Mental illness is becoming one of the most common health disorders in the United States and worldwide. The World Health Organization (WHO) reveals a 13% increase in reported mental health disorders over the past ten years. When looking specifically at the United States, approximately 1 in 5 Americans experienced mental illness, and 1 in 20 Americans experienced a serious mental illness in 2021. And while over 57.8 million adults experienced mental illness, just under 50% sought out treatment. And of the 14.1 million adults who experienced serious mental illness, about 65% sought out treatment in 2021.
Mental illness does not only affect adults, as 50% of all lifetime mental illness starts by age 14. In 2021, 1 in 6 people between 6-17 years (7.7 million youth) reported experience with a mental health disorder. The second leading cause of death in youth aged 10-14 is suicide.
In the United States, anxiety is the most reported mental illness, followed by major depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Impact Of Mental Health on Overall Well-Being
Mental illness impacts not only the emotional, psychological, and social health of a person but also the physical and overall well-being of a person, their family, and the community. Below are a few examples of the impact of mental health on the individual, family, and community.
Those with depression have a 40% higher risk of developing cardiovascular and metabolic disorders such as heart disease, stroke and diabetes. Those with serious mental illness are nearly twice as likely to develop these conditions.
Higher unemployment rates among adults with mental illness
higher dropout rates in high school students with significant symptoms of depression
In 2021, 33.5% of adults in the United States with mental illness also experienced a substance use disorder.
21.1% of people experiencing homelessness have a serious mental health condition
Depression is a leading cause of disability worldwide.
Increasing Need for Psychiatric Nurses
As mentioned above, the WHO reveals a 13% increase in reported mental health disorders over the past ten years, and in 2024, 43% of adults say they feel more anxious than they did the previous year. While there is a noted increase in people diagnosed with mental illness, it is difficult to determine if this is due to the rise in incidence or if people are more comfortable reporting their symptoms and seeking treatment and have more labels to diagnose behaviors.
Regardless of the reason why we are seeing an increase in mental illness, there is an obvious need for more psychiatric mental health RNs and APRNs.
On top of having an increase in people diagnosed with mental illness, there is also an access problem in the United States, especially in rural communities. There are currently over 25 million people living in a rural community where there is a shortage of mental health professionals, further supporting the need for more psychiatric mental health RNs and APRNs to help meet this demand.
Over the past several years, we have seen an increase in mental illness, and it is projected that the number of people seeking treatment will continue to rise. This supports the need for more Psychiatric RNs and APRNs as they can help fill the current void of psychiatric mental health professionals, ensuring the health needs of patients are met and improving the overall well-being of the population.
Anxiety and depression are prevalent in the United States. Approximately 9.5% of American adults suffer from a depressive illness, and about 18% of people ages 18- 54 have an anxiety disorder. These are significant statistics, making it essential for us to understand the impact anxiety and depression have on not only the healthcare system but also healthcare professionals.
Anxiety and Depression
First, we need to define what is anxiety and depression before discussing how it impacts the healthcare system and professionals.
People worry every day about various things, and this turns into anxiety when the worry is not temporary and starts to consume their lives. Anxiety can impact a person’s personal, family, and professional life. Different types of anxiety include
Generalized anxiety disorder
Panic disorder
Social anxiety disorder
Phobia-related disorders
Depression impacts how a person feels, their mood, how they think, and their ability to complete daily tasks. To be diagnosed with depression, the symptoms must be present for at least two weeks. Different types of depression include
Major depression
Persistent depression
Perinatal depression
Seasonal affective disorder
Depression with episodes of psychosis
People with bipolar can experience depressive episodes
Disruptive mood dysregulation disorder
Impact of Anxiety and Depression on the Healthcare System
Anxiety and depression not only impact the individual experiencing mental illness, but they also impact the healthcare system. This can be due to the number of people who have mental illness but are untreated, the lack of access to mental health care, or the compliance with treatment plans.
The most common cause of hospitalization in the United States in people under the age of 18 is due to depression.
People aged 18-44 are at a higher risk of hospitalization for psychosis spectrum and mood disorders as they account for almost 600,000 hospitalizations yearly.
Mental illness costs the economy of the United States $193.2 billion in lost earnings each year.
Impact of Anxiety and Depression on Healthcare Professionals
The impact mental health, especially anxiety and depression, can have on healthcare professionals is significant. Not only does it affect their individual health, relationships, and overall well-being, but it can also lead to poorer outcomes in the workplace and burnout. Below are a few outcomes of mental health that can impact healthcare professionals.
