Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (NP) Jobs

As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), you’re dedicated to providing advanced treatment to patients who have psychiatric disorders and/or substance abuse problems.

But as you know, psych NP jobs are not just about treating a person’s physical condition; the effects of psychiatric issues are far-reaching. Compared to people who don’t have a mental illness:

• Adults with depression are at greater risk for cardiovascular and metabolic diseases.
• People who have a mental illness are more likely to be unemployed.
• High school students with significant depression are more likely to drop out of school.

Now is a great time to look for psychiatric nurse practitioner jobs, as the NP profession is expected to grow by 45% over the next decade — an enormous increase that is much faster than the average for all other occupations. Check out the latest mental health nurse practitioner jobs on IntelyCare today.

Education and Skills for PMHNP Jobs

The steps required to become an NP that specializes in treating psychiatric patients begins by earning a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degree and passing the NCLEX-RN exam. After passing, you can apply for RN licensure with your state board of nursing. Some accredited PMHNP programs may require you to have a few years of clinical nursing experience before you are eligible to enroll.

You then have two options: Earn a master of science in nursing (MSN) or a doctorate of nursing practice (DNP). Either way, you will need to work 500 faculty-supervised hours before you can sit for the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner board certification (PMHNP-BC) examination. Once you have met all of your state’s requirements, you may apply for advanced licensure and begin searching for psych nurse practitioner jobs.

Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Resume and Cover Letter

Want to know one way to stand out from the competition as you start applying to psychiatric NP jobs? Make sure your application materials are customized to each job; check out the job ad to see which skills are prioritized. If an employer is hoping to hire a candidate who can provide “evaluation, assessment, and treatment of adult and dual diagnosis patients,” include that phrase in your nurse practitioner resume.

In your cover letter, describe how your work style and values would complement the team. If the organization prides itself on providing compassionate care, talk about the empathy you would bring to the role. This can show an employer that you’re aligned with them.

Interviewing for Mental Health NP Jobs

No matter how much education or experience you have under your belt, you’re bound to get a little nervous when you interview for psychiatric nurse practitioner jobs. But taking the time to prepare and practice your answers can make you feel more confident. Check out some of our best nursing interview tips to find out what you can expect.

Salary for a Psych Nurse Practitioner

The average salary for nurse practitioners is $124,680 per year, but for NPs who work in psychiatric and substance abuse hospitals, that number jumps to $134,540. Your pay can vary depending on your education level, years of experience, the state in which you work, and the facility itself.

For a more accurate picture of what a psych NP salary might be in your location, view the current openings on IntelyCare.

Explore Great PMHNP Jobs on IntelyCare

Take a look at the open psych NP jobs to find one that works for you. Want more options? Review all the latest nurse practitioner jobs available now in your area.