Behavioral Health Technician

Where compassion meets innovation and technology and our employees are family.Thank you for your interest in joining our team! Please review the job information below.General Purpose of Job:The Behavioral Health Technician (BHT) provides direct patient care and supports the safety, stabilization, and therapeutic engagement of pediatric patients experiencing behavioral health challenges. Working under the supervision of unit staff with clinical guidance from licensed mental health specialists, the BHT implements individualized treatment and behavior plans, monitors patient safety, and contributes to a structured, trauma-informed care environment.The BHT collaborates with the interdisciplinary team to support patients with complex behavioral and mental health needs, often with co-occurring medical conditions. This role requires strong observation skills, professionalism, effective communication, and the ability to respond appropriately in crisis situations. The BHT may administer hospital-approved behavioral and mental health screenings and provide support to the behavioral health team as needed within scope of role and training. This job description reflects the general duties and responsibilities of the role and is not intended to be an exhaustive list. Responsibilities may be adjusted based on organizational and patient care requirementsPatient Care & SafetyProvide continuous or intermittent observation of patients assignedMonitor patient behavior, mood, and safety risks; promptly report changesMaintain a safe environment by identifying and removing hazardsImplement safety protocols including suicide precautions, elopement prevention, and close observationAssist in crisis intervention using approved de-escalation techniquesParticipate in physical management interventions per training and policy2. Implementation of Treatment & Behavior PlansImplement individualized behavior plans developed by the clinical teamMaintain consistency in expectations, boundaries, and interventionsRecognize triggers and early warning signs of escalationUtilize proactive strategies to prevent behavioral crises3. Therapeutic EngagementEngage patients in developmentally appropriate therapeutic, recreational, and skill-building activitiesReinforce coping strategies and treatment goals established by licensed cliniciansSupport structured group activities under supervision (may co-facilitate as appropriate)Promote a trauma-informed, respectful, and supportive environment4. Activities of Daily Living & Clinical SupportAssist patients with activities of daily living (ADLs) including hygiene, meals, and transitionsSupport safe patient transport and mobilityAssist unit as directed within scope of role and training5. Documentation & CommunicationAccurately document observations, behaviors, and interventions in the medical recordCommunicate changes in patient status to nursing and clinical team membersParticipate in shift huddles, team meetings, and care coordination6. Family & Caregiver InteractionProvide supportive, professional interactions with familiesReinforce unit structure, expectations, and general coping strategies (within role scope)Model trauma-informed communication and behavior7. Environment of Care & Unit SupportMaintain a clean, organized, and therapeutic environmentMonitor and restock supplies as neededAssist with basic clerical tasks (e.g., answering phones, documentation support, patient flow tasks) as assignedSupport overall unit efficiency and operations within scope of role and trainingKnowledge, Skills, & AbilitiesUnderstanding of behavioral health principles and trauma-informed careAbility to recognize and respond to escalating behaviorsStrong interpersonal and communication skillsAbility to maintain professional boundariesEffective crisis management and de-escalation skillsAbility to follow structured treatment plans with consistencyBasic computer and EMR documentation skillsAbility to work in a fast-paced, high-stress environmentWork Environment & Physical RequirementsFast-paced behavioral health, emergencies, and/or inpatient unit.Frequent standing, walking, and engagement in therapeutic play/activities.Possible exposure to high-stress situations and behavioral outbursts.Will require participation in approved physical management techniques during behavioral escalations (BRT Team).Additional Preferred Competencies (Optional)Bilingual English/Spanish preferred.Experience with neurodivergent populations (ASD, ADHD).Familiarity with sensory tools and regulation strategiesEducation and/or Experience:High school diploma or equivalent required.Associate or bachelor’s degree in psychology, social work, child development, or related field (or currently enrolled in a program related to the fields aforementioned).ExperienceOne (1) year of experience working with children or individuals with behavioral health needs preferredExperience in inpatient, residential, emergency, or healthcare settings preferredCertificates, Licenses, Registrations.Basic Life Support (BLS/CPR) – required within 30 days of hireCrisis Prevention/Intervention Training – required within 60 days of hireWorkplace Violence Prevention Training – required per hospital policyCertified Mental Health Technician (CMHT) – preferredSpanish #J-18808-Ljbffr Driscoll-Children