Psychiatric Aide
Assist mentally impaired or emotionally disturbed patients, working under direction of nursing and medical staff. May assist with daily living activities, lead patients in educational and recreational activities, or accompany patients to and from examinations and treatments. May restrain violent patients. Includes psychiatric orderlies.
Annual openings
90
BLS median wage
$46,130
Typical education
High school (GED), though some employers expect some college or even a Bachelor's degree.
10-year growth
+4%
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), though some employers expect some college or even a Bachelor's degree.
Credential requirement
The requirements for this role differ from employer to employer, sometimes on-the-job training is enough, sometimes a Certified Nurse Assistant, sometimes some college, and sometimes a Bachelor's degree in Psychology are required. It is also possible to become a Certified Mental Health Technician (CMHT). Some employers value the Registered Behavior Tech or Assistant Behavior Analyst from Behavior Analyst Certification Board.
Work experience
This is an entry-level role so no work experience is required.
Work-based learning
This can be an excellent way to gain experience as you complete a behavioral health degree.
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.
Work style
- With kids/peopleOccasionally
- On a computerOccasionally
- Outdoors / on-siteOccasionally
- With your handsOccasionally
Interests it draws on
- Healthcare
- Healthcare Technicians
Automation exposure
Low exposure
Tasks here lean on judgement and people skills that are hard to automate.
A typical day
- Participate in recreational activities with patients, including card games, sports, or television viewing.
- Listen and provide emotional support and encouragement to psychiatric patients.
- Provide patients with cognitive, intellectual, or developmental disabilities with routine physical, emotional, psychological, or rehabilitation care under the direction of nursing or medical staff.
- Complete physical checks and monitor patients to detect unusual or harmful behavior and report observations to professional staff.
- Organize, supervise, or encourage patient participation in social, educational, or recreational activities.
- Provide patients with assistance in bathing, dressing, or grooming, demonstrating these skills as necessary.