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Psychiatric Tech Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Psych Tech III

Petersburg, VA · On-site

$38K - $56K/yr

... psychiatric inpatient facility located in Petersburg, Virginia. CSH has proudly been serving ... Tech providing direct care to individuals with mental illness, substance abuse issues, and/or ...

Psychiatrist Full Time

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$300 - $450/hr

Conduct comprehensive psychiatric evaluations * Develop individualized, evidence-based treatment ... By combining technology, research, and exceptional clinical support, we are redefining what ...

Showing results 21-40

Psychiatric Tech information

See Virginia salary details

$13

$24

$42

How much do psychiatric tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for psychiatric tech in Virginia is $24.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.44 and $32.88 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 Virginia are hiring for Psychiatric Tech jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Psychiatric Tech job openings:

Infographic showing various Psychiatric Tech job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 11% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,645 per year, or $24.8 per hour.

Registered Nurse (RN) EmPATH Psychiatric Observation Nights

Inova

Falls Church, VA • On-site

$1.9K - $2.6K/wk

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Re-posted 2 days ago


Inova Health System rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 261 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

231st of 898 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Inova Fairfax Hospital is currently seeking a passionate and dedicated Registered Nurse to join our EmPATH Psychiatric Observation Unit on the night shift. This is a full-time position with a 3 x 12-hour shift schedule (7:00 pm to 7:30 am). We welcome acute care Registered Nurses who are enthusiastic about working with the psychiatric patient population and are eager to make a positive impact in this specialty.

Inova is consistently ranked a national healthcare leader in safety, quality and patient experience. We are also proud to be consistently recognized as a top employer in both the D.C. metro area and the nation. 

Featured Benefits:

  • Committed to Team Member Health: offering medical, dental and vision coverage, and a robust team member wellness program.
  • Retirement: Inova matches the first 5% of eligible contributions - starting on your first day.
  • Tuition and Student Loan Assistance: offering up to $5,250 per year in education assistance and up to $10,000 for student loans.
  • Mental Health Support: offering all Inova team members, their spouses/partners, and their children 25 mental health coaching or therapy sessions, per person, per year, at no cost.

At Inova Fairfax Hospital, our inpatient units are designed to provide clients with safety, structure, and stabilization. Our interdisciplinary team works together to ensure the best possible care for our patients. Therapeutic group activities, including creative art therapy, are an integral part of our patient-centered approach. The average nurse-to-patient ratio is 6:1, ensuring that you can provide personalized care to those who need it most.

The Registered Nurse provides knowledgeable and caring clinical practice and care coordination through an understanding of patients, families, nurses and healthcare delivery teams. Consistently provides safe and therapeutic care in a holistic and systematic way while incorporating differences into the provision of care and conducting all patient care in a patient/family centered manner. Integrates knowledge, skills and experiences to meet the needs of patients and families throughout the continuum, to include patient and family education. Communicates effectively and works cooperatively with others while having respect for and an understanding of other clinical disciplines. Determines processes for delivery of care from direct patient/family communication, technology and other healthcare team member collaboration.

Job Responsibilities:

  • Performs biopsychosocial assessments on patients 
  • Provides medications and treatments to patients     
  • Serves as a resource for patients and families regarding medical questions 
  • Develops plan of care
  • Works with the interdisciplinary team to assist adult patient to meet treatment goals 
  • Reports to the Clinical Director 

*Team members may be required to float to Behavioral Health Emergency Department PODs*

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Experience Required: 1 year of Registered Nurse clinical experience
  • Education: BSN from an accredited school of nursing. If RN has an Associates Degree (ADN); must complete BSN within 5 years of start date.
  • Certification: BLS certification required, ACLS within 6 months of hire.
  • Licensure - Licensed as a Registered Nurse in the state of employment.
  • Special Skills - Proficient in English. Strong verbal and written communication skills. Exceptional interpersonal skills and the ability to display a caring demeanor toward others. Proficient computer skills required.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Psychiatric Emergency Department experience
  • Previous Psychiatric nursing experience - inpatient or ambulatory

We are Inova, Northern Virginia's leading nonprofit healthcare provider. Every day, our 26,000+ team members provide world-class healthcare to the communities we serve. Our people are the reason we're a national leader in healthcare safety, quality and patient experience. And from best-in-class facilities to professional development opportunities, we support them at every step. At Inova, we're constantly striving to be ever better - to shape a more compassionate future for healthcare. 

Inova Health System is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity or expression, marital status, national or ethnic origin, political affiliation, pregnancy (including childbirth, pregnancy-related conditions and lactation), race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristics protected by law.


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