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Psychiatric Assistant Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

The Psychiatric ER CNA will provide compassionate, patient-centered care to individuals in the psychiatric emergency room, assisting with daily activities and supporting nursing staff in delivering ...

... We assist with scheduling interviews and provide resources to simplify the licensing process • We facilitate the negotiation of your salary and terms of contract • Our experienced Support ...

Support crisis intervention efforts and assist with management of high-acuity psychiatric cases * Maintain timely and accurate clinical documentation within the Electronic Health Record (EHR) system

Support crisis intervention efforts and assist with management of high-acuity psychiatric cases * Maintain timely and accurate clinical documentation within the Electronic Health Record (EHR) system

Support crisis intervention efforts and assist with management of high-acuity psychiatric cases * Maintain timely and accurate clinical documentation within the Electronic Health Record (EHR) system

... psychiatric services to a local DC/Maryland population in 1 of 4 outpatient locations in the DC ... preferences • We assist with scheduling interviews and provide resources to simplify the ...

... assist in developing staff training materials. 8. Serve as a liaison between the organization and its licensing agencies. 9. Review and approve service plans. 10. Address the psychiatric and ...

... assist in developing staff training materials. 8. Serve as a liaison between the organization and its licensing agencies. 9. Review and approve service plans. 10. Address the psychiatric and ...

Showing results 41-60

Psychiatric Assistant information

See Reston, VA salary details

$12

$23

$35

How much do psychiatric assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for psychiatric assistant in Reston, VA is $23.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $27.02 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 Reston, VA? The most popular types of Psychiatric jobs in Reston, VA are:
What are popular job titles related to Psychiatric Assistant jobs in Reston, VA? For Psychiatric Assistant jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Psychiatric Assistant jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Psychiatric Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Psychiatric Assistant job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,173 per year, or $23.2 per hour.

Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)

Newliving Healthcare

Washington, DC • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago


Job description

Salary: Paid per note

The Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) will provide outpatient psychiatric evaluation and medication management services at New Living Health Care Services (NLHCS). NLHCS is a District of Columbia CORE service agency servicing residents in the District of Columbia. Working in coordination with NLHCS Clinical Director and Care Coordinator to ensure effective care coordination between outpatient counseling services, the PMHNP will also provide medication management and psychiatric services to adults and families with behavioral health issues. This position will be supervised externally by the NLHCS Medical Director who is a psychiatrist. The PMHNP will work out of the NLHCS Northeast site located at 350 Eastern Avenue, NE Washington, DC. The PMHNP will also work in collaboration with a Medical Assistant to coordinate client care, assist with insurancepre-authorization, and scheduling appointments.


Job Requirements and Qualifications:


Minimum Required Education:
Masters or Doctorate Degree in Nursing with focus on Psychiatric nursing
Graduation from a state-certified advanced practice program specializing in psychiatry/mental health

Minimum Required Experience:

At least 1-2 years providing direct client care to persons receiving treatment for psychiatric disorders
Ability to work with both adults and families.

3+ years of experience as a psychiatric provider
Experience in telemedicine


Licenses/Certifications:
Must be certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) in Psychiatric Mental Health (PMH) as a Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN)
An unrestricted license to practice as an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) in the District of Columbia
Must have a valid DEA number and unrestricted DEA license in the District of Columbia
A state-issued Controlled Substance Registration (CSR) in the District of Columbia
Registration with the state Prescription Monitoring Program (PMP) in the District of Columbia County
No suspension/exclusion/debarment from participation in federal healthcare programs (e.g. Medicare, Medicaid,)
Maintain credentials and licensure with all major insurance companies and licensing boards with the assistance of the New Living Health Care Services credentialing staff.
Other Skills Required:
Experience in delivering high-quality, client-centered care

Able to document and navigate EHR independently
Ability to maintain strict client confidentiality
Ability to effectively communicate and interact with individuals involved in all aspects of programming adults, families, grantors, funders, partner agencies, members of the community and New Living Health Care Services team members
Serves as a representative of New Living Health Care Services , displaying courtesy, tact, consideration and discretion in all interactions with New Living Health Care Services, consumers grantors, funders and DC Department of Behavioral Health
Proficient computer skills, including working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite
Ability to work effectively on multidisciplinary team
Language Skills: Ability to read, analyze and interpret general and professional documents. Ability to write routine reports and correspondence. Ability to effectively present information in one on one and small group situations
Must possess the ability to make independent decisions when circumstances warrant such action.
Excellent organizational skills, including the ability to work productively and make independent decisions.

Supervisory Responsibilities:
None


Fiscal Responsibilities:
None
Working Conditions / Environment:
Contractual NTE 30 working hours per week.
Flexibility in setting work schedules, with work hours falling between 9:00 am and 5:30 pm and supervision at 8:00 pm on Thursdays.
Accessible to New Living Health Care clinical director and care coordinator 24/7 for clinical consultation.
Continuously meet minimum required hours of direct services to clients each week, allowing remainder of work hours for documentation, meetings, training, and supervision.
The noise level in the work environment is usually low. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee is frequently required to stand, walk, and sit. The employee is occasionally required to reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; and stoop, kneel, or crouch.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
Responsible for providing psychiatric services to clients in a variety of clinical settings during scheduled hours. Scope of services includes outpatient psychiatric evaluations and medication management services.
Assess, diagnose, and treat adults and families experiencing symptoms of behavioral health disorders.
Prescribe, recommend, or discontinue drugs and treatments to treat mental, emotional, or behavioral disorders in accordance
with the Collaborative Practice Agreement and the states Nurse Practice Act.
Collaborate with counselors, social workers, or other treatment team members to coordinate client care.
Responsible for timely and accurate completion of medical records, including assessment, treatment plan, progress notes, outcome measures, and billing entries.
Counsel clients during appointments, as necessary.
Design/participate in the development of individualized treatment plans, incorporating best and leading practices into treatment interventions.
Examine or order laboratory or diagnostic tests for clients to provide information on general physical condition and mental disorders.
Collaborate with guardians, relatives, and significant others on clients conditions and treatment when clinically appropriate.
Prepare and submit assessments, progress notes, reports, and summaries to entities/agencies (funders, insurance companies, etc.) as required.
Return calls and emails promptly (within 24 hours of receipt or sooner if clinically necessary)
Respond to client emergencies and be accessible to New Living Health Care Services 24/7 crisis clinicians
Responsible for making independent decisions based on protocols developed utilizing national guidelines for treatment interventions.
Responsible for maintaining customer relations with all agency staff and clients.
Maintain medical records and submit at least 10% of records to the supervising Psychiatrist for biweekly review in accordance with the Collaborative Practice Agreement.
Records all services performed for accurate billing for services provided in compliance with all local, state and federal laws, as well as payor rules and regulations. Submits billing documents in a timely fashion.
Look for ways to improve and promote quality. Provides teaching and education to clinical staff, if requested.
Follow all procedures and protocols as per New Living Health Care Services policy, federal and state regulations, standard practice, and in accordance with the Collaborative Practice Agreement.
Actively participate in all agency and department education, training, and in-services to confirm understanding of new information or changes to established clinical policies and procedures.


The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel so classified.