Explore Behavioral Health Nurse Clinician Schools (2024)

Looking to start your journey as a Behavioral Health Nurse Clinician? Finding the right education is key. Here's a curated list of schools offering quality Behavioral Health Nurse Clinician programs:

  • We've identified top institutions known for excellent Behavioral Health Nurse Clinician education.
  • Options include both local schools and nationally recognized programs.
  • Each listing highlights relevant degree programs for aspiring Behavioral Health Nurse Clinician professionals.
  • You'll also find information on related career paths in the field.

Browse through these options to find a program that aligns with your career goals in the Behavioral Health Nurse Clinician industry.

Top Behavioral Health Nurse Clinician Schools (2024)

View our ranking methodology here
#1Maricopa County

Grand Canyon University

Phoenix, AZ

In-State Tuition:$16,407
Out-of-State Tuition:$16,407
Admission Rate:78%
Graduation Rate:45%
Total Enrollment:101,816
#2Hennepin County

Capella University

Minneapolis, MN

In-State Tuition:$14,328
Out-of-State Tuition:$14,328
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:N/A
Total Enrollment:39,727
#3Hennepin County

Walden University

Minneapolis, MN

In-State Tuition:$10,552
Out-of-State Tuition:$10,552
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:N/A
Total Enrollment:42,312
#4Los Angeles County

Pepperdine University

Malibu, CA

In-State Tuition:$62,390
Out-of-State Tuition:$62,390
Admission Rate:49%
Graduation Rate:84%
Total Enrollment:10,030
#5Maricopa County

Aspen University

Phoenix, AZ

In-State Tuition:$5,700
Out-of-State Tuition:$5,700
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:N/A
Total Enrollment:7,386
#6Los Angeles County

University of California-Los Angeles

Los Angeles, CA

In-State Tuition:$11,564
Out-of-State Tuition:$41,636
Admission Rate:9%
Graduation Rate:92%
Total Enrollment:46,430

Behavioral Health Nurse Clinician Required Education (2024)

To pursue a career as a Behavioral Health Nurse Clinician, you will need to meet certain educational requirements. Below are the minimum and advanced education options available:

Minimum Education:

  • Registered Nurse (RN) Degree:

    • You must complete an accredited nursing program, which can be obtained through one of the following:
      • Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN): Typically a two-year program that prepares you to take the NCLEX-RN exam and obtain your RN license.
      • Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): A four-year degree that provides a broader education in nursing, along with training in leadership and management, which can be advantageous in behavioral health settings.

  • Licensure:

    • After completing your RN degree, you will need to pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to obtain your nursing license.

Advanced Education:

  • Master of Science in Nursing (MSN):

    • Pursuing an MSN can enhance your clinical expertise and may be required for specialized positions in behavioral health. Programs often offer a focus on psychiatric mental health nursing or family nursing.

  • Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) or PhD in Nursing:

    • For those interested in leadership roles, research, or advanced clinical practice, a DNP or PhD can provide the necessary training. DNP programs emphasize clinical practice, while PhD programs focus on research and academic roles.

These educational paths provide a strong foundation for building a career as a Behavioral Health Nurse Clinician, equipping you with the essential skills and knowledge necessary for effective practice in the field.

Behavioral Health Nurse Clinician Professional Certifications & Licenses (2024)

To become a Behavioral Health Nurse Clinician, you need to obtain specific certifications and licenses that validate your skills and knowledge in the mental health field. Below is a list of the key requirements:

  • Registered Nurse (RN) License:

    • You must first obtain a valid RN license in your state. This involves completing an accredited nursing program (Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)) and passing the NCLEX-RN exam.

  • Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse (PMH-BC):

    • The American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) offers the PMH-BC certification. To qualify, you need:
      • A current RN license.
      • At least 2,000 hours of clinical practice in psychiatric nursing within the last 3 years.
      • Completion of a graduate-level psychiatric-mental health nursing program is also suitable for eligibility.

  • Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) Licensure:

    • If you plan to work in advanced roles, such as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, you must earn APRN licensure, which requires:
      • A master's or doctoral degree in psychiatric-mental health nursing.
      • National certification in this specialty area.

  • Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification:

    • Current BLS certification is often required, particularly in clinical settings. You may obtain this through recognized organizations such as the American Heart Association or Red Cross.

  • Crisis Intervention Training:

    • While not always mandatory, completing training programs like Mental Health First Aid or Crisis Prevention Institute (CPI) training can be advantageous in your practice.

