A psychiatric nurse practitioner meets with a patient
A psychiatric nurse practitioner meets with a patient

What Does a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Do?

by Walsh University Online

Mental health is an often-discussed topic that affects how people feel, think and behave. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines mental health as the ability to handle stressful aspects of life, contribute to the community and realize one’s potential. 

Poor mental health is prominent nationwide, with 2023 findings from Mental Health America showing more than 20% of adults in America experience one or more mental illnesses. To help those seeking aid for their mental health, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) can help provide significant care and improve health outcomes through mental health assessments, diagnosis and treatments. 

PMHNPs can significantly impact their patients’ mental health, according to a 2023 article from the Journal of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners. Through patient-centered care and a collaborative approach, PMHNPs can empower patients while supporting them with tailored treatment plans and resources. Those looking to become a PMHNP should consider the benefits of an advanced education focusing on mental health nursing to prepare for this impactful career.

What Is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner? 

PMHNPs focus on mental health, emphasizing assessment and treatment. PMHNPs are advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs), which means they have greater autonomy to provide healthcare services, depending on their state of practice. Those who want to become a PMHNP must have their Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). They may also need experience working as a psychiatric registered nurse (RN). 

After becoming RNs, these professionals should seek an advanced education, such as a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN): Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program at a university accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. After earning their degree, these nurses must pass the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) PMHNP-BC Certification exam and apply for licensure in their state of practice.

A PMHNP Career: What They Do 

A PMHNP career focuses on directly working with patients with mental health and substance use disorders. They provide patient-centered services including assessing conditions, offering diagnoses and developing treatment plans based on patient needs. Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner can help patients receive advanced care for complex issues and provide other holistic care options.

Assessment and Diagnosis

Assessment is a critical aspect of a PMHNP’s process. During the assessment, they’ll interview the patient to understand more about their medical history and learn more about various aspects of their life. Gaining this background on a patient helps PMHNPs discern any potential causes or exacerbating factors related to mental health disorders.

Once the patient has been appropriately assessed, the PMHNP may diagnose mental health disorders, including anxiety, depression and bipolar disorder.

Treatment Planning and Interventions

Using the information gathered during the assessment, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners work with patients to determine the best treatment options. They may collaborate with other healthcare professionals or specialists, such as primary care providers, to provide holistic treatment. 

A PMHNP may prescribe medications to assist with a patient’s mental health, monitoring how the patient’s condition improves or changes and altering the dosage as necessary. A PMHNP may also offer limited psychotherapy to help patients navigate trauma or current life events that may be impacting their mental health.

PMHNPs also advocate for patients. They can help them find resources like transportation, support networks, community spaces or financial assistance.

Patient Care and Education

Patient-centered care is critical to a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner’s role. They involve patients in the development of treatment plans that meet their needs, focusing on improving their well-being. This aspect of care helps empower patients to participate in their treatment, which can improve satisfaction and health outcomes. 

PMHNPs also work as educators, helping patients and their families understand how symptoms of their mental health disorders can manifest. They can also educate patients on treatment options, including coping mechanisms. 

Where Do PMHNPs Work? 

Many of a PMHNP’s tasks can vary depending on their work environment, but the focus on patient-centered and holistic care remains the same. Some examples of specific work locations include: 

    • Private practice clinics: PMHNPs can work in private clinical practices offering mental health services.
    • Hospitals: PMHNPs can work in hospitals, such as psychiatric hospitals or offices where they meet with patients, to provide inpatient and outpatient services.
  • Community health centers: PMHNPs may work to provide services to patients at community health clinics and centers. .
  • Schools: PMHNPs can help students in school settings cope with mental health disorders such as anxiety or depression.
  • Telehealth: PMHNPs can also offer telehealth services, allowing them to connect with their patients through the phone or internet to provide care. 

Considerations When Seeking Care from a PMHNP 

Working with a PMHNP can benefit patients who need mental health or substance use support. PMHNPs may better serve those in rural areas or communities with limited access to mental health care. They also offer a holistic approach to care, working with a patient’s primary caregiver and specialists to coordinate the best available treatment options.

PMHNP Salary and Job Outlook 

According to April 2024 data from the compensation website Payscale, the average annual PMHNP salary is about $119,770. Like most careers, salaries may vary due to factors such as the position’s location and the candidate’s experience in the field.

The job outlook for PMHNPs is also promising. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), careers for nurse practitioners, including PMHNPs, are projected to grow by 38% between 2023 and 2033. This is significantly higher than the average 3% growth for all careers.

While the BLS statistics cover all nurse practitioners, there is a substantial need for psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners nationwide. A 2023 report from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) found that more than half of the U.S. population lives in areas with a shortage of mental health professionals. With this significant shortage of professionals, those who become PMHNPs will have ample opportunity to fill a need in communities nationwide.

Serve Patients as a PMHNP

PMHNPs can empower patients holistically by assessing, diagnosing, and treating patients with mental health disorders. They can also improve mental health accessibility to help alleviate the shortage of mental health caregivers nationwide. 

To advance your career and become a PMHNP, consider the benefits of Walsh University’s online MSN – Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (MSN-PMHNP) degree program. This flexible program can prepare you for PMHNP certification and strengthen your knowledge of patients’ mental health care needs. 

Discover the difference you can make. 

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