A Psychiatric Technician, also known as a mental health technician, works in the psychiatric department of a general hospital, a psychiatric hospital, mental health clinic or specialized nursing home, performing a wide variety of tasks under the supervision of a professional nurse. The Psychiatric Technician provides general psychiatric nursing care to mentally ill and emotionally disturbed patients. Responsibilities cover a wide range and may include: * interviewing and recording patient and family histories. * basic nursing techniques (vital signs, dressing application, assisting with medications). * personal care (bathe, feed, shave, lift, move and dress patients). * patient observation to report valuable information to other members of the professional staff. * participating in development and implementation of patient treatment plans. * leading individual and group counseling sessions and/or therapy activities. If a Technician is in a supervisory capacity, he/she plans, assigns, and reviews the work of subordinates, prepares records, requisitions supplies, and does a variety of related tasks to keep the ward activities coordinated and organized. Psychiatric Technicians may also specialize in certain areas such as chemical dependency. Psychiatric Aides assist in the care of persons with mental illness and disabilities. Job responsibilities include transporting patients, assisting with personal care and hygiene, encouraging patient participation in recreational and social activities, and escorting patients to outside activities (dental appointments, church, athletic events, etc.).

Educational requirements vary. A high school diploma and postsecondary training are required for Psychiatric Technicians. Technicians may receive on-the-job training through hospitals or mental health facilities. Kansas requirements include a written examination in mental health technology offered by the Kansas State Board of Nursing. For information of Missouri requirements contact the Committee for Professional Counselors at P.O. Box 162, Jefferson City, MO 65102, 573-751-0018. Psychiatric Aides may be trained on-the-job or in a one year formal training program. Individuals who seek employment by government agencies must pass a civil service exam.

• Less than 2 years

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• Aft Healthcare
• American Association Of Psychiatric Technicians, Inc.
• American Medical Technologists
• American Psychological Association