Accelerated Msn Psychiatric Np Programs
Who is it right for? Those with anon-nursing bachelors degree
Many graduate nursing programs also allow you to enroll directly if you have your RN license and a bachelors in a non-nursing-related field.
Some schools may also accept non-nurses with bachelors degrees to fast-track them into a masters program by the end of the program, you will have earned your RN and be eligible to sit for the NP certifying exam as well.
Engage In Immersive Learning
Waldens PMHNP specialization focuses not just on knowledge mastery, but also on helping you use that knowledge to positively impact the lives of individuals, families, and populations through holistic mental health services. Learn to interact with patients, perform mental health assessments, make diagnoses, and plan treatmentall through virtual simulations. Discover how to use research to develop, assess, and refine educational materials that best serve the healthcare audience in your community.
Walden MSN PMHNP practicum coordinators are available to assist you in meeting your practicum requirements and you can view this FAQ document for answers to some of the most common questions.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Licensing
After passing the certification exam, PMHNPs must also apply for state licensure. The majority of state nursing boards use the national board certification as one of the requirements for getting NP licensure. The NP license allows APRNs to work under the state’s regulated scope of practice.
Depending on the state, NPs may either require collaboration with a physician or they may be able to practice independently without collaboration. Generally, NPs including PMHNPs may perform physical exams, prescribe drugs, and order diagnostic tests. In most states, NP licenses must be renewed every 3-5 years.
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What Do Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners Do
PMHNPs’ scope of duties typically includes performing mental health assessments, diagnosing patients, and completing psychiatric evaluations. They also identify risk factors and develop care plans. PMHNPs can provide psychotherapy or crisis intervention and prescribe medication.
These NPs follow a holistic approach to healthcare, informing and educating patients and their families about various mental health issues. Common responsibilities of psychiatric NPs include diagnosing mental health issues, such as mood disorders, anxiety/trauma disorders, substance use disorders, psychotic disorders, and neurodevelopmental disorders.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Certification
Once you complete your education program, you will have to pass the PMHNP certifying exam, issued by the American Nurses Credentialing Center . According to the ANCC, upon successful completion of the exam, you will be Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-Board Certified . Once you earn your license, the credential is valid for 5 years.
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Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Programs Online
This is a masters degree focused on advanced clinical work with psychiatric and mental-health patients. The education will train you to work in the medical industry, filling the important role of a nurse practitioner. However, with the focus on mental health, youll understand how to assess and diagnose mental health patients and provide therapy and treatment for people suffering from mental illnesses.
After completing online mental health nurse practitioner programs, students are able to provide high-quality mental care for children, adults, and the elderly, and plan healthcare strategies that reduce mental issues. When complete, youll be ready for testing for the appropriate certification, and youll have the skills to improve mental and psychiatric conditions among your patients.
People with nursing degrees focused on mental health work in a variety of settings. They are employed at psychiatric facilities, private practices, mental-health clinics, and correctional facilities. You can even find them at domestic-violence shelters, community-health centers, and schools of all levels.
Nurse Practitioner
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Cons Of Walden Universitys Online Msn Program
Like any education program, Walden Univeristys online MSN program has both pros and cons. While the upsides appear to outweigh the downsides, there was one review from GradReports which could indicate something to be wary of if you decide to enroll here:
I am a great student, it has nothing to do with that. Its finding a preceptor. They failed to mention when you enrolled that their list of affiliation agreements needs updating .
-K. Raynes, June 11, 2021
While this could be an isolated incident, it would be a good idea to try to straighten out your practicum enrollment before beginning the program.
That way, you know for certain that everything will go according to plan!
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Graduate Reviews Of The Msn Program At Walden University
There are quite a few positive reviews of Walden Universitys online MSN program on GradReports.com. Here are a few of them:
Walden University is a phenomenal school, and anytime someone considers graduate school, I always recommend Walden University. I have completed a degree and post-graduate certificate , and I am enrolled in a WU program for the third time, which shows how excellent the instruction is.
-Danielle Harris,
My time at Walden University has been the best. I have been able to network with so many professionals. The instructors are wonderful and knowledgeable. At Walden, you are a part of family, and more importantly the educational experience will prepare you for anything.
-Quin Carter,
Attending Walden University was one of the best decisions I ever made. The online learning environment was organized, well-planned and doable as a full time nurse, wife, and mother. The professors were approachable and available to assist, answer questions and clarify assignments. I never felt alone!
-Sunny Goodyear,
Overview Of Pmhnp Certification
The road to becoming a PMHNP begins with the first four steps outlined in How to Become a Nurse Practitioner. Once you have decided to pursue your graduate degree in Psychiatric-Mental Health NP and looked into state licensure requirements , you can tackle national certification.
