Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Schools
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Master’s Programs in Reno, Nevada
Get your Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Master’s Programs in Reno, Nevada - online & campus-based options available.
Contact a school today for more info.
Becoming a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Reno, Nevada
If you’re considering a career as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in Reno, Nevada, you’re embarking on a rewarding path that combines advanced nursing skills with mental health expertise. PMHNPs play a crucial role in providing mental health care, and there are various educational paths to achieve this certification. This guide will walk you through the process, from education to certification and licensure.
About Reno
Reno, known as “The Biggest Little City in the World,” is a bustling hub located in the northwest corner of Nevada. Nestled against the Sierra Nevada mountains, Reno offers a unique blend of urban amenities and outdoor adventures. The city is famous for its casinos, vibrant arts scene, and proximity to Lake Tahoe. For more information, visit the official Reno website.
PMHNP Master’s Programs in Reno, Nevada
While Reno itself may not have a plethora of PMHNP programs, there are options nearby that aspiring PMHNPs can explore:
- University of Nevada, Reno (UNR)
- Location: Reno, NV
- Program: The Orvis School of Nursing offers a Master of Science in Nursing with a focus on Psychiatric Mental Health. The program emphasizes evidence-based practice and prepares students for national certification.
- Website: UNR Orvis School of Nursing
- Touro University Nevada
- Location: Henderson, NV (Approximately 440 miles from Reno)
- Program: Offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with a specialization in Psychiatric Mental Health. The program is designed for BSN-prepared nurses and includes extensive clinical training.
- Website: Touro University Nevada Nursing
- University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV)
- Location: Las Vegas, NV (Approximately 450 miles from Reno)
- Program: Provides a Post-Master’s Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, ideal for those who already hold a master’s degree in nursing.
- Website: UNLV School of Nursing
PMHNP Employment Opportunities in Reno
Reno offers several employment opportunities for PMHNPs within its healthcare facilities:
- Renown Health
- Location: Downtown Reno
- Description: Renown Health is the largest locally owned not-for-profit healthcare network in Northern Nevada. It offers comprehensive mental health services and frequently seeks PMHNPs for their team.
- Website: Renown Health Careers
- Northern Nevada Medical Center
- Location: Sparks, NV (Adjacent to Reno)
- Description: A full-service hospital providing a range of mental health services, Northern Nevada Medical Center is a key employer for PMHNPs in the region.
- Website: Northern Nevada Medical Center Careers
- VA Sierra Nevada Health Care System
- Location: Northeast Reno
- Description: Offers specialized care for veterans, including mental health services. The VA is a significant employer for PMHNPs, providing opportunities to work with a unique patient population.
- Website: VA Sierra Nevada Careers
Prerequisites for PMHNP Master’s Programs
To enroll in a PMHNP Master’s program, you typically need:
- A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from an accredited program
- An active RN license
- A minimum GPA (often 3.0 or higher)
- Clinical experience in nursing
- Completion of entrance exams or interviews, if required by the program
PMHNP Certification Requirements
To become certified as a PMHNP, you must:
- Obtain national certification through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). For more details, visit the ANCC PMHNP Certification page.
- Pass the national certification exam
- Meet any additional state-specific requirements for practice
Licensure Requirements
In Nevada, PMHNPs must:
- Hold an active RN license
- Apply for an APRN license through the Nevada State Board of Nursing (NVBN). Visit the NVBN website for more information.
- Submit national certification, official transcripts, and complete the licensure application
- If prescribing schedule II controlled substances, establish a collaborative protocol with a physician if you have less than two years of clinical practice
Licensure Reciprocity
Nevada is not part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), so PMHNPs must obtain licensure in Nevada to practice. However, licensure by endorsement is possible for those already licensed in another state.
Get Started Today
Embarking on a career as a PMHNP in Reno, Nevada, is a fulfilling journey that offers the chance to make a significant impact in mental health care. With the right education and certification, you can join this vital field. Reach out to a school today to begin your path toward becoming a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
For more information on the job outlook for Nurse Practitioners, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics.