PMHNP---Help!

[mtsteelhorse]

I've applied to a couple of PMHNP programs and been accepted to one. I should hear from the other school soon. I'm in such a dilemma. I thought for sure I would go this route but after some recent events I'm beginning to doubt my choice. I work in corrections where there are a LOT of psych patients. I'll cut to the chase with my concerns/fears. I'm wondering if I will be faced with the same types of patients but on the other side of the wall, so to speak. I've seen a lot of very sick individuals in jail...it recently dawned on me how vulnerable a PMHNP could be. How does one find the right fit for practice? I live in a small community; envisioned myself providing care for adolescents, maybe women...but now I'm fearful. Has anyone ever experienced this? I tend to see the criminally mentally ill folks and perhaps it has tainted my vision. Thanks for your feedback. I need to "get out of jail" and I want to make a positive transition. School is a HUGE financial and personal commitment. Thanks for any feedback or suggestions. I've always been drawn to psych but...

[truffles111]

True...it just makes me nervous. I like counseling and educating patients, along with health education in general. I love working one on one, and even thought about a Masters in OT....or Social Work...still have yet to figure out the best route.

[mtsteelhorse]

True...it just makes me nervous. I like counseling and educating patients, along with health education in general. I love working one on one, and even thought about a Masters in OT....or Social Work...still have yet to figure out the best route.

LCSW will allow you to do that, providing you can live on their salaries. I personally would have a tough time with that. Good luck!

[truffles111]

i know! me too!

[priorities2]

Though, the true salary range for PMHNP and LCSW vary widely. A supervising social worker at the VA can make almost 100k. You could get your PhD in social work, be a successful researcher and also make upwards of 100k (though a PMHNP could also do this). In my area, which is in an urban part of the Midwest in a relatively NP-friendly state, I saw one county PMHNP outpatient position with a range of 64-94k. I see private practice jobs that list ranges of 80-120k, but maybe those wouldn't have as good of benefits, especially pension. I also wonder if job postings ever exaggerate the top of the pay range..

[myelin]

That's why I think it's important to look at median income... in my area the median income for PMHNPs is over 100k. For LCSWs it's about 50k, as reported by the state.