Burnout: In 2022, approximately 46% of health professionals report burnout, an increase from 32% in 2018.
The information above is alarming, both regarding the impact anxiety and depression have on the healthcare system and healthcare providers. Improving and caring for the mental health of healthcare professionals needs to be a priority. This is vital to ensure there is no shortage of health professionals and they can provide high-quality care. Through this, we may be able to help decrease the burden anxiety and depression have on the healthcare system and overall economy.
Flaubert JL, Le Menestrel S, Williams DR, et al. (2021). The future of nursing 2020-2030: charting a path to achieve health equity. National Academies Press. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK573902/
Work directly with the patient to promote health and assist patients in achieving their goals.
Complete assessments and educate patients and their families on treatment plans, including diagnoses, medications, and therapeutic techniques to manage symptoms.
Practice crisis intervention and stabilization.
Collaborate with the interprofessional team, including case management and social work.
Coordinate care between the patient and any other needed specialties or resources.
Psychiatric mental health APRNs work in the inpatient and outpatient settings and are more involved in the treatment and management of their patients. The duties of the psychiatric mental health APRN include
They perform comprehensive head-to-toe evaluations, order diagnostic tests when indicated, and interpret these findings to formulate diagnoses and develop individualized treatment plans.
Utilize appropriate screening tools for diagnostic purposes.Utilize appropriate screening tools for diagnostic purposes.
Prescribe medications for acute and chronic illnesses.
Provide therapy interventions with the patient, family, or in group settings.
Collaborate with the interprofessional team and refer to other healthcare providers when needed.
Policy development
Certifications For Psychiatric Mental Health Nurses
Many nursing specialties have certifications that nurses can pursue to demonstrate passion, commitment, and expertise in their specialty. To obtain these certifications, additional studying and, for some, schooling are needed in addition to passing an exam.
There are no specific psychiatric mental health RN certifications. However, continuing education (CEUs) for nurses dedicated to psychiatric mental health nursing/behavioral health nursing can expand knowledge and ensure evidence-based medicine is practiced.
There are, however, certifications for the psychiatric mental health APRN.
ANCC Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) (Across the Lifespan): This certification exam is for those who have graduated from an accredited psychiatric-mental health NP program and completed all other eligibility requirements. Those who sit for this exam exhibit a passion and commitment to providing high-quality care, and the certification demonstrates entry-level clinical knowledge and skills along with commitment and passion for psychiatric mental health nursing. Once the NP passes the exam, they are awarded the credential PMHNP-BC. This indicates they are board-certified, and this credential must be renewed every five years.
AANP Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP): This certification exam is for those who have graduated from an accredited psychiatric-mental health NP program and completed all other eligibility requirements. Those who sit for this exam exhibit a passion and commitment to providing high-quality care, and the certification demonstrates entry-level clinical knowledge and skills across the lifespan. Once the NP passes the exam, they are awarded the credential PMHNP-C. This indicates they are board-certified, and this credential must be renewed every five years.
Nurses’ knowledge, skills, and commitment to providing high-quality care are just a few qualities that make them invaluable members of the healthcare team. The role of psychiatric mental health RNs and APRNs is no exception. The certification and CEUs completed by these healthcare professionals demonstrate the dedication and passion they show daily to their patients, family members, and healthcare team.
In the busy world of healthcare, a group of hidden heroes emerges with specialized care and unwavering dedication: meet the unsung champions of psychiatric-mental health (PMH) nursing. These caregivers play a crucial role in shaping compassionate mental healthcare.
We spoke with Angela Amar, PhD, RN, FAAN, the Dean and Erline Perkins McGriff Professor at the New York University Rory Meyers College of Nursing. Dean Amar is a PMH nurse with expertise in gender-based violence and discusses the roles of PMH and forensic nursing.
Please talk about your career path and how you became a PMH nurse.
I became a nurse because I liked science and helping people. I’ve always been intrigued by human behavior. Even as a child, I remember watching people interact and wondering why they did the things they did. Psychiatric nursing provides a window into understanding human behavior and the tools and skills to help people. This skill has been very useful as a nurse administrator.
Please talk about what a psychiatric-mental health nurse does.
