Psychiatric Technician Training Program

The Coalinga College Psychiatric Technician Program welcomes students from diverse backgrounds and is esteemed as an accredited program by the California Board of Licensed Vocational Nurses and Psychiatric Technicians. This intensive Career Technical Education (CTE) Program is structured into three core areas: nursing science, developmental/intellectual disorders, and psychiatric nursing.  

Throughout the program, participants engage in a rigorous curriculum that combines theoretical learning with hands-on experiences. They gain valuable skills in applying the nursing process to provide comprehensive care for clients with a range of specialized needs, fostering an environment of inclusivity and respect for diversity.
In addition to mastering clinical skills, participants are introduced to the highest standards of professionalism and safety in psychiatric care. They are encouraged to grow as client advocates and sponsors, promoting a culture of empathy and understanding within healthcare settings.

Upon successful completion of the Psychiatric Technician Training Program, students earn a certificate or associate of science degree, demonstrating their commitment to excellence and readiness for the licensure exam administered by the California Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians. This program not only prepares students for the challenges of the healthcare field but also instills in them the values of inclusivity, compassion, and dedication to their profession.
This is an intensive and high-unit certificate/degree program, requiring 2 or more years to complete.   Classes will meet at the college, local hospitals, mental health facilities, Coalinga State Hospital, Porterville Developmental Center, and other approved facilities to accommodate the clinical components of instruction.  The knowledge and skills within the program include the applications of safety in varied care settings, industry-specific critical thinking and problem-solving skills, evidence-based practice, and individualized holistic approaches to care.  

Psychiatric Technicians are in high demand throughout California, with employment opportunities in psychiatric and substance abuse settings, residential care facilities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, the State Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, and general medical and surgical hospitals.

Certificate Requirements and Prerequisites
1.  Be at least 18 years of age.
2.  Show evidence of high school graduation or equivalent (GED or CHSPE).
3.  Submit a complete and current application to the Coalinga College Psychiatric Technician Training Program.
4.  Complete and pass a physical, background check, and drug screen.
5.  In addition to the following prerequisite courses, applicants are strongly advised to possess an active California certification as a nursing assistant (CNA):

Courses

HS005 Medical Terminology (3 units)
BIO032 Human Anatomy (4 units)
PSYCH001 Introductory Psychology (3 units)
PHARM003 Introduction to Pharmacology (3 units)

20 students annually

Title IV and BVNPT (regulatory changes) inspired improvement to the program of study to ensure that students entering the Program are better prepared to succeed and that Program hours follow new regulations for July 2024.

Upon completion of the program: • Students will be able to calculate the correct medication dosages. • Students will be able to discuss and demonstrate the importance of accurate communication and documentation in the various healthcare settings within their scope of practice. • Students will be able to apply the nursing process to implement an appropriate plan of care for the client with medical, developmental disabilities, and mental illness disorders. • Students will be able to identify signs and symptoms of medical, developmental disabilities, and mental disorders.

Psychiatric Technician Cert (Total 48)