PMHNP in 2028

PMHNP in 2028 

I know no one can answer the question for me but would like to get more insight from experienced PMHNPs out there. I have 4 years of psych expedience and 3 years of forensic psych experience. Three year of cardiac/ICU.

In 2023 I started brick and mortar DNP program that finds preceptors. I worked for the hospital so 100k tuition was covered. However, hospital was 1.5-2 hours drive. Work environment (manager) was super toxic and expected an explanation and email each time we clock out after 0730 (huddle takes 15 min and report takes more than 15). There were other unsafe practices too. Despite doing great in school I dropped after the first semester and left the iob.

Now I have a job at a state facility. I have a good pay (average for my city is $45-48, I make 60$/h, and have a pension. Also, work is super easy with zero stress.
However, I always wanted to be PMHNP, I crave more knowledge and want something little more challenging. Of course more money cant hurt.

I was thinking of attending a decent master online program for 40k. I will have to find my own clinicals. I would be done in 2028 if I enroll in 2026. I am 40 years old.

But I have doubts. Is the money, effort and energy worth it? I want to have a more challenging job, but I also want to have options (maybe work online or teach part time eventually). But with the market right now I am hesitant.