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Psychiatric Assistant Jobs in Dothan, AL (NOW HIRING)

Previous nursing assistant or BHT experience is preferred.You may float to ED or medical units as ... POSITION SUMMARY This position provides direct care to psychiatric patients working under the ...

... psychiatric hospitals; centers for the developmentally disabled; public health facilities; and ... Ability to assist with moving patients, transporting patients may be required. Representative ...

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Psychiatric Assistant information

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$10

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$31

How much do psychiatric assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for psychiatric assistant in Dothan, AL is $20.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.72 and $23.61 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 cities near Dothan, AL are hiring for Psychiatric Assistant jobs?

Cities near Dothan, AL with the most Psychiatric Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Psychiatric Assistant job openings in Dothan, AL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,094 per year, or $20.2 per hour.

Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (Outpatient)

Olesky Associates

Cowarts, AL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

Company Description

Olesky Associates, Inc. has been in the placement / recruiting industry for three decades.

We offer an extensive array of services, ranging from physician placement to practice and hospital brokering.

Our Search Consultants located in our home office in Massachusetts utilize a state-of-the-art computer network and database that allows instant access to all of the information necessary for mutually beneficial placements throughout the country.

This technology, combined with our personal attention and expert screening of each candidate, has made our agency extremely successful in the placement of all specialties, including:

  • Family Practitioners
  • Internists, Pediatricians
  • OB/Gyns
  • Emergency Medicine
  • Psychiatrist
  • Nurse Practitioners
  • Hospitalist
  • Dermatologist
  • Oncology / Radiology
  • All medical specialties
  • All surgical specialties
  • LCSW / LICSW/ LMHC / BCBA
Job Description

Psych Nurse Practitioner Opportunity (Outpatient):


A well-established, behavioral healthcare practice servicing Southern Alabama, Florida and Georgia for over 20 years is searching for an experienced Psych NP to join a close-knit, respected team of Behavioral Health Providers which includes Child and Adolescent Psychiatrists, Adult Psychiatrists, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners and Therapists.


The team cares for children, adolescents and adults with compassion, utilizing evidence based sciences, research and technology


We are committed to the education of our patients, medical students and staff through research and continuing education. The candidate will have the opportunity to lecture and provide rotation supervision to students from the new Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine located in Dothan and also participate in active research with a Nationally Known Research organization


Excellent Salary and Benefits including: Loan Repayment, Health Ins, Malpractice Ins, All Licensing Fees, CME time & Allowance, Vacation, Personal and Sick Time, Medical Assistant and No Call!!! 



Contact Jerome at Olesky Associates for More Information or to Apply




Additional Information

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.