Pediatric np or psych np

SycamoreGuy · May 10, 2013

Psych NPs are definitely needed. The problem is that they are mainly needed outside of big cities. If you are ok with moving, maybe regionally, you will find a job as a Psych NP. I don't see the Psych NP specialty going anywhere, mental health is probably one of the most under served specialties in the US.

harmonizer · May 11, 2013

Peds NP are more in demand in general. Psych NP are in demand in "some areas" of the country.

megank5183 · May 13, 2013

If you are willing to move, Psych NPs make considerably more money. I have found a lot of job listings in the South West, North West and North East. You can make up to 125k a year. If you have less flexibility geographically, then I would go for Peds, although it may be a struggle finding jobs with this too. FNPs and Adult NPs have the most job listings, but there are a lot more of these types of NPs than Psych and Peds so you are facing more competition.

JeanettePNP, MSN, RN, NP · May 19, 2013

I faced this decision two years ago and I ended up going with peds, because that's what my heart told me. Now I'm kind of kicking myself because the job market for psych is better than for peds in my area and the pay is much better too. I finally found a part time job as a PNP and I love what I do, although I wish I could get full time (I probably will be able to once I get more experience). It's hard to predict what the job market will be even 2-3 years down the line, but I would check job listings in your area (or wherever you think you'd want to live) and see openings and starting salaries for both specialties. If your heart is leaning towards psych, then you definitely will not go wrong. In fact I'm considering going back for dual certification so I can treat peds mental health.

myelin · May 19, 2013

Also, keep in mind that a big psychiatry shortage is looming. With ACA, more people than ever will have access to services (since mental health parity is part of the law), so there will be an influx of patients. Also, 70% of psychiatrists are over 50, so the shortage will get even worse, especially for child psychiatry. Since the new license is for FPMHNPs, all of us will be able to see kids. The current demand and pay are pretty great, as far as I can tell. In the future, the need is only going to grow, though of course we can't predict everything.