When it comes to vocational training, it's important to choose a career path that aligns with your interests and goals. Two popular options in the healthcare field are becoming a chiropractic assistant or a psychiatric technician. While both roles involve working with patients and assisting healthcare professionals, there are some key differences to consider. In this blog post, we will explore what it means to be a chiropractic assistant and a psychiatric technician, the differences between the two, and the education and training required for each role. We will also discuss the career outlook and salary potential for both professions. Let's dive in!

What is a Chiropractic Assistant and Psychiatric Technician?

Chiropractic Assistant: A chiropractic assistant is a healthcare professional who works alongside chiropractors to help provide patient care. They perform a variety of tasks, including scheduling appointments, managing patient records, assisting with therapy sessions, and providing administrative support. Chiropractic assistants often work in chiropractic offices or clinics and have direct contact with patients on a daily basis.

Psychiatric Technician: A psychiatric technician, on the other hand, works in mental health facilities or hospitals, assisting psychiatrists and other mental health professionals in providing care to patients with mental illnesses or disorders. They play a crucial role in helping patients with daily activities, monitoring their behavior and progress, and administering medications as prescribed. Psychiatric technicians also provide emotional support to patients and help create a safe and therapeutic environment.

Difference between a Chiropractic Assistant and Psychiatric Technician

While both chiropractic assistants and psychiatric technicians work in the healthcare field and provide care to patients, there are some key differences between the two roles. These include:

Job Setting: Chiropractic assistants primarily work in chiropractic offices or clinics, while psychiatric technicians work in mental health facilities or hospitals.

Patient Population: Chiropractic assistants mainly work with patients who require chiropractic care for musculoskeletal issues, such as back or neck pain. Psychiatric technicians, on the other hand, work with patients who have mental illnesses or disorders, such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder.

Scope of Practice: Chiropractic assistants primarily provide administrative support and assist with therapy sessions under the supervision of a chiropractor. Psychiatric technicians have a broader scope of practice and may assist with medication administration, patient assessment, and crisis intervention.

Treatment Approach: Chiropractic care focuses on the musculoskeletal system and uses manual techniques, such as spinal adjustments, to alleviate pain and improve mobility. Psychiatric care, on the other hand, involves a combination of therapy, medication, and other interventions to address mental health issues.

Chiropractic Assistant vs Psychiatric Technician: Job Description

Chiropractic Assistant: The job description of a chiropractic assistant includes a variety of administrative and clinical tasks. Some of the responsibilities may include:

• Scheduling appointments for patients and managing the chiropractor's calendar
• Greeting and checking in patients, collecting medical history information
• Assisting with therapy sessions, such as applying heat or ice packs, performing ultrasound therapy, or teaching exercises
• Managing patient records and ensuring confidentiality
• Billing and insurance coding
• Providing excellent customer service and addressing patient inquiries or concerns

Psychiatric Technician: Psychiatric technicians have a more hands-on role in assisting with patient care. Some of their job responsibilities may include:

• Assisting with patient intake and admission procedures
• Monitoring patient behavior and reporting any changes or concerns to the healthcare team
• Administering medications as prescribed and monitoring their effects
• Assisting with group therapy sessions or recreational activities
• Providing emotional support and therapeutic communication to patients
• Assisting with crisis intervention and de-escalation techniques when necessary

Chiropractic Assistant vs Psychiatric Technician: Education and Training

Chiropractic Assistant: The education and training required to become a chiropractic assistant can vary depending on the state and employer. Some chiropractic offices may hire individuals with a high school diploma or equivalent and provide on-the-job training. However, many employers prefer candidates who have completed a formal training program or have an associate's degree in chiropractic assisting. These programs generally cover topics such as anatomy, physiology, chiropractic techniques, medical terminology, and office administration.

Psychiatric Technician: To become a psychiatric technician, one typically needs to complete a formal training program. These programs can be found at community colleges, vocational schools, or healthcare training institutions. The length of the program can vary, but it often takes around one year to complete. The curriculum usually includes courses in psychology, psychopathology, pharmacology, therapeutic techniques, and patient care skills. After completing the program, aspiring psychiatric technicians may need to pass a state certification exam to practice.

Chiropractic Assistant vs Psychiatric Technician: Career Outlook and Salary

Chiropractic Assistant: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the employment of chiropractic assistants is projected to grow 9 percent from 2020 to 2030, which is faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is attributed to the increasing demand for chiropractic care as more people seek alternative and holistic treatments. The median annual wage for chiropractic assistants was $34,000 in May 2020, with the highest 10 percent earning more than $49,000.

Psychiatric Technician: The BLS projects that the employment of psychiatric technicians will grow 5 percent from 2020 to 2030, which is about as fast as the average for all occupations. This growth is driven by the increasing need for mental health services and the expansion of healthcare facilities. The median annual wage for psychiatric technicians was $36,070 in May 2020, with the highest 10 percent earning more than $63,140.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a career as a chiropractic assistant or a psychiatric technician can be a rewarding choice for individuals interested in healthcare and helping others. While both professions involve working with patients and assisting healthcare professionals, they differ in terms of the job setting, patient population, and scope of practice. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on your interests, career goals, and the type of healthcare environment you prefer. Consider researching further and speaking with professionals in each field to make an informed decision that aligns with your passion and strengths.

Dreambound has strategically placed its educational programs in various locations, making it easy for aspiring individuals to access valuable opportunities. For a thorough insight into the dynamic realms of these two vocations, we encourage you to delve into more detailed information by visiting:

• Chiropractic Assistant in Colorado
• Psychiatric Technician in Colorado
• Chiropractic Assistant classes near you
• Psychiatric Technician classes near you