Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

About the role

The Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) provides compassionate, evidence-based psychiatric care under the direction of the Director of Psychiatric Services, Medical Director, and in collaboration with a supervising or consulting psychiatrist.

Responsibilities

• Conduct psychiatric evaluations, assessments, and diagnoses based on diagnostic and statistical criteria.
• Develop and implement individualized treatment plans, including medication management and psychotherapy when appropriate.
• Collaborate with therapists, case managers, and other healthcare professionals to provide integrated care.
• Document patient interactions and treatment plans accurately and timely in the Electronic Health Record (EHR) system.
• Educate patients and families about mental health conditions, treatment options, and medication adherence.
• Ensure compliance with state and federal regulations, including HIPAA, OSHA, and Medi-Cal requirements.
• Participate in clinical meetings, case conferences, and continuing education activities to maintain licensure and stay updated on best practices.
• Complete all required documentation accurately, timely, and thoroughly in accordance with company/contract and legal standards/requirements as well as comply with EHR requirements, including medication refills, responding to patient requests, finalizing notes.
• Respond promptly to patient messages, medication refill requests, and provider communications.
• Provide crisis intervention, safety planning, and support during psychiatric emergencies.
• Offer consultation to other clinics or providers as appropriate.
• Utilize standardized procedures and/or protocols per organizational policy and applicable state laws.

Requirements

• Prior or current credentialing with Medi-Cal, Medicare, Partnership HealthPlan, CCAH, and Carelon strongly preferred.

Qualifications

• Education: Graduation from an accredited nursing program with a Master’s or Doctorate degree in Nursing. Completion of a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program (MSN or DNP).
• Licensure & Certification: Active, unrestricted California license as a PMHNP. Board certification as a PMHNP (ANCC or equivalent).
• DEA registration and ability to prescribe controlled substances. Valid BLS/CPR certification.

Experience

• A minimum of one (1) year of clinical experience in mental health, psychiatry, or behavioral health settings is preferred but not required for in-office positions.
• A minimum of one year of experience is required for consideration of remote or hybrid work arrangements.
• New graduates with strong psychiatric clinical rotations or background may be considered for in-office roles.
• Experience working with underserved populations, including Medi-Cal recipients, at-risk individuals, and those with severe mental illness, is preferred.

Technical Skills

• Proficiency in electronic health records (EHR) and clinical documentation.
• Strong knowledge of California mental health laws, Medi-Cal billing requirements (e.g., DSM, ICD), and psychopharmacology.

Soft Skills

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to establish rapport and build therapeutic relationships with culturally and clinically diverse populations.
• Strong clinical judgment, reliability, and flexibility in prioritizing work in dynamic environments.
• Commitment to cultural humility, inclusion, and trauma-informed care.
• Demonstrated commitment to cultural competence, social justice, and advocacy for underserved communities.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.
• Dedication to ethical, professional, and evidence-based psychiatric practice.