Cuesta College offering psychiatric technician program information sessions
Information sessions are free and open to the public
– Cuesta College will host two informational sessions for individuals interested in pursuing a career as a psychiatric technician. The sessions will take place on Tuesday, Dec. 2, at 10 a.m., and Thursday, Dec. 4, at 6 p.m. Attendees will learn about program requirements, enrollment and selection processes, and career opportunities with the Department of State Hospitals – Atascadero.
Cuesta College’s Psychiatric Technician Program is ranked number one by the California Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians. The program prepares students to serve on interdisciplinary teams that support individuals with developmental disabilities and mental health needs. The information sessions will include an overview of the curriculum, licensing expectations, and the skills students develop in the program. Representatives from the Department of State Hospitals – Atascadero will introduce attendees to potential employment pathways available after program completion.
California is experiencing a significant shortage of behavioral health professionals, and psychiatric technicians are among the most in-demand roles in the state’s mental health system. According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for psychiatric technicians and aides is projected to grow 16 percent from 2024 to 2034, faster than the average for all occupations. The California Department of Human Resources lists base annual salaries for licensed psychiatric technicians in the state system starting at approximately $70,000, with additional earnings possible through shift differentials, experience, and facility type.
Participants may attend either session in person at the Department of State Hospitals – Atascadero, Building 104, 10333 El Camino Real in Atascadero. After entering the property, guests should take the first left; Building 104 will be on the right. Parking is free.
Both sessions are also offered virtually.
- The Dec. 2 session at 10 a.m. may be joined online with Meeting ID: 277 674 069 243 4 and Passcode: j3CJ9ki7.
- The Dec. 4 session at 6 p.m. may be joined online with Meeting ID: 225 207 631 653 5 and Passcode: bW7aA2Mz.
Cuesta College encourages anyone interested in a career in mental and behavioral health care to attend. The information sessions are free and open to the public.
Questions about the information sessions may be directed to (805) 468-3175 or ashptprogram@dsh.ca.gov.
