Psychiatric Aide – Technician

Duties and Responsibilities: Psychiatric Aide/Technicians observe a patients’ behavior, listen to their concerns, and record their condition, lead patients in therapeutic and recreational activities, give medication, and help with admitting and discharging patients.  They also monitor patient’s vital signs, help patients with everyday activities, and restrain patients who have become physically violent.

Salary: $12,000 - $24,000

Education: Psychiatric technicians typically enter the occupation with a post secondary certificate. Programs in psychiatric or mental health technology are commonly offered by community colleges and technical schools. Psychiatric technician programs include courses in biology, psychology, and counseling. The programs also may include supervised work experience or cooperative programs, in which students gain academic credit for structured work experience. Programs for psychiatric technicians range in length from 1 semester to 2 years, and they may award a certificate or an associate’s degree. Psychiatric aides typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Post secondary courses in psychology or mental health technology may be helpful.

Reflection: If I was going in this direction then I could see myself as a Psychiatric Aide/ Technician. I am more interested in learning and getting to the roots of the problem than actually solving the problem.