According to the World Health Organization (WHO) 1 in every 8 people in the world live with a mental disorder. With the growing demand for mental health professionals psychiatric technicians are essential in supporting individuals with mental health disorders, developmental disabilities, or substance abuse issues. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment for psychiatric technicians is projected to grow 13% from 2023 to 2033, reflecting the increasing need for mental health services in Ohio and nationwide.

Key Points

• A Licensed Psychiatric Technician is a mental health professional who provides direct care, monitors patients' well-being, administers medications, and supports treatment plans.

• To become a Psychiatric Technician in Ohio, complete a state-approved education program, obtain certification, and meet any licensing requirements set by Ohio’s healthcare boards.

• The process typically takes 1-2 years, including classroom instruction and clinical training.

• Program costs range from $3,000 to $10,000, depending on the institution and length of study.

• The average Psychiatric Technician salary in Ohio is $38,190 annually ($18.36/hour), with potential for higher earnings based on experience and certifications.

What is a Psychiatric Technician?

A Psychiatric Technician is a healthcare professional who provides direct patient care and emotional support to individuals experiencing mental health disorders, developmental challenges, or substance abuse issues. They work under the supervision of psychiatrists, nurses, or other licensed mental health professionals.

Key Responsibilities:

• Observing and recording patient behavior

• Assisting with daily living activities

• Administering prescribed medications

• Implementing treatment plans under supervision

• Supporting crisis intervention strategies

Where does a Psychiatric Technician work?

Psychiatric Technicians find employment in a variety of healthcare settings, such as:

• Psychiatric hospitals: Providing intensive care for patients with acute mental health conditions.

• Mental health clinics: Supporting outpatient treatment and therapy services.

• Residential treatment centers: Assisting individuals in long-term rehabilitation programs.

• Substance abuse recovery facilities: Helping patients through detox and addiction recovery programs.

• Correctional facilities: Managing mental health care for incarcerated individuals.

How to Become a Psychiatric Technician in Ohio?

To become a Psychiatric Technician in Ohio, one must first complete an approved education program, typically an associate's degree or certificate program. Next, individuals must obtain state certification by passing the required exams. Once certified, they can search for job opportunities in psychiatric facilities, hospitals, or other healthcare settings, earning a competitive salary commensurate with their skills and experience.

Educational Requirements requirements to become a Psychiatric Technician in Ohio

To become a Licensed Psychiatric Technician in Ohio, candidates must meet the following educational criteria:

• High School Diploma or GED: Required to enroll in psychiatric technician training programs.

• State-Approved Psychiatric Technician Program: These programs typically last 1 to 2 years and cover subjects such as:

  • Mental health disorders and treatments

  • Crisis intervention techniques

  • Pharmacology and medication administration

  • Legal and ethical responsibilities in mental healthcare

• Clinical Training: Most programs include 500-1,000 hours of supervised hands-on training in a psychiatric setting.

Dreambound offers a comprehensive list of accredited psychiatric technician programs in Ohio, allowing students to find programs based on cost, location, and schedule flexibility.

Where can I find Psychiatric Technician classes in Ohio?

Dreambound, the largest platform for students to find and compare vocational training programs, can help you locate Psychiatric Technician classes in Ohio.

Career Paths and Opportunities after Becoming a Psychiatric Technician

Psychiatric Technicians can advance their careers by gaining experience and pursuing further education. Some potential career paths include:

• Registered Nurse (RN): Requires additional education and offers an average salary of $75,000+ annually.

• Mental Health Counselor: With a master’s degree, psychiatric technicians can become licensed counselors, earning $50,000-$65,000 per year.

• Social Worker: Helps patients access mental health resources and support services.

• Psychiatric Technician Supervisor: Manages a team of psychiatric technicians in a hospital or treatment center.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where do psych techs make the most money?

California offers the highest salaries for psychiatric technicians, ranging from $32,000 to $89,000 annually, due to high demand and cost of living.

How to become a psychiatrist in Ohio?

Becoming a psychiatrist requires a bachelor’s degree, medical school, a psychiatry residency, and state licensure. The process takes about 12 years of education and training.

What is the highest-paying job in mental health?

Psychiatrists earn an average of $220,380 annually, making them the highest-paid professionals in the mental health field.

How much does a Psychiatric Technician make in Ohio?

As of May 2023, the average salary for a Psychiatric Technician in Ohio is $41,420 per year ($19.91/hour), according to the BLS. Entry-level psychiatric technicians typically earn around $32,000 annually ($15.38/hour), while experienced professionals in specialized facilities can earn up to $55,000 per year ($26.44/hour).

Final Thoughts

Becoming a Psychiatric Technician in Ohio can be a rewarding and fulfilling career path, as you will play a crucial role in providing care and support to individuals with mental health or developmental disabilities. By completing the necessary training and certification requirements, you can embark on a career that makes a meaningful difference in people's lives.

Are you thinking about a job change or wanting to learn more about different career paths? Feel free to check out these additional articles:

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