Psychiatric Technician
Care for individuals with mental or emotional conditions or disabilities, following the instructions of physicians or other health practitioners. Monitor patients' physical and emotional well-being and report to medical staff. May participate in rehabilitation and treatment programs, help with personal hygiene, and administer oral or injectable medications.
Annual openings
222
BLS median wage
$47,430
Typical education
High school (GED), plus completion of an accredited Psychiatric Technician educational program.
10-year growth
+27%
Career requirements
What does this career require?
The education, credentials, and on-the-job competencies Colorado employers expect for this role.
Typical education
High school (GED), plus completion of an accredited Psychiatric Technician educational program.
Credential requirement
Pass a Licensed Psychiatric Technician Exam. There is one available for Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities and one for Behavioral or Mental Health Disorders. Some employers value the Registered Behavior Tech or Assistant Behavior Analyst from the Behavior Analyst Certification Board.
Work experience
This is an entry-level role so no experience is required.
Work-based learning
This can be an excellent way to gain experience as you complete a behavioral health degree.
Employer competency information
Feedback from employers identifies the following critical competencies and how they apply for this job
- Health & Safety and Integrity — It is important to follow the rules and the boundaries of this position.
- Customer Focus — Focusing on and understanding the client is the foundation for this job. You could spend extended time with one patient, so stamina and patience are required.
- Psychology, Therapy and Counseling — The knowledge and ability to understand a patient’s behavior and provide the appropriate support.
- Communication and Interpersonal Skills — Patients come from a variety of backgrounds, developing rapport and effective communication is essential. Good observation and documentation skills are important to communicate changes in a patient's status.
Is this work a fit?
What the work actually feels like
How people in this career tend to spend their time, the interests it draws on, and a look at a typical day.
Automation exposure
Low exposure
Tasks here lean on judgement and people skills that are hard to automate.
A typical day
- Provide nursing, psychiatric, or personal care to patients with cognitive, intellectual, or developmental disabilities.
- Encourage patients to develop work skills and to participate in social, recreational, or other therapeutic activities that enhance interpersonal skills or develop social relationships.
- Restrain violent, potentially violent, or suicidal patients by verbal or physical means as required.
- Monitor patients' physical and emotional well-being and report unusual behavior or physical ailments to medical staff.
- Observe and influence patients' behavior, communicating and interacting with them and teaching, counseling, or befriending them.
- Aid patients in performing tasks, such as bathing or keeping beds, clothing, or living areas clean.