The Psychiatric Technician Fast-Track program is an apprenticeship program that is administered at Napa State Hospital.  Students in this program are registered as students at Napa Valley College but all coursework is completed at Napa State Hospital and the students work as apprentices at Napa State Hospital.  Admission to this program is not administered or processed by the college; students must apply via the Department of State Hospitals.  This program is a joint program with the Department of State Hospitals, the Joint Apprenticeship Committee of California, and Napa Valley College.

Program Learning Outcomes

- Act ethically and respect the parameters of client privacy and confidentiality.

- Accurately document all clinical assessments and interventions in a timely manner, prioritizing patient care while delivering age appropriate services.

- Effectively participate in a therapeutic environment and communicate professionally.

Career Opportunities:

Entry-level pay with a certificate and license varies from $3,000 - $5,800/month.  Advances can be made with advanced certifications and/or degree completion status (RN, AA/AS, BA/BS).  There is a shortage of trained and experienced psychiatric technicians in California with constant demand in the public sector.  Most jobs are concentrated near state hospitals such as Napa State Hospital but there are many other jobs available within the prison systems, private mental health care facilities.  Recently psychiatric technician positions have become available in acute and subacute hospitals with mental health units.