Psychiatric Nurse Career Guide: Salary, Duties, Education, and Outlook

Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurses (PMH-RNs) provide specialized care for individuals with mental illness and substance use disorders.

Salary (BLS, May 2020)

• Median: $75,330
• Top 10%: >$105,990
• Bottom 10%: <$54,100

Key Duties

• Mental health assessment and risk evaluation
• Care planning and crisis intervention
• Individual/group psychotherapy (with advanced training)
• Medication administration and monitoring (side effects, adherence)
• Psychoeducation for patients/families
• Advocacy and care coordination

Education & Certification

• BSN + RN license (required)
• PMH nursing certificate or MSN-PMHNP for advanced role
• ANCC Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing Certification (RN-BC or PMHNP-BC)

Job Outlook

15% growth projected (2019–2029) — much faster than average — driven by rising mental health demand, parity laws, and integrated care models.

Ideal for nurses with strong communication, empathy, and crisis management skills.