How can LVNs become Psychiatric Technicians?
Editor’s note: CAPT checked this old article with the BVNPT in October 2009; it is still accurate. From time to time, we’re asked if there is any “bridge” program or a way for an LVN to “challenge” the Psych Tech exam and get licensed as a Psych Tech. The simple answer is no. LVN and Psych Tech training are parallel in only about half of the instruction — the basic nursing science part. After that, LVN training focuses on subjects that aren’t in the Psych Tech training, such as ob/gyn and pediatrics. And Psych Tech courses provide education in subjects which LVNs aren’t taught, such as in-depth coursework on caring for people with mental illnesses or developmental disabilities. Therefore, the only way an LVN (or LVN graduate who isn’t licensed yet) can qualify to take the Psych Tech exam is to pass a Psych Tech program, too. Psych Tech programs may give credit for the nursing science that was learned in LVN education. But LVNs must complete the training on MI and DD to take the Psych
