Earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or an equivalent nursing degree
Pass the NCLEX-RN exam
Obtain an active Registered Nurse (RN) license
Gain clinical nursing experience, preferably in psychiatric, mental health, or related settings
Apply to an accredited Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) graduate program
Complete a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with a PMHNP focus
Complete required supervised clinical hours in psychiatric-mental health care
Pass the PMHNP certification exam through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) or another approved certifying body
Apply for state APRN licensure as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Meet any state-specific prescriptive authority requirements if you plan to prescribe medications
Maintain certification and licensure through continuing education and renewal requirements