This has been an interesting discussion. Initally trained and educated as a pediatric nurses practitioner, I returned to school to obtain a second master's in psychiatric care. Psychotherapy theory and practice was covered in my courses. Obtaining supervisory oversight was difficult to arrange and expected to be covered in our internships. I do consider myself both a therapist and a prescriber as I care for teens and their families with behavioral health issues. Much of my practice and further education about therapy has been gained post program completion from my own desire to be a better more knowlegable practitioner...to have 'more tools in my tool box". I have managed to cobble together access to knowledge, skills and certifications beyond my basic NP programs that serve me and my patients well. I have obtained certification as a pediatric mental health specialist (PMHS) through PNCB.
I agree that Psych ARNPS should do more than just perscribe medications. However, there just aren't enough of us. I know that many FNPs are moving into Psych NP positions. This is though in part,as Sandra C. stated, because of the lack of easily available Psych NP education locations throughout the country.We must remember if we who are in the "club"make the bar to high for NPs who want to do conseling and perscribe medications as a total care approach to their work by making it very specific and difficult to meet certification requirements, are we then part of the problem and not the soluition? I would suggest a possible solution: the provision of quality psychiatric courses and educational offerings in the current stream of continuing education that currently exists for Nurse Practitioners. I am happy to see more psych. content being offered at AANP conferences. The depth and breadth of behavioral health oriented sessions offered by NAPNAP at the latest annual conference is impressive. Full attendance appears to indicate interest. Could we support, advocate, and provide psychiatric content about therapies through general nurse practioner organizations? I believe this may be one solution. We must remember to stay patient centered in our efforts to insure quality health care providers. Can we offer a solution that improves the care provided? I believe so.
Carole Kain, PhD, APRN-Pediatrics, PMHS