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University of Washington

Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)

The Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specialty (PMHNP), within the Doctor of Nursing Practice program, prepares nurses to address the healthcare needs of individuals with psychiatric disorders who may have co-morbid substance use problems or medical conditions requiring referrals or collaboration for treatment. Graduates will develop advanced skills in:

  • psychosocial & physical assessment and differential diagnosis of client conditions
  • management of care over time
  • symptom management and behavior change through therapy, education and medication management
  • promotion of mental health

Also emphasized in the program are:

  • cultural sensitivity and competence in health care provision
  • data-based client and program outcome evaluation
  • collaboration with families, other practitioners and communities
  • client and family advocacy

All graduates are prepared to work with diverse populations across the lifespam, with clinical coursework ranging from pediatrics to geriatrics. Graduates are prepared to apply to the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) for certification as an adult or family PMHNP. After passing the ANCC exam graduate may apply for registration in Washington State as an Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner (ARNP) with prescriptive authority.

Perinatal Mental Health Study Option

Students in the PMHNP specialty may choose to complete additional courses focusing on mental health knowledge and skills during pregnancy and postpartum phase:

Specialty Information

Rebecca Wood
E-mail: pmhnp@u.washington.edu
Phone: (206) 543-8572

Apply

For general application and admissions questions, contact:

Academic Services
UW School of Nursing
Phone: (206) 543-8736 or 1 (800) 759-NURS
E-mail: Contact Us