How to become a psychiatric nurse practitioner

A Comprehensive Guide on How to Become a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner

For those passionate about mental health and well-being, a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) career can be incredibly rewarding. Combining medical and psychiatric expertise, PMHNPs play a vital role in providing holistic care to individuals who face mental health issues.

As a PMHNP, you will need to be equipped with a diverse set of skills and handle various responsibilities related to the mental and emotional health of your patients. Because of this, there is a wide range of opportunities associated with this role that allow PMHNP-trained professionals to work in collaboration with psychologists, social workers, and other health care professionals.

This article will help guide you through the educational requirements, certifications, job responsibilities, and more to give you all the basic information you need to know in order to pursue this career path.

What Is the Difference Between a Psychiatric Nurse and a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner?

A psychiatric-mental health nurse and a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner are both professionals in the field of mental health care, but they differ in terms of their level of education, scope of practice and responsibilities.

Typically, a psychiatric nurse holds a bachelor's degree in nursing (BSN) and may have additional certifications or specialized training in psychiatric nursing. They often work under the supervision of psychiatrists or psychiatric nurse practitioners.

A psychiatric nurse practitioner holds a master's or doctoral degree in nursing (MSN or DNP) with specialized training in psychiatric and mental health care. They have advanced education in assessment, diagnosis, treatment and management of psychiatric disorders. PNPs have the authority to diagnose mental illnesses, prescribe medications and provide psychotherapy independently.

Psychiatric nurses primarily focus on providing direct patient care. They may assist with assessments, administer medications, monitor patients' progress and provide counseling or therapeutic interventions under the direction of a psychiatrist or nurse practitioner.

PNPs have an expanded scope of practice compared to psychiatric nurses. They are authorized to conduct comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, diagnose mental health disorders, prescribe medications (including psychotropic medications) and provide psychotherapy. PNPs often work autonomously or collaboratively with other healthcare professionals to manage patients with psychiatric conditions.

While psychiatric nurses play a crucial role in the mental health team, they typically work under the supervision of psychiatrists or nurse practitioners. They collaborate closely with other healthcare providers to deliver holistic care to patients.

PNPs have a higher level of autonomy in their practice. They can work independently in various settings, including private practice, community mental health clinics, hospitals and outpatient facilities. PNPs take on more responsibility in diagnosing, treating, and managing mental health conditions.

How Long Does It Take to Become a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner?

To become a psychiatric nurse practitioner, individuals typically start by earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), which takes about four years. After completing the BSN program, they must pass the NCLEX-RN exam to become licensed registered nurses. Following this is one to two years of clinical experience as a registered nurse. Then, they pursue a graduate-level nursing program specializing in psychiatric and mental health care, such as a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree, which takes about two to four years.

Upon completing the graduate program, they must pass a national certification exam, such as the Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) certification and obtain state licensure as advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) to practice legally.

Becoming a psychiatric nurse practitioner typically takes six to eight years of education and clinical training beyond high school. This timeline may vary based on factors such as the individual's prior education, clinical experience and chosen educational pathway. The next section dives deeper into the education requirements.

Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Educational Requirements

Earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN):

The coursework for a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) typically includes classes in anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, nursing theory, patient care, and healthcare management. Students also gain hands-on experience through clinical rotations in various healthcare settings to prepare them for a career as a registered nurse.

NCLEX-RN Exam Requirements:

To become a registered nurse (RN), individuals must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) exam. This exam tests the individual's knowledge and competency in various areas of nursing practice and is required for licensure in all 50 states.

Nursing Clinical Experience:

Working as an RN provides valuable clinical experience in various healthcare settings, such as hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. This experience allows RNs to develop their patient care skills, gain exposure to different medical conditions, and work collaboratively with other health care professionals to provide the best possible care for patients.

Advanced Nursing Degrees:

Pursue a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) specialization: Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) specialization typically includes classes in advanced pharmacology, psychotherapy, diagnostic reasoning, and treatment planning for patients with mental health disorders. Students also gain hands-on experience through clinical rotations in psychiatric facilities and community mental health clinics to prepare them for providing comprehensive care to patients with mental health needs.

PMHNPs must be licensed as advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) and meet state-specific requirements. To become licensed as an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) with a PMHNP specialization, individuals must meet state-specific requirements such as completing an accredited MSN or DNP program, obtaining national certification through a recognized organization, and passing a state licensing exam. These requirements ensure that PMHNPs have the necessary education and training to provide safe and effective care to patients with mental health needs.

  • PMHNPs typically obtain certification through organizations like the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) or the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP).

What Does a PMHNP Do?

If you are wondering what you can do as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, the day-to-day responsibilities typically include the following:

  • Collaborating with a team of health care professionals to create treatment plans
  • Diagnosing patients and communicating condition information
  • Conducting mental health assessments and interpreting the results for patients and their families
  • Performing exams and checkups for physical and mental health
  • Providing psychotherapy for the treatment of conditions
  • Prescribing medications and consulting with doctors, potentially adjusting medication and treatment plans for patients
  • Maintaining patient records and making referrals
  • Continually learning about new medicines and treatments

Should I Become a PMHNP or an FNP?

The answer to this question depends on your career goals; PMHNPs specialize in mental health, while family nurse practitioners (FNPs) focus more on family care. If you prefer a broader scope of practice and enjoy working with patients of all ages, becoming an FNP might be more suitable. FNPs provide primary care services to individuals and families across the lifespan, addressing acute and chronic health conditions. FNPs care for patients of all ages, from infants to elderly individuals. You'll diagnose and manage various health conditions, including acute illnesses, chronic diseases, preventive care and health promotion. FNPs have diverse job opportunities in primary care settings such as family practices, clinics, urgent care centers, schools, and occupational health settings.

But another thing to consider is the demand for each role. The Behavioral Health Workforce has projected workforce shortages for psychiatrists, mental health counselors, school psychologists, mental health and substance abuse social workers, school counselors, and marriage and family therapists. Mental health and substance abuse social workers and school counselors show shortages of more than 290,970 full-time employees. This shortage means the demand for nurse practitioners, including PMHNPs, is expected to grow significantly by 2036.1

It is also helpful to know that the median psychiatric nurse practitioner salary is competitive, depending on location and experience. The median wage for a psychiatric NP is around $134,660, but this number will vary by market and experience.2

What's the Difference Between a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatrist?

PMHNPs are advanced practice nurses specializing in mental health, providing therapy and medication management. Psychiatrists are medical doctors who can prescribe medication and often focus on severe mental illnesses. Psychiatric nurse practitioners (PNPs) and psychiatrists distinguish themselves through their education, training and scope of practice.

PNPs are registered nurses with advanced graduate degrees such as a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), and they specialize in psychiatric and mental health care. They provide holistic care, including assessment, diagnosis, medication prescription, psychotherapy and counseling.

In contrast, psychiatrists are medical doctors who complete medical school and residency training in psychiatry. With expertise in both biological and psychological aspects of mental health, psychiatrists diagnose, prescribe medications, conduct psychotherapy sessions and perform procedures like electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). While the steps to gaining your PMHNP are outlined above, becoming a psychiatrist would require a different and very comprehensive education.

Embarking on the journey to become a psychiatric nurse practitioner requires dedication and a passion for mental health. By following the outlined steps and gaining valuable experience, you can contribute significantly to improving the lives of individuals facing mental health challenges. If you are interested in pursuing a degree to work toward becoming a psychiatric nurse practitioner, you can learn more about the educational requirements and see the best option by speaking with an admissions representative. Request information here.

  1. Workforce Predictions
  2. Salary - Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner