NCPT (AAPT) - Nationally Certified Psychiatric Technicians

The Nationally Certified Psychiatric Technician (NCPT) is offered by the American Association of Psychiatric Technicians (AAPT).

Psychiatric Technicians are mental health employees who provide hands-on care to people with varying degrees of mental illnesses and/or developmental disabilities. Some states allow for additional certification to become Nationally Certified Psychiatric Technicians (NCPTs).

Psychiatric Technicians have more training than aides. They take part in both the planning and implementation of client treatment plans. They may be responsible for admitting and interviewing patients, record-keeping, administering medications, and conducting therapy sessions.

There are four levels of eligibility to become an NCPT through the American Association of Psychiatric Technicians (AAPT). All candidates must pass the first-level exam. The Level One certification examination is an open book, 201 multiple-choice test.

• Level One: Requires a high school diploma or GED.

• Level Two: Requires completion of at least 480 hours of university courses of any type (30 semester hours or 40 quarter hours), plus having worked in the field of mental health or developmental disabilities for at least one year.

• Level Three: Requires completion of at least 960 hours of college or university courses of any type (60 semester hours or 80 quarter hours), plus having worked in the field of mental health or developmental disabilities for at least two years.

• Level Four: Requires a bachelor’s degree in a mental health or developmental disabilities field and three years of experience in the mental health field.

Certification for Levels 2, 3, and 4 requires the completion of an essay test concerning situations the applicant might encounter on the job. Certification at a higher level can be achieved at the same time as taking the Level 1 exam or it can be completed at a later date.

• Certification cost is $139 for Level 1 or $159 with additional Levels 2, 3 or 4

• Upgrading to Level 2, 3 or 4: $45 or $30 at time of renewal

• Group Discount: $119 for Level 1 or $139 if combined with Level 2, 3 or 4

To renew your certification, you must complete at least 12 hours of continuing education, either in a class, a home-study course, or in-service training. In addition, you must read one book in the mental health field. You can renew for up to three years.

The AAPT does not provide training or educational materials to help prepare for the exam. They offer an exam overview and a list of books that may be helpful in preparing for the exam.

In California, you must attend an accredited psychiatric technician school to obtain state licensure. California Psychiatric Technicians are licensed through the Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians (BVNPT). The California license is also valid in Colorado, Arkansas, or Kansas, but it isn't recognized in other states.

Other related certifications include:

• NCCT National Certified Patient Care Technician (NCPCT)

• AMT Patient Care Technician (PCT)