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Psychiatric Assistant Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

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Psychiatric Assistant information

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How much do psychiatric assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for psychiatric assistant in Raleigh, NC is $21.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $25.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 requirements of the employer and state regulations.

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 are the most commonly searched types of Psychiatric jobs in Raleigh, NC? The most popular types of Psychiatric jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Psychiatric Assistant jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Psychiatric Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Psychiatric Assistant job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,009 per year, or $21.6 per hour.

Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner/Physician Assistant Specializing in Chronic Pain

Avance Care

Chapel Hill, NC

$90K - $117K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago


Avance Care rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Make a Meaningful Impact in Pain & Behavioral Health Care

We are seeking a compassionate, highly skilled Nurse Practitioner or Physician Assistant with pain and psychiatric expertise to join our collaborative Pain Management team. This role is ideal for a provider who is passionate about treating complex patients with chronic pain. 

You’ll work within a multidisciplinary environment where pain medicine and mental health treatment intersect — helping patients regain stability, function, and quality of life.

What You’ll Do

As a key clinical provider, you will:

  • Deliver comprehensive pain and psychiatric evaluations and ongoing medication management
  • Diagnose and treat chronic pain conditions and co-occurring depression and anxiety
  • Develop individualized, evidence-based treatment plans
  • Prescribe and manage opioids, adjunctive pain medicines, and psychotropic medications
  • Provide patient and family education regarding mental health, pain management, and recovery

Why This Role Stands Out

 Integrated care model combining psychiatry and pain medicine
 Work with a specialized chronic pain population
 Collaborative, multidisciplinary environment
 Opportunity to treat complex dual-diagnosis cases
 Support for professional growth and continuing education

What We’re Looking For

Required Qualifications

  • MSN (Psychiatric Mental Health NP) or completion of an accredited PA program
  • Active, unrestricted state license
  • Board Certified PMHNP or PA
  • Active DEA license

Preferred Experience

  • Chronic pain management
  • Buprenorphine prescribing experience
  • Psychiatric treatment
  • Experience in integrated or multidisciplinary settings

The Ideal Candidate

You are:

  • Clinically confident and comfortable managing complex cases
  • Compassionate and patient-centered
  • Detail-oriented and compliant with prescribing regulations
  • Collaborative and team-focused
  • Passionate about improving outcomes for patients with dual diagnoses

If you are looking for a role where you can combine chronic pain management and mental health treatment  in a supportive, mission-driven environment — we’d love to connect with you.

Apply today to join a team dedicated to improving lives through integrated behavioral and pain care.


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