Psychiatric mental health nurses (PMH) provide nursing care for patients with psychiatric illnesses and symptoms. PMH nurses provide comprehensive care to individuals, groups, families, and communities who are affected by mental illness and substance abuse.
How do you become a psychiatric-mental health nurse?
All nurses receive education and clinical experience in assessing, diagnosing, caring for, and treating mental health and substance disorders. Working in a mental health unit or facility will allow a nurse to learn more psychiatric skills. To become a psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner, one must complete a graduate education program and become licensed and certified.
You have expertise in gender-based violence and forensic nursing. What is forensic nursing?
The International Association of Forensic Nurses (IAFN) defines forensic nursing as “…the practice of nursing globally when health and legal systems interact” (IAFN). Forensic nurses are often described as the link between the health care and criminal justice systems. Establishing this linkage between health care and the criminal justice system is essential to providing the comprehensive care victims and offenders of violent crimes need. Specifically, forensic nurses provide specialized health care and expertise to meet the needs of victims and offenders of violence. Specialized health care may include evaluation, identification, and treatment of injuries, collection of biological and physical evidence, legal documentation of injuries, and, sometimes, participation in legal court proceedings.
Can you talk about the field where this expertise is useful?
Forensic nurses practice in various settings with a diverse group of victims and offenders. Many forensic nurses work as part of interdisciplinary teams that investigate abuse or neglect situations with adults and children, as well as teams involved in prevention efforts. Forensic nurses in critical and emergency care and psychiatric nursing routinely interact with individuals who have experienced violence and its consequences. These nurses provide physical care while attending to the collection of evidence and documentation for legal proceedings.
Forensic nurses may work with individuals in prisons and jails’ medical, psychiatric, and evaluation units. Psychiatric nurses work with victims and offenders. Other areas of forensic nursing practice include death investigation, mass disaster care/investigation, and legal nurse consulting. Examples of potential employers include hospitals, community health care sites, law enforcement, coroner’s offices, and the military; potential roles are nurse coroner and forensic nurse examiner.
What types of conditions do forensic nurses manage?
The earliest and most recognized role in forensic nursing in the United States is that of the sexual assault nurse examiner (SANE). The purpose of SANE programs is to provide victims of sexual assault with health care, forensic assessment, evidence collection, forensic documentation, and court testimony. Other roles include death investigation, child, elder, and intimate partner violence investigation, corrections nursing, and legal nurse consultant.
What are the challenges of forensic nursing?
Forensic nurses are exposed to the savagery of violence and crime and the difficult aftermath survivors experience on a daily basis. Self-care and fortitude are important, as is working in a community and on a team that can provide support. As a newer specialty within nursing, the roles are not always understood, and many nurses have created roles for themselves in systems that did not initially see the need.
What are the most critical skills for forensic nurses?
Unfortunately, too many people in our society experience violence and crime as victims and offenders, as well as affected family members, friends, or significant others. Forensic nurses are ready to help them and demonstrate caring, capability, and compassion. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills are essential, as is knowledge of the dynamics of violence and crime.
What makes being a forensic nurse so unique?
Forensic nursing is an innovative and evolving nursing specialty that addresses healthcare issues with a medico-legal component. In responding to the societal and health care needs created by increasing criminal violence, forensic nursing programs provide nurses with the necessary skills for specialized health care and expertise to meet the needs of victims and offenders of violence. Violence and crime are major issues affecting our society. Nurses provide care to victims and offenders of violence in a variety of settings, often without specialized training.
Are there evidence-based guidelines forensic nurses must follow?
All nurses follow evidence-based practice guidelines. This also pertains to SANEs and the other forensic roles.
You’re a leading scholar in gender-based violence and have influenced the direction of campus policy nationally. Can you talk about these policies and their role in nationwide campuses?
My research examines help-seeking behavior, specifically in college students who have experienced sexual or relationship violence. Many young adults do not report violence and often do not receive follow-up care for the physical and psychological effects. My research examined factors influencing help-seeking behavior at the individual, relational, and community levels. Specifically, we explored how friends can be more effective in promoting help-seeking and how campus policies may inhibit or promote help-seeking.
You just finished your first year as the Dean of New York University Rory Meyers College of Nursing and Erline Perkins McGriff Professor of Nursing. How did the year go, and what are you looking forward to in your second year?
