When I first started out as a psych NP, I often felt overwhelmed by the flood of information out there. I found myself spending hours sorting through countless articles, courses, and tools—some helpful, others a complete waste of time.
What I’ve learned over the years is this: the most effective tools aren’t always the most obvious. In fact, some of the best unconventional resources I’ve used came from trusted recommendations within our own psych NP community.
Here are a few favorites that have changed the game for me—and might do the same for you.
🎧 Podcasts Worth Your Time
One standout is The Carlat Psychiatry Report. This podcast transforms complex psychiatric topics into practical, digestible conversations. You’ll hear insights on adult ADHD, neuromodulation, addiction, and more—without needing a medical dictionary nearby. It’s designed for mental health professionals who want in-depth learning in an easy-to-understand format.
📺 YouTube Channels That Actually Deliver
If you prefer visual learning, check out The Psychopharmacology Institute. Their videos dive into high-yield psychopharm topics like antipsychotic-induced weight gain and hard-to-treat depression. It’s especially useful for PMHNPs looking to stay clinically sharp while avoiding information overload.
📚 Book Recs from Real Psych NPs
Some resources you’ll want to keep on your shelf forever:
- The Body Keeps the Score – a must-read on trauma and healing.
- Why People Die By Suicide – explores factors among those at highest risk for death.
Want even more? I made a quick video awhile back with my full list of must-reads for psych NPs. It’s packed with practical takeaways and non-traditional learning material that’s made a real difference in how I practice. You can watch it here.
🧠 Essential Screening Tools Every Psych NP Should Know
One of the most underrated unconventional resources? A master list of essential mental health screening tools. These are the tools I rely on daily in my practice, and they’ve helped streamline my assessments and improve accuracy.
This resource is only available inside my Mental Disorders Crash Course—it’s perfect for any psych NP looking to level up their diagnostic game.
Your New Favorite Resource Hub
If you’re tired of hunting through the internet to find the best guides, tools, and assessments for your patients, I’ve been there. That’s why I created the Mental Disorders Crash Course—a comprehensive toolbox built specifically for psych NPs.
It’s packed with:
- Cheatsheets
- Screening guides
- Medication strategies
- Case study breakdowns
…all in one place.
If you’re ready to feel more confident, more efficient, and more supported in practice, learn more about the course here.
Final Thoughts
There’s real power in shared wisdom—and community is often the best source of unconventional resources. Don’t overlook the podcasts, videos, and peer-recommended tools that might not show up in a textbook. They might just be the things that change your practice for the better.
And remember, what works for one psych NP might be the exact resource another one needed to hear about. Share your favorite hidden gem tools with me—I’d love to hear them.