Question About the Path to PMHNP

FullGlass, BSN, MSN, NP · Sep 14, 2023

mt569112 said:

I am currently a psych nurse, who's only done psych nursing. I've plotted out becoming a PMHNP for the longest time but I'm curious if it might be better to pursue a FNP with a PMHNP certification just to be more well rounded. The thought of going into med surg is totally intimidating and makes me feel I'd be deficient as a PMHNP without first becoming a FNP. I'm curious of your thoughts. Thanks!

I'm confused by your post. What has med-surg got to do with becoming a PMHNP or FNP?

If you are an RN now, then you need to choose your specialty before applying to an NP Program: PMHNP, FNP, Acute Care NP, etc. If you choose the PMHNP or FNP route, there is nothing having to do with med surg in the program.

Pick what you want to do. If you love psych, then go for PMHNP. There is no advantage to be being "well rounded." If you are not sure what you want to specialize in, then go for FNP.

Remember that if you go for FNP, then decide to become a PMHNP, you are going to have to pay for a PMHNP post-master's (or DNP) certification, and that will not be cheap.

PMHNPs generally make more $, but that depends on location, so if $ are important to you, then do the research on NP specialty earnings in the location(s) where you want to work.

If you want the option to work from home, then PMHNP is the best bet. There are some FNP telehealth roles, but not a lot.

What kind of hours do you want to work? The vast majority of FNPs are working five 8-hour days or four 10-hour days, and that would be some combination of M-F, M-Th, or Tues-Fri from 7 or 8 am to 5 pm or 7 pm.. There are not so many PT jobs. PMHNPs can work in-patient or out-patient. I'm not sure, but I assume in-patient is likely to be typical hospital shifts. Outpatient is generally like the FNP hours. There are more PT options for PMHNPs.

Best wishes