Emergency Behavioral Health Technician

Emergency Behavioral Health Technician

The Emergency Behavioral Health Technician (EBHT) is a specialized role that combines the responsibilities of a Behavioral Health Technician (BHT) with the emergency response expertise of an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT). EBHT provides direct patient care, supports therapeutic programming, responds to medical and psychiatric emergencies, and ensures a safe and supportive environment for all patients at the facility.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Behavioral Health Support

• Provide supervision and direct care to patients in accordance with treatment plans.
• Assist patients with daily living activities, group participation, and therapeutic engagement.
• Monitor and document patient behaviors, interventions, and outcomes.
• Utilize approved de-escalation and crisis intervention techniques.

Emergency Medical Response

• Serve as first responder to on-site medical or psychiatric emergencies.
• Conduct rapid patient assessments, provide stabilization, and initiate appropriate emergency interventions.
• Administer CPR, AED, oxygen, and approved medications within EMT scope of practice.
• Support nursing staff with vitals, specimen collection, and routine medical tasks.
• Coordinate with outside EMS providers when higher-level care is required.

Team Collaboration

• Work closely with nursing, medical, and clinical staff to maintain a safe, therapeutic environment.
• Participate in treatment team meetings and contribute to individualized care planning.
• Provide support during patient admissions, transfers, and discharges.

Qualifications Required:

• High school diploma or GED.
• Current Pennsylvania EMT-B certification (or National Registry equivalent).
• At least 1 year of experience in behavioral health, substance use treatment, or a related field.
• Current CPR/BLS certification.

Qualifications Preferred:

• Associate's degree in psychology, healthcare, or related field.
• Crisis intervention training (e.g., CPI, Handle with Care).
• Experience in dual-diagnosis or residential treatment environments.

Core Competencies

• Strong crisis management and de-escalation skills.
• Ability to remain calm and effective in high-stress situations.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• Commitment to patient-centered care.