• September 9, 2024
• Mental issues
• Jeffrey Aviles

There’s no question we’re facing a mental health issue in our country. These challenges impact millions of people, and it’s absolutely necessary to have a strong mental wellness task force at the ready to help those in need. 

But, it’s just as important to understand how different positions within the mental health field work. 

For example, there are some key differences between psychiatrists and psychiatric nurse practitioners. Whether you’re interested in one of these positions, yourself, or you want to know the best person to see for any challenges you might be facing, understanding the differences can help with your decision. 

What Is a Psychiatrist?

Psychiatrists are medical professionals who diagnose, treat, and help with the management of those struggling with mental health conditions. They are doctors responsible for the overall mental wellness and productivity of their patients. 

Because psychiatrists are medical doctors, it can take up to twelve years of schooling to be equipped with the title. On a daily basis, the responsibilities of a psychiatrist might include diagnosing patients, writing prescriptions, ordering tests, providing counseling, and monitoring the progress of existing patients. 

Psychiatrists can choose to work in private practices, but they can also provide much-needed care for a variety of facilities, including hospitals, nursing homes, and even government agencies.

What Is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner? 

A psychiatric nurse practitioner must be a board-certified advanced practice registered nurse. They specialize in mental health care, and while this position might not require as much schooling as a psychiatrist, it’s still necessary to obtain either a master’s degree in nursing or a Doctor of Nursing Practice. 

Psychiatric nurse practitioners can administer medication to patients. Depending on the state, they might even be able to prescribe it. They also provide both emergency and preventative services, monitor patients, order tests, and even provide counseling to patients in need. 

Like psychiatrists, nurse practitioners can work in a variety of locations. Most don’t own a private practice but can work in one. They’re also often found in facilities like general hospitals or mental hospitals, nursing homes, and community agencies. 

One benefit of being a psychiatric nurse practitioner is the number of opportunities. There is almost always a need for this position, and if you’re someone who doesn’t like a traditional 9-5 workday, many NPs work different shifts that meet their needs and wants. 

What Are the Differences?

Clearly, there are many similarities between psychiatrists and psychiatric nurse practitioners. However, there are also a few key differences to understand. Obviously, the amount of education a person has to go through is a major difference. To be a nurse practitioner, you first have to obtain a nursing degree and choose mental health as your specialty. Psychiatrists tend to start their education journey knowing exactly what the end goal is, and will typically undergo more years of schooling. 

Another major difference is the overall approach toward treatment. Some states allow nurse practitioners to have full practice authority. That means they can write prescriptions and treat patients the same way a psychiatrist would.

However, many NPs take a more holistic approach to mental health care. They tend to form stronger, more personal relationships with their patients and focus on counseling services, rather than medication. 

Obviously, minor differences will vary from person to person. If you’re trying to decide whether you should see a nurse practitioner or psychiatrist, one of the best things you can do is to reach out to both types of professionals in your area or online. Not only will you get more detailed information, but you’ll be able to determine who you’re more comfortable with, and who you think will be the better fit for your treatment journey.