Question: There has been much recent discussion among nurse practitioners and other health professionals over the limitations in providing mental health care (diagnosis, therapy and medication) if you are not credentialed as a PMHNP. Please go to the Texas Board of Nursing and review implications for primary care NP's who see patients experiencing mental health problems (many patients to be sure).

A. What are the needs for mental health services on a national and local level? How do believe your new role as a PMHNP may influence this? Do you feel the Board is too restrictive or appropriate in their position statement. Please post an initial posting with at least two references. If you are not located in Texas, you may apply this discussion topic to your state. After you have posted your initial posting by the third day of the module, respond substantively to at least two peers by the end of the module.

B. Do some research about the different rules for PMHNP practice in different states. What are the pros and cons of having Full, Limited, and Restricted practice? What is the situation in your state? Please post an initial posting with at least two current references. After you have posted your initial posting by the third day of the module, respond substantively to at least two peers by the end of the module.

Resources: 1. Freud's psychosexual development | Individuals and Society | MCAT | Khan Academy

2. Erikson's psychosocial development | Individuals and Society | MCAT | Khan Academy

3. Piaget's stages of cognitive development | Processing the Environment | MCAT | Khan Academyrs