Becoming a Mental Health Technician
Mental health technicians are healthcare professionals that assist patients who struggle with mental health or substance use disorders. They provide support to doctors and other members of the treatment team, aiding patients in managing symptoms and improving quality of life.
Mental health technician careers offer rewarding work and long-term fulfillment to those who love people. Working directly with patients provides an intimate opportunity to witness their growth and development, which can be highly motivating.
The minimum qualifications for this job are either a high school diploma or GED certificate, although some jobs require an associate degree in psychology or related field, or experience as a certified nursing assistant (CNA). With additional training and certifications come more job prospects, higher salaries, and better benefits packages.
As a mental health technician, you provide care to individuals with mental illness or developmental disabilities. Your duties may include monitoring vital signs, reporting to doctors or other medical professionals, participating in rehabilitation and treatment programs, aiding with personal hygiene issues, administering oral or injectable medications and more.
Your duties also include observing patients, offering emotional support and creating reports about their progress. You must demonstrate compassion and empathy toward your patients while remaining professional even during challenging situations.
Though most states do not require psychiatric technicians to be licensed, having both CPR and BLS certificates can be beneficial. These credentials demonstrate your confidence, skill set, and readiness in handling emergency scenarios.
