Psychiatric Technicians work as an integral member of an interdisciplinary team with otherhealth professionals, such as physicians, psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers,registered nurses, dieticians, music and rehabilitation therapists. They provide care and treatment to patients with mental and/or intellectual disabilities. Their primary goal is to support each individual in achieving their highest level of independence and functioning. In forensic settings, Psychiatric Technicians are also responsible for maintaining the safety and security of the patients they serve.
As a Psychiatric Technician, you have many career opportunities, both full and part-time on the Central Coast, as well as state-wide. Opportunities for upward mobility and advancement within the profession are available.
The Psychiatric Technician Program is a one-year program and new classes start three times per year (January, May and September).
The Psychiatric Technician Program currently admits 30 qualified applicants to each class.
During the school year, if our hospital budget permits, you may work at the Department of State Hospitals-Atascadero half-time (20 hours per week) as a Psychiatric Technician Trainee and earn approximately $1300/month. You will be assigned to a specific unit. Your working hours will depend on the needs of your unit, but will generally be in the evenings a few days per week and usually at least one weekend day.
If you choose to work while going to school, you are eligible for insurance benefits effective on the date appointed to half-time employment. Eligibility to enroll is within 60 days from appointment.
Salaries for Psychiatric technicians vary greatly depending on the employing agency. Psychiatric Technicians working for state hospitals, developmental centers and prisons have a starting salary of approximately $52,000 annually. County and private and/or non-profitagencies may provide lower salaries, but a greater variety of employment opportunities.
Psychiatric Technicians are recognized throughout the state of California. Most use their training in state hospitals, developmental centers and/or prisons. Many others work in county facilities, private institutions, special education programs and community psychiatric and substance abuse treatment facilities.
Applications are accepted year-round. Three times each year informational meetings are held at the Department of State Hospitals-Atascadero for the public to provide the public with information about the program and provide opportunity for individuals to ask questions.
Please call the Department of State Hospitals-Atascadero/Cuesta College Psychiatric Technician Program Office at (805) 468-3175 or e-mail ashptprogram@dsh.ca.gov for more information or to obtain an application packet.
July 4, 2024
July 10, 2024
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