Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Programs

With a greater awareness of mental health disorders and conditions, there is huge emphasis on finding competent professionals qualified to provide adequate care to these individuals. As a result, the number of people entering the healthcare profession with a focus on psychology or psychiatry is quite high. While there is always a need for qualified psychiatrists in a healthcare facility, it also takes a skilled staff of nurses and assistants to ensure that all residents receive effective care throughout.

If you are interested in a career within this lucrative field, the door is wide open. One position which is particularly appealing is that of a psychiatric nurse practitioner. This is a senior nursing position which specializes in clinical practice for individuals experiencing psychological trouble of any kind. This is an extremely convenient career path for students who are enrolled in nursing programs to take. This is because the training and curriculum involved is as rigorous and comprehensive as that taken by professional psychiatrists. Not only do you learn how to diagnose various mental conditions, you are also trained in developing therapies to exact maximum recovery. Due to the senior nature of the post, you possess the same authority as a psychiatrist, capable of prescribing medication and provide emergency care for individuals as well. In fact, you are also capable of establishing your own practice; at least 20 states in the US, it is possible for a psychiatric nurse practitioner to conduct private practice. In other states, you work in conjunction with a healthcare facility and a physician to provide treatment to patients.

In order to become a psychiatric nurse practitioner, you need to start with a Bachelor's degree in Nursing (BSN). Several universities offer this degree program as part of their regular curriculum, and a growing number of institutions are now also offering degrees via online learning programs. The latter is a great option for students enrolled in other programs or professionals working a job who cannot commit to a full-time, campus-based program. Standard BSN programs last 4 years, after which you will have to enroll into a Master's program in nursing as well. This is where you specialize in psychiatric healthcare by enrolling in courses that allow you to develop your skill set. In addition to the theoretical knowledge you gain, you will be required to complete up to 600 hours of practical practice to demonstrate your understanding of the theory and its use. Many institutions now offer accelerated programs which combine the Bachelor's and Master's degree training into one package, allowing for quicker entry into your career. Before enrolling into any of these programs however, you must ensure that the program and curriculum is accredited by the state within which you reside.

Upon completing your entire education, you will be required to take a licensing examination authorizing you to practice your profession legally. After this, you are a fully qualified psychiatric nurse practitioner, who can work in a variety of settings with equal ease. From large public hospitals to smaller facilities to even rehabilitation centers to treat substance abuse, your skill set will allow you to thrive.