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This bar graph shows the annual salary for Mental Health Technicians.
Data sourced from O*NET Online, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
This line chart shows the projected job growth over 10 years for Mental Health Technicians.
Projected Growth Rate in Job Openings by 2031: 11%
Data sourced from CareerOneStop, provided by the U.S. Department of Labor.
Encourage patients to develop work skills and to participate in social, recreational, or other therapeutic activities that enhance interpersonal skills or develop social relationships.
Provide nursing, psychiatric, or personal care to mentally ill, emotionally disturbed, or mentally retarded patients.
Restrain violent, potentially violent, or suicidal patients by verbal or physical means as required.
Becoming a Mental Health Technician (MHT), also known as a psychiatric technician, involves a combination of education, training, and personal qualities that ensure you can provide compassionate care to individuals with mental health conditions. If you're interested in pursuing this rewarding career, follow these essential steps to get started:
Before you commit to becoming an MHT, it's crucial to understand what the role entails. Mental Health Technicians work closely with patients suffering from various mental illnesses or developmental disabilities, often under the supervision of psychiatrists, psychologists, and nurses. Your duties may include:
To become a Mental Health Technician, you typically need to meet certain educational requirements:
Hands-on experience is highly valued in the field of mental health. To gain relevant experience:
Although not required in all states, obtaining certification can enhance your job prospects and credibility as a professional:
Advancing your education can open up more opportunities and potentially lead to higher pay or supervisory roles. You might consider:
As a Mental Health Technician, you'll need a set of soft skills to succeed:
Mental health care is an evolving field. To stay current:
With the necessary qualifications in hand, you're ready to find employment. Mental Health Technicians are needed in various settings:
Regularly check job boards, attend career fairs, and apply directly to healthcare facilities. Networking can also play a significant role in uncovering job opportunities.
By following these steps and committing to continuous learning and growth within the field, you'll be well on your way to establishing a fulfilling career as a Mental Health Technician.
To start your career as a mental health technician, you generally need a high school diploma or equivalent. However, many employers prefer candidates who have completed postsecondary education in a related field, such as psychology, sociology, or human services. An Associate's degree or certification in mental health technology can give you an edge in the job market.
While not always mandatory, obtaining a certification can enhance your qualifications. The American Association of Psychiatric Technicians (AAPT) offers four levels of certification based on education and work experience. Each level requires passing an exam.
Mental health technicians need a combination of soft skills and technical knowledge to excel in their roles:
Yes, there is a growing demand for mental health technicians. With increased awareness of mental health issues and the expansion of mental health services, technicians are needed to provide support in various settings. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects employment for psychiatric technicians and aides to grow over the coming years.
A typical career path for a mental health technician might include:
Mental health technicians can specialize in areas based on the population they serve or the setting they work in:
Mental health technicians can find employment in various settings:
To advance your career, consider:
Remember that continuous learning and hands-on experience are key components to advancing in the mental health field.