Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - Substance Abuse and Medication-Assisted Treatment

Job Overview:

The Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specializing in substance use disorders (SUD) provides comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis, medication management, and therapeutic support to individuals experiencing mental health and substance use challenges. This role integrates psychiatric care with evidence-based addiction treatment, supporting patients in recovery while addressing co-occurring mental health needs.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct psychiatric evaluations and mental health assessments, including screening for substance use disorders.
• Diagnose and treat psychiatric conditions and co-occurring SUD in accordance with DSM-5 criteria.
• Prescribe and manage psychotropic and addiction-related medications (e.g., buprenorphine, naltrexone, acamprosate) in compliance with federal and state regulations.
• Provide medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for opioid, alcohol, and other substance use disorders.
• Monitor treatment progress, adherence, side effects, and overall patient well-being.
• Deliver supportive counseling, motivational interviewing, and psychoeducation around mental health and recovery.
• Collaborate with therapists, case managers, primary care providers, and community resources for integrated care.
• Provide crisis intervention, relapse prevention planning, and referral to higher levels of care when necessary.
• Maintain accurate, timely documentation in accordance with organizational, state, and federal requirements (including DEA, HIPAA, and 42 CFR Part 2).
• Participate in continuing education and remain current with best practices in psychiatry and addiction treatment.

Qualifications:

• Master's or Doctoral degree in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing from an accredited program.
• Current and unrestricted Nurse Practitioner license in Pennsylvania.
• Board Certification as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP).
• Authorization to prescribe controlled substances and MAT medications.
• Strong knowledge of substance use disorders, addiction treatment modalities, and evidence-based practices.
• Experience in providing medication-assisted treatment, preferably for substance abuse clients.
• Proficiency in conducting psychiatric assessments and diagnosing mental health conditions.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, to effectively interact with clients, families, and the interdisciplinary team.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced healthcare environment while maintaining a high standard of care.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Previous experience working in addiction treatment centers, behavioral health facilities, or similar settings.
• Familiarity with relevant federal and state regulations pertaining to substance abuse treatment and MAT.
• Certification or specialized training in addiction medicine or substance abuse treatment.