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Psychiatric Aides

SOC 31-1133.00Job Zone 2 · Some Preparationv.26.05

Context coveredThis framework covers competencies for psychiatric aides working in inpatient psychiatric units, residential care facilities, and institutional behavioral health settings, spanning direct patient observation and support through team leadership and program development.

Sources:O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.SkillsCrosswalkSkillsCrosswalk — O*NET enrichment + adjacency index. Opens in new tab.
Emerging
Entry / Apprentice
  1. Emotional support and active listening — provide to assigned psychiatric patients under direct staff supervision on an inpatient unit.
  2. Patient physical checks — conduct at scheduled intervals following written protocols in a supervised psychiatric ward.
  3. Unusual or harmful patient behaviors — recognize and report immediately to a charge nurse or supervising clinician during a shift.
  4. Patient area restrictions — enforce by guiding patients back to assigned zones under the direction of senior staff.
  5. Vital signs and basic intake data — record accurately into patient charts using facility-approved forms under direct oversight.
  6. Restraint techniques — apply basic approved holds to prevent patient self-harm or injury to others when directed by a licensed nurse.
  7. Therapeutic activity sessions — assist in setting up and facilitating social or recreational programs led by professional staff.
  8. Interdisciplinary team meetings — participate as an observer or note-taker, reporting aide-level observations to clinical team members.
  9. Electronic mail and word processing software — use to send shift reports and complete basic documentation tasks under supervisory guidance.
  10. Eating habits and daily behavior — observe and document for patients with cognitive or developmental disabilities following a structured care plan.
Developing
Mid-level / Established
  1. Emotional and psychological encouragement — deliver consistently to a caseload of psychiatric patients during routine daily interactions with reduced direct oversight.
  2. Behavioral monitoring logs — maintain accurately across a full shift, identifying patterns that warrant escalation to nursing staff.
  3. Physical care routines — implement independently for patients with intellectual or developmental disabilities following established nursing care plans.
  4. De-escalation communication — apply practiced verbal techniques to calm agitated patients before physical intervention becomes necessary.
  5. Multidisciplinary team collaboration — contribute aide-level observations and progress notes during scheduled patient review meetings.
  6. Social and educational activity programs — organize and supervise small patient groups with minimal prompting from professional staff.
  7. Patient discharge planning documentation — update assigned sections of discharge plans accurately using office suite or medical software.
  8. Area restriction management — monitor and maintain independently across multiple patient assignments within a psychiatric unit.
  9. Reading comprehension of clinical notes — interpret care plan updates and treatment instructions to adjust daily patient support tasks accordingly.
  10. Crisis response protocols — follow and execute established procedures when a patient displays sudden escalation in harmful behavior.
Proficient
Senior / Expert IC
  1. Complex patient behavioral profiles — assess and interpret independently, adjusting daily care approaches without routine supervisory direction on an inpatient psychiatric floor.
  2. Non-routine emotional crises — manage autonomously using advanced active listening and social perceptiveness skills before clinical escalation.
  3. Comprehensive patient progress notes — write and maintain with clinical accuracy across multiple patients using electronic medical record software.
  4. Individualized activity programs — design and lead therapeutic social, educational, or recreational sessions tailored to each patient's cognitive level.
  5. Restraint and safety procedures — execute and evaluate in high-acuity situations, applying judgment to determine appropriate level of intervention.
  6. Coordination with psychiatrists, psychologists, and social workers — facilitate effectively by synthesizing aide observations into actionable clinical information.
  7. Patient care plan adherence — monitor and identify deviations across a full unit caseload, initiating corrective action within aide scope of practice.
  8. Orientation and onboarding — guide newly hired aides through shift workflows, documentation standards, and behavior observation techniques.
  9. Medical and behavioral data trends — analyze across multiple patients using spreadsheet software to flag emerging safety concerns for clinical review.
  10. Ethical dilemmas in patient care — navigate using sound judgment and facility policy, balancing patient autonomy with safety requirements.
Advanced
Lead / Principal / Executive
  1. Unit-wide behavioral safety culture — lead the development and continuous improvement of monitoring protocols across an entire psychiatric care setting.
  2. Aide team performance and development — direct, mentor, and evaluate a team of psychiatric aides to sustain high standards of patient-centered care.
  3. Interdisciplinary care model integration — shape the aide role within broader clinical teams by advocating for aide-level insights in care planning and policy decisions.
  4. Therapeutic activity programming strategy — oversee the design and evaluation of facility-wide social, recreational, and educational programs aligned with patient treatment goals.
  5. Crisis response systems — establish and refine facility de-escalation and restraint protocols, ensuring compliance with regulatory and patient rights standards.
  6. Staff training curriculum — develop and deliver competency-based training programs for psychiatric aides covering observation, documentation, and therapeutic communication.
  7. Patient safety incident analysis — lead post-incident reviews, identify root causes, and implement corrective measures across a psychiatric department.
  8. Regulatory and accreditation compliance — ensure aide team documentation, reporting practices, and care delivery meet Joint Commission and state licensing standards.
  9. Workforce scheduling and resource allocation — manage aide staffing levels across shifts to maintain safe patient-to-staff ratios on a psychiatric inpatient unit.
  10. Organizational quality improvement initiatives — contribute aide-sector data and frontline expertise to hospital-wide patient experience and safety improvement projects.

