What is a Psychiatric Technician?

A Psychiatric Technician, also known as a Mental Health Technician, is a healthcare professional who assists in the care and treatment of individuals with mental health or substance abuse issues. They work under the supervision of Registered Nurses, Psychiatrists, and other mental health professionals to provide direct patient care, monitor patient progress, and implement treatment plans.

Training Requirements

To become a Psychiatric Technician in Virginia Beach, you typically need to complete a state-approved training program. These programs can vary in length, but most are around 12-24 months and result in a certificate or diploma. The training covers topics such as patient assessment, medication administration, crisis intervention, and therapeutic communication.

What's the Fastest Someone Can Become a Psychiatric Technician in Virginia Beach?

The fastest route to becoming a Psychiatric Technician in Virginia Beach is through a certificate program, which can be completed in as little as 12 months. These programs provide the necessary theoretical and practical training to prepare students for entry-level Psychiatric Technician roles.

Psychiatric Technician Classes in Virginia Beach

There are several options for Psychiatric Technician classes in Virginia Beach, including:

Tidewater Community College

Tidewater Community College offers a 12-month Psychiatric Technician certificate program. The program includes both classroom instruction and clinical rotations in various mental health settings. Admission requirements include a high school diploma or GED, and students must pass a background check and drug screening.

Sentara College of Health Sciences

Sentara College of Health Sciences in Virginia Beach provides a 24-month Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in Psychiatric Technician. The program combines general education courses with specialized training in mental health care. Applicants must have a high school diploma or GED and meet other admission requirements.

Centura College

Centura College's Virginia Beach campus offers a 15-month Psychiatric Technician diploma program. The curriculum covers topics such as pharmacology, therapeutic interventions, and patient safety. Prospective students must have a high school diploma or equivalent and pass a background check.

Exploring a Career in Psychiatric Technician Outside Virginia Beach

If you've been reading this article and long to become a Psychiatric Technician, but you live in a different state, don't lose hope -- achieving your goal is still within reach. You might consider exploring opportunities to become a Psychiatric Technician in Boston, Detroit, Ogden, Phoenix, or Springfield. If none of these locations work for you, Dreambound makes it easier than ever to pursue your dreams regardless of your location by simplifying the process of finding and comparing Psychiatric Technician classes through a convenient search by zip code. With determination and access to the right resources, you can confidently pursue a successful career in healthcare, no matter where you live.

Online and Free Options in Virginia Beach

While most Psychiatric Technician programs in Virginia Beach are offered in a traditional classroom setting, there may be some online options available. Additionally, there are currently no free Psychiatric Technician training programs in the city, as these programs typically require tuition and fees to cover the cost of instruction and clinical experiences.

Certification Process

After completing a Psychiatric Technician training program in Virginia Beach, graduates must pass the Psychiatric Technician Certification Examination (PTCE) to become a certified Psychiatric Technician. This exam is administered by the American Association of Psychiatric Technicians (AAPT) and covers topics such as patient care, therapeutic interventions, and professional responsibilities.

Job Environment in Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach is home to several healthcare facilities that employ Psychiatric Technicians, including:

• Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital
• Bon Secours DePaul Medical Center
• Virginia Beach Psychiatric Center
• Dominion Hospital
• Eastern State Hospital

These facilities offer a variety of mental health services and provide opportunities for Psychiatric Technicians to work in inpatient, outpatient, and community-based settings.

Final Thoughts

Virginia Beach's growing healthcare industry and strong demand for Psychiatric Technicians make it an attractive option for those looking to pursue this rewarding career. With several training programs available in the city, aspiring Psychiatric Technicians can find the right path to become certified and land a well-paying job in their local community. Whether you're just starting your journey or looking to advance your career, the opportunities for Psychiatric Technician jobs and competitive salaries in Virginia Beach are worth exploring.

If you're someone who values exploring multiple career options and wants to find the best match for your interests, feel free to check out these additional articles:

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