1

Psychiatric Nurse Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Licensed Psychiatric NP

Irvine, CA ยท On-site

$144 - $222/hr

" Licensed Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Wage: Up to $196.58/hour Did you know that you can build a flexible private practice on your terms as a psychiatric nurse practitioner? Whether you want to see ...

" Licensed Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Wage: Up to $196.58/hour Did you know that you can build a flexible private practice on your terms as a psychiatric nurse practitioner? Whether you want to see ...

Licensed Psychiatric NP

Anaheim, CA ยท On-site

$144 - $222/hr

" Licensed Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Wage: Up to $196.58/hour Did you know that you can build a flexible private practice on your terms as a psychiatric nurse practitioner? Whether you want to see ...

" Licensed Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Wage: Up to $196.58/hour Did you know that you can build a flexible private practice on your terms as a psychiatric nurse practitioner? Whether you want to see ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Psychiatric Nurse information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$21

$43

$66

How much do psychiatric nurse jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for psychiatric nurse in Riverside, CA is $43.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32.12 and $52.93 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a psychiatric nurse?

Psychiatric nurses are registered nurses who specialize in caring for patients with mental health conditions, emotional disorders, or behavioral problems. They work in a variety of settings such as hospitals, clinics, and community mental health centers. Their responsibilities include assessing patients, developing care plans, administering medication, and providing therapy and support to patients and their families. Psychiatric nurses play a key role in helping individuals manage symptoms and achieve better mental well-being. They often work as part of a multidisciplinary team alongside psychiatrists, psychologists, and social workers.

What does a psychiatric nurse do?

A psychiatric nurse is a highly educated healthcare professional who has completed all the requirements to become an advanced practice nurse plus additional education and training in psychiatric care. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, you treat patients facing a wide range of mental health disorders including anxiety, schizophrenia, depression, addictions, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, and more. Treatments include therapy and medication as deemed necessary after a thorough assessment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a psychiatric nurse?

To thrive as a Psychiatric Nurse, you need expertise in mental health assessment, crisis intervention, and knowledge of psychiatric disorders, usually supported by a nursing degree and RN licensure with specialized psychiatric training. Familiarity with electronic health records, psychiatric medication management systems, and de-escalation tools is essential. Exceptional listening, emotional resilience, and strong communication skills enable effective patient support and teamwork. These competencies are vital for delivering safe, compassionate care and managing complex mental health situations.

What are some common challenges psychiatric nurses face when working with patients with severe mental illness?

Psychiatric nurses often encounter challenges such as managing unpredictable patient behaviors, de-escalating crises, and maintaining personal safety while providing compassionate care. Building trust with patients who may be resistant to treatment or have difficulty communicating can also be demanding. Additionally, psychiatric nurses must navigate complex emotions, both their own and those of their patients, while collaborating closely with multidisciplinary teams to develop and implement individualized care plans.

What is the difference between Psychiatric Nurse vs Mental Health Nurse?

AspectPsychiatric NurseMental Health Nurse
CredentialsRN license, psychiatric certification often preferredRN license, mental health specialization
Work EnvironmentHospitals, psychiatric facilities, clinicsCommunity clinics, hospitals, outpatient settings
Employer & IndustryHealthcare providers, mental health institutionsPublic health agencies, private practices
Common Search & ComparisonPsychiatric Nurse vs Mental Health Nurse

Psychiatric Nurses and Mental Health Nurses often share similar roles, working in mental health settings to provide patient care. The main difference lies in terminology and specific work environments, with Psychiatric Nurses typically working in inpatient psychiatric facilities and Mental Health Nurses often in community or outpatient settings. Both roles require RN licensure and specialized training in mental health care.

Is there a demand for psychiatric nurses?

Psychiatric nurses are in high demand due to increasing awareness and need for mental health services. Employment opportunities are expected to grow faster than average, especially in hospitals, clinics, and community health settings, requiring strong clinical skills and relevant licensure.

Where do psychiatric nurses make the most money?

Psychiatric nurses tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a higher cost of living and greater demand for mental health services, such as urban areas and states with advanced healthcare funding. Salaries can also vary based on experience, certifications, and work setting, including hospitals, private clinics, or community health centers.

What are the most commonly searched types of Psychiatric Nurse jobs in Riverside, CA?

The most popular types of Psychiatric Nurse jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Psychiatric Nurse jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Psychiatric Nurse job openings:

Infographic showing various Psychiatric Nurse job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 45% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $90,409 per year, or $43.5 per hour.

Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner

San Bernardino, CA โ€ข On-site

$117.10 - $165.31/hr

Other

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner

Meridian Counseling San Bernardino, California, United States

About this position

About Meridian Counseling

Meridian Counseling is a growing group practice dedicated to integrating mental health into everyday health and wellness routines. Our mission is to create a trendy, welcoming, and innovative group practice that serves the Westside of Los Angeles. We are looking for an experienced licensed mental health therapist or Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner to join our team. Learn more at www.meridian-counseling.com

Job Overview

We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner to join our team. The Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner is responsible for supporting the organizationโ€™s goals by providing psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and patient education in accordance with legal and professional standards. This role allows flexibility in scheduling while maintaining a high standard of client care. Primary responsibilities include patient assessments, prescribing medications, interpreting lab results, educating patients, and collaborating with the care team. Ideal candidates are certified PMHNPs with California licensure, strong clinical skills, and a passion for accessible, high-quality mental healthcare.

Duties and Responsibilities
  • Client Care: Conduct psychiatric assessments, develop diagnoses, and create treatment plans that align with the clientโ€™s needs. Provide patient-centered psychiatric care that includes medication management and emotional support.
  • Clinical Documentation: Maintain up-to-date and accurate documentation of assessments, progress notes, prescriptions, and lab results using Meridianโ€™s EHR system.
  • Supervision & Professional Development: Participate in optional consultations and professional development opportunities with the Meridian clinical team.
  • Team Collaboration: Coordinate care with therapists, staff, and leadership to ensure integrated treatment. Engage in timely and professional communication with patients and team members.
  • Flexible Scheduling: Manage a self-directed weekly schedule that offers flexibility to both the practitioner and clients. Position is available full-time or part-time, as employee or contractor.
  • Administrative Support: Meridian Counseling handles all billing, credentialing, and client acquisition. You focus on patient care and documentation while we manage the logistics.
Qualifications
  • Education: Masterโ€™s degree in Nursing and certification by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP).
  • Licensure/Registration: Must have an active and unrestricted license in California. 103 NP classification is required.
  • Minimum of 3 years of experience in psychiatric medication management preferred.
Skills and Knowledge
  • Strong clinical assessment and diagnostic skills.
  • Knowledge of psychiatric medications, their risks, benefits, and expected outcomes.
  • Ability to educate patients on treatment plans and medication usage.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to maintain a professional tone and demeanor in meetings, sessions, and documentation.
  • Proficiency with electronic health records (EHR) and telehealth platforms.
  • Commitment to patient-centered care, collaboration, and professional growth.
Other Requirements
  • Ability to work (sitting or standing) for prolonged periods of time.
  • Must be able to lift objects up to 20 pounds.
  • May require occasional schedule flexibility based on client or team needs.
Working Conditions
  • Part time and full time positions currently available.
  • This is a remote, hybrid, or on-site position.
Salary Information

$85 โ€“ $120 per hour (Remote - Los Angeles, California, US)

#J-18808-Ljbffr