What is a Psychiatric Technician?

Psychiatric technicians, also known as mental health technicians, work closely with psychiatrists, psychologists, and other mental health professionals to provide care to patients with mental illnesses. Their main responsibilities include:

• Assisting patients with daily activities, such as bathing, dressing, and eating.

• Monitoring patients' behavior and reporting any changes to the healthcare team.

• Administering medications as prescribed by doctors.

• Leading group therapy sessions and recreational activities.

• Providing emotional support and counseling to patients.

• Ensuring a safe and therapeutic environment for patients.

Where Do Psychiatric Technicians Work in Massachusetts?

Psychiatric technicians can work in a variety of settings, including:

• Psychiatric hospitals: These specialized hospitals focus on the treatment of mental illnesses.

• Residential care facilities: These facilities provide long-term care and support to individuals with mental illnesses.

• Outpatient clinics: Psychiatric technicians may work in clinics that offer counseling and therapy services to patients.

• Correctional facilities: Some psychiatric technicians work in prisons or jails, providing mental health services to inmates.

• Community Health Centers: Supporting mental health services at the community level.

Requirements to Become a Psychiatric Technician in Massachusetts

To become a psychiatric technician in Massachusetts, you will need to meet certain education and legal requirements. These include:

• Educational Background: Obtain a high school diploma or equivalent.

• Training Program: Complete a postsecondary certificate or associate degree program in psychiatric or mental health technology.

• Certification: While Massachusetts does not mandate licensure for Psychiatric Technicians, obtaining certification can enhance job prospects.

• Additional Credentials: Consider obtaining Medication Administration Program (MAP) certification if required by employers. ​

How to Become a Psychiatric Technician in Massachusetts?

To launch your career as a psychiatric technician in Massachusetts, follow these steps. Even though Massachusetts does not license psychiatric technicians directly, you’ll need to meet education requirements and gain the right credentials to be hired in this role.

1. Meet the Education Requirements.

Start by earning a high school diploma or GED. This is the minimum requirement to enter psychiatric technician training programs. Most employers prefer candidates who have completed some postsecondary education – typically a postsecondary certificate or an associate degree in psychiatric or mental health technology​

Having a solid educational foundation in psychology, biology, and nursing basics will prepare you for the technical training ahead.

2. Enroll in a Psychiatric Technician Training Program.

Next, enroll in an accredited psychiatric technician program. Massachusetts does not have a state licensing exam, but employers will expect formal training. You can choose either a certificate program (typically less than 1 year to about 18 months) or an associate degree program (about 2 years). The more extensive programs last up to two years​!

Tip: Dreambound is a valuable tool for finding and comparing psychiatric technician classes in Massachusetts. Dreambound’s platform lets you filter programs by location, compare costs, and read reviews from past students​ so you can find a state-approved program that fits your needs.

3. Obtain Certification (Optional but Beneficial).

Because Massachusetts does not require a license for psychiatric technicians, obtaining a national certification can strengthen your qualifications. One popular option is the American Association of Psychiatric Technicians (AAPT), which offers four levels of certification exams​. You typically become eligible for these certifications by completing your training program. Aside from AAPT, some psychiatric technicians also have certifications in CPR, First Aid, or crisis intervention techniques – these can be bonuses on your resume.

4. Apply for Psychiatric Technician Jobs.

Once you have completed your training (and gotten certified, if you chose to), you’re ready to enter the job market! Polish your resume and highlight your education, clinical training experience, and any certifications. Emphasize skills like patient care, observation, and knowledge of mental health disorders. Look for psychiatric technician or mental health technician openings on hospital websites, mental health facility job boards, and job sites like MyNextMove.org

Pro Tip: If you’re struggling to find “Psychiatric Technician” job listings, also search for related titles like Mental Health Technician, Behavioral Health Tech, or Psychiatric Aide. These roles are similar and sometimes overlapping in job descriptions.

5. Advance Your Career Over Time.

With experience, psychiatric technicians may become senior technicians or supervisors, overseeing other techs and helping manage unit operations. For example, after a few years you might be promoted to a Psychiatric Technician Supervisor or lead tech, where you coordinate schedules and training for other techs. You could choose to pursue further education to advance into roles like Registered Nurse (RN), Licensed Mental Health Counselor, or social worker. Many technicians go back to school for nursing or psychology – the experience you gain as a psych tech is valuable groundwork for these careers.

Where to Find Psychiatric Technician Classes in Massachusetts?

Finding the right training program is crucial. Dreambound offers a comprehensive platform to search and compare psychiatric technician programs across Massachusetts. With an average program length of 12 months, Dreambound can help you find classes that fit your schedule and budget. ​

Additionally, the Massachusetts Department of Mental Health provides resources and information on approved training programs.

Career Paths and Opportunities after Becoming a Psychiatric Technician

Becoming a psychiatric technician opens up a variety of career paths and opportunities within the mental health field. Here are some potential career options you can explore after obtaining your certification.

1. Psychiatric Technician Supervisor

With experience and additional training, you may be eligible for a supervisory role as a psychiatric technician. In this position, you would be responsible for overseeing a team of psychiatric technicians, ensuring that patient care is delivered effectively and efficiently. You would also be involved in training new staff, developing policies and procedures, and coordinating with other healthcare professionals.

2. Mental Health Technician

As a mental health technician, you would work closely with psychiatrists, psychologists, and other mental health professionals to provide care and support to patients with mental health disorders. This may involve conducting assessments, assisting with treatment plans, and providing crisis intervention. Mental health technicians often work in psychiatric hospitals, residential treatment centers, or outpatient clinics.