Psychiatric Technician Career Guide
A psychiatric technician, also known as a mental health technician, plays a vital role in providing care and support for individuals dealing with mental illnesses or developmental disabilities. This career offers the chance to make a meaningful difference in people's lives. Here is a step-by-step guide to starting a career as a psychiatric technician.
Career Path for Psychiatric Technicians
The first step to becoming a psychiatric technician is earning either an associate's or bachelor's degree in psychiatric technology or mental health technology. Many colleges and technical schools offer programs designed specifically to train psychiatric technicians. Coursework covers topics like counseling, psychology, nursing care, and pharmacology.
After graduating, psychiatric technicians can begin working in various healthcare settings like hospitals, residential treatment facilities, correctional facilities, schools, and more. With experience, psychiatric techs may take on more responsibilities or supervisory roles. Some choose to specialize in a certain area like geriatric or pediatric mental healthcare. Others pursue additional certifications to advance their career.
Qualifications to Become a Psychiatric Technician
To work as a psychiatric technician, you must have either an associate’s or bachelor's degree in psychiatric or mental health technology. These programs include coursework and supervised clinical experiences focused on communicating with patients, observing behaviors, monitoring patient progress, and offering emotional support.
Other important skills for aspiring psychiatric technicians include patience, empathy, attention to detail, interpersonal communication abilities, and the capacity to stay calm in stressful situations. Background checks and drug screenings are typically required as well. Some states may require certification or licensing.
Psychiatric Technician Salary Trends
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual salary for psychiatric technicians as of 2020 was $38,080. Those working in hospitals, which employ the majority of psychiatric techs, earned an average of $41,330 per year. Location impacts salaries as well, with the highest average wages in California at $58,440. Psychiatric tech salaries can range from $27,000 for entry-level roles to over $52,000 for experienced supervisors.
Recommended Books
Here are some top book recommendations for anyone interested in becoming a psychiatric technician:
- Mental Health Technician Red-Hot Career Guide; 2571 Real Interview Questions by Red-Hot Careers - Offers interview tips and questions for getting hired as a psychiatric technician.
- Relaxation Techniques for Psychiatric Technicians: A Workbook by LCPC Joel B. Cantor - Teaches relaxation exercises to help techs manage work-related stress.
- The Art of Psychiatric Nursing: A Holistic, Biopsychosocial Approach to Psychiatric Care by Antai-Otong, D. - Provides a well-rounded perspective on caring for psychiatric patients.
Key Topics to Study
Aspiring psychiatric technicians should study topics like:
- Mental health disorders and treatments
- Counseling and communication techniques
- Patient observation and reporting
- Safe restraint procedures
- CPR and first aid
- Pharmacology and medication administration
- Medical terminology
- Psychology and therapeutic approaches
- Healthcare regulations and patient rights
Clinical rotations in psychiatric facilities are also essential for applying classroom knowledge to real-world practice.
How to Become a Psychiatric Technician
To summarize the steps to launching a psychiatric tech career:
- Earn an associate's or bachelor’s degree in psychiatric/mental health technology
- Complete clinical rotations at hospitals, clinics, or other facilities
- Obtain state certification or licensing if required
- Pass background checks and meet health requirements
- Develop empathy, communication abilities, and problem-solving skills
- Consider volunteering or interning in mental health settings
- Apply and interview for psychiatric technician jobs in your desired work environment
With the right education and training, you can start making a difference in people's lives as a psychiatric technician.
Top Psychiatric Technician Programs and Colleges
There are many excellent colleges across the country that offer psychiatric technician degree programs and training:
- Santa Rosa Junior College (Santa Rosa, CA)
- Gateway Community College (Phoenix, AZ)
- West Coast University (Dallas, TX)
- Lincoln College of Technology (Melrose Park, IL)
- Minnesota State Community and Technical College (Fergus Falls, MN)
When researching programs, look for affordable tuition rates, high licensure exam pass rates, and plenty of hands-on clinical experience.
Applying for Psychiatric Technician Jobs
When you're ready to start applying for psychiatric technician jobs, be sure to highlight your mental health education, clinical experience, communication abilities, and passion for helping others. Prepare to interview by researching the facility and practicing responses to common questions about your skills and motivation. With dedication and practice, you can get hired as a psychiatric tech and start making a difference in many lives.