A career in the mental health field combines medical care with compassionate patient support. If you are interested in how to become a Psychiatric Technician (Mental Health Technician) in Texas. this blog is perfect for you! Whether you're starting your healthcare journey or transitioning careers, learn how to make a difference in mental health care.

Key Points

• Psychiatric Technicians (also called Mental Health Technicians or Behavioral Health Technicians) provide direct care to patients with mental illness or developmental disabilities.
• Texas requirements include completing an approved psychiatric technician program (12-24 months), obtaining Basic Life Support certification, and passing a criminal background check
• Psychiatric technician programs range from $3,000-$12,000, with financial aid and scholarship opportunities available through healthcare organizations.
• Texas psychiatric technicians earn an average of $37,000 annually, with experienced professionals in specialty facilities earning up to $45,000+!
• With 13% growth projected through 2033, pharmacy technician jobs are growing much faster than the average rate!

What is a Psychiatric Technician?

Psychiatric technicians are healthcare professionals who provide direct care and support to individuals with mental health or developmental disabilities. They are responsible for monitoring patients' conditions, administering medications, and assisting with daily living activities.

Where Does a Psychiatric Technician Work?

Psychiatric technicians typically work in psychiatric hospitals, mental health facilities, and residential treatment centers. They may also work in correctional facilities, community-based programs, or outpatient clinics.

How to Become a Psychiatric Technician in Texas?

To become a Psychiatric Technician in Texas, one must first complete an accredited educational program, usually a certificate or diploma. Next, they must obtain certification by passing the Psychiatric Technician Licensing Examination. With certification in hand, they can then search for job opportunities in hospitals, mental health facilities, or other healthcare settings.

What are the Requirements to Become a Psychiatric Technician in Texas?

To become a psychiatric technician in Texas, you must meet the following requirements:

• Obtain a high school diploma or equivalent
• Complete an accredited psychiatric technician training program, which typically takes 12-24 months to complete
• Pass the Psychiatric Technician Licensing Examination

Where Can I Find Psychiatric Technician Classes in Texas?

Dreambound, the largest platform for students to find and compare vocational training programs, can help you find psychiatric technician classes in Texas. Dreambound offers a wide range of programs, including those for aspiring psychiatric technicians.

Exploring a Career in Psychiatric Technician Outside Texas

If you've been inspired to follow the path of a Psychiatric Technician but geography isn't on your side, worry not. Your aspiration to become a Psychiatric Technician is within reach in Alaska, Kansas, Nevada, Utah, or Wisconsin. For those who don't find these options feasible, Dreambound enables you to effortlessly find and evaluate Psychiatric Technician classes by simply searching with a zip code. Armed with determination and Dreambound, anyone, anywhere, can achieve a career in healthcare.

How Do I Get My Psychiatric Technician Certification?

After completing an accredited training program, you must pass the Psychiatric Technician Licensing Examination to obtain your certification. This exam is administered by the Texas Department of State Health Services.

How Do I Get a Job as a Psychiatric Technician?

Once you have obtained your certification, you can begin applying for psychiatric technician positions at various healthcare facilities in Texas. Many employers may also provide on-the-job training to help you transition into the role.

Career Paths and Opportunities after Becoming a Psychiatric Technician

With experience and additional training, psychiatric technicians may have opportunities to advance into roles such as mental health case manager, psychiatric nurse, or mental health counselor. They may also choose to specialize in areas like substance abuse treatment or geriatric psychiatry.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a psych technician make in Texas?

Psychiatric technicians in Texas can earn around $29,000 to $48,000 per year! Psychiatric technician salaries vary by location and night shifts and weekend differentials can add 10-15% to base pay.

Where do psychiatric technicians get paid the most?

California leads the nation in psychiatric technician salaries, with average annual earnings of $64,820 ($31.16 hourly). Other top-paying states include Connecticut ($55,670), New Jersey ($54,550), District of Columbia ($58,180), and New York ($54,060).

Final Thoughts

Becoming a psychiatric technician in Texas can be a rewarding career path for those interested in providing direct care and support to individuals with mental health or developmental disabilities. By meeting the educational and licensing requirements, you can start your journey towards a fulfilling career in this important healthcare field.

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

• Respiratory Therapist Training in Texas
• Radiology Technician Training in Texas
• Sterile Processing Technician Training in Texas
• Patient Care Technician Training in Texas
• Pharmacy Technician Training in Texas