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Psychiatric Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Mary Greeley Medical Center

PSYCHIATRIC ASST P

Ames, IA · On-site

* Position Summary * Provides direct patient care, supports treatment planning, facilitates case coordination, and assists with discharge planning and daily therapeutic activities under the general ...

Mary Greeley Medical Center

PSYCHIATRIC ASST P

Ames, IA · On-site

* Position Summary * Provides direct patient care, supports treatment planning, facilitates case coordination, and assists with discharge planning and daily therapeutic activities under the general ...

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Psychiatric Assistant information

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$11

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How much do psychiatric assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for psychiatric assistant in the United States is $22.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $25.96 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.
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Psychiatric Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Psychiatric Assistant job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 84% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,304 per year, or $22.3 per hour.
Psychiatric Assistant - Full time - Day shift

Psychiatric Assistant - Full time - Day shift

Meritus Health

Hagerstown, MD • On-site

$20 - $26/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago

Meritus Health rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 39 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

483rd of 877 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Job Summary
Under the supervision of a licensed registered nurse and/or licensed practical nurse, the Psychiatric Assistant performs a wide range of nursing care activities and related services to support the personal and psychosocial needs of patients. The role focuses on maintaining a safe, therapeutic environment while delivering compassionate care. Competency in age-specific care, Basic Life Support (BLS), and Violence Prevention is required.
Essential Responsibilities
  • Provide personal care and comfort to patients, including proactive rounding every 15 minutes and responding to requests from patients, nurses, physicians, and families
  • Assist with patient admissions and discharges, including searches, recording valuables, and taking vital signs
  • Document all patient care activities in the electronic medical record, including procedures, teaching, vital signs, intake/output, and rounding
  • Provide care for patients under constant observation, including documentation in restraint flow sheets and securing personal belongings
  • Assist with meal safety, monitor silverware, and help patients complete menus
  • Perform clerical duties such as entering work orders, ordering supplies, providing meal relief, entering lab orders, using the paging system, and operating phones
  • Conduct environmental safety rounds, checking for locked doors, fire extinguisher status, department cleanliness, and removal of unsafe items

Minimum Qualifications
Education
  • High school diploma or equivalent preferred
  • Completion of a Nursing Assistant Program required

Experience
  • Experience in a healthcare setting preferred

Licensure/Certification
  • Maryland Nursing Assistant certification required
  • BLS (CPR) certification in compliance with policy required

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities
  • Strong communication skills
  • Ability to relate effectively to individuals from diverse backgrounds

Caring for Our TeamWe offer a comprehensive benefits package to support our employees' well-being and professional growth. Benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance available starting the 1st of the month following date of hire, along with life insurance, & short and long-term disability coverage. Paid Time Off begins accruing from day one, and we also provide a 401k plan, an education assistance program, and an employee assistance program. Additionally, employees working evening, night, or weekend shifts may be eligible for a shift differential, adding even more value to your role.
Happy to Help
At Meritus, we believe in a collaborative and caring work environment. Interactions are an opportunity to learn, listen and to be there for one another. Therefore, we provide warm welcomes, hospitality-driven closures, and are always Happy to Help.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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