Psychiatric-Mental Health Clinical Nurse Specialist
The Penn Nursing Science Psychiatric-Mental Health (PMH) Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) program is an advanced practice nursing degree program for RNs interested in mental health care. Penn’s PMH CNS graduates assess and treat complex psychiatric and mental health disorders in people of all ages, with a special emphasis on psychotherapeutic theory and approaches.
The PMH CNS program philosophy is holistic, centering on the mind-body connection evident in psychiatric and mental health disorders. The program focuses on the biological, physiological, and neurological understanding of the brain and its function as well as the social and psychological development of individuals and families. Students learn interpersonal, cognitive, and behavioral therapy techniques with individuals, families, and groups. Education and consultation skills are also developed for use in systems of care.
A three-semester clinical practicum is an essential program component, and students work collaboratively with faculty to choose appropriate clinical sites based on professional interests. CNS students are typically placed in settings where they can hone psychotherapeutic techniques and skills. Onsite preceptors supervise student work, and students share experiences through weekly small group seminars on campus. Students often also have the opportunity to work closely with faculty on research projects. Accessibility and engagement of the faculty with students creates a robust educational experience that encourages knowledge-development and sharing.
The PMH CNS program is flexible. Full-time students typically complete the program in 14 months, and part-time students in 2-5 years. Additionally, students can elect to minor in an area of interest, from forensics to gerontology to women’s health, among others.
Graduates are eligible to take the ANCC PMH CNS* examination for either Adult Psychiatric & Mental Health CNS or Child/Adolescent Psychiatric & Mental Health CNS national certification.
*American Nurses Credentialing Center Psychiatric Mental Health Clinical Nurse Specialist