Virginia Information Technologies Agency·Petersburg, Virginia
The Psych Tech III is responsible for observing, reporting, and documenting changes in patients' mental, physical, and behavioral status. They must also provide direct care, assist with treatment modalities, and maintain a safe environment for patients.
Title: Psych Tech III
State Role Title: 49053
$37,544 - $56,841
Pay Band: 3
Agency: Dept Behavioral Health/Develop
Location: Central State Hospital
General Public - G
Central State Hospital (CSH) is a 277 bed Joint Commission accredited psychiatric inpatient facility located in Petersburg, Virginia. CSH has proudly been serving citizens of the Commonwealth since 1870, when we opened our doors as the first psychiatric hospital in the country dedicated to the treatment of African Americans. A new and modern CSH is currently under construction on the same property, with a scheduled completion date of 2027.
CSH maintains the only maximum-security treatment facility in the state (111 beds). We also have 166 beds available for individuals in the community who need inpatient care, as well as individuals in the criminal justice system. We believe that treatment should be holistic and focused on the person’s individual needs, recognizing that recovery is not linear or the same for every person. Treatment modalities may include medication, evidence-based group and individual therapy, peer support, psychosocial rehabilitation, vocational training, preparation for court, and treatment for substance use.
Ability to distinguish between safe and unsafe patient behavior by observing, interacting, and listening.
Ability to read, write, and speak in the English language.
Ability to observe, report, and document changes in patients’ mental, physical, and behavioral status.
Ability to follow written and oral instructions.
Ability to maintain all required orientation and annual competencies.
Ability to establish and maintain an effective working relationship with supervisors, co-workers and patients from varied backgrounds using effective interpersonal skills.
Ability to recognize the need and ask for help or assistance in providing care and treatment.
Ability to document in legal records using narrative format.
Ability to give and receive effective feedback and perform as a member of a team.
Ability to administer CPR and perform T.O. approved physical interventions.
Ability to work overtime hours, rotating weekends, and holidays.
Ability to use e-mail and electronic health records.
• Valid Virginia Driver’s License
You will be provided a confirmation of receipt when your application and/or résumé is submitted successfully. Please refer to “Your Application” in your account to check the status of your application for this position.
Applications and résumés for this position are accepted electronically through the Commonwealth of Virginia’s Electronic Recruitment System only. Interview decisions will be based solely on the information provided in your electronic application and/or résumé. Please ensure you detail all relevant work experience clearly and specifically; we will not make assumptions about your qualifications. Applications/résumés will begin to be reviewed within five (5) days of the posting date.
All applicants are subject to an extensive background investigation and a pre-employment drug screening. This investigation may include fingerprint checks (State Police, FBI), local agency checks, Department of Social Services/Child Protective Services checks, employment verification, and verification of education relevant to the position.
Under Virginia Code §§ 37.2-314 and 37.2-408.1, the Department of Behavioral Health & Developmental Services (DBHDS) cannot employ or utilize as volunteers, individuals convicted of specific ("barrier") crimes or those with pending "barrier" charges.
Reasonable accommodations are available to individuals with disabilities during the application and/or interview process in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. If you require assistance or accommodation, please notify
Human
Resources at (804) 524-7111 during business hours (8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.).
DBHDS is a Virginia Values Veterans (V3) certified employer and provides hiring preference to qualified veterans and service members. We highly encourage veterans, active members of the Virginia National Guard, and U.S. Military Reserve members to apply and respond accordingly on the state application.
DBHDS offers a comprehensive benefits package, including your choice of health plans, paid life insurance, retirement plans, 13 paid holidays, annual leave, family personal leave, sick leave, employee discount programs, and more!
Name: Human Resources
Phone: (804) 524-7111
cshrecruitment@dbhds.virginia.gov
In support of the Commonwealth’s commitment to inclusion, we are encouraging individuals with disabilities to apply through the Commonwealth Alternative Hiring Process. To be considered for this opportunity, applicants will need to provide their AHP Letter (formerly COD) provided by the Department for Aging & Rehabilitative Services (DARS), or the Department for the Blind & Vision Impaired (DBVI). Service-Connected Veterans are encouraged to answer Veteran status questions and submit their disability documentation, if applicable, to DARS/DBVI to get their AHP Letter. Requesting an AHP Letter can be found at AHP Letter [https://www.dars.virginia.gov/drs/cpid/PWContact.aspx] or by calling DARS at 800-552-5019.
Applicants who received a Certificate of Disability from DARS or DBVI dated between April 1, 2022- February 29, 2024, can still use that COD as applicable documentation for the Alternative Hiring Process.
Market context
Behavioral-health roles in Virginia commonly draw steady demand as agencies and treatment programs look for clinicians who can support counseling, care coordination, and recovery services. These positions are competitive because a valid CSAC license is required, while a psychology or counseling degree and treatment-industry experience are preferred; benefits often include PTO and health-related coverage. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits on this platform to save time, and confirm your licensure details before applying.
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