Behavioral Health Technician
About The Position
The Behavioral Health Technician (BHT) provides direct care and supervision to clients in a behavioral health and substance use treatment setting. The role supports the clinical team by helping maintain a safe, structured, and therapeutic environment, assisting clients with daily activities, and monitoring their progress throughout treatment. The position is based in a residential or inpatient behavioral health treatment facility. It may involve working evenings, weekends, and holidays, and exposure to individuals experiencing emotional distress, substance withdrawal, or behavioral crises. The technician must comply with applicable state and accreditation standards, including DCF, Joint Commission, and HIPAA requirements, and complete required trainings within designated timeframes. The organization describes ongoing training in behavior management, crisis intervention, medical documentation, and other areas as support for professional growth.
Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- CPR/First Aid certification, or willingness to obtain it upon hire.
- Strong observation and documentation skills.
- Ability to manage crisis situations calmly and effectively.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to maintain professional boundaries with clients.
- Team-oriented approach with compassion and a patient-centered outlook.
- Ability to work in a fast-paced, structured environment.
- Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
- Ability to assist with crisis intervention, including physical management if necessary.
- Ability to lift and move 25–50 lbs as needed.
Nice To Haves
- Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Social Work, or a related field.
- At least 1 year of experience in a behavioral health, substance abuse, or healthcare setting.
- Experience working with mental health and/or substance use populations.
Responsibilities
- Monitor and supervise clients to ensure safety and compliance with program rules and expectations.
- Conduct routine safety checks and maintain awareness of client whereabouts.
- Assist clients with activities of daily living, including hygiene, meals, and daily routines.
- Support group sessions, educational programming, and recreational activities.
- Facilitate or co-facilitate psychoeducational groups as assigned.
- Perform intake procedures, including belongings searches, room orientation, and documentation.
- Document client behaviors, incidents, and observations accurately and promptly.
- Respond to crisis situations and assist with de-escalation and behavioral interventions.
- Enforce facility policies, procedures, and behavioral expectations consistently.
- Communicate client status to nursing, clinical, and administrative staff.
- Assist with client transportation and appointments as needed.
- Maintain a clean, safe, and organized facility environment.
- Participate in shift reports, team meetings, and required trainings.
- Comply with state and accreditation standards, including DCF, Joint Commission, and HIPAA requirements.
- Complete required trainings within designated timeframes.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
