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Psychiatric Associate Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

An RN with a diploma or associate's degree in nursing. Must have two years of recent nursing experience in an acute treatment unit or other psychiatric setting. Please note: Experience must have been ...

Psychiatric RN

Kingsport, TN ยท On-site

$70K - $78K/yr

An RN with a diploma or associate's degree in nursing. Must have two years of recent nursing experience in an acute treatment unit or other psychiatric setting. Please note: Experience must have been ...

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Psychiatric Associate information

See Tennessee salary details

$30.9K

$101.1K

$204.7K

How much do psychiatric associate jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for psychiatric associate in Tennessee is $101,114.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,900.00 and $119,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a psychiatric associate?

Psychiatric Associates are mental health professionals who assist in the care and treatment of patients with psychiatric disorders. They work under the supervision of psychiatrists, nurses, or other licensed clinicians in hospitals, mental health facilities, or outpatient settings. Their duties often include monitoring patient behavior, providing therapeutic support, assisting with daily activities, and helping to implement treatment plans. Psychiatric Associates play a vital role in ensuring patient safety and supporting recovery. They may also participate in crisis intervention and help facilitate group or individual therapy sessions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a psychiatric associate?

To thrive as a Psychiatric Associate, you need a background in psychology or mental health, strong observational skills, and often a relevant associate's or bachelor's degree. Familiarity with electronic health records (EHRs), crisis intervention techniques, and patient monitoring tools is typically required. Compassion, patience, and effective communication are critical soft skills for building rapport and managing challenging behaviors. These abilities ensure safe, supportive care for patients and contribute to effective interdisciplinary teamwork in mental health settings.

What are some of the common challenges psychiatric associates face when working with patients in acute care settings?

Psychiatric Associates in acute care settings often encounter fast-paced environments where patients may present with severe symptoms or crises. Managing unpredictable behaviors, maintaining safety, and building trust with patients who may be experiencing distress can be challenging. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams is essential to ensure consistent, compassionate care, but balancing documentation, patient interaction, and teamwork requires strong organizational skills. Despite these challenges, the role offers meaningful opportunities to make a difference in patients' recovery journeys.

What is the difference between Psychiatric Associate vs Psychiatric Technician?

AspectPsychiatric AssociatePsychiatric Technician
Required CredentialsAssociate degree in mental health or related fieldHigh school diploma or equivalent; some certifications
Work EnvironmentHospitals, mental health clinics, residential facilitiesInpatient units, psychiatric hospitals, residential care
Employer & Industry UsageHealthcare providers, mental health organizationsPsychiatric hospitals, mental health facilities
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for similar roles assisting in mental health careSimilar responsibilities but different certification requirements

Psychiatric Associates and Psychiatric Technicians both work in mental health settings, assisting with patient care. The main difference lies in their credentials: Psychiatric Associates typically hold an associate degree, while Psychiatric Technicians may only need a high school diploma and certification. Both roles are vital in hospitals and clinics, but the Associate role often involves more advanced responsibilities and education.

What are the most commonly searched types of Psychiatric jobs in Tennessee?

The most popular types of Psychiatric jobs in Tennessee are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Psychiatric Associate jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Psychiatric Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Psychiatric Associate job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,114 per year, or $48.6 per hour.

Psychiatry GME Associate Program Director

Parkridge Valley Hospital

Chattanooga, TN โ€ข On-site

Other

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Description

Specialization:
Psychiatry

Job Summary:

Parkridge Valley, which is part of Parkridge Health System, is seeking a Psychiatry Associate Program Director for the Summer of 2027 in preparation for our new Psychiatry GME  program.  

Qualified Candidates:

  • Must be board certified in psychiatry by ABPN
  • Must have or be able to obtain a Tennessee medical license
  • Must have a desire to teach
  • Must have strong administrative and team building skills
  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
  • 10 hours per month
  • Clinical time can be outpatient clinic or inpatient psychiatry 
  • Four residents per year for a total of 16 in program.

About TriStar Parkridge Health System:


Parkridge Medical Center, a 275 bed acute care facility in downtown Chattanooga, is an Accredited Chest Pain Center offering comprehensive healthcare services that include a 24-hour emergency department, cardiology, orthopedics, robotics and surgical services in addition to oncology services at Sarah Cannon Cancer Institute.
In East Ridge, Parkridge East Hospital provides 24-hour emergency medical services, obstetrical care, a Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, and advanced surgical services in robotics, orthopedics and complex gynecological procedures.
Parkridge Valley offers behavioral health and addictive disorder treatment services for children, adolescents and adults at 2 distinctive campuses.
Parkridge West Hospital, in nearby Jasper, Tennessee, provides 24-hour emergency medical services, outpatient laboratory, outpatient imaging and outpatient physical therapy.
About Chattanooga, TN:

Tucked between the mountains of Southeast Tennessee, along the beautiful Tennessee River, Chattanooga is one of Americaโ€™s most breathtaking, technologically progressive and recreationally attractive cities anywhere. There is a world of outdoor adventures, amazing restaurants, live events, art and world-class attractions awaiting. Known as the Scenic City of the South, Chattanooga is the 4th largest city in the state, located in SE TN at the junction of TN, GA and AL. Located in Hamilton County, Chattanooga is a mid-sized city that combines the best of large and small. Residents enjoy the friendly atmosphere, moderate housing costs, and easy commuting typically associated with smaller communities. At the same time, Chattanooga's cultural and recreational opportunities rival those in much larger metropolitan areas.

Parkridge Health System has 2 acute care hospitals, 2 behavioral health hospitals, and 6 free standing emergency departments.