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If you want to help people with their mental health, you might be interested in becoming a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP). PMHNPs are nurses with advanced training and skills in providing mental health care to people of all ages and backgrounds. They can diagnose and treat mental illnesses and addictions using a combination of medication and therapy.
However, becoming a PMHNP is not a walk in the park. It takes a lot of hard work, education, certification and practice, as well as having the right skills and qualities to impress employers. How can you, as a PMHNP student, get ready to become the best candidate for your dream job? Below, we outline the six key areas you should work on to succeed in your field.
Academic excellence and certification
If you want to know how to become a successful PMHNP, you should be prepared to work hard and earn the necessary credentials. First, you must earn a nursing degree from an accredited program. One such program is Rockhurst University’s CCNE-accredited online program, which offers flexible and convenient learning options for busy professionals while ensuring that they know the key clinical management skills to diagnose and treat psychiatric symptoms. By enrolling in this program, you will have the opportunity to enhance your skills and career prospects.
You must then pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX). To perform well in school and pass your exams, you should follow these tips:
- Study early and often, using different methods and resources.
- Join a study group or find a study partner so that you can help each other.
- Review the exam blueprint and focus on your weak areas.
- Manage your time and stress, and stay positive and confident.
The final step is to get certified by a reputable organization, such as the ANCC, the AANPCB or the PNCB, and apply for a state license. The requirements may differ depending on the state, but obtaining a PMHNP license usually includes application, verification of your education and certification, and a state-specific licensing exam.
Clinical experience
Gaining hands-on experience in the field can help you improve your abilities, self-confidence and professionalism. You can also put into practice what you learn in the classroom and get valuable feedback and guidance from your mentors and supervisors. Working with clients and colleagues from different backgrounds and viewpoints can also help develop your cultural sensitivity and ethical judgment.
There are many clinical settings and opportunities that you can explore as a PMHNP student to gain clinical experience, including internships, practicums and volunteer work. Some standard settings where you can work are community mental health centers, outpatient psychiatric clinics and inpatient psychiatric units. These settings and opportunities can help you develop your competencies and network with other professionals in the field.
Networking and professional involvement
You have much to gain in networking, both face-to-face and online on sites such as LinkedIn. It can help you grow as a future nurse practitioner in many ways. Try meeting and connecting with others who share your passion and interest in psychiatric mental health nursing. You can exchange ideas, insights and experiences with them and build lasting relationships that benefit your academic and professional growth.
Find and interact with mentors who can guide you, support you and inspire you in your journey as a student. You can learn from their expertise, wisdom and feedback and develop your skills and confidence.
There are also several ways that you can network and get involved professionally as a PMHNP student. You can join professional associations that are relevant to your field, such as the American Psychiatric Nurses Association (APNA). The APNA offers discounts on various tools and resources to help you succeed as a PMHNP, such as certification, exams and review materials.
Research and publications
As a PMHNP, you are expected to engage in lifelong learning and professional development, which can be enhanced by participating in research projects and contributing to publications. These can enhance your knowledge and skills, contribute to the psychiatric-mental health nursing field, and build your professional reputation.
To find research opportunities, you can explore the interests and expertise of the faculty in your program or department. Search the literature and databases to identify the gaps and needs in the field, and reach out to potential collaborators who share your research interests. Choose a relevant and original topic that addresses a significant problem or question in the field and adds new knowledge or insights to the existing literature.
Showcasing soft skills
You need more than clinical skills and knowledge as a PMHNP. Soft skills can help you interact effectively with patients, colleagues and employers. They are personal attributes that enhance your communication, interpersonal relations and problem-solving abilities. Some soft skills you need as a PMHNP are effective communication, teamwork, empathy and adaptability.
You can use various strategies in your resumes, cover letters and interviews to showcase these soft skills. Employ action verbs and specific examples to describe your achievements and experiences demonstrating your soft skills. For instance, instead of saying, “I have empathy,” you can say, “I empathized with a patient who was suicidal and helped him find hope and useful resources.” Prepare stories or scenarios that illustrate your soft skills using STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) responses to behavioral questions.
Staying informed about legislation
Keep up with the latest developments in mental health legislation and policies. These laws and regulations affect how you practice, get paid, ensure quality of care, and access services for yourself and your clients. You can advocate for the rights and needs of people with mental health conditions, as well as for your professional interests, by staying informed.
Knowing the legislation can also boost your credibility and competency as a PMHNP. By being aware of the current standards and best practices in the field, you can provide evidence-based and ethical care to your clients. One way to stay updated is to subscribe to industry publications that update research, practice, education and policy issues related to mental health nursing.
Standing out as a PMHNP student
You have a unique opportunity to make a difference in the mental health field. However, you also face a competitive job market that requires you to showcase your skills, knowledge and passion. To become the ideal job candidate, you should focus on developing your clinical competence, professional network and personal brand. Doing so can demonstrate your value to potential employers and secure you your dream job.
