Psychiatric nurse practitioners (NPs), also called psychiatric mental-health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), provide a range of holistic treatments to those with mental, emotional, and behavioral medical problems.
Some PMHNPs work together with psychiatrists; others can work independently depending on their location in the country. While psychiatrists and psychiatric NPs both manage the care of similar patients, there are differences. Psychiatrists are medical doctors who are more likely to work in private practice. On the other hand, psychiatric NPs often work in mental health clinics and additionally provide education and resources for patients and families.
Psychiatric nurse practitioners who are board-certified provide comprehensive care for their patients. They are licensed to diagnose, prescribe medications, and can refer to other practitioners. Depending on their interest, psychiatric nurse practitioners can focus on family health or a specialty area. For example, a psychiatric nurse practitioner can further specialize in pediatrics, addiction medicine, or geriatrics.
In approximately 27 states (including D.C.), NPs can practice independently from physicians. In 13 states, they can work with partial supervision, while in 11 states, NPs have more restricted practices.
Psychiatric nurse practitioners (NPs) have obtained their advanced practice nursing degrees by obtaining either a master’s or doctoral degree and completing additional clinical hours. Their practice area determines what further education, clinical training, and certifications they need.
