Medical Technical Assistant (Psychiatric) / Psychiatric Technician (PT)

Career Highlights

What is an MTA (P)

An MTA (P) is a medical professional who is a Registered Nurse, Licensed Vocational Nurse, or Psychiatric Technician. MTA (P) is also a peace officer with the Department of Mental Health (DMH).

The MTA (P) takes a vital part in psychiatric care of the patients. The MTA (P) also plays an active role among other members of the treatment team in providing medical care to those who need. Being an MTA (P) offers personal growth and a feeling of accomplishment.

What does a PT/ MTA (P) do?

PT/MTA (P) plays a vital role in the mental health services medical team that is always in demand. The roles of an MTA are those that combine the duties and responsibilities of Correctional Officer and Psychiatric Technician. The duties are not limited to:

• Assisting medical staff in practical nursing procedures
• Administering medications and monitoring use and effects
• Preparing required documentation
• Monitoring inmates/patients in group sessions
• Establishing therapeutic relationships with patients
• Collaborating with the interdisciplinary teams
• Observing
• Documenting
• Supervising individual and group activities
• Think and act quickly in different situations
• Responding to emergency situations and more…


Are there jobs available as an MTA (P)?

Yes.

Currently there is a huge shortage for trained MTA (P) in CA and the demand is growing. Furthermore, The California Prison Health Care is planning to build seven correctional health care facilities in northern and Southern CA beginning in March 2011 with the final facilities completion planned July 2013. So expect more openings in these facilities. Another title for MTA (P) is PT (Psychiatric Technician) at our Academy.

Who can apply?

Anyone who has a High School Diploma and anyone who is thinking about a new career are laid off, unsure about their current job and/or career choice, etc.

If you don’t have any medical background you will first take the prerequisite class and then transfer to the core program.

Also, once the student graduates and receives his/her valid license from the State of California as RN (Registered Nurse), LVN (Licensed Vocational Nurse) or LPT (Licensed Psychiatric Technician).

Persons within six months of completing their academic training as an RN, LVN or LPT may apply.

One may have twelve months’ experience (patient care) while on active duty in the medical corps of any of the armed forces.

Are there promotional opportunities?

Absolutely.

As multi-talented mental health professionals with a broad range of skills and proficiency PTs / MTAs can be placed in many positions in ranging from Peace Officer to Counselor, Parole and Management there are many opportunities.

The unique nature of PT places PTs/MTA (P)s in the roles of both nursing care and behavioral care as key players in many aspects of CA’s system of treatment of those with physical / intellectual disabilities, mental illness and/or emotional distress.

From PT entry level to Senior PT, from an MTA (P) entry level you can follow the typical pattern of becoming a Senior MTA (P), Program Assistant, Program Director, Executive Director… Visit the California Department of Mental Health to find out more classifications and variations.


What’s the Earning?
Typical salary range of a Licensed Psychiatric Technicians:

According to Indeed.com

The annual range is $40,000 to $70,000
Good news are that due to high demand of skilled and licensed MTA(P)/PTs the salary range is increasing.

According to Department of Mental Health

The earning is up to $6,114 per month



According to BVNPT.CA.GOV

$15 - $27 Per Hour;

$30,720 - $51,840 Per Year

Benefits:

Health, Dental, and Vision are among most common benefits

In many cases: vacation and holiday credits, special education and physical fitness incentive pay

When permanently appointed as an MTA (P) in Department of Mental Health at Salinas as an example individuals are enrolled in the CALPERS (California Public Employees Retirement System) as well as will become a member of the State Peace Officer/Firefighter retirement category.

Some facilities may even offer monetary sign up bonus.

Where are PTs employed?

* State Hospitals

* Day Treatment Centers

* Developmental Centers

* Correctional Facilities

* Psychiatric Hospitals & Clinics

* Psychiatric Technician Programs

* Geropsychiatric Centers

* Residential Care Facilities

* Vocational Training Centers

References and sources for more detailed information on (L) PT / MTA (P) career:




http://www.dmh.ca.gov
http://www.bvnpt.ca.gov
http://www.indeed.com
http://psychtechs.net/
http://psych-health.com/