Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner


The psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner is an advanced practice nurse whose clinical practice focuses on individuals, families or populations across the lifespan at risk for developing mental problems or having a psychiatric diagnosis.

The psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner clinical track prepares students with advanced health assessment skills, psychiatric assessment and diagnostic skills, and advanced clinical management of psychiatric disorders, including prescribing and managing psychotropic medications and individual, family, and group therapy modalities. This track also provides educational preparation for the advanced practice nurse to assume leadership roles and advocate for individual clients and societal needs surrounding mental health (such as parity). Clinical settings are arranged for students across various locales, including rural, community, and urban settings.

Graduates are eligible for national certification through the American Nurses Credentialing Center.

Track Coordinator: James Poole, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC

*Students admitted prior to Fall 2024 will adhere to their initial curriculum plan based on their catalog year.

Progression in advanced practice nursing tracks requires supervised and precepted experience in specialized clinical settings throughout the semester in Florida. Students admitted to advanced practice nursing tracks are advised that they may be required to travel to clinical sites within Florida for these experiences. If unable to do so, progress in the curriculum will be delayed.

Back to BSN to DNP Program Page