It’s been a great year. NYU Meyers is a vibrant community in a dynamic and global university in one of the world’s greatest cities. The faculty and staff are talented and engaged, and the students are smart and stellar. NYU Meyers has always had an eye on the future and is a trend-setting and change-making institution. I am excited by the possibilities of continuing to lead the nation, expand our global footprint, and continue with innovative research and teaching while promoting a learning organization where everyone thrives and grows.
Mental health nursing is a specialty within our profession that may be frequently overlooked and underappreciated. Nurses working in the realm of mental health perform an excellent service for many individuals and families living with the effects of a wide variety of conditions, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, and substance use disorders.
While the first half of the 20th century may have been the Dark Ages for mental health in the United States in many respects — including the longstanding stigma surrounding mental illness — the 21st century has seen a renaissance in our willingness to address conditions that are more common than ever previously accepted or acknowledged.
In this respect, the nurse’s role in the mental health of their fellow Americans is crucial.
Decreasing Stigma, Raising Awareness
In the 21st century, we are witnessing a new openness in terms of ordinary people being willing to discuss mental health honestly and authentically.
According to a 2019 survey by the American Psychological Association (APA), “most Americans harbor positive views about mental health disorders and treatment.” The survey findings state, “A total of 87% of American adults agreed that having a mental health disorder is nothing to be ashamed of, and 86% said they believe that people with mental health disorders can get better.”
These statistics are a convincing argument that the stigma of mental illness, while not wholly eradicated, has significantly decreased from days gone by when those with mental health disorders were more likely to be considered dangerous and thus removed from society and locked away.
With attitudes changing, the public’s mind-opening, and healthcare providers increasingly willing to talk about mental health with their patients, the table has been set for Americans’ mental wellness to take a front seat in the healthcare space.
In a 2021 editorial on the website of the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) titled “Integrating Behavioral Health Into Primary Care,” author Sarina Schrager, MD, MS opines that “fully integrating behavioral health in primary care is the gold standard for care.” She adds that “integrated behavioral health has been shown to improve depression scores and improve the patient and physician experiences.”
As providers adopt this outlook in the exam room, patients’ comfort in talking openly about their concerns and symptoms will likely increase.
Paradigm Shifts
With the FDA poised to approve MDMA (Ecstasy) for the treatment of PTSD, and psilocybin and ketamine for the treatment of depression, a paradigm shift in the worlds of psychiatry and psychology is upon us.
“ANA is pleased to officially recognize cannabis nursing practice as a nursing specialty…This recognition highlights the essential role and special contribution of cannabis nurses to the health care system and promotes enhanced integration of cannabis therapies for health care consumers across diverse health care settings.”
Cannabis nursing certification programs and pertinent training, conferences, and literature are adding even more credence to the fact that these previously fringe ideas and treatments are beginning to intersect with mainstream medical care.
In these exciting times of change and expansion in the mental health field, nurses are seeing the emergence of new avenues for career advancement, entrepreneurship, personal and professional fulfillment, and recognition of, and certification for, their knowledge and expertise.
The Future is Unwritten
The future of mental health care in the United States is unwritten, yet there are courageous, intelligent, forward-thinking professionals who are paving the way as these new paradigms emerge.
As providers become more confident in talking with patients about mental health, new treatment options are made more widely available, and the stigma of mental illness continues to wane, we can all embrace the future of mental health care as it unfolds.
Nurses are natural change agents, often leading innovation in mental health care. The trust the public generally places in nurses will serve us all well in the years ahead.
As complicated human beings living in an equally complex world, challenges to our mental health may always be with us. Yet, our attitudes, practices, and beliefs will ultimately shape the direction our society takes in this regard. At this time in history, we are heading in the right direction.
If you’re considering seeking mental health treatment, you may be wondering about the differences between a psychiatric nurse practitioner, a psychiatrist, and a therapist. While all three professions can provide mental health care, they have different levels of education, training, and clinical roles. Understanding these differences can help you make an informed decision about which provider is right for you.
A psychiatric nurse practitioner near me (PNP) is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) with specialized mental health care training. Like psychiatrists, PNPs can assess, diagnose, and treat mental health disorders. However, they do not have a medical degree and cannot prescribe medication independently in all states. Instead, PNPs work under the supervision of a physician or collaborate with other healthcare providers to provide comprehensive care.
