PSYCHIATRIC AIDE

Psychiatric aides assist in the day-to-day treatment of mentally disabled people who are hospitalized in psychiatric hospitals or rehabilitation centers. They are active members of the treatment team since they have contact with the patient throughout the day and help the patient groom and feed himself as well as participate in recreational and educational activities with the patient. Often psychiatric aides are trained to administer medicines and provide basic first aid in an emergency. Psychiatric aides work under the supervision of a nurse, physician or other health professional.

HOW DO I BECOME A PSYCHIATRIC AIDE?

High school level courses in speech communication, sign language, biological sciences, sociology and psychology are helpful in preparing for a position as a psychiatric aide.

High school graduation (or GED) is recommended. Aides are often trained on the job; training takes six to eight weeks to complete. For those who wish to become supervisors, an Associate of Science degree in Mental Health/Mental Retardation or Drug and Substance Abuse Counseling is recommended. In addition, formal nursing assistant programs can help prepare a person for a position as a psychiatric aide.

WHAT WILL I LEARN IN SCHOOL?

Formal training will vary according to the program you select. However, all programs will include course work in human psychology, patient care procedures, counseling techniques, legal and ethical issues, and human disease and illness.

LIFE AFTER GRADUATION

The employment outlook for psychiatric aides is very good. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the profession is expected to grow about as fast as the average for all occupations. Psychiatric aides are employed by psychiatric hospitals, mental health clinics, and residential facilities for the developmentally disabled. They generally work a 40-hour week, and are scheduled to work days, evenings, and nights, including weekends and holidays to provide around-the-clock patient care.

PROFESSIONAL INFORMATION SOURCES:

National Mental Health Association
2000 N. Beauregard Street, 6th Floor
Alexandria, VA 22311
(703) 684- 7722
www.nmha.org