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Psychiatric Nursing Rn Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

TNAA TotalMed RN

Travel Nurse RN - Psychiatric

Falls Church, VA · On-site

$1.9K - $2.6K/wk

Plan nursing care for patients by providing nursing diagnosis of the medical and emotional status ... Psychiatric - Psych RN - Travel Nurse About TNAA TotalMed RN TotalMed is a Top Ten, travel nursing ...

Primecare Medical

Psychiatric Nurse (RN)

Annapolis, MD · On-site

$43 - $46/hr

Job Type Full-time Description PrimeCare Medical is looking for a dedicated and hard-working Registered Nurse (RN) to work as the Psychiatric Nurse to work in the medical department at the Jennifer ...

N Street Village

Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner

Washington, DC · On-site

$136K - $174K/yr

The PMHNP will provide comprehensive psychiatric and nursing care to clients within the Low Barrier ... Current and unrestricted licensure as a Registered Nurse (RN) in the District of Columbia required.

Sheppard Pratt

Registered Nurse

Elkridge, MD · On-site

$37.08 - $56.83/hr

We also have flexible shift options including day, evenings, and weekends and do not require psychiatric nursing experience. If you are a registered nurse who is committed to making a positive impact ...

Syra Health

Psychiatric Registered Nurse

Washington, DC · On-site

$2.0K - $2.8K/wk

SH-967 Registered Nurse, Washington, DC Duties: * Provide direct patient care in a psychiatric ... Valid nursing license and certification as a Psychiatric Nurse. * Knowledge of airway management ...

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Psychiatric Nursing Rn information

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How much do psychiatric nursing rn jobs pay per week?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average weekly pay for psychiatric nursing rn in Washington is $2,328.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $1,959.62 and $2,690.38 per week, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a psychiatric nursing RN?

Psychiatric nursing RNs, also known as psychiatric-mental health registered nurses, are specialized nurses who care for patients with mental health disorders, emotional challenges, or psychiatric illnesses. They assess mental health needs, develop care plans, administer medications, and provide therapeutic support in various settings such as hospitals, clinics, and community centers. Their role also includes collaborating with psychiatrists, social workers, and families to promote optimal mental health outcomes.

What are some typical challenges a psychiatric nursing RN might face when working with patients, and how are these addressed in practice?

Psychiatric Nursing RNs often encounter challenges such as managing patients with acute mental health crises, unpredictable behaviors, or co-occurring substance abuse issues. Effective communication, de-escalation techniques, and ongoing collaboration with multidisciplinary teams are essential in addressing these challenges. Nurses receive specialized training in crisis intervention and patient safety protocols, and they regularly participate in team meetings to discuss care strategies and share insights. Support from experienced colleagues and access to mental health resources also play a key role in helping RNs navigate these demanding situations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a psychiatric nursing RN, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Psychiatric Nursing RN, you need strong psychiatric assessment skills, knowledge of mental health disorders, and a nursing degree with current RN licensure, often complemented by specialized psychiatric nursing certification. Familiarity with electronic health records (EHRs), crisis intervention tools, and medication management systems is essential. Exceptional communication, emotional resilience, and de-escalation abilities distinguish top performers in this role. These skills and qualities support safe, compassionate care and help manage complex behavioral situations in mental health settings.

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

AspectPsychiatric Nursing RnMental Health Nurse
CredentialsRegistered Nurse (RN) license, psychiatric certification often preferredRegistered Nurse (RN) license, specialized training in mental health
Work EnvironmentHospitals, psychiatric facilities, community clinicsCommunity health centers, outpatient clinics, hospitals
Employer & IndustryHealthcare providers, mental health institutionsPublic health agencies, private practices, hospitals

Both roles involve providing mental health care, but Psychiatric Nursing Rn typically refers to RNs working specifically in psychiatric settings, while Mental Health Nurse may include a broader range of mental health services, often emphasizing community-based care. The core responsibilities and credentials overlap significantly, making them closely related roles in mental health nursing.

Can a psychiatric nursing RN work in a psychiatric hospital?

Yes, psychiatric nursing RNs are commonly employed in psychiatric hospitals, where they provide mental health care, administer medications, and support patient recovery. They typically need specialized training in psychiatric nursing and may require state licensure or certification in mental health nursing. Working in such settings often involves collaboration with multidisciplinary teams and adherence to safety protocols.

Is there a demand for psychiatric nursing RNs?

