Mental Health Technician Dual Diagnosis

UHS•West Columbia, SC

1d•Onsite

About The Position

This position will work in the Behavioral Recovery Unit for an adult dual diagnosis program. 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. 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. Interacts closely with patients remaining engaged in the various activities and events that patients experience throughout the treatment day. Interacts with patients in a therapeutic manner at all times and assists other staff to also maintain appropriate boundaries. 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.

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 continously 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.
This position will float as needed to other units based on needs to include crisis stabilization, acute inpatient adult, and acute inpatient adolescent programs.