Home/Answers/What is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP)?

What is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP)?

A direct answer, plus the context behind it.

Short answer

A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, or PMHNP, is an advanced practice registered nurse with graduate-level training specifically in psychiatric and mental health care. A board-certified PMHNP can evaluate, diagnose, and prescribe medication for mental health conditions.

PMHNPs complete a master's or doctoral nursing program with a specific psychiatric mental health focus, plus supervised clinical hours in psychiatric care, before sitting for board certification (PMHNP-BC).

In Connecticut, licensed PMHNPs can independently evaluate, diagnose, and prescribe medication for mental health conditions.

Have a related question?

Reach out directly, or browse more answers below.

Call Book