Thinking about getting into psych nursing-- advice?

Hi all... (waves)

Well, the title pretty much says it all, in a way. I'm not sure how serious I am about this idea yet; I'm really just starting to think about it and explore my options. I have a masters' degree in social work, and my experience is in outpatient geriatric psychiatric social work. However, the devastating job situation for social workers now is worse than anything I am seeing, hearing, or reading about for anyone in any aspect of the health-related fields-- it's really appalling. I am starting to seriously wonder if it will improve even after other employment picks up, and it's making me possibly rethink the way that I can best relate to clients and constructively fill their needs. I'm starting work as a CNA in a long-term care facility (it was unbelievably easy to find a job once I had that certification!!), and it's wonderful to be able to at least stay with a population that is similar in some ways to the one I am drawn to so much. I don't have a lot of pride in that area-- I have a masters' degree, but I am happy to spend a big chunk of each shift cleaning up... well, we all know what! To me, it's all about meeting the client's needs in the best way that I can. And if I can work with the psychiatric population more constructively as an RN or psych NP, then that's what I want to do.

Does anyone have any advice or thoughts on avenues I might pursue now? I really don't know exactly what I'm going to do, but I'm at a point in my life now where the money really is not the biggest issue; it's all about how to get into a position where I can most effectively work with and help the population I really love. All advice appreciated!