Considering a career as a nurse practitioner? We think it’s an excellent choice. NPs bridge the gap between traditional nursing and advanced medical care, blending critical expertise with a holistic approach to patient well-being. And while you may be more familiar with the role of NPs in a clinical setting, there are a variety of career options for nurse practitioners from research and education to health promotion and advocacy. Nurse practitioners can be found in nearly every corner of the healthcare world, and mental health is no exception. As our society becomes increasingly aware of mental health issues, the need for qualified professionals in this field continues to grow. Let’s take a look at the steps required to become a PMHNP, and some of the roles and responsibilities of the profession.

Table of Contents

Are PMHNPs the Same As Mental Health Nurses?
What Does A PMHNP Do?
Where Do PMHNPs Work?
How Do I Become A PMHNP?
Education Preparation

RN Licensure
Advanced Education
Clinical Training
Certification Exam
State Licensure
Ongoing Professional Development

How Long Does It Take to Become A PMHNP?

Are PMHNPs the Same As Mental Health Nurses??

Mental health nurses and PMHNPs are playing a critical role in addressing the nationwide shortage of mental health providers, but there are key differences in the roles they play. Mental health nurses are registered nurses (RNs) who work in the mental health field. They often conduct patient intake, evaluation, and screening, and promote mental health maintenance. Mental health nurses can provide rehabilitative care, and educate patients and their families. 

PMHNPs can perform the responsibilities of a mental health nurse, but as advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs), they often have a higher level of responsibilities. PMHNPs conduct mental health assessments and in many states, can diagnose psychiatric illnesses. They may order and perform diagnostic tests, and can often prescribe medication. PMHNPs in a counseling role can lead psychotherapy for individuals and their families.

What Does A PMHNP Do?

The specific responsibilities of a PMHNP will vary based on the position and workplace, but below is a sample job description that you may encounter as an NP pursuing a career in mental health.

• Perform patient assessment, diagnosis, and treatment.
• Collaborate with nursing staff, supervising psychiatrist, and local counselors.
• Provide psychiatric health education, counseling, and emotional support.
• Refer patients for inpatient care as needed.
• Issue medication prescriptions.
• Provide patient education related to medications including risks, benefits, and outcome expectations.
• Order and interpret laboratory tests; explain results to patients.
• Communicate with patients and/or caregivers and engage in follow-up as needed.

Jobs such as the one described above often require a Masters of Science in Nursing (MSN) with an emphasis in Psychiatric/Mental Health, as well as several years of relevant experience. Some states may require licensure as a PMHNP by the state’s Board of Nursing. 

Where Do PMHNPs Work?

Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioners can work in a variety of healthcare settings, including academic environments. These can include private practice, schools, public or community health centers, hospitals, substance abuse treatment programs, and nursing homes.

In addition to traditional primary and acute care, nurse practitioners are qualified to pursue a number of other careers that may be less obvious to you. One example of these, which is becoming increasingly popular, is an aesthetic nurse practitioner. Aesthetic NPs typically work in medical spas or dermatology clinics, and specialize in procedures such as varicose vein lasering, tattoo removal, and injectables such as Botox or dermal fillers. Even less clinical are the careers of nurse practitioners who practice as freelance writers or legal consultants. In these roles, NPs can put their clinical knowledge to use and provide expertise to law firms, government agencies, insurance companies, medical journals, pharmaceutical or diagnostic biotechnology companies, and continuing education platforms. 

How Do I Become A PMHNP?

Becoming a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner involves a well-defined educational and certification pathway. Let’s walk through these key steps:

Educational Preparation

First, earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from an accredited institution. Alternatively, some individuals choose to pursue an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) followed by a BSn completion program.

RN Licensure

Next, pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to become a licensed registered nurse (RN). Gain practical experience in psychiatric nursing through employment or clinical rotations.

Advanced Education

Pursue a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with a specialization in psychiatric mental health nursing. Choose a program accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commision for Education in Nursing (ACEN). 

Clinical Training

Complete the required clinical hours in psychiatric-mental health nursing during your graduate program. These hands-on experiences provide the practical skills and knowledge needed to excel in the field.

Certification Exam

After completing your education and clinical hours, you are eligible to take the Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certification (PMHNP-BC) exam offered by the AMerican Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) or the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Exam (PMHN-BC) offered by the American Nurses Association. As an upcoming third and upcoming option, the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) recently announced that it will be offering its own psychiatric-mental health certification exam.

State Licensure

Obtain state licensure as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) with a specialization in psychiatric mental health. Requirements vary by state, so check with your state board of nursing for specific guidelines. 

Ongoing Professional Development

Mental health is a dynamic field, and staying current with the developments in research and practice is crucial. Engage in continuous education–which is likely required for your certification renewal as well–, attend conferences, and pursue opportunities for professional growth.

How Long Does It Take to Become a PMHNP?

Certifying bodies like ANCC typically require applicants to hold a current, active RN license as well as a master’s, post-graduate certificate, or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). This includes a minimum of 500 faculty-supervised clinical hours as well as other curriculum requirements. So, given the time it takes to earn an undergraduate degree (~4 years), a master’s or DNP (2-4 years), and time to study for, take, and pass both the NCLEX and AANC exam, the process typically takes around 6 to 9 years.

Embarking on a career as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner is a notable and impactful decision. PMHNPs play an important role in promoting mental well-being, supporting individuals through challenging times, and contributing to the advancement of mental healthcare. By following the outlined steps above, aspiring PMHNPs can acquire the necessary education, training, and certification to excel in this dynamic and fulfilling field. As mental health awareness continues to grow, the demand for skilled and compassionate PMHNPs will only grow, making this specialization an excellent choice for those who are dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of individuals and their communities.