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Psychiatric Assistant Jobs in Baton Rouge, LA (NOW HIRING)

Registered Nurse 3 (WAE)

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$4.8K - $8.7K/mo

... long-term psychiatric care are coordinated with the total system of care in Louisiana. ELMHS is ... This position will assist physicians with patient examinations and record patient data according to ...

Showing results 41-60

Psychiatric Assistant information

See Baton Rouge, LA salary details

$11

$21

$32

How much do psychiatric assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for psychiatric assistant in Baton Rouge, LA is $21.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.63 and $24.95 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a psychiatric assistant?

Psychiatric assistants are healthcare professionals who support nurses and doctors in caring for patients with mental health conditions. They assist with daily living activities, help maintain a safe environment, observe and report patient behavior, and may participate in therapeutic activities. Psychiatric assistants typically work in hospitals, mental health facilities, or residential treatment centers, playing a key role in supporting patients' emotional and physical well-being.

What does a psychiatric assistant do?

As a psychiatric assistant, your responsibilities involve supporting people with mental health issues at a mental health care facility. You provide basic medical care by monitoring vital signs and dispensing medications. Your duties include assisting patients with bathing, dressing, and eating. You aid in facility management by keeping patient rooms and common areas clean and safe. Finally, you work with the clinical staff to help patients learn coping and life skills through educational and recreational programs and provide transportation to and from group activities. Job qualifications include an interest in social work or psychology and a desire to help others.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a psychiatric assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Psychiatric Assistant, you need foundational knowledge of mental health care, basic patient care skills, and at least a high school diploma or equivalent, with some employers preferring relevant certifications or coursework. Familiarity with electronic health records (EHRs), crisis intervention techniques, and safety protocols is typically required. Patience, strong observational abilities, and effective interpersonal communication help build rapport with patients and support clinical staff. These skills and qualities are vital for maintaining a safe, supportive environment and delivering effective care to individuals experiencing mental health challenges.

What are some common challenges psychiatric assistants face when working with patients, and how can they be addressed?

Psychiatric assistants often encounter challenges such as managing unpredictable patient behaviors, de-escalating tense situations, and maintaining personal boundaries while providing compassionate care. These challenges can be addressed through thorough training in crisis intervention, strong communication skills, and regular team debriefings to share strategies and support. Building rapport with patients and collaborating closely with nurses, therapists, and other mental health professionals also helps create a safer, more supportive environment for everyone involved.

What is the difference between Psychiatric Assistant vs Mental Health Technician?

AspectPsychiatric AssistantMental Health Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certificationHigh school diploma or equivalent; certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentHospitals, mental health clinics, psychiatric unitsHospitals, residential facilities, community mental health centers
Job DutiesAssist patients with daily activities, monitor behavior, support treatment plansAssist with patient care, observe and report patient progress, support therapeutic activities

Both Psychiatric Assistants and Mental Health Technicians work in mental health settings, providing patient support and care. While their roles overlap in assisting with daily activities and monitoring patients, Psychiatric Assistants often focus more on basic care and support, whereas Mental Health Technicians may have additional responsibilities in observing and reporting patient progress. Both roles typically require similar credentials and are employed in similar environments.

How many years to be a psychiatric assistant?

Becoming a psychiatric assistant typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions preferring or requiring post-secondary education or certification in mental health or healthcare. Most employers do not specify a set number of years of experience but may require on-the-job training or relevant coursework; the role often involves supervised work under licensed professionals. Certification or training programs can range from a few months to a year, depending on the specific requirements of the employer or state regulations.

What are the most commonly searched types of Psychiatric jobs in Baton Rouge, LA?

The most popular types of Psychiatric jobs in Baton Rouge, LA are:

What cities near Baton Rouge, LA are hiring for Psychiatric Assistant jobs?

Cities near Baton Rouge, LA with the most Psychiatric Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Psychiatric Assistant job openings in Baton Rouge, LA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,463 per year, or $21.4 per hour.

$100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

Hospital Administrator needed to lead a well-established, financially stable and well reputed 24 beds Adult Acute Psychiatric Hospital Inpatient and Outpatient programs located in Baton Rouge, LA. Apollo Behavioral Health Hospital established in June 2012 and moved into a newly constructed facility in Aug 2018, is a state-of-the-art facility conveniently located in the heart of Baton Rouge at the intersection of I-12 and Airline Highway.

Salary: Starting base $100,000+/yr - DOE plus growth opportunity up to $300,000

Benefits:

  • Health, dental & vision insurance
  • 401K plan and profit-sharing plan
  • Holiday pay & PTO
  • Competitive salary
  • Positive work environment

This position will be responsible for the overall operation of the facility's programs according to approved policies, procedures, and standards. Works in conjunction with the Medical Director, DON and CEO to ensure that quality patient care is provided according to state and federal laws and regulations. Maintains the image of the facility in the local communities and in state and national organizations. Keeps the facility abreast of local, state, and national trends.


RESPONDSIBILITIES:


  1. Serves as the liaison among the governing body, the professional advisor group, and the professional and business staff. Responsible for overall operation of all programs at IPF and OPF.
  2. Employs qualified personnel and provides for adequate staff education. Interviews, hires, supervises, evaluates, and terminates administrative staff. Ensures adequacy of all staff.
  3. Interprets policies and procedures for the Board of Directors, including the implications of proposed policies. Ensures the implementation of all policies and procedures.
  4. Promotes good community relations through involvement in community affairs and serving on related boards and committees.
  5. Investigates and resolves all complaints.
  6. Monitors the fiscal condition of the facility and ensures adequate resources.
  7. Quarterly evaluation of each department functioning and leadership functioning. Identify Strengths and Weaknesses, Identify the non-compliance issues, Establish Goals and Measure of Success.
  8. Assist with the LDH/TJC survey process and write corrective action plans.
  9. Promote positive culture within the company and motivate staff to be productive and do the right thing that they are hired for.
  10. Pro-active approach to problem solving and taking measures to avoid the crisis.
  11. Keep the programs running at FULL capacity.
  12. Expand the bed capacity from 24 beds to 48 beds or higher.
  13. Expand the Outpatient service lines and census beyond the building capacity.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:


Must have the following qualifications:


  1. Must have a baccalaureate degree in health care administration, nursing, social work, mental health, or equivalent experience
  2. Must have a master's degree in Nursing/Social Work/Mental Health/Business Administration.
  3. Must have at least three years full-time experience in hospital administration preferably administrator at a psychiatric hospital.
  4. Must have at least five years of progressively responsible management position in healthcare.
  5. RN/NP/LCSW/MBA license preferred.