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Psychiatric Assistant Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

PSYCHIATRIC NP/PA

Rochester, NY · On-site

$103K - $109K/yr

Masters Degree in Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Physician Assistant in Psychiatric Mental Health. * One year of clinical experience working within the field of substance abuse and/or ...

New

RN PSYCH

Rochester, NY · On-site

$1.7K - $2.4K/wk

Collaborate with psychiatrists and behavioral health professionals to develop treatment plans * Administer psychotropic and other medications and monitor patient responses * Assist patients in ...

Psychiatrist 2

Rochester, NY · On-site

$155K - $310K/yr

... psychiatric care for individuals living in a Comprehensive Adult Transitional Home. • Assist with physician coverage as needed in sister regions.LinkedIn: Minimum Qualifications Possession of a ...

Showing results 21-40

Psychiatric Assistant information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$11

$21

$33

How much do psychiatric assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for psychiatric assistant in Rochester, NY is $21.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $25.62 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 Rochester, NY? The most popular types of Psychiatric jobs in Rochester, NY are:
What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Psychiatric Assistant jobs? Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Psychiatric Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Psychiatric Assistant job openings in Rochester, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,707 per year, or $22 per hour.

Psychiatric Advanced Practice Provider (O-4/O-5 Billet) Non-Supervisory

Attorney | ICE

Batavia, NY

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

The Psychiatric Advanced Practice Provider delivers psychiatric care to ICE detainees, including evaluations, treatment plans, medication management, and crisis intervention. The role involves collaboration with psychiatrists, clinical directors, and consultants, mentoring peers, and supporting policy development. It requires psychiatric certification, clinical expertise, and adaptability to schedule changes.
This position is only open to USPHS officers and Call to Active Duty (CAD) candidates.Qualifications:

COMPETENCIES:

  1. Cultural Competency
  2. Demonstrates strong interpersonal skills.
  3. Demonstrates strong oral and written communication skills.
  4. Integrity/Honesty
  5. Adult learner teaching skills
  6. Experience in correctional health care preferred

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

  1. Required to walk unaided at a normal pace for up to 5 minutes and maintain balance.
  2. Required to jog/fast walk up to mile.
  3. Required to perform CPR/emergency care standing or kneeling.
  4. Must have the ability to assist sick, injured or aging detainees or staff exiting the building.
  5. Must be able to see, hear and smell with aids if necessary.
  6. Must easily alternate between kneeling and standing.
  7. Must be able to lift, push, or carry 30 pounds.
  8. Must perform the duties of job in a stressful and often austere environment without physical limitations.
Education:

[O-4 Billet] REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

  1. Must have a minimum of 6 months of full-time experience as a Psychiatric APP in direct patient care or the express approval of IHSC Chief Psychiatrist.
  2. Knowledge of training methods and sufficient interpersonal skills to develop a rapport with detainees and co-workers when instructional and educational information is presented.
  3. Nurse Practitioner - Requires unrestricted PMHNP state license and national board certification through the American Nurse Credentialing Center (ANCC).
    • Current licensure as a PMHNP by a State, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, or territory of the United States.
    • PMHNP degree from a graduate school of professional nursing accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), typically a Master or Doctorial level education.
    • PMHNP board certification by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).
  4. Physician Assistant (PA) - Requires unrestricted PA state license and national board certification through the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA).
    • Current licensure as a PA by a State, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, or territory of the United States.
    • Graduate from a PA program accredited by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA).
    • Certificate of Added Qualification in Psychiatry from the NCCPA- preferred, not required.
  5. Maintains a current license and meets continuing education requirements for the State(s) licensed in (It is the responsibility of the incumbent to fulfill the obligation(s) of their licensing or certifying body to maintain currency. This position will be required to perform clinical activities within the scope of licensure)
  6. Maintains unrestricted license with state of licensure
  7. Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) to prescribe controlled medications- not required at the timeof hire, but must be obtained within 90 days of the start date
  8. Maintains basic readiness status
  9. Maintains current CPR/BLS certification
  10. Maintains clinical professional skills via continuing education opportunities.
  11. Comprehensive knowledge of managing non-compliant patients, special needs populations, and patients with significant deficits in coping skills, thereby requiring continuing professional clinical support.
  12. Flexibility and ability to adapt to sudden changes in schedules and work requirements.

[O-5 Billet] REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

  1. Preferred minimum of 3-5 years of full-time experience as a Psychiatric APP in direct patient care or must have the expressed approval of IHSC Chief Psychiatrist
  2. Knowledge of training methods and sufficient interpersonal skills to develop a rapport with detainees and co-workers when instructional and educational information is presented.
  3. Nurse Practitioner - Requires unrestricted PMHNP state license and national board certification through the American Nurse Credentialing Center (ANCC).
    • Current licensure as a PMHNP by a State, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, or territory of the United States.
    • PMHNP degree from a graduate school of professional nursing accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), typically a Master or Doctorial level education.
    • PMHNP board certification by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).
  4. Physician Assistant (PA) - Requires unrestricted PA state license and national board certification through the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA).
    • Current licensure as a PA by a State, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, or territory of the United States.
    • Graduate from a PA program accredited by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA).
    • Certificate of Added Qualification in Psychiatry from the NCCPA - required.
  5. Board Certified Psychiatric Pharmacist - Requires unrestricted pharmacist state license and board certification in psychiatric pharmacy through the Board of Pharmaceutical Specialties (BPS).
    • Current licensure as a pharmacist by a State, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, or territory of the United States.
    • Graduate from a Doctor of Pharmacy program accredited by the American Council on Pharmaceutical Education (ACPE).
    • Board Certification in Psychiatric Pharmacy (BCPP) by the Board of Pharmaceutical Specialties (BPS).
  6. Maintains a current license and meets continuing education requirements for the State(s) licensed in (It is the responsibility of the incumbent to fulfill the obligation(s) of their licensing or certifying body to maintain currency. This position will be required to perform clinical activities within the scope of licensure).
  7. Maintains unrestricted license with state of licensure
  8. Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) to prescribe controlled medications- not required at the timeof hire, but must be obtained within 90 days of the start date
  9. Maintains basic readiness status
  10. Maintains current CPR/BLS certification
  11. Maintains clinical professional skills via continuing education opportunities.
  12. Comprehensive knowledge of managing non-compliant patients, special needs populations, and patients with significant deficits in coping skills, thereby requiring continuing professional clinical support.
  13. Flexibility and ability to adapt to sudden changes in schedules and work requirements.
Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
  1. Knowledge of forensic psychiatry concepts and principles
  2. Correctional health care experience.
  3. Certification as Correctional Healthcare Professional (CCHP)
  4. Knowledge and/or experience with IHSC policies, NCCHC and PBNDS requirements.
  5. Bilingual communication capability preferred.
Employment Type: OTHER