DNP/ MSN and Psy.D/ PhD

[afree2]

Hi there.

I am a junior psychology major in a BA program, and have thought about that I want for my career. I am currently doing animal behavior research, but have been increasingly interested in mental health and psychopathology. i have thought about becoming a Psychiatrist or a Clinical Psychologist, but both jobs have aspects that really throw me off.

I do not like the current approach with psychiatrists. My experience with psychiatrists shows me that they are more diagnostic and treatment based, and focus little on the psychological aspects of the patient. I have done some research and have liked the nursing model of care more than the physician model.

My question is, would it be a good decision or even possible to get an MS/MA/PhD/Psyc.D in clinical psychology while also getting an MSN/DNP? My main reasoning is that I feel PMHNP and other psychiatric practitioners don't have an in-depth relationship with the patients and don't employ psychotherapy as often or readily. I feel like the nursing model of care, and a psychologist's abilities in psychotherpy would greatly improve the patient/ client experience since they can go to one person for their psychological/ psychopharmacological needs with one person, instead of having to see multiple doctors.

I would also like the possibility of private practice and marketability so I feel having those qualifications would greatly help.

Can anyone else give me some advice on this endeavor?

Thanks!

[shibaowner, MSN, RN, NP]

Once you finish your BA in psych, you can apply for a direct entry MSN or DNP program. There are also PMHNP master's programs. I think trying to get a dual degree in ClinPsy at the same time would be very difficult, but only you know your capacity for academic work. It might be better to become PMHNP, then get a ClinPsy degree. The trend now is for MDs and NPs to focus on medication management and for psychologists to do psychotherapy, due to payment schedules. Good medication management does require good therapeutic communication skills. You can only set up your own PMHNP practice and deliver both services if you live in a full practice authority state.