What degree do I need to be a psych tech?
James Olson
Updated on April 03, 2026
Aspiring psychiatric technicians need a one-year postgraduate certificate or a two-year associate degree to become a psychiatric technician. They often have previous work experience as a nursing assistant or LPN, though this is not required.
How much do psych techs make a year?
National estimates for Psychiatric Technicians:
| Employment (1) | Employment RSE (3) | Mean annual wage (2) |
|---|---|---|
| 85,330 | 1.9 % | $ 38,080 |
How do I become a MHT?
How to Become a Mental Health Technician
- Level 1: High school diploma or GED.
- Level 2: At least 480 hours of college or university courses, plus at least one year of relevant work experience.
- Level 3: At least 960 hours of college or university courses, plus at least two years of relevant work experience.
Where do psych techs make the most money?
Highest paying cities in United States for Psychiatric Technicians
- Coalinga, CA. 8 salaries reported. $28.82. per hour.
- Portland, OR. 20 salaries reported. $16.12. per hour.
- York, PA. 5 salaries reported. $14.85. per hour.
- Charlotte, NC. 5 salaries reported. $14.37. per hour.
- Houston, TX. 19 salaries reported. $14.01. per hour.
Is a psych tech a nurse?
Psychiatric Technicians (PTs) are trained and licensed to work in psychiatric facilities under RNs or physicians’ supervision. In preparation for licensure, there is some academic coursework in common for PTs and LVNs/LPNs. These courses include Anatomy and Physiology, Nursing Fundamentals, Nutrition, and Pharmacology.
Is psychiatric technician a good career?
Most psychiatric technicians will tell you their job is challenging yet rewarding. Having to look after patients in emotional crisis may not be the easiest task, but helping patients better their lives is a fulfilling accomplishment.
Do Psychiatric Technicians wear scrubs?
Like most medical and health care professionals, mental health technicians typically wear scrubs. Scrubs are loose fitting and comfortable cotton shirts and pants that are often provided by the hospital or facility where you work.
Is being a mental health technician hard?
Hard-Working Anybody in the mental health profession must be hard-working by nature. There’s always too much to do and not enough time (or staff) to do it. Your responsibilities as a technician will vary considerably.
Do mental health techs wear scrubs?
How much do psychiatric technician make a month?
Licensed Psychiatric Technician Salary
| Annual Salary | Monthly Pay | |
|---|---|---|
| Top Earners | $62,500 | $5,208 |
| 75th Percentile | $56,000 | $4,666 |
| Average | $52,490 | $4,374 |
| 25th Percentile | $43,000 | $3,583 |
Where can I go to college to become a psychiatric technician?
For individuals seeking a college degree or certificate, there are many psychiatric technician and mental health technology programs available, usually in community college or technical school settings.
What’s the average salary for a psychiatric technician?
Additionally, they should be able to lift and move patients and heavy objects. According to 2018 data compiled by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for psychiatric technicians was $32,870. A postsecondary certificate in mental health or psychiatric technology is needed to pursue employment in this career field.
What are the risks of being a psychiatric technician?
Some risk is associated with this career, as technicians and aides care for individuals who may become emotionally agitated and physically aggressive. As with all careers in medical care settings, some exposure to infectious diseases is possible.
What kind of Education do you need to be a psychiatric aide?
Psychiatric aides need to only complete high school or obtain a GED and receive on the job training. Psychiatric technicians typically need to complete a certificate program or an associate’s degree. These programs train students in basic nursing skills as well as clinical psychology skills.
