Job Description

About the Role


The Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) provides comprehensive mental health assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care for patients across the lifespan. This role includes conducting psychiatric evaluations, prescribing medications, developing treatment plans, and providing therapeutic support in collaboration with interdisciplinary care teams. The PMHNP promotes evidence-based practices to improve patient outcomes and supports continuity of care in outpatient, inpatient, or community settings.


Clinical Care & Patient Management

Perform comprehensive medical and psychosocial assessments for patients seeking MAT services. Diagnose and treat substance use disorders and related conditions under the Colorado Nurse Practice Act. Initiate and manage MAT medications (buprenorphine, naltrexone, etc.) following state and federal guidelines. Conduct medication inductions, stabilization, and ongoing monitoring. Manage withdrawal symptoms, co-occurring medical conditions, and psychiatric symptoms in coordination with behavioral health providers. Order and interpret labs, EKGs, and urine drug screens. Provide education on medication adherence, overdose prevention (including naloxone use), and harm reduction.


Collaboration & Coordination

Work closely with psychiatrists, therapists, primary care providers, case managers, and other team members. Participate in multidisciplinary treatment meetings and care coordination activities. Refer patients to psychotherapy, specialty services, or community resources as appropriate.

Documentation & Compliance

Maintain accurate, timely, and compliant clinical documentation. Ensure adherence to federal/state regulations, HIPAA, and organizational policies. Participate in quality improvement initiatives, outcome tracking, and clinical audits.


Required

Master's or Doctorate degree from an accredited Nurse Practitioner program with a Psychiatric/Mental Health specialty (PMHNP). Current RN and APRN licensure in applicable state. National board certification as a PMHNP (ANCC). DEA registration (or eligibility) for prescribing controlled substances.

Preferred

Minimum 2 years of NP experience in addiction medicine, psychiatry, or primary care. Experience providing buprenorphine or naltrexone-based MAT in an outpatient setting. Knowledge of trauma-informed care, motivational interviewing, and harm reduction principles. Experience with co-occurring disorders (mental health and substance use). Proficiency with EHR systems and documentation requirements for behavioral health.


Core Competencies

Strong diagnostic and clinical decision-making skills. Ability to establish rapport and trust with diverse patient populations. Excellent communication, collaboration, and crisis management skills. Commitment to ethical, evidence-based, and compassionate care. Understanding of Colorado laws governing prescriptive authority and advanced practice nursing. Respect for confidentiality and patient autonomy in recovery.


Working Conditions

Setting: Outpatient clinic environment with regular hours (Monday-Friday). Environment: Collaborative team-based setting; interaction with patients in various stages of recovery. Physical Requirements: Ability to stand for extended periods, perform medical procedures, and handle occasional stressful situations with composure.


Benefits

Competitive compensation and incentive structure Health, dental, and vision insurance 401(k) with employer match * Paid time off and continuing education support