AI-at-Work Competency Framework

Sources:Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab.Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab.WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab.
Subscriber feature

Authoritative source data identified for 998 occupations

How a worker at each mastery level uses, directs, and evaluates AI tools in this occupation. Each statement cites its evidence inline; click a citation chip to verify the source.

Emerging
  1. AI-assisted documentation review — uses AI tools to look up facility policies or medication side-effect summaries before reporting patient observations to nursing staff, reducing time spent searching reference materials Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab..
Developing
  1. Patient behavior logging support — enters structured shift notes into an AI-assisted documentation system, allowing the tool to flag missing required fields while the aide retains full responsibility for the accuracy of observed behaviors Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab. Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
  2. Incident report drafting — dictates or types a raw account of a behavioral incident and uses an AI writing assistant to organize it into the facility's required format, then reviews and corrects the output before submission Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab..
Proficient
  1. Behavioral pattern summarization — directs an AI tool to aggregate recurring patient behavior entries across shift logs and surfaces the summary to the supervising nurse, while personally verifying that flagged patterns match direct observations Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  2. De-escalation resource retrieval — queries an AI knowledge base for evidence-based de-escalation techniques relevant to a patient's documented diagnosis, then applies professional judgment to select the approach appropriate to the live situation Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
  3. Interdisciplinary communication preparation — uses an AI assistant to draft structured handoff notes for psychiatrists or social workers, ensuring relevant behavioral data is organized clearly before team rounds, while supplying all clinical observation content personally Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab..
Advanced
  1. AI tool evaluation for ward safety — assesses the fitness of AI monitoring or documentation tools for the unit's patient population, identifying where automated behavioral alerts align with or diverge from direct human observation and reporting findings to clinical leadership Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  2. Training peer aides on AI-assisted workflows — demonstrates to colleagues how to use AI documentation and reference tools within the boundaries of their scope of practice, emphasizing that social perceptiveness and direct patient contact remain irreplaceable in this role Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  3. Continuous oversight calibration — monitors the accuracy of AI-generated behavioral summaries against lived ward experience over time, escalating systematic errors or biases in the tool's outputs to supervisory staff to protect patient safety Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab. Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
Evidence pack
AEI usage
Task observations: 99
Augment share: 9.9%
Time saved: 67.3%
AI autonomy: 3.59
SAFI positioning
Top skill: Social Perceptiveness
Score: 51.5 / 100
Quadrant: Q2_ai_augmented
precision: exact
WEF cluster
Human-Technology Interaction
human_technology_interaction
Sources:Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab.Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab.WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab.

Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework

Sources:Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Subscriber feature

Ten durable-skill domains mapped to four proficiency/role levels for each occupation. Each statement is aligned to the Pathsmith taxonomy, derived from trusted grounding data and mapped to occupation-specific O*NET tasks and skills.

