I am so upset...

[yuyu75]

I am from a suburb right outside Chicago, IL. I just called my local hospital to see what I needed to become a mental health tech (school wise). The girl they transferred me to was so mean and ignorant, told me i need to "google" what I was looking for then hung up on me!

I don't know if I should go to school for mental health nurse or counselor .

I want to get an entry level position on a psych floor to get my foot in the door, get experience and at the same time decide which career path i should take. I am having a hard time figuring out what I need to become a mental health tech at a hospital. Do i need my CNA license which is 5 weeks long or do i need to go get my bachelors in psych degree which is 2 years!!! Can anyone help me?

Thanks,

Linda

[sdmrn64]

I 'think what you are speaking of is a mental health tech. In okla.that requires a bachelors degree. Im an RN (assoc degree) and have worked some prn at psych hospitals. Ive talked to the MHT's and found that although they like their jobs, the pay is not good. I dont understand why, but with a bachelors degree they make way less than i do with an assoc degree-somethin to think about:confused:

[wonderbee, BSN, RN]

I think the job requirements differ depending on the locality and the facility. MHTs in my facility often have no psych experience at all, and there is no education requirement other than a HS diploma or GED. The experience is on-the-job.

[aloevera]

I think the job requirements differ depending on the locality and the facility. MHTs in my facility often have no psych experience at all, and there is no education requirement other than a HS diploma or GED. The experience is on-the-job.

Ditto to this....our MHT's get "on the job" training....taking vitals, etc.

This would sure be a good way to see if "psych" is what you are interested in...the techs are right in the middle of it all....

[sunray12]

Here are the requirements for a psychiatric tech at a hospital in my state.

Currently enrolled in or completed a degree program in Psychology, Sociology, Health Care major, or a related field or prior experience in a direct care position in a psychiatric setting required. Valid driver’s license preferred,

A 30-day (day shift, 7am-3:30pm) orientation program is provided. Forty hour work week with some weekends and holidays required.

A fingerprint based criminal history check and pre-employment drug screening will be required for the selected candidate. Starting salary range begins at $25,092.