Behavioral Health Technician - Forensic Unit

Lifepoint Health • Holyoke, MA

19h

About The Position

Valley Springs Behavioral Health Hospital’s Forensic Unit provides specialized inpatient behavioral health services for people involved with the legal or criminal justice system who need psychiatric evaluation, stabilization, and treatment. In a structured and secure setting, the interdisciplinary team provides evidence-based therapies, medication management, individualized treatment planning, and patient-centered care, with a focus on safety, therapeutic engagement, recovery, and preparing patients for the next level of care.

The Behavioral Health Technician supports patient care and safety in the unit’s milieu. The position is full-time, day shift, and union-represented. The technician works under RN delegation and may be required to work flexible hours and overtime.

Requirements

• High school degree preferred.
• Valid driver’s license and favorable Motor Vehicle Report (MVR); proof of insurance is required when using a personal or hospital-owned vehicle.
• CPR certification and Crisis Prevention Training (CPI) must be completed within 30 days of employment and before any patient contact.
• Complete additional age-specific training within 30 days of employment, as required.
• Must be at least 21 years of age.
• May be required to work flexible hours and overtime.
• Where applicable, obtain and maintain agency affiliation.

Nice To Haves

• Previous experience in a psychiatric health care facility.
• Direct experience working with chemical dependency, dual diagnosis, psychiatric, and geriatric patients.

Responsibilities

• Maintain a safe milieu by completing 15-minute patient checks, monitoring safety and contraband, observing changes in condition, and providing line-of-sight or one-on-one care as directed.
• Complete tasks delegated by the RN, including taking vital signs, collecting specimens, documenting care, providing group education, and monitoring patients.
• Use effective milieu management skills to promote positive patient experiences.
• Accompany patients to off-unit activities, including meals, outside breaks, visits, outings, and appointments.
• Report medical or psychiatric changes in patients to the RN.
• Assist with admissions, including inventorying belongings, orienting patients to the unit, taking vital signs, and completing other delegated duties.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage options for full-time and part-time employees.
• Life, accident, critical illness, and hospital indemnity insurance.
• Short- and long-term disability coverage.
• Paid family leave and paid time off.
• Higher education and certification tuition assistance.
• Loan assistance.
• 401(k) retirement package with company match.
• Wellness programs, including free gym memberships, virtual care appointments, mental health services, and discount programs.
• Ongoing learning and career advancement opportunities.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Education Level: High school or GED