curious about psych nursing

[feralnostalgia]

hey there - I've always been kind of interested in psychology, I started out as a patient for depression, (runs in my family, I saw my first suicide attempt when I was 9...nothing phases me anymore) then went to college as a psychology major before switching to sociology with an aim to get my MSW and become a social worker. now I'm in nursing school, and I'm wondering what exactly psych nurses do. is there a counseling element to it? do they work with people dealing with substance abuse problems? I'm interested - what do you do on a normal work day?

thanks!

[RochesterRN-BSN, BSN, RN]

I suppose it depends a lot on the setting but I personally love the counseling part and feel like I wish I could do more. So really if that is your main goal you might want to rethink things......Yes you get a lot of interaction and a very abreviated type of "counseling" if at all......I have found that to be one of my favorite things which if why I am thinking of going back for a masters in something not nursing but more psychologist/counselor. Yes Social Workers do the therapist thing but generally must have a masters....LCSW...if you want chemical dependency specifically you can get the CASAC (Certified Alcohol and Substance Abuse Counselor) with a BSW.....not sure if a BSN can take the classes,etc. and sit for the exam but the pay is not great, pretty bad actually, especially for having a masters if you do that route. I would suggest you seek out a few different settings in your area and call and ask if you can spend a day shadowing. If you like CD or MICA you can try a Rehab setting, and a couple of different inpatient units...a MICA unit, kids, Geri or straight adults...I am in a Psych ER and it is different and if you ahve one near you go check it out....but you would have to get some experience first generally then move to psych ER....Shadowing is something I suggest often and think it is great if you are unsure.

Good luck to you!!!