Cypress College
Psychiatric Technician Program

Today's Date: Monday July 7, 2008

Program Objectives

This program aims to prepare a student to meet the requirements for licensure as a Psychiatric Technician in the state of California. A Psychiatric Technician is a licensed member of the professional services team working with people who are emotionally or developmentally disabled. Employed by private and state hospitals and many community facilities, Psychiatric Technicians will also find a variety of jobs available in the fields of correction and human services. These include day care centers, substance abuse programs, special education and many other areas promoting mental health. There are career advancement opportunities available in the areas of counseling, education, nursing, and vendorization of services.

The program is accredited by, and conforms to the regulations of the California Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians. Upon successful completion of the program, graduates are eligible to take the State Board Licensure Examination.

Who Becomes A Psychiatric Technician?

Persons interested in becoming health care and/or human service professionals

Persons interested in helping people with emotional, psychiatric, and/or developmental disabilities

Persons interested in career-ladder mobility to Registered Nursing, Special Education, Clinical and Forensic Psychology, or Social Work

Persons seeking experience in the clinical field, and financial support for their further education

(If you have been convicted of any offense other than a minor traffic violation you will be required to declare this on your state application for licensure. A criminal offense may affect your eligibility to become licensed as a Psychiatric Technician.)

Where Are Psychiatric Technicians Employed?

¤ Psychiatric Hospitals and Facilities ¤ Mental Health Day Care Programs ¤ Mental Health Crisis Centers ¤ Residential Treatment Programs ¤ Department of Corrections ¤ County Mental Health Programs ¤ Substance Abuse Programs ¤ Public Health Services ¤  Independent Living Skills Agencies ¤ Special Education Programs ¤  Vendors of Specialized Services ¤ Developmental Centers ¤ Transition Services and Job Coaches ¤ 

What is The Typical Salary Range for Psychiatric Technicians?

$15 - $20 Per Hour $32,400 - $36,720 Per Year