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Psychiatric Tech Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Psych Tech PRN

Rosenberg, TX · On-site

$16.59 - $18.43/hr

Psych Tech PRN - Crisis Center Night Shift Role Responsibilities Under the direction/supervision of ... In addition, psychiatric technicians are required to prepare food for the patients and perform ...

Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner

Dallas, TX · On-site

$119K - $153K/yr

We have a need for an experienced Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner just outside Dallas. *Join a ... Utilize the latest technology to diagnose and treat the full spectrum of mental illness and co ...

Showing results 21-40

Psychiatric Tech information

See Texas salary details

$12

$23

$39

How much do psychiatric tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for psychiatric tech in Texas is $23.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.43 and $30.91 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a psychiatric tech?

Psychiatric techs, or psychiatric technicians, are healthcare professionals who assist in the care and treatment of individuals with mental health or developmental disorders. They work under the supervision of psychiatrists, psychologists, or registered nurses in settings like hospitals, mental health facilities, and residential care centers. Their responsibilities include monitoring patient behavior, assisting with daily living activities, administering medications, and supporting therapeutic activities. Psychiatric techs play a vital role in ensuring the safety and well-being of patients, as well as helping them work toward recovery and improved quality of life.

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

To thrive as a Psychiatric Tech, you need knowledge of mental health disorders, basic healthcare procedures, and usually a certificate or associate degree in psychiatric or mental health technology. Familiarity with patient monitoring systems, de-escalation techniques, and documentation tools is typically required. Compassion, patience, and strong interpersonal skills help in building trust and effectively supporting patients in challenging situations. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining patient safety, delivering quality care, and fostering a therapeutic environment.

What are some common challenges psychiatric technicians face when working with patients, and how can they be addressed?

Psychiatric Technicians often encounter challenges such as managing unpredictable patient behaviors, handling emotional stress, and maintaining clear boundaries. Addressing these issues typically involves consistent use of de-escalation techniques, strong communication skills, and teamwork with mental health professionals. Regular training, support from supervisors, and self-care practices also help Psychiatric Technicians maintain their well-being and effectiveness on the job.

What is the difference between Psychiatric Tech vs Mental Health Technician?

AspectPsychiatric TechMental Health Technician
CertificationsCPR, First Aid, sometimes state-specific certificationsCPR, First Aid, similar certifications
Work EnvironmentHospitals, psychiatric facilities, mental health clinicsHospitals, community mental health centers, residential facilities
Job DutiesAssist with patient care, monitor behavior, support treatment plansAssist with patient activities, observe and report patient progress, support therapy sessions

Both Psychiatric Techs and Mental Health Technicians work in mental health settings, providing patient support and monitoring. While their roles are similar, Psychiatric Techs often focus more on direct patient care in psychiatric hospitals, whereas Mental Health Technicians may work in broader community settings. Both roles require similar certifications and are vital in mental health treatment teams.

How do I get certified as a psychiatric tech?

To become a certified psychiatric tech, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, complete a state-approved training program, and pass a certification exam such as the Certified Psychiatric Technician (CPT) exam offered by the National Board for Certification of Psychiatric Technicians (NBPCT). Some states may have additional requirements or licensing procedures.

How to work as a psychiatric tech in a psych ward?

To work as a psychiatric tech in a psych ward, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may require certification such as CPR and first aid. The role involves assisting with patient care, monitoring patients, and supporting clinical staff, often requiring strong communication skills and the ability to handle challenging situations. On-the-job training is common, and a compassionate, patient-focused attitude is essential for success in this environment.

What cities in Texas are hiring for Psychiatric Tech jobs?

Cities in Texas with the most Psychiatric Tech job openings:

Infographic showing various Psychiatric Tech job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 10% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,531 per year, or $23.3 per hour.

Psychiatric Technician (Psych Tech) - Nights

Texas Children's Hospital

Houston, TX • On-site

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago


Texas Children's Hospital rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 177 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

86th of 1,065 rated hospitals


Job description


We are searching for a Psychiatric Technician for our West Campus- someone who works well in a fast-paced setting. In this position, you will ensure the safety of patients at risk of harm to self or others, under the direction and supervision of the Registered Nurse (RN) and Behavioral Health Support Team. Care will be delivered incorporating Family Centered Care in a cost-effective manner and is developmental and age-appropriate for the patient population.
Nights 11p-7a (full time only)
Think you've got what it takes?
Qualifications
• HS Diploma or GED Required
• 1 Year experience with Behavioral Health in an inpatient or outpatient setting required
• BLS Certification (American Heart Associate Only) required
• Bachelor's Degree in Psychology, Sociology, or other related degree preferred
• Pediatric Behavioral Health experience preferred
• Crisis Prevention certification preferred
As part of our commitment to maintaining a safe and healthy workplace, all successful candidates will be required to undergo respiratory fit testing in compliance with occupational health and safety standards.
Responsibilities
• Provide direct continual observation of patients requiring special precautions to ensure a safe environment, risk of harm to self and others during their hospital stay
• Remain with the assigned patient at all times during their assigned shift
• Perform direct observation of the patient and monitors for at-risk behavior
• Monitor for sharps and other contraband that can cause harm to patient and others
• Assist the nurse in providing an environment conducive to safety for patients, visitors, and employees
• Assist in implementation of individualized patient care plan
• Promote healthy coping through verbal support and implementation of behavior plan by the health care team
• Assist the patient care team through observation and communication about patients' status
• Maintain accountability for development of self
• Demonstrate commitment to team, flexibility, professional interpersonal communication, and customer service skills
About Us
Texas Children's Hospital West Campus is Houston's first community hospital designed, built and equipped exclusively for children in one of the city's most rapidly growing communities in the area from Sugar Land to Bryan-College Station, Texas. Located at I-10 and Barker Cypress, our 515,007-square-foot hospital houses the only 24/7 pediatric emergency room in the Greater West Houston area, four operating rooms, 16-bed pediatric intensive care unit, 46 acute care beds, advanced imaging services including MRI and CT scans, a neurophysiology sleep lab, a pathology lab and a full-scale pharmacy.
To join our community of 15,000+ dedicated team members, visit texaschildrenspeople.org for career opportunities.
Texas Children's is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All applicants and employees are considered and evaluated for positions at Texas Children's without regard to mental or physical disability, race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, genetic information, military or veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status or any other protected Federal, State/Province or Local status unrelated to the performance of the work involved.

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