NHTI-Concord’s Community College offers 1,000+ Workforce Education programs. Separate from our academic courses, these classes equip students with concrete skills that immediately translate to work environments. Explore these options if you are looking to begin a new career in an accelerated timeline, learn a new skill, achieve a professional certification, or meet your continuing education requirements.
Do you have a passion for helping people and a deep interest in mental wellness? A career as a mental health technician could be the perfect path for you.
Mental health technicians are a vital part of the mental healthcare team, providing direct patient care and support under the supervision of doctors and nurses. They work in various settings, including hospitals, residential facilities, and community health centers. These professionals help individuals with mental and emotional challenges navigate their journey to recovery.
Becoming a mental health technician offers a rewarding opportunity to make a real difference in people’s lives while gaining valuable experience in the healthcare field.
Why Become a Mental Health Technician?
Here is why you should consider this career path:
- High demand: The need for psychiatric technicians and aides is expected to grow by 16% over the next decade, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). This is much faster than the average for other jobs.
- Plenty of openings: On average, the BLS reports that there will be about 21,200 job openings for mental health technician-related roles each year. This steady demand shows that employers will highly value your skills.
- Competitive pay: In May 2024, the average yearly salary for psychiatric technicians was over $42,500, based on BLS data. With a strong job market and a clear pathway for advancement, you can build a stable and financially secure career.
- Fast entry into the field: You do not need a four-year degree to get started. NHTI’s Mental Health Technician (Voucher Included) course allows you to begin your career quickly, often in just a few months.
- Diverse career pathways: Being a mental health technician is an excellent way to get hands-on experience in healthcare. It can serve as a great starting point for a future career as a nurse, social worker, or other mental health professional.
Your Job Pathway as a Mental Health Tech
The journey to becoming a mental health technician is straightforward and accessible. The first step is to get the necessary education and certification.
Step 1: Earning Your Certificate
To begin your career, you need to complete a specialized training program. The Mental Health Technician online course at NHTI is an excellent starting point. This program provides you with the foundational knowledge and practical skills needed for the job. In just 12 months, you will learn about:
- Psychology fundamentals: Understanding human behavior and mental health conditions.
- Patient care techniques: How to assist with daily activities and monitor a patient’s condition.
- Crisis intervention: Learning to respond calmly and effectively during difficult situations.
- Medical and ethical standards: Following professional guidelines to ensure patient safety and privacy.
Since the course is online, you can study at your own pace from anywhere, making it easy to balance your education with your current life.
Step 2: Gaining Experience and Finding a Job
After completing the course, you will be ready to apply for entry-level positions. Many healthcare facilities are looking for qualified mental health technicians. Your certificate from NHTI will make you a strong candidate.
In your first job, you will work directly with patients, assisting nurses and other healthcare professionals. This hands-on experience is crucial for developing your skills and confidence. You will learn how to apply the theories from your course in real-life situations.
Step 3: Advancing Your Career
As you gain experience, you will have several options for advancement. For instance, with a few years of experience, you can take on more responsibilities, such as training new staff or managing a specific patient unit.
You can also choose to work with a specific patient population, such as children, the elderly, or people with substance abuse issues. Many mental health technicians decide to continue their education to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or a Registered Nurse (RN). The knowledge you gain as a mental health technician provides a strong foundation for these more advanced roles.
Take the First Step
The demand for mental health professionals is growing, and starting as a mental health technician is a smart way to enter this important and expanding field. The NHTI online course is the first step on this fulfilling career path. Enroll now!