1Communication12 statements
Emerging
  1. Patient intake interaction — greets and introduces self to newly admitted psychiatric patients using calm, clear language to establish initial rapport Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Behavioral observation report — documents basic patient behavior and vital signs in written logs under supervision of nursing staff O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Verbal instruction delivery — conveys simple daily schedules and activity expectations to patients using accessible vocabulary Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Emotional support dialogue — listens attentively to patients expressing distress and reflects feelings back using empathetic, non-judgmental language Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Shift handoff communication — relays patient status updates and behavioral changes to oncoming staff through structured verbal summaries O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Interdisciplinary team participation — contributes patient observations during team meetings with psychiatrists, nurses, and social workers O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. De-escalation communication — employs verbal calming techniques with agitated patients to reduce tension before physical intervention becomes necessary Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Progress note documentation — records detailed, clinically relevant behavioral observations and treatment responses in patient records with accuracy and consistency O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Family and visitor communication — explains unit policies and patient participation in activities to family members using professional, reassuring language Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Crisis communication modeling — demonstrates and coaches peers on effective verbal de-escalation techniques during high-acuity patient incidents Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Cross-disciplinary communication leadership — translates frontline behavioral observations into precise clinical language that informs psychiatric treatment planning O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Communication protocol improvement — identifies gaps in shift-to-shift reporting practices and proposes standardized documentation formats adopted unit-wide Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
2Leadership10 statements
Emerging
  1. Activity facilitation initiation — assists in leading small group recreational or educational activities under direct supervision of senior staff O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Peer support role — models appropriate patient interaction behaviors for newly hired aides during joint shifts Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Activity coordination ownership — independently organizes and supervises patient participation in social or therapeutic group activities O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Unit routine leadership — takes initiative to maintain patient schedules and area restrictions without waiting for staff prompting Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Behavioral incident leadership — assumes calm, directive role during patient restraint situations, coordinating team positioning and communication to ensure patient and staff safety O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Mentorship of new aides — guides junior psychiatric aides through documentation protocols, patient interaction standards, and unit policies Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Safety check accountability — leads routine physical monitoring rounds and ensures all observations are reported to clinical staff promptly O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Unit culture leadership — champions trauma-informed care principles among peer aides, influencing team norms around patient dignity and restraint minimization Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Crisis response coordination — directs aide team during multi-patient behavioral incidents, assigning roles and communicating with nursing staff in real time Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Staff development advocacy — identifies training needs among aide staff and collaborates with supervisors to implement skill-building initiatives Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
3Metacognition8 statements
Emerging
  1. Self-monitoring during patient contact — recognizes personal emotional reactions when interacting with distressed patients and pauses to recalibrate before responding Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Learning goal identification — identifies specific clinical skills, such as restraint technique or documentation accuracy, that require further development Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Reflective practice after incidents — reviews own responses during behavioral crises to identify what worked and what to adjust in future situations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Supervision use strategy — actively prepares questions about challenging patient interactions before supervision sessions to maximize learning Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Adaptive strategy deployment — recognizes when a standard approach is not working with a specific patient and consciously shifts communication or support strategy Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Performance self-assessment — evaluates own documentation quality and behavioral observation skills against unit standards and seeks corrective feedback Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Metacognitive modeling for peers — articulates own self-monitoring process during debrief sessions to help junior aides develop reflective practice habits Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Continuous learning architecture — designs personal learning plans that connect direct patient care experiences to formal psychology and counseling knowledge growth Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
4Critical Thinking9 statements
Emerging
  1. Behavioral baseline recognition — identifies when a patient's behavior deviates from their established baseline and flags the change to supervising staff O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Safety risk identification — recognizes environmental or behavioral cues that may indicate risk of patient self-harm or aggression O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Observation pattern analysis — distinguishes between temporary behavioral fluctuations and meaningful clinical changes across multiple patient monitoring cycles O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Documentation accuracy evaluation — reviews own patient notes to verify that recorded observations are factual, complete, and free of interpretive bias Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Situational threat assessment — evaluates patient behavior, environmental factors, and group dynamics simultaneously to determine appropriate level of intervention Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Evidence-based reporting — presents behavioral observations to clinical staff with specific, timestamped examples rather than general impressions to support treatment decisions O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Contraindication awareness — identifies when a patient's expressed request conflicts with their treatment plan and escalates appropriately rather than complying O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Systemic risk analysis — identifies recurring patterns in unit incidents, such as time-of-day triggers or staffing correlations, and presents findings to clinical leadership Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Clinical reasoning contribution — participates in treatment team discussions with evidence-grounded behavioral analysis that influences care plan adjustments Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
5Collaboration9 statements
Emerging
  1. Team task participation — completes assigned components of group patient care tasks, such as activity setup or physical checks, reliably and on schedule O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Role clarity navigation — seeks guidance on own scope of responsibility versus nursing or clinical staff responsibilities in ambiguous situations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Interdisciplinary coordination — coordinates patient transport, activity participation, and daily care tasks with nursing, therapy, and social work staff without creating scheduling conflicts O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Peer coverage support — proactively assists colleagues during high-demand periods without being asked, maintaining unit safety coverage Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Treatment team integration — contributes consistent, reliable behavioral data to interdisciplinary team meetings, enabling psychiatrists and psychologists to make informed care decisions O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Conflict navigation in team — addresses disagreements with colleagues about patient management approaches through direct, respectful dialogue rather than avoidance Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Shared incident response — coordinates physical positioning and verbal roles with team members during patient restraint procedures to minimize harm to all parties O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Cross-discipline collaboration modeling — serves as a liaison between frontline aide staff and clinical team, ensuring behavioral observations are systematically incorporated into treatment planning Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Team process improvement — leads structured debriefs after critical incidents, facilitating collaborative identification of safety and communication improvements Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
