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Psychiatric Nursing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Psychiatric Nursing Assistant (PNA) Job ID: 89977 Location : Terrell, Texas Overview: We are seeking experienced Psychiatric Nursing Assistants (PNAs) to provide direct patient care within an ...

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Psychiatric Nursing information

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$34K

$111.4K

$225.5K

How much do psychiatric nursing jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for psychiatric nursing in the United States is $111,406.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,500.00 and $131,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is psychiatric nursing?

Psychiatric nursing is a specialized field of nursing that focuses on the care of individuals with mental health disorders, emotional challenges, and psychiatric illnesses. Psychiatric nurses work in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, mental health clinics, and community agencies, where they assess, diagnose, and treat patients experiencing mental health issues. They collaborate with other healthcare professionals to develop treatment plans, administer medications, provide therapeutic interventions, and support patients and their families through recovery. Their role is essential in promoting mental wellness, preventing relapse, and advocating for the needs of individuals with mental health conditions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a psychiatric nurse, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Psychiatric Nurse, you need a solid understanding of mental health disorders, psychiatric nursing practices, and a nursing degree with RN licensure, often supplemented by experience or certification in psychiatric-mental health nursing. Familiarity with electronic health records (EHRs), crisis intervention techniques, and psychiatric assessment tools is essential. Exceptional empathy, patience, de-escalation skills, and strong communication abilities are crucial soft skills for building trust with patients and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These skills and qualifications are vital for ensuring patient safety, effective treatment, and supportive therapeutic environments in mental health settings.

What are some of the common challenges psychiatric nurses face in their daily work, and how can they effectively manage them?

Psychiatric nurses often encounter challenges such as managing patients in acute distress, handling unpredictable behaviors, and maintaining personal resilience in emotionally charged situations. Effective management involves utilizing strong communication skills, de-escalation techniques, and teamwork with interdisciplinary professionals such as psychiatrists, social workers, and therapists. Regular debriefing sessions, ongoing professional development, and self-care practices are also essential to help nurses cope with stress and provide high-quality care.

What is the difference between Psychiatric Nursing vs Registered Nurse?

AspectPsychiatric NursingRegistered Nurse
CredentialsRN license, specialized training in mental healthRN license, general nursing education
Work EnvironmentPsychiatric hospitals, mental health clinics, inpatient unitsHospitals, clinics, community health settings
Employer & IndustryBehavioral health facilities, mental health organizationsHospitals, healthcare facilities across various specialties
Common Search/ComparisonPsychiatric Nursing vs Registered Nurse

Psychiatric Nursing is a specialized field within nursing focused on mental health care, requiring specific training and experience in psychiatric settings. Registered Nurses have a broader scope, working across various healthcare environments. While both roles require an RN license, psychiatric nurses have additional mental health expertise, making them distinct in their focus and work environment.

Is there a demand for psychiatric nurses?

Psychiatric nursing is a growing field due to increased awareness of mental health issues and expanded healthcare services. Employment opportunities are expected to rise faster than the average for all occupations, especially in hospitals, mental health clinics, and community health settings, requiring specialized skills and certifications such as psychiatric-mental health nursing licensure.

What can you do as a psychiatric nurse?

A psychiatric nurse provides mental health care to patients with mental, emotional, or behavioral disorders. They assess patient needs, administer medications, develop treatment plans, and offer counseling and support in various healthcare settings. Certification and strong communication skills are essential for this role.

Where do most psychiatric nurses work?

Most psychiatric nurses work in hospitals, mental health clinics, and residential treatment centers. They provide care for patients with mental health disorders, often working in inpatient or outpatient settings, and may require specialized training or certification in psychiatric nursing.

Where do psychiatric nurses get paid the most?

Psychiatric nurses tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a high cost of living and greater demand for mental health services, such as metropolitan areas and states with robust healthcare funding. Salaries can also vary based on experience, education level, and certifications like psychiatric-mental health nursing certification. Generally, urban hospitals and specialized mental health facilities offer the highest pay for psychiatric nurses.
More about Psychiatric Nursing jobs

What cities are hiring for Psychiatric Nursing jobs?

