CNA/MENTAL HEALTH TECH

Riverside HealthcareKankakee, IL
Onsite

About The Position

Riverside Healthcare is seeking a compassionate and dedicated Mental Health Technician to join our Inpatient Senior Behavioral Health Unit in Kankakee, Illinois. In this role, you will combine the responsibilities of a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) with the specialized duties of a Mental Health Technician. You will provide vital support to our senior patients experiencing mental health challenges, ensuring a safe, therapeutic environment while promoting dignity and well-being. Additionally, this role requires flexibility with assignments within professional scope/duties/licensure.

Requirements

  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build rapport with patients and families.
  • Ability to work effectively in a team environment and maintain professionalism in challenging situations.
  • High school diploma or equivalent required.
  • Current Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification is required.
  • Basic Life Support (BLS) certification required.
  • Secure certification required upon hire and maintained annually.

Nice To Haves

  • Previous experience in a mental health setting, particularly with senior populations, is preferred.
  • Basic understanding of mental health conditions and treatment modalities.
  • College level courses in Psychology or related field preferred.
  • Associate's Degree preferred.

Responsibilities

  • Assist patients with daily living activities, including personal hygiene, grooming, bathing, and dressing, in accordance with CNA protocols.
  • Monitor and document patient behavior, moods, and progress, promptly reporting any changes to nursing staff and the treatment team.
  • Facilitate group therapy sessions and activities, promoting patient engagement and social interaction.
  • Maintain a safe and therapeutic environment by adhering to safety protocols, ensuring proper handling of any behavioral crises.
  • Provide emotional support and companionship to patients, fostering trust and encouraging open communication.
  • Support the implementation of individualized treatment plans, collaborating with the healthcare team.
  • Participate in staff meetings and contribute insights on patient progress and care strategies.
  • Respond promptly to patient needs and emergencies, utilizing de-escalation techniques when necessary.
  • Perform routine vital signs and reporting findings to nursing staff.
  • Assist with administrative tasks as needed, such as filing, data entry, and patient record maintenance.
  • Participate in ongoing training and professional development opportunities to enhance skills and knowledge.
  • Collaborate with interdisciplinary team members to support comprehensive patient care.

Benefits

  • nationally rated employee well-being programs
  • competitive compensation
  • generous retirement offerings
  • programs that invest in your career development
  • Paid Time Off programs
  • medical, dental, vision, life, and Short- and Long-Term Disability
  • Health Savings and Flexible Spending Accounts for eligible health care and dependent care expenses
  • Defined contribution retirement plans with employer match and other financial wellness programs
  • Educational Assistance Program
  • Paid Leave Hours accrued as you work
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