Mental Health Technician - Per Diem (PRN)

Job Description

Job Description

Mental Health Technician (MHT) – Crisis Stabilization Unit

Position Summary
South County Mental Health Center, Inc. is seeking compassionate and reliable Mental Health Technicians (MHTs) to support patients in our Crisis Stabilization Unit during evening, overnight, and weekend shifts. This role plays a vital part in maintaining a safe, structured, and therapeutic environment for individuals experiencing acute mental health crises. The MHT works under supervision while exercising sound judgment in monitoring patient behavior, assisting with daily activities, and responding to crisis situations. Success in this role requires strong observation skills, emotional resilience, and the ability to remain calm in high-stress environments.

About Us
South County Mental Health Center, Inc. is a private, non-profit, Joint Commission-accredited behavioral healthcare provider serving Southeast Palm Beach County. We are dedicated to delivering compassionate, high-quality mental health services to individuals and families in our community.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent (required)
• Experience in behavioral health, healthcare, or human services (preferred)
• Knowledge of mental health conditions and crisis intervention techniques (preferred)
• Ability to safely manage and de-escalate behavioral situations
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Basic computer and documentation skills

Preferred Qualifications:

• Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Behavioral Health or related field
• Experience in acute care or crisis stabilization settings
• CPR/BLS Certification
• Fluent in Spanish

Duties and Responsibilities
Direct Patient Support

• Monitor and observe patient behavior to ensure safety and well-being
• Assist patients with activities of daily living (ADLs), including hygiene and meals
• Provide one-to-one observation as assigned
• Support a structured and therapeutic unit environment

Crisis Intervention & Safety

• Intervene in behavioral crises using approved de-escalation techniques
• Assist clinical staff during emergencies and code situations
• Monitor patients under special precautions (e.g., suicide or close observation)
• Follow all safety protocols, including restraint and seclusion procedures

Program Support

• Assist with or co-facilitate group activities as directed
• Encourage patient participation in treatment programming
• Support daily unit routines and schedules

Documentation & Communication

• Accurately document patient behaviors, activities, and incidents
• Communicate observations and concerns to nursing and clinical staff
• Complete required logs and reports in a timely manner

Unit Support

• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe unit environment
• Assist with admissions, discharges, and patient flow as needed
• Support team operations and step in where needed during shifts

Core Competencies

• Ability to stay calm and composed under pressure
• Strong observation and situational awareness
• Dependability and accountability
• Effective communication and teamwork
• Empathy and respect for diverse populations
• Ability to follow direction and adhere to protocols
• Professional boundaries and ethical conduct

Physical Demands

• Frequent standing, walking, and active monitoring of patients
• Ability to assist with patient mobility and physical interventions when required
• Occasional lifting, bending, and reaching
• Ability to respond quickly in emergency situations

Working Conditions

• Acute care psychiatric environment (Crisis Stabilization Unit)
• Exposure to high-stress and emotionally charged situations

• Interaction with individuals experiencing severe mental health symptoms
• Potential exposure to aggressive or unpredictable behavior
• Requires adherence to strict safety and infection control protocols

Performance Standards
Performance will be evaluated based on:

• Patient safety and adherence to protocols
• Accuracy and timeliness of documentation
• Responsiveness in crisis situations
• Team collaboration and communication
• Attendance, punctuality, and reliability
• Ability to maintain a therapeutic environment

Schedule & Work Details
Shifts: Flexible
Schedule may include:

• Evenings (e.g., 3:00 PM – 11:30 PM)
• Overnights (e.g., 11:00 PM – 7:30 AM)
• Weekends (Saturday & Sunday required for some roles)

Location: In-person (Belle Glade, FL)

Benefits
As a per-diem employee, benefits are not offered. 

Additional Information
Background check required
Drug-free workplace
Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE)

Employment Requirements: Employment with South County Mental Health Center requires compliance with applicable health screening requirements, including a PPD/TB screening. Employees must also receive the annual influenza vaccination or wear a face mask during flu season (October through April), subject to applicable accommodations.

Apply now.

Because of the work we do in the community, a full background check is required for all staff.

We are a drug free employer.

South County Mental Health Center, Inc is an EOE.

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