How to become a psychiatric technician

How to become a Psychiatric Technician

Becoming a psychiatric technician involves a combination of education, training, and licensure. Here are the general steps you would need to take:

• Education: Most psychiatric technician positions require at least a high school diploma or equivalent. However, some employers may prefer candidates with post-secondary education, such as a certificate or associate degree in psychiatric technology or a related field.
• Training Programs: Look for accredited psychiatric technology programs offered by community colleges, vocational schools, or technical institutes. These programs provide specialized training in areas such as mental health disorders, therapeutic techniques, and patient care.
• Clinical Experience: Many programs include a clinical or hands-on component where you'll gain practical experience working with patients in a mental health setting. This experience is crucial for developing the skills needed to work effectively as a psychiatric technician.
• Licensing: In some states, psychiatric technicians are required to be licensed or certified. Licensing requirements vary by state, but they often involve passing an exam after completing an accredited training program. Check with your state's licensing board to understand the specific requirements in your area.
• Certification: While certification might not be mandatory in all states, it can enhance your job prospects and demonstrate your competency as a psychiatric technician (see below).
• Apply for Jobs: Once you have completed your education, training, and any required licensing or certification, you can start applying for psychiatric technician positions at hospitals, psychiatric facilities, residential treatment centers, and other mental health settings.
• Continuing Education: Mental health care is a dynamic field, and it's important to stay updated on the latest techniques and practices. Consider participating in workshops, seminars, and continuing education courses to enhance your skills and knowledge.
• Skills and Traits: In addition to formal education and training, having certain skills and traits can make you a successful psychiatric technician. These include strong communication skills, empathy, patience, and the ability to work effectively in a team.

Certifications
Certification requirements and options can vary by state and employer. Some states may have their own certification programs or requirements for psychiatric technicians. Before pursuing a specific certification, it's a good idea to research the options available in your area and determine which certification aligns best with your career goals and the requirements of potential employers.

Here are some of the recognized certifications for psychiatric technicians:

• Certified Psychiatric Technician (CPT): Offered by the American Association of Psychiatric Technicians (AAPT), the CPT certification is widely recognized in the field of psychiatric technology. To be eligible for the exam, candidates usually need to have completed an accredited psychiatric technician training program. The CPT exam covers various topics related to mental health and patient care.
• National Association of Psychiatric Health Systems Certification (NAPHS-Certified): This certification is offered by the National Association of Psychiatric Health Systems (NAPHS) and is designed for individuals working in behavioral health care settings. The NAPHS certification demonstrates proficiency in providing care for individuals with mental health disorders.
• Certification in Therapeutic Options (CTO): Some employers or facilities may require psychiatric technicians to undergo training and certification in therapeutic interventions and de-escalation techniques. This certification focuses on safe and effective strategies for managing challenging behaviors in a mental health care setting.
• Crisis Prevention Institute (CPI) Certification: While not specific to psychiatric technicians, CPI certification provides training in crisis prevention and intervention techniques. It can be beneficial for those working in mental health settings to effectively manage potentially volatile situations.