Behavioral Health Technician

Henry Ford Health•West Bloomfield, MI

About The Position

Under the direction of the Registered Nurse and in accordance with established policies, procedures, guidelines, and patient care plans, the Behavioral Health Technician performs direct patient care activities for patients with addiction, behavioral problems, or mental health conditions. The role provides compassionate, therapeutic support while maintaining a safe and structured environment that promotes patient recovery and wellbeing. The technician assists patients with daily living and personal care, observes and documents patient behavior and status, supports coping and de-escalation, and implements interventions and activities directed by the clinical team. The role also collaborates with interdisciplinary providers, supports admissions and discharges, and maintains confidentiality and compliance with facility standards and regulatory requirements.

Requirements

High school diploma or G.E.D. equivalent.
At least one year of college experience in Behavioral Health, Allied Health, Psychology, or a related field; if lacking college experience, at least one year of Behavioral Health Technician experience or applicable experience such as Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) is required.
Ability to physically manage patients when necessary in a safe and therapeutic manner.
Interpersonal skills to interact effectively with patients and provide comfort, empathy, encouragement, and support.
Analytical skills to assess patients and gather data relevant to patient care.
Ability to work cooperatively with other healthcare providers to provide quality, safe patient care.
Complete BLS Heartsaver Certification during orientation and maintain active BLS certification.
Complete WELLE training within the first three months of becoming a Behavioral Health Technician, where location-specific, and maintain active WELLE certification.

Nice To Haves

Two or more years of experience as a Behavioral Health Technician in an inpatient psychiatric or addiction medicine setting; preferred depending on location hired.

Responsibilities

Assist patients with activities of daily living, personal hygiene, grooming, and meals.
Establish positive, therapeutic interactions with patients through empathy, active listening, and concern for their wellbeing and recovery.
Maintain a safe, clean, and structured therapeutic environment while following safety protocols and infection control standards.
Monitor patient behavior, mood, and emotional responses; document observations accurately and promptly; and communicate significant changes to the Registered Nurse and treatment team.
Assist patients with coping strategies, grounding techniques, and de-escalation during emotional distress or behavioral challenges.
Implement behavioral health interventions as directed by the clinical team, including therapeutic activities, group support facilitation, and recreational programming.
Respond to patient requests and concerns, provide reassurance and support, and escalate complex issues as appropriate.
Collaborate with nurses, physicians, counselors, social workers, and other interdisciplinary healthcare providers to coordinate safe, quality care.
Document patient interactions, behavioral observations, interventions, and patient responses in accordance with facility standards and regulatory requirements.
Notify the manager and clinical leadership of significant patient care issues, safety concerns, behavioral incidents, or changes in patient status.
Assist with admissions and discharges, including unit orientation, explaining facility policies, and supporting transitions in care.
Maintain confidentiality and HIPAA compliance in patient interactions and communications.