Behavioral Health Technician

Anovaeon•Alexandria, LA

4d•$24 - $24•Onsite

About The Position

The Behavioral Health Technician provides direct behavioral health support, observation, and crisis response services within a federally contracted ICE residential facility in Alexandria, LA. Working under the direction of a licensed Behavioral Health Provider, the BHT ensures the emotional safety and psychological well-being of a diverse population of all ages during temporary stays. The role demands cultural humility, composure under pressure, and the ability to function effectively in a rapid-deployment and emergency-driven operational environment that runs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. All services must be delivered in a manner sensitive to developmental, cultural, and religious diversity, and conveyed in a language or manner the individual understands.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED required
Minimum two (2) years of experience in behavioral health, mental health, social services, residential care, crisis intervention, or related human services settings.
Ability to remain calm and professional during emergencies and high-stress situations.
Strong interpersonal, communication, and documentation skills.
Current CPR and First Aid certification, or ability to obtain prior to hire.
Ability to obtain and maintain a federal background clearance (up to and including a Tier 4 DHS-level investigation).
Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively in English.
Employees must be a U.S. Citizen or a Legal Permanent Resident
Employment is contingent upon successful completion of the following screening: Federal background investigation (up to and including a Tier 4 DHS clearance), Criminal history check, Verification of employment and education history, Compliance with all government credentialing requirements, Drug Screening
Employees must adhere to all federal security, confidentiality, and operational protocols while working within government facilities.
Must be able to speak, read, and write in English
Must show proof of eligibility to work in the U.S.
Internal background check to the satisfaction of contract requirements.
If applicable, Child Abuse/ Neglect Report (CAN) or child protective services check with no adverse findings.

Nice To Haves

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Psychology, Social Work, Counseling, Human Services, or a related field preferred.
Bilingual proficiency in Spanish or another commonly encountered language highly preferred.
Training or certification in Trauma-Informed Care (TIC) frameworks.
Training or experience with Motivational Interviewing (MI) techniques.
Training or experience in crisis intervention and verbal de-escalation (e.g., CPI, MANDT, or similar programs).
Experience with suicide risk screening and prevention protocols.
Experience working in a government-contracted, residential, or shelter environment.
Familiarity with child welfare best practices and age-appropriate behavioral interventions.
Certified Behavioral Health Technician (CBHT)
Registered Behavior Technician (RBT)

Responsibilities

Assist with behavioral health screenings and ongoing assessments
Monitor residents for signs of behavioral distress, trauma reactions, anxiety, depression, self-harm risk, or other mental health needs and report to appropriate clinical staff
Support individuals with behavioral health, developmental, or other specialized needs.
Respond appropriately to behavioral health crises using approved de-escalation techniques.
Follow emergency response procedures for medical or behavioral health emergencies.
Provide observation and support for individuals requiring increased supervision.
Utilize trauma-informed approaches in all interactions.
Treat individuals with dignity, respect, and empathy.
Support orientation, engagement, and participation in daily activities and services.
Maintain accurate and timely documentation of observations, screenings, interventions, and incidents.
Complete required reports and records in accordance with organizational policies.
Communicate relevant information during shift transitions and team meetings.