Crisis Bed Mental Health Technician PRN/On-Call

Delaware Guidance Services for Children and Youth, Inc.•Lewes, DE

3d•Onsite

About The Position

The Mental Health Technician provides direct client care and unit support to children and adolescents experiencing psychological and emotional difficulties in a Crisis Bed setting. Under the supervision of the Lead Crisis Bed Shift Supervisor, the technician supports client safety and well-being and delivers compassionate, person-centered, trauma-informed care. The role includes documenting milieu and case management services from intake through discharge. The technician monitors clients, follows safety protocols, implements approved person-centered plans, provides therapeutic interventions and activities, and helps maintain a safe, engaging milieu. Functional duties include preparing meals, assisting with daily living and education, maintaining a clean and safe environment, and collaborating with staff, families, and community members. The position requires timely electronic documentation and verbal shift reports, compliance with agency policies and licensing regulations, and completion of required training. The work environment is in Lewes, Delaware, and travel is required for specific tasks. Weekend shifts are listed as Saturday and Sunday, with options of 7 a.m.–3 p.m., 3 p.m.–11 p.m., and 11 p.m.–7 a.m.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Valid driver’s license and satisfactory driving record.
At least 21 years of age.
Ability to perform physical interventions, potentially including holds, and to lift, carry, and assist clients as needed.
Ability to respond to challenging situations safely and in a controlled manner.
Frequent walking, standing, twisting, bending, and squatting are required.
Proficient auditory and visual skills.

Nice To Haves

Direct work experience leading groups, de-escalating behaviors, and managing multiple clinical diagnoses.
Experience working in an inpatient or residential/group home setting.
Bilingual ability.

Responsibilities

Closely monitor clients and complete observation rounds using required safety protocols.
Implement person-centered plans, assist clients in meeting identified outcomes, and ensure applicable supports are provided.
Deliver solution-focused and trauma-informed interventions to maintain safety and build problem-solving, communication, and relationship skills.
Create an engaging, therapeutic, and safe unit milieu.
Plan, prepare, and deliver group therapeutic activities.
Use critical thinking and risk management skills when supporting clients in Crisis Bed.
Recognize warning signs and risk factors associated with suicide and harm to others.
Interact professionally, empathetically, and in a trauma-informed manner with children, families, and stakeholders.
Obtain groceries and prepare meals according to the planned menu.
Support activities of daily living, including prompting clients to complete personal care and hygiene and to self-administer medication.
Maintain a clean and safe environment and ensure safe delivery of care.
Provide education support.
Work respectfully and cooperatively with Crisis Bed staff, families, and community members.
Pursue professional development and contribute to the professional development of others.
Complete accurate and timely electronic documentation and verbal shift reports before the end of each shift.
Uphold professional treatment standards and the organization’s mission, code of conduct, ethics, and professionalism.
Provide goal-directed, team-oriented services and communicate effectively with stakeholders.
Comply with agency policies, procedures, and licensing regulations.
Complete agency-required training within 30 days of employment and maintain applicable certifications and refresher training within required timeframes.
Travel for specific tasks.