In recent years there has been an obvious increase in mental health awareness. In 2022, SAMHSA reported that 19.8% of Americans are experiencing a mental health illness and 4.9% of Americans are suffering from a severe mental health crisis. With this knowledge, the necessity of mental health services is vitally important.
As a nurse in the mental health field, you will treat patients who struggle with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and many other psychiatric illnesses. The nurses that work with this special population are referred to as Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners (MSN-PMHNP). These are advanced practice nurses who are experts in their field. MSN-PMHNP are required to undergo special training beyond an RN degree. Fortunately, there are opportunities to take mental health courses online to avoid the rigidity of classroom learning.
Becoming an MSN-PMHNP
An MSN-PMHNP is an advanced practice nurse who provides mental health services. This is a perfect career for someone who wants to provide holistic care to people who struggle with acute or chronic mental health disturbances. These professionals may work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, community mental health organizations, and in some cases, private practices. An MSN-PMHNP can provide psychiatric drug therapies, crisis intervention, psychotherapy, or case management services. With the growing need for mental health assistance, these professionals are a valuable commodity to our society. One of the greatest benefits of pursuing a career as an MSN-PMHNP is that it provides the flexibility to take online courses.
Obtaining a degree
Essentially, the MSN-PMHNP is an ARNP with a specialization in psychiatric mental health services. The first step to becoming an MSN-PMHNP is to have an unencumbered RN license. The next step is to complete an advanced nursing practice graduate program with a specialization in psychiatric mental health services. Like most ARNP programs, it could take between 2 to 4 years to complete a PMHNP degree.
There are many different class modalities when pursuing an MSN-PMHNP. In most cases, students will choose an online PMHNP program because it provides the flexibility to be mobile during the learning process.
Online PMHNP programs provide access for students who may not live near a physical institution that provides the required courses. Online degree programs make it possible for students who live in rural areas to receive the necessary training to become an MSN-PMHNP. One of the greatest advantages of taking a mental health course online is that you can learn all the essential skills of an MSN-PMHNP from the comfort of your own home. Online degree programs also provide the flexibility to continue working as an RN while you pursue higher education.
Conclusion
With an online MSN-PMHNP degree, you can individualize your learning process. Students can review lectures and complete coursework from anywhere in the world, all they will need is a computer and a stable internet connection. As an MSN-PMHNP you can make a real difference in your community. An online degree program provides many benefits for busy students in any part of the United States.