Psychiatrists, on the other hand, are medical doctors who specialize in mental health. They have completed medical school and a residency in psychiatry, which allows them to diagnose and treat mental health disorders and prescribe medication. Psychiatrists may also provide psychotherapy, but their primary focus is on the medical management of mental illness. Therapists, also known as counselors or psychotherapists, have a master’s degree in counseling or a related field and are trained to provide talk therapy to individuals, couples, families, and groups. Therapists do not prescribe medication and typically do not provide medical care.
Understanding the Roles
Psychiatrist Overview
A psychiatrist is a medical doctor (MD) who has completed medical school and a residency program in psychiatry. Psychiatrists are licensed physicians who specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental illness and emotional disorders. They can prescribe medication and provide psychotherapy. Psychiatrists are board-certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. They work with patients of all ages and backgrounds.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Overview
A psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) with a Master’s or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree in psychiatric-mental health nursing. PMHNPs are licensed to diagnose and treat mental health disorders and can prescribe medication. They work with patients of all ages and backgrounds, and their scope of practice is similar to that of psychiatrists. PMHNPs are certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center.
Therapist Overview
A therapist is a licensed mental health professional who provides counseling and psychotherapy to help individuals, couples, and families with mental health issues. Therapists can specialize in different areas, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, family therapy, or art therapy. They work with patients of all ages and backgrounds and can provide treatment plans for mental health care. Education requirements for therapists vary by state, but most require a master’s degree or higher and licensure or certification in their specialty. For example, if you are looking for a therapist in Janesville, WI, you had better believe they have put in their hours and are expert at what they do.
Overall, psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, and therapists all play important roles in treating mental health disorders. Psychiatrists are medical doctors who can prescribe medication and provide psychotherapy. Psychiatric nurse practitioners are advanced practice registered nurses who can diagnose and treat mental health disorders and prescribe medication. Therapists provide counseling and psychotherapy to help individuals, couples, and families with mental health issues.
Educational Pathways and Certification
If you’re considering a career as a mental health professional, it’s important to understand the educational pathways and certification requirements for each role. This section will discuss the educational requirements for psychiatrists and psychiatric nurse practitioners.
Psychiatrist Education and Training
To become a psychiatrist, you must complete a bachelor’s degree in a related field, such as psychology or biology, and then attend medical school. After completing medical school, you’ll need to complete a residency program in psychiatry, which typically lasts four years. During your residency, you’ll receive specialized training in diagnosing and treating mental health disorders.
After completing your residency, you must obtain a medical license in the state where you plan to practice. You can then become board-certified in psychiatry by passing the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN) exam.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Education and Training
To become a psychiatric nurse practitioner, you must first become a registered nurse by completing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree. After obtaining your nursing license, you can then pursue a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree with a specialization in psychiatric-mental health.
Some psychiatric nurse practitioners may pursue a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree, which can provide additional training and expertise in the field.
After completing your education, you must obtain a psychiatric nurse practitioner certification from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). This certification demonstrates your expertise in the field and can help you stand out to potential employers.
Overall, both psychiatrists and psychiatric nurse practitioners require extensive education and training to provide high-quality care to patients with mental health disorders. Whether you choose to pursue a career as a psychiatrist or psychiatric nurse practitioner, you can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those struggling with mental illness.
Scope of Practice and Clinical Roles
Duties and Responsibilities
Psychiatric nurse practitioners, psychiatrists, and therapists have different scopes of practice and clinical roles. Psychiatric nurse practitioners (PNPs) are advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) who are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions in adults and families. PNPs can prescribe medication and develop treatment plans for their patients. They work collaboratively with other healthcare professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and social workers, to provide comprehensive care to patients.
Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental health issues. They can prescribe medication and provide psychotherapy to their patients. Psychiatrists often work in hospitals, clinics, private practice, nursing homes, government agencies, and correctional facilities.
Therapists, also known as counselors or psychotherapists, are mental health professionals who provide talk therapy to their patients. They are trained to assess and diagnose mental health issues and develop treatment plans. Therapists work in various settings, including private practice, clinics, hospitals, and schools.
Work Environments
Psychiatric nurse practitioners can work in various settings, including hospitals, clinics, private practice, nursing homes, and government agencies. They often collaborate with other healthcare professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and social workers.
Psychiatrists work in hospitals, clinics, private practices, nursing homes, government agencies, and correctional facilities. They may collaborate with other healthcare professionals, such as psychiatric nurses, psychologists, and social workers.