Cities with the most Psychiatric Nursing job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Psychiatric Nursing jobs?

The most popular types of Psychiatric Nursing jobs are:

What states have the most Psychiatric Nursing jobs?

States with the most job openings for Psychiatric Nursing jobs include:

Infographic showing various Psychiatric Nursing job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 54% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 27% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,406 per year, or $53.6 per hour.

Psychiatric Nursing Assistant

Alerion Healthcare

Terrell, TX โ€ข On-site

$27/hr

Temporary

Posted 12 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Provide direct care and support to hospitalized psychiatric patients

  • Assist patients with activities of daily living, monitor vital signs, and respond to emergencies

  • Enter and maintain patient information using computer systems and work collaboratively with healthcare professionals


Job description


Psychiatric Nursing AssistantWhy You Should Apply
  • Full-Time Opportunity: Six-month assignment with the potential for extension
  • Variety of Shifts: Multiple shift options available to accommodate different schedules
  • Meaningful Work: Provide direct care and support to individuals receiving inpatient psychiatric care
  • Professional Experience: Gain valuable experience working in a behavioral health setting with patients who may have dual diagnoses
  • Supportive Environment: Work as part of a healthcare team focused on patient safety, care, and well-being
Position Details
Position: Psychiatric Nursing Assistant
Location: Terrell, Texas
Rate: $27/ hour
Assignment Length: 6 months with option to extend
Schedule: Sunday through Saturday
Openings: 5 positions
Available Shifts
  • 6:45 AM - 3:15 PM
  • 2:45 PM - 11:15 PM
  • 11:00 PM - 7:00 AM

A 30-minute unpaid meal break is provided during each shift.
Overtime must be approved in advance.
Position Overview
We are seeking experienced Psychiatric Nursing Assistants to provide direct patient care in an inpatient behavioral health setting. In this role, you will work under the supervision of nursing leadership to support patients with their daily care needs while helping maintain a safe, structured, and therapeutic environment.
This is an excellent opportunity for a Psychiatric Mental Health Technician, Psychiatric Aide, or similar behavioral health professional who enjoys working directly with patients and wants to make a meaningful difference in their care.
Responsibilities
  • Provide direct care and support to hospitalized psychiatric patients
  • Assist patients with activities of daily living
  • Monitor and record vital signs
  • Monitor patients for safety and respond appropriately to emergencies
  • Enter and maintain patient information using computer systems
  • Follow established procedures and standards related to patient care and safety
  • Work collaboratively with nursing and other healthcare professionals
  • Maintain a professional and respectful environment for patients and staff
Requirements
  • Proven experience as a Psychiatric Mental Health Technician, Psychiatric Aide, Psychiatric Nursing Assistant, or similar behavioral health role
  • Comfortable working in a mental health facility with patients who may have dual diagnoses
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills
  • Ability to work effectively as part of a healthcare team
  • Ability to follow established policies, procedures, and patient safety standards
  • Willingness to complete all required training and onboarding requirements
Required Certification
  • Current American Heart Association BLS certification is required
  • BLS certification must remain current throughout the assignment

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Meet Your Recruiter
Mallory Nelson
About Terrell, TX
Unlock your next career opportunity in the vibrant town of Terrell, Texas! Nestled in Kaufman County, Terrell boasts a charming small-town atmosphere with big city amenities. From the historic Downtown Terrell to the nearby Tanger Outlets for shopping enthusiasts, there is something for everyone in this thriving community. Explore the Texas Musicians Museum, catch a show at the Terrell Performing Arts Center, or enjoy the local Tex-Mex cuisine that will tantalize your taste buds. With easy access to Dallas just a short drive away, endless growth opportunities await job seekers in Terrell. Browse our job listings today and take the first step towards a rewarding career in this enchanting region!