Mental Health Nursing
Learn How to Become a Mental Health Nurse
Psychiatric or mental health nurses help patients who suffer from mental illness such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and depression to recover their mental health so that they can live to their fullest potential. Mental health nurses are experts in the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of psychiatric disorders. They are trained in behavioral therapy, which allows these nurses to teach patients as well as their friends and family how to deal with challenges that go along with psychiatric disorders.
Preparation Path
Earn your BSN
Pass the NCLEX and become an RN
Typical Tasks
- Evaluating patients’ mental health needs
- Writing and evaluating treatment plans
- Delivering psychotherapy and other interventions
- Providing personal and supportive care
- Coordinating care with families, physicians and other caregivers
- Prescribing medications
Employment Settings
- General and psychiatric hospitals
- Substance abuse treatment programs
- Home health care services
- Community mental health agencies
- Private practices
Annual Salary Range
$56,000 – $117,500
Certification
RN
Education Requirements
BSN
