A Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner is an advanced practice nurse who has specialized training in the evaluation and treatment of mental illnesses.  Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners work collaboratively with psychiatrists to provide psychiatric care and are able to perform most all of the functions of the psychiatrist, including:

• Providing psychiatric evaluation and formulating diagnosis
• Recommending treatment for psychiatric and mental health needs
• Arranging for laboratory and other diagnostic testing
• Prescribing and managing psychotropic medications when indicated
• Collaborating with primary care providers and therapists to coordinate care
• Providing referrals for therapists, neurologists or other professionals for related care

People who may benefit from the Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner are those who:

• Find it difficult to access mental health services
• Need evaluation and follow-up for psychiatric or mental health symptoms
• May not have an established psychiatrist
• Enjoy a holistic approach to care which looks at the whole person, body, mind and spirit