What Is a Psychiatric Aide and How to Become One
What Is the Job of a Psychiatric Aide?
As a psychiatric aide, you assist patients with routine mental health care and daily living activities in hospitals, mental health, or treatment facilities. The patients you work with may have mental impairments or have emotional health issues. You provide care under the direction of psychiatrists, psychologists, nurses, medical doctors, and social workers. Your duties include following the treatment plan for each patient, assisting with personal care, such as bathing or grooming, and monitoring patient behavior and reporting to the psychiatric nurse or other professionals. Your responsibilities vary depending on the facility in which you work; there are vast differences between a nursing home and a secure mental health facility.
How Can I Get a Job as a Psychiatric Aide?
Psychiatric aide jobs are typically entry-level positions requiring a high school diploma or GED certificate. Some employers require a bachelor’s degree and previous experience working in the mental health field, but most psychiatric aides can receive on-the-job training. Even if continued education and training is not mandatory, it is often beneficial and can help you advance in the field. Some states and employers require passing a physical exam and a criminal background check. Additional qualifications include excellent written and verbal communication skills, the willingness to learn while on the job, the ability to stay calm in stressful situations, show compassion, and professionalism.
