Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)

The Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specialty (PMHNP), within the Master of Nursing and Doctor of Nursing Practice programs, prepares nurses to address the healthcare needs of individuals with psychiatric disorders who may have co-morbid substance use problems or medical conditions requiring referrals or collaboration for treatment. Graduates will develop advanced skills in:

• psychosocial & physical assessment and differential diagnosis of client conditions
• management of care over time
• symptom management and behavior change through therapy, education and medication management
• promotion of mental health

Also emphasized in the program are:

• cultural sensitivity and competence in health care provision
• data-based client and program outcome evaluation
• collaboration with families, other practitioners and communities
• client and family advocacy

Tracks for either Adult (13 years of age and older) or Family (prepared to work with an adult population as well as children from infancy to 13 years of age) are available. Graduates are prepared to apply to the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) for certification as an adult or family PMHNP. After passing the ANCC exam graduate may apply for registration in Washington State as an Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner (ARNP) with prescriptive authority.

• PMHNP Portal
• Department of Psychosocial & Community Health