Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

What You Will Learn

Husson University’s online PMHNP program will prepare you to deliver high-quality mental health care to patients across the lifespan. You’ll study subjects such as advanced health assessment, physiology and pharmacology, as well as diagnosis and pharmacological treatment of psychiatric illnesses. You’ll learn from experienced, practicing faculty – practitioners who share their expertise with you. Our graduate nursing students have achieved a 95% passage rate on national certification exams, demonstrating the delivery of exceptional education in our psychiatric nurse practitioner online program.

Please visit our state authorizations page to see whether this program is available in your area.

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*Potential for 24-month accelerated track **Rate effective May 1, 2022. All rates subject to change. Please see Cost and Aid for more information.

The baccalaureate degree program in nursing, master's degree program in nursing and post-graduate APRN certificate programs at Husson University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (http://www.ccneaccreditation.org).

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner?

A psychiatric nurse practitioner or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is in charge of assessing patients' mental health statuses by reviewing their pertinent medical history, conducting complete psychiatric examinations, and identifying risk factors that may impair mental health. They also can interpret tests ordered by psychologists or psychiatrists.

These nurse practitioners provide support to families of patients and the mental health community, too. Often mental illness affects more than just the patient. Mental health professionals such as a PMHNP can offer therapy and treatment to the family as a group.

They may also work with patients that have behavioral problems, including substance abuse. Mental health care is an intricate part of substance abuse recovery.

PMHNPs can have their own private practices, but many work in psychiatric hospitals or dedicated mental health units. They treat patients of all ages, but can specialize in pediatric or geriatric care, for example.

What does a psychiatric nurse practitioner do?

They specialize in caring for patients with mental health issues by assessing, diagnosing, and treating patients with mental health conditions. A PMHNP carries out physical and psychosocial examinations, prescribes medications and treatment, leads therapy sessions, and monitors patients with mental health concerns.

Why become a mental health nurse practitioner?

The demand for qualified mental health professionals is increasing due to a number of factors, including rising awareness of mental health issues. Being a psychiatric nurse practitioner allows you to work with patients and the community in an underserved area of healthcare. It also is a career path that will offer job security and good pay.

Why are psychiatric nurse practitioners in demand?

There are several factors at play, including the passing of the Affordable Care Act, which makes mental health an essential service. In addition, mainstream media is raising awareness and helping to eradicate the stigma atta, ched to mental health problems, so more people are seeking this important health care.

How to become a PMHNP

First, you must become a registered nurse with either a BSN or four-year degree. Once you pass the NCLEX-RN exam, you can apply to a graduate nursing program. To meet the requirements for certification, you will need to complete clinical hours in that field and additional training in mental health.

Husson University participates in the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements.