NURS 5347 Advanced Psychopharmacology Across the Lifespan 3 credit hours

Advanced psychopharmacology studies the principles essential for the treatment of psychiatric and mental health conditions across the lifespan. Students will explore the pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, and mechanisms of action of psychotropic medications, as well as the role of psychogenomics in individualized treatment planning. Emphasis is placed on the safe and effective prescribing of medications, consideration of comorbid conditions, monitoring for adverse effects, and patient education. This course prepares students to apply evidence-based strategies in clinical decision-making to optimize mental health outcomes in diverse populations.

NURS 5348 PMHNP I: Assessment, Diagnostics, Evaluation and Psychotherapies 3 credit hours

PMHNP I provides an exploration of the examination, diagnosis, and evaluation of mental health conditions, emphasizing the integration of evidence-based psychotherapeutic approaches. Students will develop proficiency in the use of assessment tools, diagnostic criteria, and diagnostic tests to accurately identify mental health conditions. The course focuses on synthesizing clinical data to develop comprehensive, individualized care plans that address the unique needs of patients in diverse mental health settings. Emphasis is placed on fostering critical thinking, clinical decision-making, and interprofessional collaboration to optimize mental health outcomes.

NURS 5349 PMHNP II: Psychogenetics and Patient Management 3 credit hours

This course explores essential topics in mental health care, including psychotherapy techniques, diagnostic tools, and treatment strategies for conditions like ADHD, substance addiction, sleep disorders, and personality disorders. It also emphasizes prevention, age-specific care, and fostering mental wellness, equipping students with the skills to support diverse patient needs effectively.

NURS 5350 PMHNP III: Family-Focused Mental Health Interventions 3 credit hours

This clinical course focuses on providing family-oriented mental health care. Students will implement nursing interventions that address families’ mental health needs, including psychoeducation and illness prevention strategies. Key topics include informed consent, confidentiality, and the legal and ethical aspects of family-focused mental health care. The course emphasizes strengthening family support systems and promoting holistic mental health within family units. Students will spend approximately 25-26 hours per week of direct, supervised patient care, preparing students for advanced practice in diverse mental health settings.

NURS 5647 PMHNP Clinical I: Mental Health Assessment and Diagnosis in Clinical Practice 6 credit hours/180 clinical hours

This clinical course focuses on the practical application of mental health assessments, diagnostic tools, and evaluation techniques in a clinical setting. Students will develop proficiency in conducting comprehensive mental health evaluations, applying DSM criteria, and utilizing diagnostic tests. Emphasis is placed on creating detailed care plans tailored to individual patient needs and integrates psychotherapeutic approaches into clinical practice. Additionally, students will also refine their skills to integrate psychotherapeutic approaches into their assessments and collaborate effectively with interdisciplinary teams. Students will spend time at clinical with direct, supervised patient care, preparing students for advanced practice in diverse mental health settings.

NURS 5648 PMHNP Clinical II: Psychotherapeutic Techniques and Management of Specific Disorders 6 credit hours/180 clinical hours

This clinical course focuses on the practical application of psychotherapeutic techniques and treatment strategies for managing various mental health conditions. Students will gain clinical experience in diagnosing and managing conditions such as ADHD, substance use disorders, sleep disorders, and personality disorders. The course also emphasizes prevention strategies, age-specific care considerations, and promoting mental wellness across diverse populations. Students will spend time at clinical with direct, supervised patient care, preparing students for advanced practice in diverse mental health settings.

NURS 5649 PMHNP Clinical III: Family-Focused Mental Health Interventions 6 credit hours/180 clinical hours

This clinical course focuses on providing family-oriented mental health care. Students will implement nursing interventions that address families’ mental health needs, including psychoeducation and illness prevention strategies. Key topics include informed consent, confidentiality, and the legal and ethical aspects of family-focused mental health care. The course emphasizes strengthening family support systems and promoting holistic mental health within family units. Students will spend time at clinical each with direct, supervised patient care, preparing students for advanced practice in diverse mental health settings.

NURS 5650 PMHNP Clinical IV: Advanced Mental Health Promotion and Ethical Practice *15 week course, 6 credit hours, 220 clinical hours

This clinical course focuses on advanced nursing interventions, mental health promotion, and ethical decision-making in practice. Students will strengthen their skills in promoting mental health and preventing illness within diverse communities, emphasizing patient rights, confidentiality, and equitable care. Through advanced clinical cases, students will enhance their ability to deliver psychoeducation, address ethical dilemmas, and implement culturally sensitive interventions. The course includes direct, supervised patient care per week, supervised patient care, preparing students for advanced practice in diverse mental health settings.