Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPS) are bridging gaps in bipolar care — here’s what to know and how to find one near you.
Finding the care you need for bipolar disorder can feel daunting. For many, the journey is filled with long wait times, high costs, and a frustrating lack of specialists. If you or a loved one is facing these challenges, you’re not alone — at least one-third of people with bipolar 1 or 2 disorder do not receive the care they need, according to a review article.
An often-overlooked source of hope comes from psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), whose numbers are steadily growing in communities across the United States — a trend highlighted by the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP). They are proving to be an essential resource for people living with bipolar disorder.
In addition to filling care gaps in rural and short-staffed locations, PMHNPs offer a unique, whole-person approach to care. For those who can’t access — or aren’t satisfied with — traditional mental health care, they can make all the difference.
Another plus? Many PMHNPs can prescribe medications and provide therapy — sometimes in the same appointment, according to Cleveland Clinic. This can mean fewer visits and less juggling between different offices. However, every clinician — regardless of training — has a unique approach. You may feel more comfortable with some than others based on personality and care style. If you’re looking for a “one stop” relationship for medication and counseling, be sure to ask about the PMHNP’s approach before you make an appointment.
Here’s what to know about PMHNPs and how to find one near you.
What Is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner?
A PMHNP is an advanced practice registered nurse specializing in mental health care. These clinicians begin as registered nurses before earning a master’s or doctorate in psychiatric and mental health nursing, gaining expertise in diagnosing and treating mental health conditions.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs work in various settings, including private practice, emergency rooms, schools, and community centers. They provide comprehensive mental health care, including conducting psychiatric evaluations, diagnosing, developing treatment plans, and offering therapy.
“PMHNPs are a valuable part of the psychiatric mental health care team for people with bipolar disorder,” says Dorothy Jordan, DNP, APRN, a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and founding director of Emory University’s PMHNP program. “We are trained to conduct psychiatric and psychological assessments, make diagnoses, develop care plans, and provide evidence-based treatment.” Emory’s Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing is home to the nation’s top-ranked master’s and bachelor’s degree nursing programs, according to U.S. News & World Report.
All PMHNPs are board-certified to diagnose and treat bipolar disorder, and some choose to specialize in mood disorders. Many also provide therapy and family counseling, making them a versatile option for ongoing mental health support across the lifespan — from early childhood to older adulthood.
PMHNPs Play a Key Role in Bipolar Treatment
Managing bipolar disorder often requires a combination of medication, therapy, and lifestyle adjustments. A PMHNP can help you find the right balance — offering guidance, support, and adjustments to your treatment plan as your needs evolve.
PMHNPs don’t just diagnose and move on. “We partner with patients, providing care from the onset of symptoms through maintenance and stability,” says Jordan.
This ongoing support is crucial for people navigating cycles of mania, depression, and stability. Because some PMHNPs are trained in multiple forms of therapy, they can tailor their approach to meet you where you are in your journey. “We work to understand where you are in life, what goals you have, and what roadblocks may be in the way of your overall well-being,” Jordan adds. “This approach helps us shape treatment around your unique circumstances.”
PMHNPs also play a key role in medication management. They help you find the right balance of bipolar medications, adjusting dosages as needed and monitoring side effects. In many states, they practice independently, meaning they don’t need a physician to approve prescriptions — helping streamline your care. However, not all states have the same practice laws, so it’s best just to ask.
When scheduling a first-time appointment with a new clinician, it can help to share your list of essential medications and make sure they have the authority to prescribe those for you. If not, is there a clinician in their practice who can — or will you need to go elsewhere to access comprehensive care?
Many PMHNPs also integrate complementary and alternative therapies, such as yoga, meditation, or mindfulness practices, into care plans. While they may not provide these services directly, they can help you explore options that support your overall health.
How PMHNPs Approach Care
PMHNPs bring a perspective shaped by their nursing background, which emphasizes a holistic view of health. This means looking at factors like family environment, finances, daily routines, and personal goals — in addition to clinical interventions.
When meeting with a PMHNP, they may spend extra time exploring the practical details of your life, identifying barriers to care, and collaborating on solutions that fit your routine. This approach addresses both mental health symptoms and your unique circumstances, helping ensure treatment feels realistic and sustainable.
Research supports this approach. One small study involving individuals with severe mental health conditions, including bipolar disorder, emphasized the importance of the connection and recognition that many patients feel from their PMHNPs. The participants shared how feeling heard by their clinician led to a sense of empowerment and trust.
A Solution to the Mental Health Care Shortage
Another major advantage? Accessibility. The shortage of mental health clinicians in the United States is a well-documented crisis. In many areas — especially rural communities — finding a psychiatrist can take months or years. PMHNPs are helping to fill this gap by practicing in various settings, including remote locations.
In fact, nurse practitioners are often the last remaining clinicians in communities where hospitals and clinics have shut down, according to research published in Nursing Outlook in 2024. PMHNPs will use creative methods like mobile and telehealth clinics to reach their patients. “Wherever someone might seek health care, PMHNPs can be embedded, providing both crisis and ongoing support,” says Jordan.
It’s worth noting that while PMHNPs bring unique value to mental health care teams, they do not work alone. Medical doctors, pharmacists, social workers, licensed professional counselors, hospital staff, registered nurses, and many others play essential roles in helping people with bipolar disorder get the care they need.
Choosing the Right PMHNP for You
Like any other clinician, each PMHNP has a unique background, training, and approach to care. They don’t all specialize in the same areas or offer the same types of therapy, so it’s important to learn about a clinician before making an appointment.
Jordan recommends looking for a PMHNP with experience in mood disorders and evidence-based therapies. If you’re interested in a specific therapy for bipolar disorder, don’t assume they offer it — ask when scheduling.
Some of the most effective therapies for bipolar disorder include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and family-focused therapy, among others, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI).
“It’s like choosing any other specialist,” Jordan explains. “If you need an orthopedic doctor, you’d want to know if they focus on knees or hips. Similarly, you should ask about a PMHNP’s training and expertise.” Doing this research upfront can save time and help you find the best possible care.
If you meet a PMHNP who isn’t the right fit, that’s okay. It’s perfectly acceptable to talk to different clinicians until you find someone you trust and feel comfortable with. The right person should make you feel heard and supported in your care.
How to Locate a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Is there a PMHNP near you? Here are some resources to help find one who is well-suited to your needs:
- Searchable Online Directories Several respected organizations offer searchable tools to locate nurse practitioners in your area. These include the AANP, Zocdoc, and U.S. News & World Report.
- National Alliance on Mental Illness NAMI provides support and information for people with mental health conditions. Its “journey pages” offer resources tailored to different groups, including veterans, first responders, pregnant individuals, children, and caregivers.
- SAMHSA’s Treatment Locator The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) can help you find PMHNPs, support groups, and local mental health resources. Use their online treatment locator — or call 800-662-HELP (4357) (TTY: 800-487-4889) for free, confidential, 24/7 support in English and Spanish.
- Suicide and Crisis Lifeline For immediate support, call or text 988. The National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7, every day of the year, for anyone in distress.
Finally, many states and communities now offer mental health clinics where you can walk in without an appointment — or even access services that come directly to you. Check with your state’s health department or community service board to see what’s available in your area.
Finding Support That Works for You
Navigating the mental health system can be overwhelming, but psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners are here to help. With their holistic, patient-centered approach, PMHNPs provide tailored care for people living with bipolar disorder. If you or someone you love struggle to access care, consider contacting a PMHNP. These clinicians are more than prescribers — they are partners and advocates for your health.
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