Psychiatric Technician

Want to work in a clinical setting using your BS/BA psychology skills? Becoming a psychiatric technician may be the job for you! According to the U.S. Bureau of labor statistics, a psychiatric technician “aides care for people who have mental illness and developmental disabilities” . Think of it as being a CNA but for those who are in mental health facilities.

A typical day as a psych tech includes being on your feet a majority of the day, observing patient’s behavior, leading recreational and therapeutic activities, providing treatment and giving medication to patients following doctors’ instructions, monitoring vital signs, and helping with discharge. You will most likely work in a psychiatric hospital or a residential mental health facility.

Every outstanding psych tech is very compassionate, empathetic, and patient. Having great observation and interpersonal skills are also important qualities of a psych tech. Given that psych tech’s do spend most of the day on their feet, physical stamina is imperative.

All psych techs must obtain a high school diploma or equivalent. While higher education is not always required, almost all psych techs have some sort of post-secondary education, whether this be associates or bachelors. Psych techs typically have a degree in nursing or psychology. A majority of states do not require you to receive a license in order to be a psych tech, but some do (California does). On the job training is where you will learn the most. This may entail shadowing an already established psych tech in their day-to-day work. On the job training may also include workshops, lectures, or in-service training, it all depends on what company you work for. If a company thinks a candidate is not yet qualified to become a psych tech, there are opportunities to become a psych tech aid until you gain enough clinical experience.

The national average salary is anywhere between $24,960 to $59,020 depending on what state you are in. For example, the average salary in Idaho is $29,740, the average in Washington is $38,182, and in California it is $57,910. Psychiatric technicians are in high demand and are estimated to grow 11% faster than average between the years of 2020-2030.

Becoming a psych tech can be a very rewarding career that lets you gain great clinical experience!