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Is Psych/MHNP or FNP worth it? *can't decide!*



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Sep 28, 2009 07:57 PM

Is Psych/MHNP or FNP worth it? *can't decide!*


I'm at a pivotal point in my education this semester. Wondering if I should switch paths from FNP to Psych/MHNP.
Torn between the two and it's driving me crazy! Here's my list of pros and cons for each. Tell me what you think...

Psych
Pros-
Slower pace, more time for patient care
I heard they make around 100K starting
Ideally I'd want to work in outpatient clinic setting
Most psych NP's(I've heard) are only responsible for med management so it's less stressful
Hours aren't too crazy, no on-calls
Not much competition (not many psych PA's out there)

Cons:
Not much room for growth of skills
Not sure if there's a big need for them
Might get emotionally burnt out listening counseling psych patients


FNP
Pros:
Can work almost anywhere
Pay is decent(I'm going to ballpark estimate about 80K)
Might be able to even work in psych (but not sure if that's true??)
there will be a continued need for FNPs with healthcare reform
Lots of knowledge about disease processes
Cons
Long hours and probably on calls
More age groups to work with--higher chance of getting sued
Lower pay (I am taking this into consideration b/c I'm a student with lots of loans and also have elderly parents to take care of)


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7 Comments
No. 1
from zenman
Old Sep 28, 2009, 09:26 PM

Default Re: Is Psych/MHNP or FNP worth it? *can't decide!*
Toss a coin and notice your immediate reaction. No kidding!

Lot's going on in the psych world, from does it work to good results using computer-based cognitive-based therapy and advances in neuroscience. When that doesn't work, I just pull out my rattle and start a fire

I considered FNP but since I don't want to retire (at least completely) I probably have better chance of doing psych at 95 than primary care.

Plus, with the world falling apart and wars, you'll have plenty of business.
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No. 2
Old Oct 02, 2009, 12:32 PM

Default Re: Is Psych/MHNP or FNP worth it? *can't decide!*
I'm in the same boat as you, OP. I have not yet started my NP program, but am in the process of applying. I have to declare my specialty intention, and while I have always wanted to do Psych, I am wary of how many job opportunities there really are out there for something that is so specialized. FNP would be much "safer," but I am just not sure which route I should go. I am thinking that it would be best to do FNP and then go back and get PMHNP certification of some sort, but I just cannot decide! Have you had any further luck with your decision??
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No. 3
Old Oct 02, 2009, 06:31 PM

Default Re: Is Psych/MHNP or FNP worth it? *can't decide!*
I say go with what your gut tells you. There is a desperate need for mental health providers out there in most areas of the country. I'm going the Family PMHNP route because I know that I do not want to work in any other area but psych.

Sue, RN
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No. 4
Old Oct 02, 2009, 09:27 PM

Default Re: Is Psych/MHNP or FNP worth it? *can't decide!*
I'm an FNP in a community health center, and would give a lot to have a psych NP on staff for med management and therapy. The need is huge and the wait is so long for mental health services. I've found myself prescribing a lot more psych meds than I ever thought I would, just because there's no one else to do it. It's not my area of expertise, and I think the patients would be far better served by a psych NP. So the need is definitely there, and if it's what you love, you should go for it. Then come work with me!!!!
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No. 5
from peaceful
Old Oct 14, 2009, 12:28 PM

Default Re: Is Psych/MHNP or FNP worth it? *can't decide!*
Hi Sue,
Where are you getting your psych NP? I am waiting to hear from online program. How has school been for you?
Thanks,
peaceful
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No. 6
Old Oct 14, 2009, 12:46 PM

Default Re: Is Psych/MHNP or FNP worth it? *can't decide!*
BCgrad,
Thanks for your input. I love working with the mentally ill, and am finding more and more that there is a vast shortage of good, quality mental health providers. Although I am "scared" of pigeonholing myself and not getting something that is a little more broad, like FNP, I know that if I really want to be a psych NP, I should just go for it. The job will find me. :-)
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No. 7
from Smitty08
Old Oct 22, 2009, 02:54 PM

Default Re: Is Psych/MHNP or FNP worth it? *can't decide!*
Sometimes you can get lucky and get into an FNP program and continue on and get a certificate in Psych. I did that - the downside was I had to do 6 clin. placements - YIKES- 3 in primary care medicine and 3 in psych. I thought I would have the benefit of lots of job options, which I do! But its a lot of clinical time. MY background was in psych. nursing, and I realized the huge amt. of "medical" problems that were really psych and sometimes the other way around too! Its great to have both under my belt, and it has helped me in my practice (psych.) Good luck!
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