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Psychiatric Associate Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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Psychiatric Associate information

See Virginia salary details

$33.7K

$110.5K

$223.6K

How much do psychiatric associate jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for psychiatric associate in Virginia is $110,451.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,800.00 and $130,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Psychiatric jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Psychiatric jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Psychiatric Associate jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Psychiatric Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Psychiatric Associate job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $110,451 per year, or $53.1 per hour.

$33.67/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago


Children's Hospital Of The King's Daughters rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 29 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

348th of 1,059 rated hospitals


Job description

  • GENERAL SUMMARY
    • Plans, provides, and monitors individualized psychiatric and medical nursing care in response to specific patient needs. Provides developmentally appropriate psychosocial and clinical care respective to the assigned patient population. Reports to the Director of Patient Care Services – Critical Care.
  • ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
    • Plans, provides, and monitors individualized psychiatric and medical nursing care following established policies, procedures, and regulations.
    • Performs therapeutic nursing interventions as established by individualized plan of care for the preschool, school age or adolescent patient and his/her family.
    • Provides developmentally appropriate psychosocial and clinical care.
    • Communicates and collaborates effectively with all members of the healthcare team.
    • Performs other duties as assigned.
    • Core competencies:
      • Adept in conflict resolution
      • Skilled in intake interviewing
      • Culturally sensitive expertise in crisis intervention techniques
      • Exceptional interpersonal communication
      • Psychiatric population familiarity
      • Psychotropic medication knowledge
      • Understands and evaluates data related to psychiatric emergency: Vital signs/LOC Glasgow coma scale; Lab tests (routine bloodwork, urine toxicology screen)
      • Demonstrated understanding of the Emergency Mental Health Nurse and their role within the ED
      • Demonstrated ability to provide a safe environment and interventions to manage alterations in mental/behavioral health and ensure patient and staff safety
  • LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS
    • Current Virginia state license as a Registered Nurse or Registered Nurse holding a valid Compact State license. 
    • CPR Training required and/or must be obtained within 45 days of hire.
    • PALS preferred.
    • RN certification preferred.
  • MINIMUM EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS
    • Must have an Associates in Nursing/Diploma in Nursing with applicable experience, however a BSN is preferred.
    • Experience in both pediatric medical and psychiatric settings preferred.
    • Pediatric experience preferred. 
  • WORKING CONDITIONS
    • Expected to work in a patient care environment with minimal exposure to environmental hazards such as, but not limited to, excessive noise, dust, or extremes in temperatures. Exposure to communicable diseases and moderately adverse working conditions due to the need to perform certain patient care activities can be expected.
  • PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
    • Click here to view physical requirements. 

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