  • Substance Abuse Certification:

    • Depending on your work environment, you may also benefit from obtaining a certification in substance abuse counseling or treatment. This can enhance your skills in dealing with co-occurring disorders.

Staying informed about any additional state-specific certification requirements or continuing education can be beneficial as regulations change and evolve over time. Engage actively with your professional organization for updates and resources to maintain your certifications and licenses.

Job Duties for Behavioral Health Nurse Clinicians

  • Assess patients' mental and physical status, based on the presenting symptoms and complaints.

  • Diagnose psychiatric disorders and mental health conditions.

  • Document patients' medical and psychological histories, physical assessment results, diagnoses, treatment plans, prescriptions, or outcomes.

Technologies and Skills Used by Behavioral Health Nurse Clinicians

Data base user interface and query software

  • Invivo Data EPX ePRO Management System
  • Microsoft Access

Medical software

  • Medical condition coding software
  • Zung Depression Rating Scale

Spreadsheet software

  • Microsoft Excel

Basic Skills

  • Listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions
  • Talking to others

Problem Solving

  • Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it

Social

  • Changing what is done based on other people's actions
  • Understanding people's reactions

Behavioral Health Nurse Clinician Internships, Apprenticeships & Practical Training

As a Behavioral Health Nurse Clinician, gaining practical experience through internships or apprenticeships is vital for developing your skills and understanding the field. Here are some opportunities you can consider:

  • Clinical Internships in Hospitals: Many hospitals and health systems offer internships specifically for nursing students interested in behavioral health. These internships typically involve rotating through various departments, allowing you to work alongside experienced clinicians in psychiatric units or outpatient mental health facilities.

  • Community Mental Health Centers: Partnering with local community mental health organizations can provide valuable experience. Internships at these centers allow you to engage directly with patients, participate in therapy sessions, and learn about the integration of mental health services within the community.

  • Substance Abuse Treatment Programs: Interning at facilities that specialize in addiction treatment can broaden your understanding of behavioral health challenges. These programs often seek interns to assist with patient assessments, treatment planning, and group therapy sessions, providing first-hand experience in this vital area of care.

  • School-Based Mental Health Programs: Look for internships in school districts that employ behavioral health professionals within their counseling teams. These internships will enable you to work with children and adolescents, focusing on mental health education and interventions in an academic setting.

  • Telehealth Providers: With the rise of telemedicine, many behavioral health organizations are offering remote internship opportunities. These positions often include virtual assessments and therapy sessions, allowing you to develop skills in digital communication and remote patient care.

  • Research Assistantships: If you’re interested in the evidence-based side of behavioral health, seek out research assistantships in academic or clinical settings. These roles typically involve data collection, analysis, and assisting with research studies focused on mental health interventions and outcomes.

  • Government and Nonprofit Agencies: Many local and state agencies, as well as nonprofit organizations, have internship programs targeting behavioral health initiatives. These positions can involve outreach, education, and policy advocacy, giving you a broader view of the mental health landscape.

  • Behavioral Health Residencies: Some health systems offer residency programs designed to bridge the gap between academic training and clinical practice. These immersive programs are similar to internships but are often more structured and comprehensive, providing a thorough introduction to the clinical aspects of behavioral health nursing.

Pursuing these practical training opportunities can help you build a network in the field and gain the experience necessary to thrive, paving the way for a successful career as a Behavioral Health Nurse Clinician.

Behavioral Health Nurse Clinician Continuing Education & Professional Development (2024)

As a Behavioral Health Nurse Clinician, you have various opportunities for continuing education and professional development that can enhance your knowledge, skills, and career advancement. Engaging in these activities not only keeps you abreast of the latest practices in mental health care but also strengthens your credentials and professional network.

  • Certification Programs
    Consider pursuing certification in specialties that align with your career goals. Organizations like the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) offer exams such as the Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) certification. These additional credentials can enhance your expertise and may open doors to advanced roles.

  • Workshops and Seminars
    Attend workshops and seminars focused on contemporary issues in behavioral health, such as trauma-informed care, crisis intervention, and evidence-based practices. These short-term educational experiences facilitate hands-on skill development and provide practical knowledge that you can apply in your daily work.

  • Continuing Nursing Education (CNE) Courses
    Many institutions and online platforms offer CNE courses specifically tailored to behavioral health. Enrolling in these courses helps you meet licensing requirements while providing valuable insights into current trends and practices in mental health nursing.

  • Advanced Degrees
    Consider pursuing a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with a focus on psychiatric-mental health nursing. Advanced degrees can prepare you for leadership roles and specialized clinical positions, as well as increase your earning potential.

