Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioners (PMHNPs) provide mental health care for individuals across the lifespan, from infancy to old age. They also work with families and populations at risk for developing and/or having a diagnosis of psychiatric disorders or mental health problems.
PMHNPs provide mental health treatment, preventive services, consultation and leadership in hospitals, clinics, community settings and private practice. They offer a range of continuous and comprehensive services to meet patients' needs and promote optimal mental health. This includes:
- Building relationships with patients for ongoing care.
- Promoting mental well-being through preventive strategies.
- Assessing, diagnosing, and treating mental health and psychiatric disorders across the lifespan.
- Maintaining mental health through ongoing management plans.
Graduates of the PMHNP track are eligible for New York State NP certification and meet the educational requirements for national certification by the American Nurses Credentialing Center.