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Crossing the finish line of a doctoral program leaves an unexpected void—a "phantom limb" where dissertation deadlines once lived. In this candid conversation with newly-minted Dr. Kate Melino, we explore the transformative journey of pursuing a PhD in psychiatric mental health nursing and the surprising discoveries that emerged from her research.

Dr. Melino's work uncovered a startling revelation: despite over 30 million Americans receiving care in community mental health centers across the country, almost no research examines these critical settings or the practitioners who serve there. Her research illuminates how psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) creatively navigate institutional barriers—sometimes literally leaving clinics to check on patients in encampments—to deliver holistic care that addresses not just symptoms, but the social and structural determinants affecting their patients' wellbeing.

The conversation shifts to the age-old question facing nursing students: DNP or PhD? Drawing from their collective experience, our panel offers refreshingly practical guidance. As Dr. Melino explains, "If you want to make change at the institutional level, DNP is for you. If you want to answer questions that don't have answers yet, consider PhD." Meanwhile, Dr. Sean Convoy shares his mentor's wisdom: "It comes down to your identity—do you see yourself as a clinician first and leader second, or a researcher first who builds knowledge over time?"

We also discuss groundbreaking survey findings revealing how psychotherapy skills—a cornerstone of psychiatric nursing practice—are being underutilized in today's healthcare settings, potentially contributing to overprescribing issues. As the hosts share their diverse experiences navigating doctoral education while balancing personal lives and responsibilities, they offer invaluable insights for anyone considering advanced nursing education.

Whether you're contemplating doctoral study, curious about the state of mental healthcare research, or interested in the evolving role of PMHNPs, this episode offers both inspiration and practical wisdom from those who've walked the path before you.

Let’s Connect

Dr Dan Wesemann

Email: daniel-wesemann@uiowa.edu

Website: https://nursing.uiowa.edu/academics/dnp-programs/psych-mental-health-nurse-practitioner

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-wesemann

Dr Kate Melino

Email: Katerina.Melino@ucsf.edu

Dr Sean Convoy

Email: sc585@duke.edu

Dr Kendra Delany

Email: Kendra@empowered-heart.com

Dr Melissa Chapman

Email: mchapman@pdastats.com