6Character9 statements
Emerging
  1. Patient dignity maintenance — treats patients with cognitive, intellectual, or developmental disabilities respectfully regardless of behavioral presentation Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Policy adherence — follows unit rules, patient restriction protocols, and documentation standards consistently even when unsupervised O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Confidentiality integrity — maintains strict patient information privacy in all verbal and written communications within and outside the unit Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Accountability for errors — acknowledges documentation mistakes or missed observations to supervisors promptly and takes corrective action Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Ethical boundary maintenance — consistently declines patient requests that fall outside the care plan or violate professional boundaries, explaining limits with compassion Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Emotional neutrality under provocation — maintains professional demeanor and non-punitive attitude when patients direct verbal aggression or challenging behavior toward staff Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Transparent incident reporting — documents and reports all physical interventions, including restraint use, with complete accuracy and without minimization O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Ethical culture stewardship — challenges peer behaviors that compromise patient dignity or violate policy, raising concerns through appropriate channels with specificity and courage Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Professional integrity modeling — consistently demonstrates accountability, boundary clarity, and patient-centered values in ways that set the behavioral standard for the aide team Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
7Creativity8 statements
Emerging
  1. Activity adaptation — modifies a standard recreational activity to accommodate a patient with physical or cognitive limitations when materials or instructions are not available O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Engagement strategy trial — attempts a different conversational approach when a patient is unresponsive to standard greeting or orientation techniques Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Therapeutic activity design — develops simple, low-resource group activities that promote social interaction among patients with varying psychiatric diagnoses O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Patient motivation innovation — identifies individualized incentives or interests for specific patients and incorporates them into daily engagement strategies Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. De-escalation technique improvisation — applies novel verbal or environmental calming strategies tailored to a specific patient's triggers when standard protocols are insufficient Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Activity program diversification — creates a rotation of social, educational, and recreational activities that sustain patient engagement across a full treatment week O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Unit engagement program design — develops and implements a structured patient activity curriculum that is adopted unit-wide for its therapeutic and behavioral benefits Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Creative problem-solving mentorship — coaches peers on flexible, patient-centered thinking when standard care approaches are ineffective for specific populations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
8Growth Mindset8 statements
Emerging
  1. Feedback receptivity — accepts corrective feedback from supervisors about patient interaction techniques without defensiveness and applies changes on the next shift Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Skill gap acknowledgment — openly identifies areas of uncertainty, such as restraint procedures or documentation, and requests additional training Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Post-incident learning — reflects on challenging patient encounters and identifies at least one specific behavioral adjustment to implement going forward Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Cross-training engagement — volunteers for exposure to different unit assignments or patient populations to broaden clinical experience Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Setback persistence — maintains consistent patient care quality and professionalism following personally distressing incidents, such as patient aggression or unit crises Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Continuous skill development — pursues additional knowledge in psychology and therapeutic counseling beyond minimum requirements to improve patient support effectiveness Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Learning culture promotion — creates an environment where peer aides view difficult patient interactions as learning opportunities rather than failures Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Professional advancement modeling — pursues certification or continuing education in psychiatric care and shares acquired knowledge with the aide team through informal instruction Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
9Mindfulness9 statements
Emerging
  1. Emotional self-awareness during patient contact — notices own stress or discomfort during difficult patient interactions and uses brief grounding techniques before responding Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Present-moment attention — maintains focused attention during patient monitoring rounds rather than allowing distractions to reduce observation accuracy Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Emotional regulation during escalation — manages own fear or frustration response when a patient becomes agitated, maintaining a calm external presence that does not amplify the situation Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Attentional prioritization — allocates monitoring attention across multiple patients simultaneously, adjusting focus based on real-time behavioral risk signals O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Intentional de-escalation presence — uses deliberate tone, pace, and body language to project calm during patient crises, leveraging self-regulation as a direct therapeutic tool Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Compassion fatigue awareness — recognizes signs of emotional depletion in self after high-intensity shifts and uses available support resources before performance is affected Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Trauma-informed attentiveness — remains attuned to patient nonverbal cues, such as posture, eye contact, and breathing patterns, as early indicators of distress O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Mindfulness modeling for team — introduces brief grounding or centering practices at shift start that help aide team enter high-stress unit environments with focused intentionality Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Systemic emotional regulation support — advocates for and participates in unit-level wellbeing practices that reduce burnout and sustain therapeutic presence across the aide workforce Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
10Fortitude9 statements
Emerging
  1. Physical safety courage — participates in patient restraint procedures despite personal discomfort, following protocol to protect patient and staff safety O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Routine persistence — maintains consistent patient monitoring and documentation standards across long shifts even when workload is high Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Post-crisis return to function — resumes normal patient care responsibilities promptly after a physically or emotionally demanding incident without extended withdrawal Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Repeated challenge endurance — continues providing empathetic care to patients who exhibit chronic resistant or aggressive behavior across multiple consecutive shifts Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Sustained adversity performance — maintains documentation accuracy, behavioral observation vigilance, and patient dignity standards during periods of sustained unit crisis or staff shortages Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Difficult conversation courage — raises safety concerns or policy violations with supervisors even when doing so creates interpersonal friction Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Chronic stress resilience — sustains effective patient care performance over months of exposure to psychiatric unit stressors, including patient deterioration and critical incidents Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Resilience mentorship — supports peer aides experiencing burnout or trauma responses by normalizing struggle and modeling constructive recovery strategies Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Institutional courage — advocates persistently for patient safety or policy changes within organizational structures, maintaining professional persistence despite slow or resistant responses Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Sources:Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Show O*NET source anchors50 anchors · skillscrosswalk.com