  • Professional Associations
    Joining professional organizations, such as the American Psychiatric Nurses Association (APNA) or the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), grants you access to resources, conferences, and networking opportunities. Membership often includes discounted rates for continuing education programs and exclusive access to industry research.

  • Online Learning Platforms
    Utilize online resources like Coursera, edX, or Medscape for courses on mental health topics that suit your pace and schedule. These self-directed courses cover a wide array of subjects, from psychopharmacology to behavioral therapies, allowing you to tailor your learning experience.

  • Mentoring and Peer Collaboration
    Establish mentorship relationships with experienced behavioral health clinicians or engage in peer collaboration. These interactions can provide you with guidance, insights into best practices, and support as you navigate challenging cases in your work.

  • Research Participation
    Get involved in research projects or clinical trials related to behavioral health. Participating in research not only contributes to the field but also enhances your critical thinking and analytical skills while expanding your professional network.

  • Conferences and Symposiums
    Attend national and regional conferences focused on behavioral health. These events are excellent opportunities to learn from experts, discover new treatments, and network with colleagues. Engaging in discussions and attending lectures can broaden your perspective on various mental health topics.

By actively pursuing these continuing education and professional development opportunities, you can ensure that your practice as a Behavioral Health Nurse Clinician remains relevant, effective, and aligned with the evolving landscape of mental health care.

What To Look For When Deciding On Campus vs Online Degree Programs for Behavioral Health Nurse Clinicians (2024)

When pursuing a career as a Behavioral Health Nurse Clinician, you will need to choose an educational path that fits your personal and professional needs. Below are key points to consider when comparing online and campus-based education programs.

Online Programs

  • Flexibility: Online programs typically offer the advantage of flexible scheduling, allowing you to balance education with work or personal commitments.
  • Accessibility: You can access course materials and lectures from anywhere with an internet connection, making it easier for those in remote areas or with mobility issues.
  • Self-Paced Learning: Many programs allow you to progress at your own pace, accommodating your individual learning style and speed.
  • Technology Usage: Engaging with technology is a staple of online learning, which can enhance your digital literacy—a valuable asset in modern healthcare settings.
  • Networking Opportunities: While less in-person interaction occurs, many online programs facilitate virtual networking through discussion boards and webinars, enabling connections with peers and professionals.
  • Cost: Online programs can sometimes be more affordable due to lower overhead costs and the elimination of commuting and accommodation expenses.

Campus-Based Programs

  • Structured Environment: Campus-based education offers a structured learning environment, which may be beneficial if you thrive on routine and face-to-face interaction with instructors.
  • Hands-On Experience: You'll have access to on-site labs and simulation experiences that can provide practical skills vital for clinical practice.
  • Immediate Feedback: In a classroom setting, you can receive immediate feedback from instructors and peers, enhancing your learning experience.
  • Peer Collaboration: Engaging mind-to-mind with classmates can foster collaborative learning and enrich your understanding through group work and discussions.
  • Networking Opportunities: Campus programs often provide more opportunities for networking within your immediate community and profession through events, internships, and relationships with faculty.
  • Resources: You have direct access to on-campus facilities such as libraries, counseling services, and academic support, which can enhance your educational experience.

Considerations for Both Formats

  • Accreditation: Ensure the program you choose, whether online or campus-based, is accredited by a recognized body to maintain the quality of your education.
  • Curriculum Quality: Research the curriculum to ensure it meets the standards necessary for becoming a Behavioral Health Nurse Clinician, including coursework in mental health, nursing fundamentals, and clinical practice.
  • Technology Requirements: Online programs often require specific technology and a reliable internet connection. Be prepared to invest in necessary resources.
  • Clinical Requirements: Both formats commonly require hands-on clinical training, so check how each program arranges clinical placements and whether they offer adequate support in securing these opportunities.

Making an informed decision about your education path will play a significant role in preparing for your career as a Behavioral Health Nurse Clinician. Consider your learning preferences, lifestyle, and future career goals as you evaluate the options available to you.

Behavioral Health Nurse Clinician Typical Career Path (2024)

In the field of Behavioral Health Nursing, your career progression may follow a structured path, allowing you to gain experience, develop specialized skills, and advance to higher levels of responsibility. Here’s what you might typically encounter:

Entry-Level Positions
Starting your career as a Behavioral Health Nurse Clinician usually begins with foundational roles that provide direct patient care, which include:

  • Registered Nurse (RN) in Behavioral Health: Most new graduates will enter this role after obtaining their Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Nursing and passing the NCLEX-RN exam. You'll focus on providing care to patients with mental health disorders, conducting assessments, and developing care plans.

