The purpose of this article is to discuss the development of the psychiatric–mental health nurse practitioner(PMHNP) competencies. The historical context and controversy regarding the role of advanced practice psychiatric mental health nursing as well as the consensus process of a national panel charged with the development of these competencies are described. Also, implications for education, practice, research, and policy are examined. The PMHNP competencies is a seminal document that will provide direction for the future of advanced practice psychiatric–mental health nursing.