WHAT IS A NURSE PRACTITIONER?

A Nurse Practitioner (NP) is a healthcare provider trained to assess, diagnose, and treat health conditions. Becoming an NP takes many years of advanced education and clinical training.

Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) first complete an undergraduate nursing program (BSN), then pass their (state specific) board exam to become a Registered Nurse (RN). They continue on to complete a Masters or Doctoral level graduate nursing program (MSN or DNP). They become board certified through passing a comprehensive, national certification exam- specific to their nursing specialty.

One NP specialization is Psychiatry Mental Health (PMHNP-BC). Think of a Psych NP as a blend between a therapist and medical provider- we are trained to listen to your concerns, provide compassionate support, and- when appropriate- prescribe medications to help manage mental health symptoms.

Psych NPs, like most other disciplines, can be found working in various healthcare settings- Hospitals, Universities, Outpatient Health Clinics and Telehealth companies.

NPs are required to stay up to date with best clinical practices and evidence based research by completing substantial continuing education and training requirements for each 5 year re-certification. They are also required to renew both their RN and NP licenses every two years.

This rigorous process ensures Psychiatric NPs are highly skilled in delivering health care

…in our case, Mental-Health Care.