  • Mental Health Technician: Some may choose to begin in supportive roles where they assist RNs and behavioral health professionals. This position often involves performing basic patient care tasks, monitoring patients, and providing therapeutic activities under the supervision of a licensed nurse.

  • Community Health Nurse: Working within community settings, you engage with populations to promote mental wellness and deliver education about mental health services and resources.

Mid-Level Positions
After gaining a few years of experience and potentially pursuing additional certifications, you may progress to mid-level positions where you take on more responsibility and leadership:

  • Behavioral Health Nurse Clinician: In this role, you focus on patient assessments, developing treatment plans, and coordinating care. You may also start offering specialized interventions like counseling or group therapy sessions.

  • Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) in Mental Health: If you pursue an advanced degree, you might take on this role, functioning as an expert in mental health nursing. Responsibilities include consulting on complex cases, leading quality improvement initiatives, and mentoring nursing staff.

  • Nurse Manager or Supervisor: As a managerial role, this position involves oversight of nursing staff, ensuring adherence to best practices, quality patient care, and operations within behavioral health units or clinics.

Advanced Positions
With a robust clinical background and leadership experience, you might aim for advanced practice roles that require higher education and further specialization:

  • Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP): Completing a Master’s or Doctoral degree in Nursing with a focus on psychiatric-mental health can lead to this role. You would diagnose and manage mental health conditions, prescribe medications, and often engage in therapy sessions.

  • Director of Behavioral Health Services: In this executive role, you would oversee entire programs or departments, working on policy development, budgeting, and staff management, all while ensuring high-quality care delivery.

  • Mental Health Educator or Consultant: This position may involve imparting knowledge to nursing students, conducting training for healthcare professionals, or working with organizations to improve mental health services.

Transitioning through these roles not only enhances your expertise but also builds a comprehensive understanding of both clinical and administrative aspects in behavioral health nursing. Each level of advancement brings new challenges and opportunities, fostering your professional growth within the mental health field.

Related Fields and Alternative Career Paths to Behavioral Health Nurse Clinicians (2024)

As a Behavioral Health Nurse Clinician, your clinical expertise and training equip you with a versatile skill set applicable to several related fields. Consider the following careers that share similar educational backgrounds and transferable skills:

  • Mental Health Counselor

    • Requires a master’s degree in counseling or a related field.
    • Focuses on providing therapy and support to individuals facing mental health challenges.
    • Your nursing background enhances your understanding of medical aspects of mental health.

  • Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner

    • Advanced practice role requiring a master's or doctoral degree in nursing.
    • Involves diagnosing and treating mental health disorders, often with prescriptive authority.
    • Skills in patient assessment and care planning from your current role are directly applicable.

  • Clinical Psychologist

    • Typically requires a doctoral degree in psychology.
    • Involves conducting psychological assessments and providing therapy.
    • Your foundational knowledge of behavioral health can ease the transition into the psychological domain.

  • Substance Abuse Counselor

    • Often requires certification or a degree in counseling, social work, or addiction studies.
    • Works with individuals dealing with substance use disorders.
    • Experience in behavioral health settings fosters your capability to support recovery journeys.

  • Health Educator/Community Health Worker

    • May require a bachelor’s degree in public health or a related field.
    • Focuses on educating communities about mental health and wellness.
    • Your clinical experience is valuable for understanding and addressing community health needs.

  • Rehabilitation Counselor

    • Requires a master’s degree in rehabilitation counseling.
    • Helps individuals cope with physical, emotional, or mental disabilities.
    • Skills in patient advocacy and personalized care from your nursing background are beneficial.

  • Case Manager

    • Typically open to those with a bachelor’s or associate's degree in nursing, social work, or a related field.
    • Involves coordinating care and services for clients with complex health needs.
    • Your experience in patient assessments and treatment planning is applicable in this role.

  • Social Worker

    • Requires a master's degree in social work (MSW).
    • Focuses on providing support and advocacy for individuals and families facing challenges.
    • Your background in behavioral health enhances your capability to address social determinants of health.

Transitioning into any of these fields can be facilitated by your current educational background and professional experience. Networking within the healthcare community and pursuing additional certifications can also provide valuable opportunities for career advancement or change.

