New grad looking to break into psych

[studentnurse9806]

So I am interested in applying for psych jobs but the problem is that i completed my preceptorship on a maternity unit. I emphasize this in my cover letter as it was a good experience being able to work one on one with a nurses, however, i know it will not look appealing when applying to psych jobs. Looking for some advice on how to change it so that I still mention my preceptorship, but aim it towards a psych position. Any suggestions would be appreciated :)

[Meriwhen, ASN, BSN, MSN, RN]

It's not impossible for you to get into psych--my preceptorship was on a progressive care unit and here I am :)

Be sure that your resume and cover letter emphasizes any psych skills you may have. I've never worked L&D/PP (and I cringe at the thought, but that's me) but I'm sure you used a hell of a lot of therapeutic communication with your patients. I'm also sure you assessed their mood and mental status and provided education about post-partum blues and depression. And I'll bet that at least a few of your patients had at least one psych diagnosis (anxiety, depression, etc.) that they came in with. Psych's everywhere.

If you haven't graduated yet (and you could try this even if you have), see if you can get into a psych facility working as a tech. That will give you related experience and networking opportunities.