Meet Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Online Student Lisa Byrd

Lisa Byrd is enrolled in University of Cincinnati’s (UC’s) online Post-Master’s Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner certificate program. Lisa’s connection to UC goes back to when she first began her undergraduate studies. She moved on to our master’s program and graduated in 2012 with a Master of Science in Nursing.

Lisa’s certifications include Certified Nurse Practitioner (Ohio Board of Nursing), ANP-BC (American Nurses Credentialing Center) and American Nurses Credentialing Center, ACLS (American Heart Association).

We recently spoke with Lisa to learn more about her decision to choose this program and the benefits she expects to get from it.

UC: Why did you enroll in the PMC-Psych program?

Lisa: “The need for mental health services is dire to the health and welfare of our clients. My plan is to make a greater contribution through the successful completion of this program and the achievement of national boards.”

What was your first experience with University of Cincinnati?

“Initially, I was an onsite student working to obtain my MSN degree. Several of my classes through the program were online, which was my first experience with the University of Cincinnati College of Nursing. In 2021, I inquired about the post-master’s program (PMC-Psych) and was immediately contacted by Cecelia Philpot, an Enrollment Services Advisor.

I cannot begin to tell you what a wonderful and patient person she must be to assist me (and others like me) through this process. Spoonfed is the word that comes to my mind — UC made the process so comfortable and easy for me. Their outreach was timely and reassuring with reminders on deadlines along the way. (If only every toy came with such simple assembly directions!)”

How was the admissions process for this program?

“I cannot applaud the support staff at University of Cincinnati College of Nursing enough! They are not intrusive, just simply available when you need them. They make themselves available using whatever technology you choose as your preferred method of communication.”

Why initially drew you to psychiatric mental health care?

“The need is so great, and I believe I have something to offer at this point in my life. I think I can make a valuable contribution in improving the lives and well-being of others.”

What made you choose UC?

“The reputation of UC’s program is well known to people in the nurse practitioner field, and my long-time relationship with UC has served me well. I have been highly successful as an adult nurse practitioner for 10 years since my graduation in 2012. I appreciate the flexibility of the online program as I work full-time and manage school around my availability.”

What’s your experience been like so far in the PMC-Psych program?

“It has actually been excellent! We just completed an intensive online, which I found so valuable and admit I thoroughly enjoyed.

I’ve networked for upcoming assignments with students in three different time zones. The course content has been interesting and intriguing. I’ve watched videos for commentary, not once but several times and discussed them with colleagues at work who are not participating in the program. I am enjoying myself and learning.”

What’s it been like for you to be involved with this UC’s online program?

“It’s worked out beautifully. The assignments and due dates are clearly outlined. Organization and time management are up to the individual, of course, but knowing the plan in advance helps me accomplish each task.

I would certainly recommend this program to others — and I actually have already! The need for mental health professionals is great, and the value and reputation of the UC’s online nursing program has always proved worthy!”

More About UC and PMC-Psych

UC’s online nursing programs and PMC-Psych are nationally recognized for high academic standards, diversity and inclusion efforts, technology application and research activity. UC’s online nursing programs and PMC-Psych are nationally recognized for high academic standards, diversity and inclusion efforts, technology application and research activity. The online Master of Science in Nursing and Post-Graduate APRN Certificate programs at the University of Cincinnati is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

PMC-Psych students gain real-world experience and advanced psychiatric nursing skills focused on working with patients of all ages who struggle to cope with mental illness. The post-master’s certificate program can be completed in one year.

If you’re interested in learning more about the program, please complete this brief form and an Enrollment Advisor will be in touch with you!