The Role of PMHNPs in Modern Healthcare

The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) estimates that one in five people in the United States experience a mental health condition annually. The Centers for Disease Prevention and Control (CDC) reports that nearly one in ten Americans experiences symptoms of clinical depression and that deaths from substance use disorder and suicide more than doubled over the last decade—and continue to rise. These statistics reflect the growing need for mental health service providers who can support the infrastructure of modern healthcare.

Since mental health and physical health are deeply intertwined in ways that researchers are just beginning to understand, the roles of Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioners (PHMNPs) are becoming more important than ever. These providers address the growing need for mental health services through diagnostic services, holistic integration, and collaboration with other medical care providers. The influence and scope of the PMNHP role have been expanding in recent years, as psychiatric nurse practitioners work closely with other providers to address both the physical and mental health needs of patients. 

People who have chronic medical conditions, including diabetes and heart disease, are much more likely to have symptoms of a mental health condition. And conversely, untreated mental health conditions, such as depression, can trigger physical symptoms, such as chronic fatigue or a weakened immune system. PMHNPs are uniquely positioned to coordinate treatment for comorbid mental and physical conditions, such as depression and diabetes. 

Let’s dive into how the role of the PMNHP in modern healthcare is evolving to meet the changing needs of the population. 

What is the role of a PMHNP?

Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioners (PMHNPs) focus on the assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and management of individuals with mental health conditions. These providers combine advanced nursing knowledge with psychiatric expertise to provide comprehensive care. 

Initially, the role of psychiatric nurses was primarily focused on supporting psychiatrists and physicians. But over the past several decades, PMHNPs have become independent providers, gaining the ability to conduct comprehensive assessments, make diagnoses, and prescribe medications— responsibilities that were once confined to psychiatrists or medical doctors. This expansion is a result of the growing need for mental health services and the recognition of the PMHNP's ability to provide high-quality, accessible care. 
The current scope of practice for PMHNPs varies from state to state. But generally speaking, their role includes: 

• Assessment and diagnosis

PMHNPs conduct thorough assessments of patients. This includes taking detailed medical histories, and conducting mental health evaluations. They use this information to diagnose anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and other mental health disorders. In cases where a patient has a chronic physical health condition, PMNHPs are prepared to coordinate with other healthcare providers to understand a holistic picture of a patient’s health and make research-based recommendations. 

• Medication management

One of the critical responsibilities of PMHNPs is prescribing and managing psychiatric medications. Psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioners currently have prescribing privileges in all 50 states, though in 21 states, their scope of practice is limited and a collaborating physician needs to sign off on the prescription. After an assessment and diagnosis, a PMNHP may prescribe a treatment plan that includes antidepressants, antipsychotics, mood stabilizers, or other medications to help manage mental health symptoms. PMHNPs then monitor the effects of these medications, adjust dosages, and watch out for potential side effects to ensure patients are receiving safe, effective treatment. 

• Therapeutic Interventions

In addition to managing medications, PMHNPs can provide therapeutic interventions as part of a patient’s treatment plan. These interventions are evidence-based and tailored to a patient’s needs. Interventions might include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and other therapeutic modalities. These therapies help individuals develop coping skills, manage symptoms, and improve their mental and emotional well-being. Since PMHNPs in modern healthcare often work in collaborative settings, they are well-positioned to partner with other healthcare professionals who offer these types of interventions, including psychiatrists, social workers, and psychologists. Primary care providers may also be brought in the loop in cases where there are physical and mental health needs. 

• Advocacy and Education 

PMHNPs have long served as advocates for their patients, helping them to navigate the healthcare system and access resources. These providers educate patients and their families about mental health conditions, treatment options, and coping strategies. 
But in recent years, PMHNPs have become advocates, not only for their patients but also for the mental health profession, as a whole. As key stakeholders in public policy decisions, they advocate for increased disease awareness and changes in mental health laws. Additionally, PMHNPs educate patients, families, and communities about mental health, reducing stigma and raising awareness about mental health resources and services.

• Crisis Intervention

PMHNPs are trained to intervene in mental health crises, such as suicidal ideation, severe anxiety, or a substance use disorder overdose. They offer immediate support, provide stabilization, and connect individuals to appropriate resources or inpatient care if needed. Suicide continues to be one of the leading causes of death in the United States, and other mental health conditions— including body dysmorphia and substance use disorder— can have fatal outcomes when not treated appropriately. Modern PMNHPs are on the front lines of this crisis, helping people who are at a high risk of losing their lives to a mental health condition. 

How are PMHNPs impacting the nursing shortage? 

It is no secret that there is an ongoing nursing shortage and a mental health provider shortage in the U.S., especially in underserved areas where mental health resources are stretched to their limit. PMHNPs are uniquely positioned to help with both areas of need. “Studies continue to show that the persistent shortage in the psychiatric workforce may partly be remedied by advanced practice psychiatric mental health nurses if they are permitted to work to the full extent of their education and training,” a discussion paper in the Journal of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association concluded. 

The outlook for nurse practitioners and nurse anesthetists continues to be positive, with the field growing 40% faster than average when compared to other occupations. There are about 31,900 annual job openings projected for advanced practice nurses, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The median annual pay for nurse practitioners in 2023 was $129,480 per year. 

As the role of the PMNHP in modern healthcare continues to evolve, so do the kinds of opportunities available. Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners are found wherever people need mental health care, including in private practices, hospitals, colleges and universities, home health agencies, correctional facilities, and telehealth settings. 

Become a PMNHP through Wilkes University Online

If you’re interested in helping others through a promised career by becoming a PMNHP, learn more about the Masters of Science in Nursing (MSN-PMNHP) degree program offered through Wilkes University. 

Wilkes has a well-regarded and proven track record of success. You can become a registered nurse practitioner in as little as two years, and clinical placement assistance within your community is available. Take the next step toward this career opportunity today!