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Psychiatric Assistant Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

AllCare.ai

Psychiatrist (MD/DO) - Senior Care

Riverside, CA · On-site

$218K - $265K/yr

... Assistants (MAs) and charting assistance, so you can focus on patient care * Administrative and documentation support via AllCare.ai platform * Opportunity to expand psychiatric care for seniors in ...

AllCare.ai

Psychiatrist (MD/DO) - Senior Care

Orange, CA · On-site

$218K - $265K/yr

... Assistants (MAs) and charting assistance, so you can focus on patient care * Administrative and documentation support via AllCare.ai platform * Opportunity to expand psychiatric care for seniors in ...

Allcare LLC

Psychiatrist (MD/DO) - Senior Care

Orange, CA

$218K - $265K/yr

... Assistants (MAs) and charting assistance, so you can focus on patient care * Administrative and documentation support via AllCare.ai platform * Opportunity to expand psychiatric care for seniors in ...

AllCare.ai

Psychiatrist (MD/DO) - Senior Care

Orange, CA · On-site

$218K - $265K/yr

... Assistants (MAs) and charting assistance, so you can focus on patient care * Administrative and documentation support via AllCare.ai platform * Opportunity to expand psychiatric care for seniors in ...

AllCare.ai

Psychiatrist (MD/DO) - Senior Care

Riverside, CA · On-site

$218K - $265K/yr

... Assistants (MAs) and charting assistance, so you can focus on patient care * Administrative and documentation support via AllCare.ai platform * Opportunity to expand psychiatric care for seniors in ...

Pacific Grove

Licensed Psychiatric Tech (LPT)

Riverside, CA · On-site

$28 - $32/hr

... Psychiatric Technicians (LPT) or Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVN) to join our team. Apply today to ... Oversee or assist patients with activities of daily living, including toileting, bathing, dressing ...

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All JobsPsychiatric Assistant JobsPsychiatric Assistant Jobs in Riverside, CA

Psychiatric Assistant information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$12

$23

$35

How much do psychiatric assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for psychiatric assistant in Riverside, CA is $23.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.08 and $27.07 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 are psychiatric assistants?

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.

Can I be a BHT without a degree?

Becoming a Behavioral Health Technician (BHT) typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, but some employers may accept relevant experience or certification instead of a degree. Certification programs are available and can enhance job prospects, though specific requirements vary by state and employer.

How much do psychiatric aides get paid?

Psychiatric aides typically earn a median hourly wage of around $14 to $16, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $30,000 to $33,000. Pay can vary based on location, experience, and work setting, such as hospitals or mental health facilities.

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.

Can I work in psych as a CNA?

A Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) can work in psychiatric settings, providing basic patient care under supervision. However, some psychiatric facilities may require additional training or certifications specific to mental health care, and CNAs often work alongside psychiatric professionals such as psychiatrists and nurses. Licensing requirements vary by state or region, so it is important to verify local regulations for psychiatric employment as a CNA.

Do psych techs make more than CNAs?

Psychiatric technicians, or psych techs, generally earn higher wages than certified nursing assistants (CNAs) due to their specialized training and work in mental health settings. Psych techs often require additional certifications and handle more complex patient care tasks, which can contribute to higher pay. However, salaries vary by location, employer, and experience.

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.
More about Psychiatric Assistant jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Psychiatric jobs in Riverside, CA? The most popular types of Psychiatric jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Psychiatric Assistant jobs in Riverside, CA? For Psychiatric Assistant jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Psychiatric Assistant jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Psychiatric Assistant jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Psychiatric Assistant jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Psychiatric Assistant job openings:
Psychiatric Assistant jobs near you

Physician Assistant

Pacific Neuropsychiatric Specialists Inc

Santa Ana, CA

$130K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Training & development
  • Vision insurance

Pacific Neuropsychiatric Specialists (PNS) is actively seeking a Physician Assistant to join our growing organization. We are an outpatient private mental health group practice composed of Psychiatrists, Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants and Therapists who are motivated to help our patients make positive changes in their lives.
At PNS, the Psychiatrists, Physician Assistants, Nurse Practitioner, Therapists, and Patient Care Coordinators are our priority and providing comprehensive, collaborative, and compassionate care is the foundation of our culture. You will have the opportunity to work a mix of office outpatient and telepsychiatry services. The Physician Assistant will diagnose, conduct assessments and prescribe medications for patients having psychiatric-mental health conditions. The role also includes developing an appropriate, integrated healthcare treatment plan and providing effective management of patient care with proper evaluation and follow-up care.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Plan, organize and provide ongoing medication management and therapy for new and existing patients.
  • Conduct initial in-person and tele-medicine psychiatric evaluations, medication management and monitoring visits.
  • Renewing and refilling medication to the best of their ability to avoid lapses in treatment.
  • Educates the patient in understanding the disease process with guidance regarding preventative practices necessary to manage acute and chronic conditions
  • Provide education, assistance and support to family members and others involved with the patient to enhance awareness of mental and emotional illness and to increase their ability to contribute to the rehabilitation process.

Skills and Qualifications:
  • Must hold a current and valid license to practice in the State of California and hold an NPI.
  • Must have full prescription authority and maintain current D.E.A. licensure.
  • Prefer but not required at least two (2) years' experience in a Behavioral Health setting or demonstrated equivalent experience.
  • Bilingual Spanish is required

Compensation and Benefits:
  • PNS offers a competitive compensation package including; Medical, dental, vision, and paid time off.
  • Salary based on skill, experience, certification, and tenure of your profession.