Before you can practice as a Psychiatric-Mental Health APRN, most State Nursing Boards will require you to earn the Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner credential from the American Nurses Credentialing Center . This was once known as the Family Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner credential, and youll still see active APRNs who have FPMHNP-BC initials after their name.
Solid RN to MSN PMHNP programs will help prepare you for the PMHNP-BC certification exam. Great ones will brag about their pass rates! For instance, Shenandoah University likes to boast that graduates of its PMHNP program have achieve a 100% pass rate over the past three years.
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Working As A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports median annual earnings of $117,670 for all APRNs, including PMHNPs. While BLS statistics do not break down nursing salaries by specializations, the American Association of Nurse Practitioners reports a median salary of $137,000 for PMHNPs, making them one of the highest-earning NP specializations.
Pmhnp & Prescriptive Authority
Prescriptive authority is regulated by state law. Although all State Boards of Nursing allow certified & licensed PMHNPs to prescribe, states have different rules about the scope of practice.
- In some states, you may have full practice authority .
- In other states, you may need to be supervised by a psychiatrist/physician.
Your prescriptive authority will also depend upon your job title. Currently, there are two types of Psychiatric-Mental Health Advanced Practice Registered Nurses :
- Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner : Before they will grant you a state license, most State Boards of Nursing will want to see that you have PMHNP certification from the American Nurses Credentialing Center . Once you are licensed as an APRN & certified as a PMHNP, youll be permitted to prescribe under the terms weve outlined above. If youd like more info on a PMHNPs scope of practice, the APNA has a helpful State by State Practice Authority Guide for APRNs, available to APNA members.
- Psychiatric-Mental Health Clinical Nurse Specialist : Some State Boards will not allow clinical nurse specialists to prescribe. Other State Boards are willing to grant prescriptive practice to PMH-CNSs who have taken graduate courses in pharmacology, pathophysiology, and physical health assessment and have current ANCC certification. If youre interested in the prescriptive authority of CNSs, check out the NCSBNs CNS Independent Prescribing Map.
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Understanding Financial Aid And The Resources Available To You
From the Federal Government
When you apply for federal financial aid, you may receive assistance from the federal government to help pay for your education expenses.
From Scholarships
Every year, Walden provides tuition assistance across many programs through scholarships.
From Grants and Loans
Were certified by the U.S. Department of Education to participate in a variety of grant and loan programs.
From the Federal Government
When you apply for federal financial aid, you may receive assistance from the federal government to help pay for your education expenses.
From Scholarships
Every year, Walden provides tuition assistance across many programs through scholarships.
From Grants and Loans
Were certified by the U.S. Department of Education to participate in a variety of grant and loan programs.
Q: How Have You Seen The Covid
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the lives of many patients. Many familiesâ sources of income, jobs, and businesses have been impacted. We are living in unprecedented times, with variants of COVID-19 now infecting children and the unvaccinated population in particular. Adults and children alike are confronted with stressful, overwhelming challenges that trigger strong emotions.
Over the past year, I have seen the impact of the pandemic on the mental health of my patients leading to worsening levels of depression and anxiety. There are parents who are struggling with teaching their children from home, people juggling unpaid bills, families losing sources of income, and loved ones passing away. There is no question that the mental health of patients has been impacted.
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What Is A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners are advanced practice registered nurses who assess, diagnose, and treat the mental health needs of individuals and families throughout the lifespan, including psychiatric and substance abuse disorders. Depending on the state, PMHNPs either work independently or in collaboration with doctors and other healthcare specialists.
The George Washington University
Located in the heart of Washington, D.C., GW serves students through 12,000 internship opportunities and more than 100 undergraduate programs. In 2021, U.S. News & World Report ranked the university’s nursing program 7th in the nation. The program boasts a 93% pass rate for the National Council Licensure Examination.
U.S. News & World Report designated GW’s online psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner program the country’s 4th best of its kind in 2020. Comprising 50 credit hours and 600 hours of clinical experience, the program typically takes 2-4 years to complete.
- Campus: Washington, D.C.
Visit School Site
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Online Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Programs
Prospective psychiatric nurse practitioner students are often incredibly busy with work, family, and other obligations. This has prompted many schools to offer online programs to accommodate these students. Keep in mind, however, that some online programs may still require a few trips to campus for various orientations, and clinical hours will still need to be completed in person.
Why Study Nursing At Walden
Leadership
Were the No. 1 provider of advanced nursing degrees in the U.S.1 More than 300 healthcare organizations and associations partner with us to foster their nurses professional development.
Quality
Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education , with curricula aligned with the American Association of Colleges of Nursing guidelines, Waldens BSN, MSN, Post-Master’s Nurse Practitioner Certificate, and DNP programs meet the highest standards in the field.
Expertise
Waldens nursing faculty, all of whom hold doctorates, are experienced real-world practitioners in a variety of areas.
“The knowledge, the faculty, and my colleagues at Walden made me a well-rounded scholar.”
