of nurse practitioners work in physician offices and hospitals, though PMHNPs can also find employment in mental health clinics and community health centers.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]PMHNPs may also use their knowledge and practical expertise to consult on mental health issues for businesses and community organizations.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Hospital Psychiatry and Mental Health Departments[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Among the most common workplace settings for PMHNPs, these departments rely on psychiatric NPs to assess patients, provide primary and mental health care, collaborate with physicians to develop patient care plans and supervise nursing assistants and RNs. In these settings, you may perform more evaluations and interventions when handling health crises.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Private Practice[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Psychiatric NPs in private practice assess, diagnose, and treat patients with mental health conditions. They provide psychotherapy, develop and carry out care plans, and prescribe medications. PMHNPs in these settings work under psychiatrist supervision, but depending on the state, they may manage their own practices without supervision.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Addiction Clinics[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Substance use disorders often co-occur with mental health conditions. PMHNPs create medication regimens through treatment programs to support patients’ psychiatric needs, oversee the detox process, and address psychiatric emergencies. In this setting, PMHNPs may provide more monitoring, therapy, and medication management than in hospital settings.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Social Services[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Social services settings that employ PMHNPs include schools, prisons, public health clinics, and shelters. PMHNPs in these environments serve diverse populations, often offering counseling for people recovering from trauma, domestic violence, child abuse, and depression. Depending on their practice authority, PMHNPs may work independently or under the supervision of psychiatrists.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Frequently Asked Questions[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-accordion variant=”no-background”] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”How do you become a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner?” expanded=”true”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The requirements vary by state, but PMHNPs usually need an MSN with a PMHNP specialization, a valid RN license, 1-2 years of nursing experience, PMHNP board certification, and state APRN licensure.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Is it better to be a psych NP or a family NP?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]This depends on your interests, as psych NPs focus on mental health, while family NPs have a much broader scope of practice. Family NPs have access to a wider range of career opportunities, while specialized psych NPs may have niche options.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”What is the shortest psych NP certification program?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]For PMHNP certification, you need to complete a board certification exam, which typically takes several hours to complete. You usually need a two-year MSN, but if you already have a graduate degree, you may pursue a one-year post-master’s PMHNP certificate program.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”What is the highest salary for a psych NP?”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://data.bls.gov/oesprofile/” target=”_blank”]According to the BLS[/hen-ui-link], nurse practitioners earn the highest average salaries ($163,000) in residential intellectual and developmental disability, mental health, and substance abuse facilities.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item][/hen-ui-accordion]