Psychiatric technicians and aides
provide safety and support
to help people with mental illness
and severe developmental disabilities
enjoy quality of life,
and to improve their mental health.
Also known as mental health technicians,
psychiatric technicians assist with
patients’ therapeutic care;
they listen to patients’ concerns
and lead them in recreational
or therapeutic activities.
They also have medical tasks,
administering medication
and monitoring patients’ vital signs.
Psychiatric aides assist with transportation,
engage patients in activities,
and maintain a safe,
clean physical environment.
Both technicians and aides
help patients with daily living needs,
such as eating, bathing, and dressing.
Meeting patients’ needs requires
patience and fortitude
as well as the stamina
to be on your feet all day
and, if it comes to it, the strength to restrain
a distressed or violent patient.
It’s not always pleasant work.
However, these workers
can have a great deal of influence
on patients’ outlooks and treatments.
Observation skills, communication,
and compassion are key qualities
in these fields.
Psychiatric technicians and aides
work in psychiatric hospitals,
residential mental health facilities,
and chemical dependency addiction
treatment centers.
Facilities are typically all-hours,
so work hours may include nights,
weekends, and holidays.
Psychiatric technicians usually need
a certificate in the field,
and many also have previous experience
as a nursing assistant
or licensed practical nurse.
Psychiatric aides typically need
only a high school diploma.
Both technicians and aides
get on-the-job training
before they work without direct supervision.