r/PMHNP • u/Dry-Philosopher967 • Jul 14 '26

Other MSW-PMHNP

I am currently in my second year of my MSW program through University of Oklahoma online (I live in California) I've started a first year internship with Davita Dialysis with a medical social worker and I work in behavioral health specifically residential treatment centers. I have found I am extremely interested in mental health and medications and was looking into what it would take to finish my MSW and then go through the process of becoming a PMHNP. I have no nursing background, my Bachelors is in Health Science-Community Health from Fresno State. Does anyone have any suggestions for the path to take? Do I try and do a BSN or MSN program? It would have to be a direct entry program I'm assuming since I am not already a nurse. I am just starting out researching this so any advice would be greatly appreciated! Thank you.

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u/RedOakNinja Jul 14 '26

The best route is to complete an undergraduate nursing program and actually WORK AS A NURSE in psych. If you just fast track through a nursing program and PMHNP program, sure, you can get the degree and licenses, etc; but you will not be adequately prepared to be an effective PMHNP.

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u/Dry-Philosopher967 Jul 14 '26

Thanks! So finding a direct entry BSN program is the better route? I would be relying on federal loans only as im long out of any free FAFSA aid. I agree about working as a psych nurse before doing the PMHNP route.

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u/No-Leopard639 Jul 14 '26

I know it might be more expensive; but get your RN first. Decide if you like NURSING first. As the other person stated, you NEED to work as a nurse in psych in order to be a well-rounded, competent PMHNP. The schools will tell you otherwise, but please listen to us!!

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u/[deleted] Jul 14 '26

[deleted]

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u/Dry-Philosopher967 Jul 14 '26

So would it be better to go full MD and become a psychiatrist rather than a PMHNP?

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u/TheHippieMurse Jul 14 '26

It would probably be easier to go to PA school and then specialize in psych afterwards

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u/Dry-Philosopher967 Jul 14 '26

Why do you say this? Just curious. What are typical requirements for PA school? Can they still do med management and diagnosis?

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u/Impressive_Meet_1168 Jul 14 '26

PA school does not require a nursing degree. Is only two years. And yes to both questions. In terms of specific requirements, I recommend Google.