A career where you can get “a head.”
Psychiatric pharmacists specialize in the treatment of mentally ill patients, such as those suffering from depression, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, eating disorders, developmental disabilities, substance abuse, epilepsy, and traumatic brain injuries.
They have extensive knowledge about mental illnesses, emotional disturbances, abnormal behavior, and neurology (e.g., disorders of the nervous system).
The medications used to help manage the symptoms of psychiatric illnesses vary widely and the medications can be complex. Thus, psychiatric pharmacists work closely with other health care professionals to provide their expertise.
Practice Setting: Psychiatric pharmacists often provide care in long-term care facilities (e.g., nursing homes), psychiatric and traditional hospitals, substance abuse centers, mental health clinics, and prison systems.
Educational Requirements: Psychiatric pharmacists generally complete 1-2 years in a residency and/or pass a board certification exam after earning a PharmD degree.
Patients: Psychiatric pharmacists specialize in the treatment of mentally ill patients.
Traits: You have an interest in psychology, psychiatry, or the brain. Additionally, you are comfortable dealing with people who have mental or behavioral challenges, and you enjoy building relationships with others.