Membership Info

Thank you for your interest in the Advanced Practice Psychiatric Nursing Specialists.

The Colorado Society of Clinical Specialists in Psychiatric Nursing (CSCSPN) was founded in 1978 by clinical specialists interested in fostering quality mental health services which promote the individual's potential, as well as the advancement of the practice of clinical specialists in psychiatric nursing. These goals remain relevant today.

The Society evolved from a special interest group of the Colorado Nurses Association to a separate district, representing psychiatric nurse clinical specialists throughout the state of Colorado. In 1986, the CSCSPN was established as District 31 of the Colorado Nurses Association. In the past 5 years the Society now also welcomes psychiatric nurse practitioners as the role of advanced practice nurses in mental health care continues to evolve.

Over the years, CSCSPN has gained recognition in the community, with the legislature and other mental health professionals. Members represent the CSCSPN on local and statewide task forces related to standards of care, practice and consumer issues.

The CSCSPN supports the progressive development of the role of advanced practice nurses in mental health in their practice as psychotherapists, medication prescriptive practitioners, educators, researchers, consultants, and administrators. The Society does this through such activities as educational offerings, scholarly pursuits, group marketing, task forces and networking. Members are the heartbeat of any organization and considered vital. CSCSPN welcomes new members to grow with us as a professional organization.

How will membership in this organization benefit me? The answer is as unique as the member. The group is dynamic and diverse, representing members in all areas of practice. Sharing stimulating experiences with colleagues is one reason people renew their membership.

 

Advantages of membership in CSCSPN include:

• Professional development through participation on intradisciplinary and inter-disciplinary task forces

• Involvement in mental health planning on local, state and national levels

• Educational programs (contact hours)

• Collaborative relationships

• Monitoring and influencing mental health legislation

• Use of member list serve for clinical consultation, job postings, legislative updates and committee coordination and planning

 

CRITERIA FOR MEMBERSHIP:

1. Licensure as a registered nurse in Colorado

2. Membership in the Colorado Nurses Association

3. A Master's degree in psychiatric/mental health nursing (or related field with certification as a Psychiatric Mental Health Clinical Specialist or Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner)

 

You are welcome to complete the Application ( CLICK HERE ) and mail it to our Membership Chairperson c/o CSCSPN (the address is at the bottom of the form). You will also need to provide the following:

• Colorado Registered Nurse License

• Colorado Nurses Association membership card (current)

• ANCC certification as Psychiatric-Mental Health Clinical Specialist or Nurse Practitioner

• Membership Dues (amount due is specified on the form)