What is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner?
A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) with specialized training in Psychiatry and Mental Health. A PMHNP-BC received graduate education and clinical training in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of psychiatric and mental health disorders and obtained a national board certification. Working independently and collaboratively with other health professionals, PMHNP’s provide a full range of psychiatric and mental health services. This includes, but is not limited to, diagnosing psychiatric and mental health disorders, prescribing medications to treat psychiatric and mental health disorders, and providing psychotherapy and patient education.
How are you different than other psychiatric providers?
Nurse practitioners emphasize the health and well-being of the whole person. We view you as an entire person and an integral part of your treatment, not just a condition or disorder. All choices and experiences in life affect our mental health and we believe that treatment planning must address more than just medication. Together, we will develop a treatment plan that will work best for you.
Can you prescribe medication? Are there limitations to your practice?
Yes, we can prescribe medication. In the state of New Mexico, Nurse Practitioners are licensed to practice as independent practitioners.
