Post Masters PMHNP?

Specialties NP

Published

I am trying to relocate my family out of our west coast town, but I am having trouble finding a position that pays enough as an FNP. I see loads of high paying PMHNP positions posted, and I'm wondering what you all think about the risk/benefit of going back for a post masters. I have 13 years of nursing experience, and 3 as an FNP. All my positions in CA have been through networking, but I don't know a lot of NPs in other states. Any opinions? I have to make equal or more than my husband in order for his work to okay our move (which means I need to be the moderate-high to high end of the FNP pay scale). If it weren't for the salary requirement, I would be able to get a lower paying job fairly easily. I started my nursing career in psych and have done psychiatric pharm research, so I know I like the field and patient population. My colleagues have overwhelmingly told me that it wouldn't be worth the time and cost. I'd appreciate hearing what you all have to say.

I just read a lot of posts from PMHNPs who think the programs don't equip graduates well, and who are angry about the clinical work available. I guess that answers my question.

not being equipped properly isn't exclusive to psych NP.

if you want to do it then do it but you will more than likely have to self study a lot to be a good clinician. Plus you sound interested in it so you sound like you have what it takes to succeed. Plus prior FNP experience helps

My program didn't equip me, as I have written extensively, I worked full time in the field as an RN while taking a class or two a semester for 5 years.

The clinical work has been interesting. I worked for many years in a forensic facility. That was interesting but low pay. It tops out at 110k. I have done some private practice, although I left because we couldn't make any money seeing 2 pts an hour.

Now I am in LTC. It has its' joys and downfalls but it is very independent, make my own schedule, and the pay is excellent based on productivity.

I don't know what it would cost, and what the post-master's requirements are. Surely you wouldn't have to repeat that nursing theory nonsense.

I think as a Psych NP, to make money most places, you have to be very comfortable seeing 3 pts an hour and also able to set that boundary.

You'll have a bunch of personality disorders, malingerers hoping to get disability and drug seekers. And you better know how to deal quickly with them.

I like my job well enough, but I've been lucky to get where I am.

Im an FNP 3 years out as well.

I started working in psych part time . Now going back to school for post Master in psych. I start in January. I want to get my post masters because I enjoy psych and want to immerse myself more in the specialty. I got so Tired of FNP jobs and that's whole other topic.

Im pending getting a full time job in psych with full benefits and training. Haven't accepted yet. Weighing on everything.

currently i work part time psych elsewhere and i get paid $130 an HR as a 1099. This is not the norm from what I here. but where I am My lowest contract offer for psych was $ 92. Me providing my own malpractice. It depends on area I guess. I think to make a decent salary even in psych you have to be flexible. Also depends on region and demand.

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