Advanced Practice Psychiatric Nurses
Overview
Assess, diagnose, and treat individuals and families with mental health or substance use disorders or the potential for such disorders. Apply therapeutic activities, including the prescription of medication, per state regulations, and the administration of psychotherapy.
What do they do?
Advanced Practice Psychiatric Nurses are a type of advanced practice registered nurse (APRN). They provide direct patient care in psychiatric-mental health. They also provide indirect care by working with other nurses and medical staff to improve the quality of care that patients receive. They often serve in leadership roles and may educate and advise other nursing staff. Advanced Practice Psychiatric Nurses also may conduct research and may advocate for certain policies.
How to become one
Advanced Practice Psychiatric Nurses, a type of advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs), must have at least a master’s degree in their specialty role. An APRN must have a registered nursing (RN) license before pursuing education in one of the advanced practice roles, and a strong background in science is helpful. APRNs also must be licensed registered nurses in their state, pass a national certification exam, and have a state APRN license. Some APRNs may choose to earn a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) or a Ph.D.