Cynthia Hickman Master of Science in Nursing Graduate
Walden University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission, www.hlcommission.org.
The Higher Learning Commission is a regional accrediting association recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. The HLC is a U.S. membership organization for educational institutions that was created to develop and maintain high standards of academic excellence. When evaluating credentials, employers and universities often look for applicants who earned their degree from an accredited university.
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Choose Your Learning Approach
Walden Universitys online MSN program offers two different approaches to learning: Course-based Learning and TEMPO Learning.
Course-Based Learning is the more traditional approach to schooling. That is, you have a predetermined class schedule and each class is led by an instructor at particular times each week.
Youd also have set deadlines for assignments and pay by the course.
TEMPO Learning, on the other hand, allows you to learn at your own pace with no predetermined schedule.
There are no set deadlines, meaning you can do work when it fits your busy schedule. Instead of paying by the course, youd pay an all-you-can-learn subscription fee.
Note On Field Experience And Relocating
Students who are considering relocating are advised to contact their student success advisor prior to any decision to relocate in order to determine how relocation may impact progress in their program. Advisors can provide information and guidance on how relocating may result in possible changes, restrictions, and/or additional requirements affecting field experience. Each Board of Nursing and Higher Education Authority governs the field experience rules and regulations in their respective states, and students may be unable to complete field experience in the state in which they plan to relocate. While Walden is committed to working collaboratively with students to secure field sites across the United States, it is imperative that students contact their student success advisor immediately when considering relocating.
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Do Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners Prescribe Medicine
NPs can prescribe medication in all 50 states and Washington, D.C. However, some states regulate practice authority, limiting the degree to which NPs can prescribe medication without physician oversight. PMHNPs may practice autonomously without supervision in 25 states. In other states, they hold reduced or restricted practice authority, requiring them to enter into collaborative agreements with a supervising doctor or follow other restrictions.
The Nurse Practitioner Msn In Family Health
The MSN in family health NP program is also a part-time program consisting of 56 credits for the BSN-to-MSN and 81 credits for the RN-to-MSN pathway. The credit requirement for the AIM program varies but includes 47 credits of BSN core courses and 45 credits of MSN core and specialization courses, in addition to general education requirements.
The FNP program educates nurses to work with individuals from birth to the elderly. The broad settings available include neonatology, family practice, oncology, nephrology, womens health, public health, school nursing situations, and more. FNP students generally work in non-life-threatening situations in disease prevention and health promotion settings.
In line with the other MSN specialties, students must demonstrate completion of two years full-time RN work experience. Students also complete 640 clinical hours at approved locations where they live and work.
MSN core and specialty courses include policy and advocacy for improving population health interprofessional organizational and systems leadership primary care of adolescents and children primary care of women essentials of evidence-based practice advanced pathophysiology advanced health assessment and diagnostic reasoning advanced practice care of adults across the lifespan and more.
Applicants to the FNP program must be RNs and have a BSN or non-nursing bachelors degree, depending on the path chosen. GRE scores are not required.
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Advanced Practice Nursing Programs
The Minnesota Board of Nursing has approved the following advanced practice nursing programs for the purpose of meeting the educational requirements for licensure as an advanced practice registered nurse. Approval is the authority granted by the board for a controlling body to offer a program designed to prepare students to meet the nursing education requirements for licensure as a practical, professional or advanced practice registered nurse.
Accreditation is an external peer review process that evaluates the program’s adherence to quality, continuous quality improvement, and program effectiveness set by the nursing profession. Accreditation is issued by a national accrediting agency, which are private, non-profit organizations. To view the current accreditation status of nursing programs, visit the accrediting agency website, as noted below.
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing :
- American College of Nurse-Midwives :
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education :
- Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs :
What Are The Admissions And Certification Requirements
Admissions requirements for most psychiatric nurse practitioner programs include:
- BSN or higher from an accredited university
- Active, unencumbered RN license
- 1 or more years of clinical experience may be required
- Official transcripts from all schools attended
- Reference letters
Certification as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner can be obtained through the American Nurses Credentialing Center . Eligibility requirements include:
- Must hold a current, U.S. RN license
- Graduate of an accredited psychiatric nurse practitioner program
- Must have completed clinical training in at least two psychotherapeutic treatment modalities
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Note On Ccne Accreditation
Walden Universitys Post-Masters Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate, Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Certificate, Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Certificate, and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate programs are not accredited by the CCNE. While Waldens Master of Science in Nursing program and all of its specializations are accredited by Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education , and have been for many years, the CCNE requires an on-site review of all new Nurse Practitioner Certificate programs. Walden has a site-visit scheduled with CCNE in March 2020 and the FNP, AGPC-NP, AGAC-NP, and PMH-NP certificates will each be reviewed by CCNE during the on-site visit. Pursuing CCNE accreditation does not guarantee that accreditation will be granted.