I'm thinking of retraining as a CPN, but worried about the money it will cost me & it wont increase my salary!

I'm currently working as a drug & alcohol worker, but am thinking of retraining as a CPN (Community Psychiatric Nurse) though I have noticed the salary is not that much more than I am on now and as I am a single 23 yr old woman with a mortgage and lots of bills (like most of us!) I am concerned about student debt etc! Can anyone give me some advice? Hope you're all well!!

I work for a non-voluntary organisation at the moment. I assume you are referring to Approved Social Wkrs?? What is there salary plus length of training to become one like? Plus why dont u reccomend becoming a CPN?

Lots of questions I know!

Thanks 4 ur advice :-)

a CPN, is ussually associated in the drug and alcohol field as seeing clients who are currently recieving meth or subetex or benzo's ect.Basically in the maintanence of the drug user, am i right in saying that?

if your currently working in drug relapse provention, then this maybe not right for you (conflicting beliefs .)

diploma in councilling might be good way to go. the drug and alcohol teams in the probation earn good money

probally no help sorry!

p.s i know how it feels having meth poured down your neck for years with no real support(this probally makes me biased)

wil

I wouldn't consider the idea of being a CPN although it was of great interest at one point.

Have you considered Social Work with a view to specialising in Mental Health? There is currently a huge shortage and you will get to see the same sort of clients etc. Another bonus is that you may get your loans etc. paid if you already work for a local authority and I have recently heard about golden handshakes (cash payments) when taking a job. Career prospects and salary will also probably be better.

Good luck