Typical Tasks
Encourage patients to develop work skills and to participate in social, recreational, or other therapeutic activities that enhance interpersonal skills or develop social relationships.
Monitor patients' physical and emotional well-being and report unusual behavior or physical ailments to medical staff.
Observe and influence patients' behavior, communicating and interacting with them and teaching, counseling, or befriending them.
Develop or teach strategies to promote client wellness and independence.
Train or instruct new employees on procedures to follow with psychiatric patients.
A day in the life
What kind of work is this?
Social
Working with people
Investigative
Studying, Research based work
Conventional
Organized, Procedural Work
What personality traits do you need to succeed?
Self-Control
Dependability
Concern for Others
Stress Tolerance
Cooperation
Integrity
What key skills are needed for this job?
Social Perceptiveness
Active Listening
Monitoring
Speaking
Coordination
Reading Comprehension
Expected Knowledge
Psychology
Knowledge of human behavior and performance; individual differences in ability, personality, and interests; learning and motivation; psychological research methods; and the assessment and treatment of behavioral and affective disorders.
Therapy and Counseling
Knowledge of principles, methods, and procedures for diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of physical and mental dysfunctions, and for career counseling and guidance.
English Language
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
Common Activities
Assisting and Caring for Others
Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other personal care to others such as coworkers, customers, or patients.
Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates
Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others
Handling complaints, settling disputes, and resolving grievances and conflicts, or otherwise negotiating with others.
