CNA vs Psychiatric Technician (2024)
If you’re considering a healthcare career, choosing between becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) or a Psychiatric Technician can be a pivotal decision. Both roles provide direct patient care and are essential to the healthcare system, but they differ significantly in focus, training requirements, and career outlook. This guide will help you understand these differences to make an informed decision.
Key Points:
- CNAs provide basic patient care, while Psychiatric Technicians focus on mental health support and counseling.
- Both roles are in demand, but Psychiatric Technicians may have more job opportunities in mental health facilities and hospitals.
- CNAs require a state-approved training program and can be completed in more or less 4 weeks, while Psychiatric Technicians need a postsecondary certificate or associate's degree which can last for 2 years and above.
CNA Career Outlook
- Job Growth: 4% growth from 2023 to 2033, driven by aging populations and long-term care needs.
- Median Salary: $38,200 annually (May 2023, BLS).
- Top Employers: Nursing care facilities, hospitals, and home healthcare agencies.
Psychiatric Technician Career Outlook
- Job Growth: 17% growth from 2022 to 2032, reflecting the increased emphasis on mental health care.
- Median Salary: $39,160 annually (May 2023, BLS).
- Top Employers: Psychiatric hospitals, residential treatment centers, and mental health facilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the role of a technician in psychiatric nursing?
Psychiatric technicians help patients who need nursing. They help with daily tasks like eating and dressing. They also assist with medication and provide education and support for their treatment plan.
What is the highest salary for a psychiatric technician?
The top earnings for a psychiatric technician can reach up to $59,990 according to the BLS. These are the psychiatric technicians falling on the 90th percentile. The average or median salary is around $39,700.
Where do psychiatric technicians get paid the most?
The rates mentioned below are the annual mean wage for psychiatric technicians. The highest paying states for Psychiatric Technicians in May 2023, according to the BLS, are:
- California - $64,820
- District of Columbia - $58,180
- Connecticut - $55,670
- New Jersey - $54,550
- New York - $54,060
What's the fastest you can become a CNA?
The quickest way to become a CNA varies by state. If you take full-time, online classes and finish the required in-person training, you could complete your CNA program quickly. Some fast-track courses even allow you to finish in just 2 weeks!
Final Thoughts
Choosing between becoming a CNA or Psychiatric Technician depends on your interests and career goals. If you’re passionate about supporting patients' physical health, a CNA role might be the best fit. If mental health care appeals to you, consider becoming a Psychiatric Technician.
Dreambound is your trusted platform for finding vocational training programs tailored to your career goals. Whether you're exploring CNA or Psychiatric Technician programs, Dreambound helps simplify the process of finding the best courses near you.
Dreambound's programs are accessible in various locations. To gather more information about these two vocations, check out:
Marce Arnejo is part of the Sales team at Dreambound. Her role involves seeking out schools and institutions to provide valuable opportunities for students seeking a career in the healthcare sector. Beyond her professional life, Marce is passionate about music and gaming. She finds joy in exploring various genres of music and using gaming to unwind and immerse herself in virtual worlds. Her diverse interests enrich her personal life and contribute to her work by bringing new ideas and creativity.
