Mental Health Technician - MH/BH (PRN Only)

UHS•Norfolk, VA

18h

About The Position

Kempsville Center for Behavioral Health is a leading community partner providing acute, residential, and Partial Hospitalization treatment for children and teens exhibiting behavioral and/or mental health concerns. The hospital provides high quality care to children, adolescents and their families using quality, evidence-based practice treatments. Founded in 1986, Kempsville Center for Behavioral Health is a 106-bed hospital facility accredited by The Joint Commission (TJC) and licensed by the Commonwealth of Virginia and The Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services (DBHDS). Website: https://www.kempsvillecbh.com/ Position Description: The Mental Health Technician serves as a role model for patients/residents to observe and help patients/residents learn socially effective values, attitudes and behaviors. Ensures environment remains safe and normative culture remains positive throughout facility. Contributes to formulation, implementation and revision of the patients/resident individual treatment plan through regular communication to the multidisciplinary treatment team. Promotes cognitive, social, physical, and emotional development to equip patients/residents with the knowledge and skills to help patients/residents achieve treatment goals.

Requirements

Associate’s degree in psychology, Human Services, Early Childhood Education, Social Sciences, or related field
In lieu of a degree, at least 6 months of experience working directly with children in a therapeutic setting OR
In lieu of a degree, QMHP-C certification and no experience
Ability to remain calm and de-escalate situations with patients
Strong written and verbal skills
Ability to maintain strong interpersonal relationships
Ability to maintain confidentiality
Working knowledge of behavior management
Broad knowledge and understanding of common mental health diagnoses (e.g., Anxiety, Depression, Psychosis, ADHD, Bipolar, Suicide, and others)
The physical requirements for this position include being able to stand, squat, kneel, sit, and lie on the floor for long periods of time. Must be able to lift 50 lbs. of weight. Must be able to read, write clearly, talk, and listen. Must be 21 years old or older.
Blood borne disease exposure category: Category I

Responsibilities

Read and interpret treatment plans for patients/residents and develop appropriate strategies to help patients/residents learn acceptable behaviors
Develop and facilitate group sessions for the implementation of skill acquisition and behavior reduction plans that align with individual patient/resident treatment plan goals
Observe, collect, and accurately record observed patient/resident behaviors, write detailed and thorough progress notes, and communicate with multidisciplinary treatment team to identify, implement, and attain prescribed treatment goals
Assist with behavior management and crisis intervention by creating learning opportunities that support positive normative culture and utilizing appropriate intervention techniques to re-direct behavior of patients/residents
Utilize established mechanisms to enhance communication among and between staff (i.e., shift reports, team logs, staff meetings, etc.)
Conduct continuous and on-going rounding to accurately assess and monitor patients/residents per doctor’s orders and milieu to proactively prevent or respond to potential crisis situations
Ensure consistent service delivery by treating patients/residents, families, and co-workers with respect, appropriately communicating and responding, and demonstrating appropriate boundaries