Clarification: CNS v. NP (sorry to repeat!)

hi. I graduated from a psych cns program but work as a psych np in private practice. I am self-employed( administrative), I teach my clients extensively (educational) and read a lot of research so I am fulfilling the role in private practice as an np. different states call nurse practitioners different things, in fl. it is arnp and there are specialties (as above, I am psych). hope that helps. deb

Hello and Welcome to allnurses.com

Good to have you!!

Here is a thread where some distinctions are recognized:
Different roles for CNS's??? Come on guys share what you do!


As you've probably researched, some states do not recognize the CNS. It all depends on where you practice.

APN encompasses the following areas only:

• CRNA
• NP
• CNS
• CNM

Good luck with your research and we hope you enjoy allnurses.com

I too live and practice in IL. I'm currently an adult health CNS working fulltime in nephrology and part time in an ER. I am going back to school in the fall for a pediatric CNS. IL recognizes the APN's as those listed above in Siri's post and doesn't differentiate in the roles/responsiblities. However, it is important to understand that this is not the case in all states.