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Psych techs play an important role in mental health care. They work closely with patients and provide support and assistance with their daily activities.
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Introduction
A psych tech is a professional who provides support and care to patients with mental health conditions in hospitals and other mental health facilities. While the job duties of a psych tech vary depending on the specific facility in which they work, there are some common duties that all psych techs perform.
Psych techs typically work under the supervision of a licensed psychiatrist or psychologist, and they may also work with social workers, nurses, and other mental health professionals. In some cases, psych techs may also provide direct care to patients, such as assisting with meals or providing transportation.
The specific duties of a psych tech vary depending on the facility in which they work, but common duties include:
-Observing and documenting patient behavior
-Participating in treatment planning
-Leading therapy groups
-Providing support to patients and families
-Maintaining patient records
-Assisting with discharged planning
Duties of a Psych Tech
As a psych tech, you will be responsible for a range of duties. You will provide support to patients who have mental health conditions. You will also be responsible for maintaining records and providing case management services. In addition, you will also need to provide support to families of patients.
Assisting with patient care
Psychiatric technicians and aides work under the supervision of psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and other mental health professionals. They typically do the following:
Assist with patient care
Psychiatric technicians and aides often work directly with patients. They may help patients eat, bathe, dress, use the toilet, or move around. In addition, they talk with patients about their concerns and keep track of their progress.
Lead recreational activities
Leading recreational activities helps patients recover from or adjust to their mental illness. These activities may include arts and crafts, dancing, sports, games, or other social activities. Psychiatric technicians and aides also teach patients how to deal with stress in positive ways.
Helping to transport patients
Psych techs help to transport patients to and from different areas of the hospital, including but not limited to: X-ray, CT scan, MRI, surgery, and/or physical therapy. Techs also document patient behaviors and vital signs.
Maintaining patient records
A psych tech’s duties include maintaining patient records. This involves updating the records with changes in the patients’ status, such as their weight, blood pressure, and medications. The psych tech may also be responsible for ordering supplies and managing the medication inventory.
Assisting with therapy sessions
Psychiatric technicians typically do the following:
* Assist patients with their activities of daily living, such as bathing, eating, and grooming
* Help patients set and achieve goals, such as learning new coping skills
* Work with patients individually or in group settings to help them understand and deal with their illness
* Monitor patients’ vital signs and report changes to nursing staff
* Observe patients’ behavior for changes that may indicate a deteriorating mental state
* Collaborate with other members of the treatment team, including psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and psychiatric nurses
Education and Training
Most psych techs have at least an associate’s degree in psychology, although a bachelor’s degree is preferred. Many programs also require that you complete an internship or other fieldwork experience. Some states have certification or licensure requirements for psych techs.
Certification
In order to become a certified psych tech, you must first complete an accredited education program. This can be a two-year associate’s degree program or a four-year bachelor’s degree program. Once you have completed your educational requirements, you must then pass the certified psych tech exam administered by the American Psychological Association.
Associate’s degree
Most psych techs have an associate’s degree in psychology or a related field. Some have a bachelor’s degree, while others may have just completed on-the-job training. In most states, psych techs must be licensed by the state in which they practice.
Salary and Job Outlook
Psych techs are in high demand as the mental health field continues to grow. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for a psych tech is $31,610 per year, or $15.22 per hour. The job outlook for psych techs is positive, with a projected growth rate of 8% from 2018-2028.
Conclusion
A psych tech is an important member of the mental health team. They work closely with patients to provide support and assistance in their recovery. Psych techs are also responsible for maintaining a safe and therapeutic environment for both patients and staff. If you are interested in a career in mental health, consider becoming a psych tech.
