How to Become a Psychiatric Nurse

Mental health is a cornerstone of overall wellness, but it often doesn’t receive the attention it deserves.

With increasing awareness of mental health issues, the demand for skilled psychiatric nurses continues to grow. Psychiatric nurses support clients facing mental health challenges, guiding them through treatments and offering a steady, empathetic presence during difficult times.

If you’re inspired by the idea of helping others navigate mental health issues, psychiatric nursing may be the path for you. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps on how to become a psychiatric nurse, from education to certification and beyond.

Steps

To become a psychiatric nurse, follow these steps.

Step 1: Earn a nursing degree.

The first step is to become a registered nurse (RN).

This requires completing an accredited nursing program. You can pursue an associate degree in nursing (ASN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).

However, many employers prefer a BSN due to the more comprehensive training it offers.

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Step 2: Pass the National Council Licensure Examination for RNs (NCLEX-RN).

After completing your nursing degree, the next step is passing the NCLEX-RN.

This national exam tests your knowledge and skills in various areas of nursing, including psychiatric care. Passing this exam grants you licensure as an RN.

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Step 3: Gain experience as a registered nurse.

After passing the NCLEX-RN and obtaining your license, it’s time to gain practical experience.

Many psychiatric nurses start their careers working in general health care settings such as:

• Clinics
• Community health centers
• Hospitals

This allows them to develop essential nursing skills such as assessing clients, administering medication, and providing client care.

Step 4: Consider specializing in a specific area of psychiatric nursing.

As an RN with experience, you may choose to specialize in a specific area of psychiatric nursing, such as:

• Acute care
• Child and adolescent mental health
• Disaster care
• Forensic psychiatry
• Gerontological-psychiatric care
• Military mental health
• Substance use disorders

Specializing can increase job opportunities and allow for deeper knowledge and expertise in a particular area.

Step 5: Get certified.

Some employers may require or prefer certification, although it’s not mandatory.

The American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) offers the Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing Certification.

Step. 6: Join professional organizations.

It’s beneficial for psychiatric nurses to join professional organizations like the American Psychiatric Nurses Association (APNA).

These organizations offer:

• Continuing education courses
• Networking opportunities
• Resources to stay updated on advancements in psychiatric nursing practice

Additionally, joining these organizations can provide a platform to advocate for the profession and influence policy changes that affect psychiatric nursing.

What Do Psychiatric Nurses Do?

The primary role of psychiatric nurses is to support clients facing mental health challenges by:

• Conducting mental health assessments
• Developing and implementing care plans
• Administering psychiatric medications
• Providing therapeutic interventions
• Educating clients and families about mental health

They can work in various settings, such as:

• Clinics
• Community health centers
• Forensic health settings
• Hospitals
• Outpatient centers
• Mental health facilities
• Primary care
• Private practices
• Public health facilities
• Schools
• Substance use treatment programs
• Telemedicine

How Long Does It Take to Become a Psychiatric Nurse in the US?

Becoming a psychiatric nurse typically takes around two to six years.

This includes completing a two-year ASN or four-year BSN program. Advanced roles, such as psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), usually require two additional years of study and passing another board certification.

Is It Hard to Be a Psychiatric Nurse?

Psychiatric nursing requires patience, empathy, and strong communication skills.

Mental health is unpredictable, and psychiatric nurses must remain calm and compassionate in high-stress situations. Although this role can be demanding, many psychiatric nurses find it deeply rewarding to help clients through challenging times.

What’s the Average Salary for a Psychiatric Nurse?

The average psychiatric nurse salary varies based on experience, location, and level of education:

• Psychiatric nurse: $86,659 annually
• PMHNP: $98,309 annually

Higher education and specialized certifications typically lead to better-paying positions within psychiatric mental health nursing.

Real-World Guidance for New Grads!

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