Psychiatric Aides

Help given to those who have been prescribed it by their doctors, psychologists, and other medical experts.

Career Snapshot

ABOUT PSYCHIATRIC AIDE CAREERS

Psychiatric technicians and aides give safety and support to people with mental illnesses and significant developmental impairments in order to improve their mental health and quality of life. Psychiatric technicians, also known as mental health technicians, assist with patients' therapeutic care by listening to their concerns and leading them in enjoyable or therapeutic activities. They also do medical responsibilities such as medicine administration and vital sign monitoring. Psychiatric aides help with transportation, engage patients in activities, and keep the physical environment safe and sanitary. Technicians and aides both assist patients with daily living activities such as eating, bathing, and clothing. Meeting the requirements of patients necessitates patience and tenacity, as well as the energy to be on your feet all day and, if necessary, the strength to control a distressed or violent patient. Work isn't always enjoyable. These employees, however, can have a significant impact on patients' outlooks and treatments. Skills in observation, communication, and compassion are essential in these vocations. In psychiatric hospitals, residential mental health facilities, and chemical dependency addiction treatment clinics, psychiatric technicians and aides work. Because facilities are normally open 24 hours a day, work hours may include nights, weekends, and holidays. A certificate in the field is normally required for psychiatric technicians, and many have prior experience as a nursing assistant or licenced practical nurse. A high school diploma is usually all that is required for psychiatric aides. Technicians and aides both receive on-the-job training before working without direct supervision.

Employment Projections

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Wages


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Characteristics

Leadership
Comfort of the work setting
Work closely with team members, clients etc.
Communication with others
Dealing and handling conflicts
Physical demands
Exposure to job hazards
Competition for this position
Job challenge and pressure to meet deadlines
Exposure to extreme environmental conditions
Level of responsibilities
Critical decision making

Activities

Assisting and Caring for Others Know More
Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates Know More
Documenting/Recording Information Know More
Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships Know More
Getting Information Know More
Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events Know More
Performing General Physical Activities Know More
Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others Know More

Areas of Study

Customer and Personal Service Know More
Education and Training Know More
English Language Know More
Medicine and Dentistry Know More
Psychology Know More
Public Safety and Security Know More
Sociology and Anthropology Know More
Therapy and Counseling Know More

Degrees

Colleges

Top Skills

Active Learning Know More
Active Listening Know More
Coordination Know More
Critical Thinking Know More
Monitoring Know More
Service Orientation Know More
Social Perceptiveness Know More
Speaking Know More