Mental Health Technician Adolescents

UHS•West Columbia, SC

92d•Onsite

About The Position

The Mental Health Technician (MHT) works closely with all members of the clinical treatment team and plays an integral part in assuring that the patient program schedule is carried out as planned by the Team. The MHT performs various duties assisting nurses in the psychiatric and physical treatment and care of patients in accordance with established methods and procedures of the hospital. This role involves interacting closely with patients, remaining engaged in various activities and events throughout the treatment day, and interacting with patients in a therapeutic manner at all times, while also assisting other staff to maintain appropriate boundaries. This position will float as needed to other units based on needs to include dual diagnosis, crisis stabilization, and acute inpatient adult programs. Three Rivers Behavioral Health is a 136-bed treatment facility that specializes in quality behavioral health and substance abuse services for adolescents and adults. We offer a full continuum of care through an integrated system of inpatient, partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient programs. Our team of 300+ high quality employees describe working here as "family atmosphere," "supportive leadership," and "life-changing." Progressive professionals in the fields of psychiatry, medicine, nursing, social services, and activity therapy serve hundreds of adults and adolescents each month with the common goal of creating new beginnings. Healthcare professionals have a unique opportunity to affect lives for the better each and every day.

Requirements

Associates or Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology or related field preferred.
Two (2) years of experience in healthcare or behavioral health related field in lieu of Associates or Bachelor’s degree.
Ability to continuously walk and stand for duration of shift.
Ability to stoop, kneel, crouch, reach, pull, lift objects from a lower to higher position or horizontally from position to position
Exertion of up to 20 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 10 pounds of force frequently
Manual dexterity and physical agile so to perform de-escalation procedures
Must be able to deal with aggressive, hostile, and irrational behavior of patients calmly and therapeutically.
Must be able to respond immediately to crisis situations concerning patients and/or family members; must be able to work and concentrate amidst distractions, such as noise, conversation, and foot traffic.

Responsibilities

Assists with maintaining a safe and hazard free environment by observing and documenting patient behavior, conducting patient room searches, reporting unsafe conditions and applying appropriate emotional and physical support.
Utilize patient activity schedule, unit rules and group structure to maintain consistency in the milieu.
Records progress notes that are reflective of patient’s behavior for specific incidents and conditions, such as suicidal thoughts/actions, AWOLs, aggressive behavior, special checks, restrictions, and unusual sleep patterns.