Psychiatric nursing RNs are in high demand due to increasing mental health awareness and a growing need for mental health services. They work in hospitals, clinics, and community settings, often requiring specialized training and certification in psychiatric care. The job outlook for psychiatric RNs is strong, with employment expected to grow faster than the average for all occupations.

Where do psychiatric nursing RNs get paid the most?

Psychiatric nursing RNs tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a higher cost of living and greater demand for mental health services, such as urban areas or states with advanced healthcare funding. Salaries can also vary based on experience, certifications, and the type of healthcare facility, including hospitals and specialized mental health centers.
Psychiatric Nursing Rn jobs near you
Infographic showing various Psychiatric Nursing Rn job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 55% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 26% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $121,077 per year, or $58.2 per hour.

Travel Nurse RN - Psychiatric

TNAA TotalMed RN

Falls Church, VA • On-site

$1.9K - $2.6K/wk

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

TNAA TotalMed RN is seeking a travel nurse RN Psychiatric for a travel nursing job in Falls Church, Virginia.

Job Description & Requirements
  • Specialty: Psychiatric
  • Discipline: RN
  • Start Date: 09/07/2026
  • Duration: 13 weeks
  • 36 hours per week
  • Shift: 12 hours, days
  • Employment Type: Travel

We're looking for Psychiatric Nurses for an immediate travel nurse opening in Falls Church, VA. The right RN should have 1-2 years recent psychiatric nursing experience. Read below for more requirements. As a Psychiatric nurse, you'll work under general supervision to provide professional nursing care for those with emotional disturbances or mental illnesses in Behavioral Health and Recovery Services. The Psychiatric Nurse also collaborates with clinical and case management staff to coordinate care and assist in patient treatment planning.
As a Psychiatric Travel Nurse, you should be prepared to perform the following tasks:

  • Conduct intake assessments through interviews with patients and relatives to gather case history, and complete physical and mental health assessments
  • Observe and report patient behavioral changes. Assist patients in understanding the nature of emotional disturbances and accepting the need for treatment.
  • Document all patient information on medical charts and follow physician's written orders while maintaining patient confidentiality.
  • Plan nursing care for patients by providing nursing diagnosis of the medical and emotional status of patients and recommending treatment options.
  • Consult with psychiatrists and other behavioral health staff in designing appropriate treatment plans for patients.
  • Administer and record reactions to psychotropic drugs and other medications, arranging further medical attention when necessary.
  • Assist in maintaining a safe and secure environment for staff and patients. Test for pain vital signs and ensure appropriate pain treatment is administered.
  • Maintain accurate records and documentation of patient treatments, immunizations and laboratory results according to standard medical recordkeeping.
  • Perform administrative assignments such as filing, answering phones, typing, and completing electronic progress notes.
Psychiatric Travel Nurses should be able to stand and walk for long periods of time, carry up to 20 pounds of weight, as well as bend, lean and stoop without difficulty. Moving or lifting of patients may require lifting of up to 50 pounds at times. Because of the unpredictable nature of psychiatric and emotional disturbances, Psychiatric RNs must possess excellent coping and stress management skills and be able to relate to people of all ages and backgrounds while maintaining proper patient - clinician boundaries.
Requirements*: BLS, CPI, 1 Year
* Additional certifications may be required before beginning an assignment.

TotalMed Travel Job ID #1471881. Pay package is based on 12 hour shifts and 36 hours per week (subject to confirmation) with tax-free stipend amount to be determined. Posted job title: Psychiatric - Psych RN - Travel Nurse

About TNAA TotalMed RN

TotalMed is a Top Ten, travel nursing and healthcare staffing agency with the mission of igniting purpose in healthcare. The organization staffs nurses, therapists, pharmacists, and other clinicians of all specialties in all 50 states. They offer local and travel jobs and match caregivers with the right organization to assist both facilities and patients. As an organization, they focus on putting highly-skilled staff into facilities to ensure adequate staffing for a better patient experience.


TotalMed specializes in recruiting and placing healthcare professionals in travel, PRN, and permanent positions across the country in Nursing and Allied Health. Throughout 2020, the organization filled roles at even the most short-staffed facilities during the most challenging time in healthcare. By matching the right travel healthcare professional with the right organization, TotalMed continues to offer a lifeline to facilities and their patients.

Benefits
  • Weekly pay
  • Guaranteed Hours
  • Continuing Education
  • 401k retirement plan
  • Sick pay
  • Wellness and fitness programs
  • Referral bonus
  • Employee assistance programs
  • Medical benefits
  • Dental benefits
  • Vision benefits
  • Benefits start day 1

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