Behavioral Health Nurse Clinician Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) (2024)

  • What is the educational path to become a Behavioral Health Nurse Clinician?
    To become a Behavioral Health Nurse Clinician, you typically need to complete a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN). After obtaining your degree, you'll need to pass the NCLEX-RN licensing exam. Many clinicians also pursue a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a specialization in psychiatric and mental health nursing.

  • Is a master's degree required for this role?
    While a bachelor's degree in nursing is essential, many employers prefer or require a master's degree for advanced practice roles within behavioral health. An MSN provides deeper knowledge of mental health conditions and advanced nursing practices.

  • Are there specific certifications needed?
    Yes, certification can enhance your qualifications. The American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) offers the Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) certification. Additionally, you may pursue specific certifications in areas such as addiction nursing or trauma-informed care.

  • Do I need clinical experience to work as a Behavioral Health Nurse Clinician?
    Yes, clinical experience is essential. Many nursing programs include clinical rotations in psychiatric settings. Additionally, having post-graduate experience in mental health nursing will improve your job prospects and competency in this specialized field.

  • What is the importance of continuing education in this field?
    Continuing education is crucial for Behavioral Health Nurse Clinicians to stay updated on new psychiatric treatments, medications, and best practices. Many states require ongoing education for license renewal, and it helps ensure the highest standard of care for patients.

  • Can I work in behavioral health with an ADN?
    While it is possible to work in certain entry-level positions with an ADN, many employers prefer candidates with a BSN for roles in behavioral health due to the complexity of care required. Advanced roles typically require a master's degree.

  • Are online programs available for nursing degrees focused on behavioral health?
    Yes, many accredited institutions offer online programs for both BSN and MSN degrees with specializations in psychiatric and mental health nursing. These programs are designed to accommodate working professionals while providing the necessary training and education.

  • Is it necessary to have prior experience in psychiatric settings before becoming a Behavioral Health Nurse Clinician?
    While not strictly necessary, having experience in psychiatric settings is highly beneficial. It helps you develop the necessary skills and understanding of mental health issues, which is critical in providing effective patient care.

  • What skills are important for a Behavioral Health Nurse Clinician?
    Key skills include strong communication, empathy, and critical thinking. You should also possess the ability to assess mental health conditions, develop treatment plans, and collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams.

  • What are the job prospects for Behavioral Health Nurse Clinicians?
    The job prospects for Behavioral Health Nurse Clinicians are favorable. The growing awareness of mental health issues and increasing demand for mental health services are expected to drive a need for qualified professionals in this field.

Additional Resources for Behavioral Health Nurse Clinicians (2024)

  • American Psychiatric Nurses Association (APNA)
    Website: apna.org
    Description: The APNA provides resources, education, and networking for psychiatric-mental health nurses. They offer advanced practice nursing resources and certification details.

  • American Nurses Association (ANA)
    Website: nursingworld.org
    Description: The ANA advocates for the nursing profession and offers resources on certification, education standards, and professional development for registered nurses (RNs) including those specializing in behavioral health.

  • National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)
    Website: nami.org
    Description: NAMI provides information on mental health conditions, treatment options, and support resources. It's useful for understanding patient care and family support systems in mental health.

  • National Council for Behavioral Health
    Website: thenationalcouncil.org
    Description: This organization offers training, resources, and policy advocacy for behavioral health providers. They focus on improving accessibility and quality of mental healthcare.

  • American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC)
    Website: nursingworld.org/our-certifications
    Description: ANCC provides certification options for advanced practice nurses, including Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioners (PMHNPs). They also offer preparation resources for certification exams.

  • Commission on Nurse Certification (CNC)
    Website: nursingcertification.org
    Description: The CNC offers certification programs specific to behavioral health nursing. Their site includes resources for exam preparation and continuing education.

  • National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
    Website: nimh.nih.gov
    Description: NIMH is a valuable source of information on mental health research, statistics, and education that can inform practice and guide patient care.

  • Psychiatric Nursing Journal
    Website: nursingcenter.com/journalarticle
    Description: This peer-reviewed journal provides articles on the latest research and practice updates in psychiatric nursing.

  • Coursera and edX
    Websites: coursera.org | edx.org
    Description: These platforms offer online courses on mental health nursing and psychological principles, allowing for further education and skill enhancement.

  • State Board of Nursing
    Website: ncsbn.org
    Description: Access your state’s Board of Nursing website for specific licensing requirements, continuing education opportunities, and regulatory news relevant to behavioral health nursing.

Utilizing these resources will help you stay updated regarding the latest standards, education requirements, and best practices in the field of behavioral health nursing.