A psychiatric nurse practitioner (often called a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner or PMHNP) is an advanced practice registered nurse with specialized training in mental health care. We complete master’s or doctoral-level education focused specifically on diagnosing and treating psychiatric conditions. This training allows us to conduct comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, diagnose mental health disorders, prescribe and manage medications, and provide therapy.

Think of us as a hybrid between a psychiatrist and a therapist, with the medical authority to prescribe medication combined with a holistic, patient-centered approach to care. We can do everything a psychiatrist does in terms of medication management, but our nursing background emphasizes treating the whole person rather than just symptoms. Many people find our approach more accessible and collaborative than traditional psychiatric care.