Overview

The psychiatric nurse practitioner works in the following clinical areas: inpatient psychiatric units, alcohol/drug rehabilitation programs, day treatment programs, mental health clinics and combat stress units.

Job Duties

• Patient counseling
• Crisis intervention
• Milieu and group therapy
• Critical incident debriefings

Requirements

• Master’s degree as a psychiatric nurse practitioner from a program accredited by the National League for Nursing or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (or accepted by the U.S. Secretary of Education)
• Board certification as a psychiatric nurse practitioner with prescriptive privileges
• Between 21 and 42 years of age (may request a waiver)
• Current, valid and unrestricted nursing license
• U.S. citizenship

Training

Job training for a psychiatric nurse practitioner includes completing an Officer Basic Leadership Course, which introduces you to the Army Health Care system, Army doctrine and basic Soldier/leader skills. 

Helpful Skills

• Ability to make accurate, immediate decisions
• Perform under stress
• Apply critical technical and thinking skills
• Tremendous concentration

Learn more about the ASVAB and see what jobs you could qualify for.

Compensation

• Receive Army Nurse Accession Bonus of $20,000 or $30,000
• Nurse Loan Repayment Program of up to $120,000 over three years; may be applied toward qualified nursing school loans
• Paid continuing education, including clinical specialization courses
• Low-cost life and dental insurance
• Noncontributory retirement benefits with 20 years of qualifying service
• 30 days of paid vacation earned annually

Education Benefits

The U.S. Army provides generous education loan-repayment programs, residency programs and continuing education opportunities to support your continued career growth and development.