I am considering applying to an MSN program in order to become a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have done some research on this particular specialty and have had trouble finding much information regarding job outlook and demand for my area. I live in the midwest. I have, however, done a job search and found only two ads for a PMHNP in my area, and they were both requiring atleast five years of experience! Can anyone offer any information regarding where I may find these statistics or more information?
You'll have no problem finding a job. It may not be the 'ideal' job immediately, but you'll always be able to find something in a geographic area that appeals to you and start building from there. If you are flexible about where to go, I would suggest one of the 12 states that allow for fully independent practice - makes the process easier and your services tend to me more in demand.
I finished my Adult/Geriatric NP degree a month ago and have begun the job search. Strangely enough I have been bombarded with psych opportunities. Who knew?? Recruiters are callling and emailing. My good friend who is a psychiatrist wants me to work PRN in his suboxone clinic and perhaps begin to see psych patients. I have an interview next week with another psychiatrist. There are two ads for companies that would involve going into Long Term Care facilities and managing psych meds as the entire role for the NP. The VA is advertising for psych/MH NPs in my area for inpatient and suboxone clinic settings. My background is ER and ICU so I don't necessarily feel prepared to enter the psych/mental health arena. Not that I haven't dealt with many a psych patient including most of my nursing professors :chuckle. I am not taking this lightly as I am researching adding on the post-masters certificate or DNP so that I will be competent.
A word to the wise--FNP is far more marketable if you can deal with the kiddos. I shied away from it because all of my Peds experience had been acute care and somewhat tragic/depressing. The outpatient world of peds is fun and lighter.
Specializes in Psychiatric and Substance Abuse Nursing.
Whenever you want to get a good idea of what a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner makes, simply go onto www.indeed.com and plug in your target geographic area to check out salaries. I think you'll find starting PMHNPs make anywhere between $80K-110K per year.
al dente
46 Posts
You'll have no problem finding a job. It may not be the 'ideal' job immediately, but you'll always be able to find something in a geographic area that appeals to you and start building from there. If you are flexible about where to go, I would suggest one of the 12 states that allow for fully independent practice - makes the process easier and your services tend to me more in demand.
BTW, your website is quite interesting.