Therapists work in various settings, including private practice, clinics, hospitals, and schools. They may work independently or as part of a team with other healthcare professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and social workers.
In summary, psychiatric nurse practitioners, psychiatrists, and therapists all have different scopes of practice and clinical roles. While PNPs can prescribe medication and develop treatment plans, psychiatrists are medical doctors who can provide psychotherapy and prescribe medication. Therapists provide talk therapy to their patients. Each profession has unique work settings, and they often work collaboratively with other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive patient care.
Career Outlook and Opportunities
Job Market and Demand
The job market for psychiatric nurse practitioners, psychiatrists, and therapists is expected to grow in the coming years. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of nurse practitioners is projected to grow by 29 percent from 2020 to 2030, much faster than the average for all occupations. Similarly, the employment of psychiatrists is projected to grow by 12 percent from 2020 to 2030, much faster than the average for all occupations.
The demand for psychiatric nurse practitioners and psychiatrists is expected to increase due to the growing need for mental health services. As more people seek treatment for mental health conditions, there will be a greater need for qualified professionals to provide care. Additionally, changes in healthcare laws and policies are expected to increase access to mental health services, further driving demand for these professionals.
As more people seek treatment for mental health conditions, there will be a greater need for qualified professionals to provide care. Additionally, changes in healthcare laws and policies are expected to increase access to mental health services, further driving demand for these professionals. The COVID-19 pandemic has also heightened awareness of mental health issues, as the stress and uncertainty of the pandemic have led to an increase in mental health concerns. You can refer to this detailed guide. for more information on COVID-19 and its incubation period.
Salary Expectations
The salary expectations for psychiatric nurse practitioners and psychiatrists vary based on education, experience, and skills. According to the BLS, the median annual salary for nurse practitioners, including psychiatric nurse practitioners, was $117,670 as of May 2020. The median annual salary for psychiatrists was $220,380 as of May 2020.
It is important to note that salaries can vary significantly based on location, type of employer, and other factors. For example, psychiatric nurse practitioners in outpatient care centers may earn more than those in hospitals. Similarly, psychiatrists in private practice may earn more than those in academic or research settings.
In conclusion, the career outlook and opportunities for psychiatric nurse practitioners, psychiatrists, and therapists are positive. The demand for mental health services is expected to increase, driving job growth for these professionals. Salaries for these professions vary based on various factors but can be quite lucrative.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications are needed to become a psychiatric nurse practitioner?
To become a psychiatric nurse practitioner, you need to have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree and a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree with a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) specialization. You must also pass the NCLEX-RN exam and the PMHNP certification exam.
What are the primary responsibilities of a psychiatrist compared to a psychiatric nurse practitioner?
Psychiatrists and psychiatric nurse practitioners (PNPs) both assess, diagnose, and treat patients with behavioral and mental health conditions. However, psychiatrists are medical doctors who have completed medical school and residency, while PNPs are advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) who have completed a master’s degree in nursing with a PMHNP specialization. Psychiatrists can prescribe medication and provide psychotherapy, while PNPs can prescribe medication, provide psychotherapy, and manage treatment plans.
Can a psychiatric nurse practitioner prescribe medication and manage treatment plans like a psychiatrist?
Psychiatric nurse practitioners can prescribe medication and manage treatment plans like a psychiatrist. However, the scope of practice may vary by state, and some states may require PNPs to work under the supervision of a psychiatrist.
What is the educational pathway to becoming a psychiatrist?
To become a psychiatrist, you must have a Bachelor’s degree, attend medical school, complete a residency program, and obtain a medical license. After completing medical school, you must pass the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) and complete a residency program in psychiatry, which typically takes four years.
How does the scope of practice differ between a therapist and a psychiatric nurse practitioner?
The scope of practice for therapists and psychiatric nurse practitioners (PNPs) differs significantly. Therapists typically provide psychotherapy to individuals, couples, or families. In contrast, PNPs can diagnose and treat mental health disorders, prescribe medication, provide psychotherapy, and manage treatment plans.
What are the salary differences between a psychiatric nurse practitioner, a psychiatrist, and a therapist?
According to Payscale, the average annual salary for a psychiatric nurse practitioner is $119,377, while psychiatrists earn an average annual salary of $240,622. The average annual salary for a therapist is $49,000. However, salaries may vary depending on geographic location, years of experience, and other factors.
