A mental health technician provides support for patients and therapists to ensure the facility continues to provide adequate care for its patients. They play a pivotal role in implementing treatment plans and assisting staff in caring for their patients. Mental health technician jobs are in high demand all across the country. They are an excellent way for young professionals to work in their chosen field while figuring out the specific area of behavioral health that interests them the most.
Behavioral Health Jobs is a job board dedicated to careers in the behavioral health field. Our database is updated daily with new jobs in mental health for all experience levels and departments. If you are interested in a job as a mental health technician or other career options, check out the available mental health technician jobs on the Behavioral Health Jobs website.
What Is a Mental Health Technician?
A mental health technician works directly with patients struggling with a disability, illness, or mental health disorder such as addiction, bipolar disorder, or post-traumatic stress disorder. They work closely with physicians, social workers, psychiatrists, and counselors to assist them in whatever capacity necessary to allow them to help their patients as much as possible. They will also work one-on-one with patients to provide the level of care they need based on their treatment plan.
Technicians will need to be flexible and adapt to the changing needs of the patients. They need excellent relationship skills, problem-solving abilities, and have superb listening skills. Some of the typical duties a mental health technician may perform include the following:
- Filling out admittance paperwork for new patients
- Assisting therapists and medical staff in caring for patients
- Leading therapeutic or recreational activities
- Administering prescribed medication
- Checking vital signs
- Documenting behavioral patterns
- Talking with patients as necessary
Mental health technicians are necessary for several organizations, including outpatient treatment centers, long-term care facilities, schools, hospitals, and other healthcare organizations. They will work with children, teens, and adults from all walks of life and backgrounds.
Education Requirements for Mental Health Technicians
The education requirements for job seekers to qualify for jobs in mental health are changing. Some companies only require a high school diploma for entry-level positions, but more companies are beginning to require additional education. Mental health technicians can start working at an entry-level position and continue their education while gaining valuable work experience.
According to the American Association of Psychiatric Technicians, there are four levels of certification for mental health technicians:
- Level One – High school diploma or equivalent.
- Level Two – A minimum of 480 hours of coursework through an accredited university, plus one year of experience in a healthcare facility.
- Level Three – A minimum of 960 hours of coursework through an accredited university, plus two years of experience in a healthcare facility.
- Level Four – A bachelor’s degree in a related field of study, plus three years of work experience in a healthcare facility.
Additional certifications are available once you find a specific field of interest. Some of the top certifications for mental health technicians include:
- Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT)
- Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
- Correctional Behavioral Health Certification – Behavioral Specialty (CBHC-BS)
- Certified Nurse Technician (CNT)
- Registered Behavioral Technician (RBT)
Other Important Things to Consider About a Mental Health Technician Career
If you are considering a career as a mental health technician, there are some important things to keep in mind. First and foremost, you should familiarize yourself with the different types of mental health roles available. Mental health technicians can work in hospitals, clinics, private practices, and even group homes or residential settings. Depending on where you choose to work, your duties may include helping patients manage their mental health issues, providing therapeutic interventions, or assisting with activities of daily living. You should also be sure to research applicable state and federal laws governing mental health care, as well as any local requirements that might apply.
In addition to having a thorough understanding of the different roles available in mental health care, it is important for prospective technicians to have a strong sense of empathy and understanding. Mental health technicians must be able to relate to their clients on a personal level, as well as be comfortable with discussing sensitive topics. It is also important for mental health technicians to possess strong communication skills in order to effectively communicate with patients and other healthcare professionals.
Finally, if you’re considering a career as a mental health technician, it is important to take the time to explore the different options available. Talk with current mental health technicians, research different job opportunities online, and reach out to employers for more information. Taking the time to thoroughly investigate all your options can help ensure that you make an informed decision about which career path is right for you.
Behavioral Health Jobs Is Your Top Resource for Jobs in Mental Health
Behavioral Health Jobs provides a dedicated database of the top jobs in the behavioral health industry if you are interested in an exciting job as a mental health technician or other positions in mental health. You can search for jobs by title, experience level, distance, and other criteria. Check out the available job listings at Behavioral Health Jobs today to begin a new career as a mental health technician.
