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Psychiatric Assistant Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

Travel Nurse RN - Psychiatric

Rochester, NY · On-site

$1.7K - $2.4K/wk

Psychiatric * Discipline: RN * Duration: 13 weeks * 48 hours per week * Shift: 12 hours, days ... From Travel Nurses, LPNs, LVNs, and CNAs to Allied Health professionals such as CT Technologists ...

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 ...

Provide direct care to child/adolescent psychiatric patients (ages 8-18) * Assist with daily living activities, socialization, and psychiatric rehabilitation * Communicate effectively with patients ...

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 Sep 5, 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 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 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 2% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% 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.

Travel Nurse RN - Psychiatric

Seven Healthcare

Rochester, NY • On-site

$1.7K - $2.4K/wk

Contractor

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

Seven Healthcare is seeking a travel nurse RN Psychiatric for a travel nursing job in Rochester, New York.

Job Description & Requirements
  • Specialty: Psychiatric
  • Discipline: RN
  • Duration: 13 weeks
  • 48 hours per week
  • Shift: 12 hours, days, nights
  • Employment Type: Travel

Seven Healthcare Job ID #9124. Pay package is based on 12 hour shifts and 48.0 hours per week (subject to confirmation) with tax-free stipend amount to be determined.

About Seven Healthcare

Seven Healthcare is proud to be Joint Commission–certified, demonstrating our commitment to quality, safety, and excellence in healthcare staffing.

If you are seeking an exciting new chapter in your healthcare career, our multi-award-winning team is here to help.

With more than ten years of experience placing exceptional staff with employers across the USA, we have also built a strong track record of helping healthcare professionals from Canada secure rewarding travel contracts in the United States.

From Travel Nurses, LPNs, LVNs, and CNAs to Allied Health professionals such as CT Technologists, Radiologic Technologists, MRI Technologists, Physical Therapists, and many more, we can help you take the next step in your career.

Benefits
  • Weekly pay
  • Holiday Pay
  • Referral bonus
  • License and certification reimbursement