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Psychiatric Assistant Jobs in Silver Spring, MD (NOW HIRING)

Psychiatric Registered Nurse

Washington, DC · On-site

$2.0K - $2.8K/wk

Collaborate with other healthcare professionals to develop and implement treatment plans. * Assist in the management of psychiatric emergencies and crisis situations. * Conduct patient education on ...

Psychiatric Registered Nurse

Washington, DC · On-site

$2.0K - $2.8K/wk

Collaborate with other healthcare professionals to develop and implement treatment plans. * Assist in the management of psychiatric emergencies and crisis situations. * Conduct patient education on ...

Seeking a resilient and trustworthy individual for our local assistance role near 20217. This position plays a crucial part in providing support and aid to the community. The ideal candidate should ...

Seeking a resilient and trustworthy individual for our local assistance role near 21108. This position plays a crucial part in providing support and aid to the community. The ideal candidate should ...

Seeking a resilient and trustworthy individual for our local assistance role near 21062. This position plays a crucial part in providing support and aid to the community. The ideal candidate should ...

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Psychiatric Assistant information

See Silver Spring, MD salary details

$12

$23

$35

How much do psychiatric assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for psychiatric assistant in Silver Spring, MD is $23.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.88 and $26.83 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 Silver Spring, MD? The most popular types of Psychiatric jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:
What cities near Silver Spring, MD are hiring for Psychiatric Assistant jobs? Cities near Silver Spring, MD with the most Psychiatric Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Psychiatric Assistant job openings in Silver Spring, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,868 per year, or $23 per hour.

CARE MANAGEMENT ASST-PSYCH

LifeBridge Health

Randallstown, MD • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago


LifeBridge Health rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 80 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

668th of 887 rated healthcare providers


Job description

The Psychiatric Care Management Assistant (PCMA) is an integral part of the social work team in the inpatient behavioral health units at Northwest. They function as the liaison between the hospital and the Office of the Public Defender (OPD), and the Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH), ensuring that the dockets are updated each week and that family members are prepared to testify at the hearings when necessary.

The Psychiatric Care Management Assistant is responsible for facilitating the hearings each week and represents Northwest Hospital during the hearing and while communicating with the OPD, and OAH to keep Northwest compliant with the legal requirements and COMAR regulations for involuntarily admitted patients.

The PCMA also gives the opening and/or closing statement in the hearings. Assesses the patient insurance/financial status to facilitate and assist with appropriate discharge planning. Maintains log of post hospital care referrals, provider, contacts, and other related information. Serves as communication liaison between attending psychiatrists, social workers, and external reviewers.

Also, serves as the administrative support staff in maintaining departmental statistical data, tracking and maintaining departmental system reports and performing general clerical and receptionist duties.

Works in partnership with other staff members and providers and proactively identifies and provides for the customer's needs

Experience:

Required:  1-3  years related experience

Education: Associate's Degree Preferred


What LifeBridge Health employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


LifeBridge Health logo

About LifeBridge Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

LifeBridge Health is a $2B, 13,000 team member healthcare system that Cares Bravely for over 1 million patients annually throughout Maryland. We are comprised of 5 main healthcare centers: Sinai Hospital, Northwest Hospital, Carroll Hospital, Levindale Hebrew Geriatric Center and Hospital, and Grace Medical Center as well as several specialty and primary care locations throughout Baltimore.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Baltimore, MD, US

Year founded

1988

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