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.

CNAs and Psychiatric Technicians are both healthcare professionals who provide direct patient care. They work under the supervision of registered nurses (RNs) and assist in the daily activities of patients. While their roles may overlap in some areas, there are distinct differences in the populations they serve and the environments in which they work.

What is a CNA and Psychiatric Technician?

Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA):

• CNAs are healthcare professionals who provide basic nursing care to patients in various settings, such as hospitals, nursing homes, and home healthcare agencies.
• They help patients with activities of daily living (ADLs), such as bathing, dressing, and eating.
• CNAs also take vital signs, assist with medical procedures, and provide emotional support to patients and their families.

Psychiatric Technician:

• Psychiatric Technicians, also known as Mental Health Technicians, work with individuals who have mental illnesses or developmental disabilities.
• They provide therapeutic care, monitor patients' behavior, and assist with treatment plans.
• Psychiatric Technicians may work in psychiatric hospitals, residential treatment facilities, or community mental health centers.

Difference between a CNA and a Psychiatric Technician

While both CNAs and Psychiatric Technicians provide direct patient care, there are several key differences between the two roles:

Population served:

• CNAs primarily work with patients who have physical health issues or are in need of general care.
• Psychiatric Technicians focus on individuals with mental health conditions or developmental disabilities.

Scope of practice:

• CNAs provide basic nursing care, such as bathing, feeding, and taking vital signs.
• Psychiatric Technicians have a broader scope of practice, including providing therapeutic interventions, assisting with psychiatric medications, and implementing treatment plans.

Work environment:

• CNAs can work in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, and home healthcare agencies.
• Psychiatric Technicians typically work in psychiatric hospitals, residential treatment facilities, or community mental health centers.

CNA vs Psychiatric Technician: Job Description

CNA Job Description:

• Assist patients with activities of daily living (ADLs), such as bathing, dressing, and eating.
• Take and record patients' vital signs, including temperature, blood pressure, and pulse.
• Help patients with mobility and transfers, such as getting in and out of bed or using a wheelchair.
• Provide emotional support to patients and their families.
• Report any changes in patient's conditions to the supervising nurse.

Psychiatric Technician Job Description:

• Provide therapeutic care to individuals with mental illnesses or developmental disabilities.
• Monitor patients' behaviors and assist with crisis intervention.
• Implement treatment plans and assist with psychiatric medications.
• Facilitate group therapy sessions and other therapeutic activities.
• Collaborate with other members of the healthcare team to develop and implement care plans.

CNA vs Psychiatric Technician: Education and Training

CNA Education and Training:

• CNAs typically complete a state-approved nursing assistant program, which can be completed in a few weeks to a few months.
• The program includes both classroom instruction and clinical training.
• After completing the program, all states require CNAs to pass a competency exam to become certified.
• Some states may also require CNAs to complete continuing education courses to maintain their certification.

Psychiatric Technician Education and Training:

• Psychiatric Technicians generally need a postsecondary certificate or associate degree in psychiatric technology or a related field.
• Psychiatric Technician programs typically take one to two years or even more to complete.
• Coursework may include psychology, human development, therapeutic techniques, and pharmacology.
• Clinical experiences are also an essential part of the training.
• California, Colorado, Kansas, and Arkansas require Psychiatric Technicians to become licensed or certified.

CNA vs Psychiatric Technician: Career Outlook and Salary

CNA Career Outlook and Salary:

• The demand for CNAs is expected to grow by 4% from 2022 to 2032, which is about as fast as the average for all occupations.
• This growth is driven by an aging population and an increased need for long-term care services.
• The median annual wage for CNAs was $38,130 in May 2023, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Psychiatric Technician Career Outlook and Salary:

• The demand for Psychiatric Technicians is projected to grow by 9% from 2022 to 2032, which is much faster than the average for all occupations.
• This growth is due to an increased emphasis on mental health and the need for professionals to provide care to individuals with mental illnesses.
• The median annual wage for Psychiatric Technicians was $39,610 in May 2023, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

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:

1. California - $64,820
2. District of Columbia - $58,180
3. Connecticut - $55,670
4. New Jersey - $54,550
5. 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

Both CNAs and Psychiatric Technicians play important roles in the healthcare field, providing direct patient care and support. While CNAs focus on physical health and general care, Psychiatric Technicians specialize in mental health and work with individuals with mental illnesses or developmental disabilities. Ultimately, the choice between these two careers depends on your interests, skills, and the population you wish to serve.

Dreambound's programs are accessible in various locations. To gather more information about these two vocations, check out:

• CNA in Missouri
• Psychiatric Technician in Missouri
• CNA classes near you