From substance abuse counselor-psych nursing? In need some insight

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Hi I've been a SAC for as almost 4yrs. As a SAC I also work with psychiatric patients. I am intrigued by the various MH disorders and want to transition into a profession where I can still help people with MH illnesses and has room for growth. How do I make this transition and what are my chances of working as a psych nurse as a new graduate? Would I have to gain experience as a general nurse first? Thanks in advance!!!;) PS I have a Bachelors in Business Admin. Minor in psychology and a credential in substance abuse and alcohol counseling (CASAC)

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Specializes in adult psych, LTC/SNF, child psych.

What are your qualifications as a substance abuse counselor, masters degree or certificate? It would likely behoove you to look into an accelerated, second career bachelors of science in nursing program. You would still have to go through nursing school and take the NCLEX, as well as clinicals in all of the major specialities. You could certainly apply and interview for psych nursing jobs right out of school. I'm sure you'd be well qualified, but you're still talking at least 2-4 years of school, depending on where you are with pre-reqs.

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Thank you for your input it gave me hope!

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Specializes in adult psych, LTC/SNF, child psych.

Tell me more! I'm glad I could help, but I'm not sure how I helped. :)

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Specializes in Psych ICU, addictions.

I know a nurse--my former new grad, actually--who went the SAC/RN route. So it's very possible :)

What you need to do:

1. Complete nursing school. If possible, try to get your senior preceptorship/practicum on a psych unit.

1b. If possible, get a job as a tech/SAC on a psych floor while in school. It'll give you related experience, help you network, and make you a candidate for internal jobs when you do become a RN. It doesn't guarantee you the job but it could help.

2. Pass the NCLEX.

3. Apply to psych facilities. Even if you are unable to do item 1b., your prior experience and certification can help you get a job, at least on a CD/detox unit. You do not need to get "general" experience in med/surg first. Doesn't hurt, but is in no way critical to your success in psych.

Lots of nurses start off straight in psych and most never look back. For whatever reason, psych is not as in-demand as the "high profile" specialties (read: ER, critical cares, L&D). So your chances of getting in as a new grad can be better.

I agree with dolcebellaluna: since you have a prior degree, an accelerated BSN program sounds like your best bet.

Best of luck.

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Thank you for the information Meriwhen!

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I think sac experience can give you a big leg up in psych, because there in so much overlap in the populations you're working with, and because counseling skills are so important in psych. I had a few years of experience as a substance abuse counselor (without a casac), and I got a job on an act team right out of nursing school. And when I interviewed they were very interested in hearing about that experience, even though it was almost 10 years ago. I also went the absn route, and would definitely recommend it. Anyway, good luck!

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