What is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner?

Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners are advanced practice nurse practitioners trained to care for your mental health needs. You can think of them as the nurse practitioner-version of a psychiatrist. Their scope of practice is similar to that of a psychiatrist – they can assess, diagnose, prescribe psychiatric medications, and treat patients’ mental health conditions while maintaining a safe, collaborative and confidential environment. Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners work with you to evaluate your symptoms and needs, partner with you to develop a treatment care plan, and evaluate your ongoing needs and treatment effectiveness.