O*NET enrichment · skillscrosswalk.com

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Source anchors that ground each statement

Related titles
Behavior Aide · Behavior Assistant · Behavior Intervention Assistant · Behavior Support Assistant · Behavioral Aide · Behavioral Assistant · Behavioral Health Assistant · BHA (Behavioral Health Aide) · BHA (Behavioral Health Associate) · Charge Aide · Charge Attendant · Clinical Assistant
RAPIDS apprenticeships
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O*NET skills
Social PerceptivenessService OrientationSpeakingActive ListeningMonitoringCritical ThinkingActive LearningCoordinationReading ComprehensionWritingInstructingComplex Problem SolvingJudgment and Decision MakingNegotiationPersuasion
Knowledge domains
PsychologyCustomer and Personal ServiceTherapy and CounselingEnglish Language
Abilities
Oral ExpressionOral ComprehensionProblem SensitivityWritten ComprehensionDeductive ReasoningInductive ReasoningSpeech ClaritySpeech RecognitionInformation OrderingFar Vision
Work styles
EmpathyDependabilityCooperationStress ToleranceSelf-ControlSincerity
Technology
Electronic mail softwareSpreadsheet softwareOffice suite softwarePresentation softwareOperating system softwareWord processing softwareMedical software
Tasks · seed anchors for statements
  1. Listen and provide emotional support and encouragement to psychiatric patients.
  2. Provide patients with cognitive, intellectual, or developmental disabilities with routine physical, emotional, psychological, or rehabilitation care under the direction of nursing or medical staff.
  3. Complete physical checks and monitor patients to detect unusual or harmful behavior and report observations to professional staff.
  4. Restrain or aid patients as necessary to prevent injury.
  5. Work as part of a team that may include psychiatrists, psychologists, psychiatric nurses, or social workers.
  6. Record and maintain patient information, such as vital signs, eating habits, behavior, progress notes, treatments, or discharge plans.
  7. Maintain patients' restrictions to assigned areas.
  8. Organize, supervise, or encourage patient participation in social, educational, or recreational activities.
CIP education codes
51.150251.2601

Sources: O*NET v30.2 (CC BY 4.0), SkillsCrosswalk.com, LER.me, Anthropic Economic Index, SAFI (Jadhav & Danve, 2026), WEF Skills Taxonomy 2021, Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework. © 2026 EBSCOed.