Behavioral Health Technician

Behavioral Health Technician

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 requirements.

Patient Care & Safety

• Provide continuous or intermittent observation of patients assigned
• Monitor patient behavior, mood, and safety risks; promptly report changes
• Maintain a safe environment by identifying and removing hazards
• Implement safety protocols including suicide precautions, elopement prevention, and close observation
• Assist in crisis intervention using approved de-escalation techniques
• Participate in physical management interventions per training and policy

Implementation of Treatment & Behavior Plans

• Implement individualized behavior plans developed by the clinical team
• Maintain consistency in expectations, boundaries, and interventions
• Recognize triggers and early warning signs of escalation
• Utilize proactive strategies to prevent behavioral crises

Therapeutic Engagement

• Engage patients in developmentally appropriate therapeutic, recreational, and skill-building activities
• Reinforce coping strategies and treatment goals established by licensed clinicians
• Support structured group activities under supervision (may co-facilitate as appropriate)
• Promote a trauma-informed, respectful, and supportive environment

Activities of Daily Living & Clinical Support

• Assist patients with activities of daily living (ADLs) including hygiene, meals, and transitions
• Support safe patient transport and mobility
• Assist unit as directed within scope of role and training

Documentation & Communication

• Accurately document observations, behaviors, and interventions in the medical record
• Communicate changes in patient status to nursing and clinical team members
• Participate in shift huddles, team meetings, and care coordination

Family & Caregiver Interaction

• Provide supportive, professional interactions with families
• Reinforce unit structure, expectations, and general coping strategies (within role scope)
• Model trauma-informed communication and behavior

Environment of Care & Unit Support

• Maintain a clean, organized, and therapeutic environment
• Monitor and restock supplies as needed
• Assist with basic clerical tasks (e.g., answering phones, documentation support, patient flow tasks) as assigned
• Support overall unit efficiency and operations within scope of role and training

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

• Understanding of behavioral health principles and trauma-informed care
• Ability to recognize and respond to escalating behaviors
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to maintain professional boundaries
• Effective crisis management and de-escalation skills
• Ability to follow structured treatment plans with consistency
• Basic computer and EMR documentation skills
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-stress environment

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• Fast-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 strategies

Education 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).
• One (1) year of experience working with children or individuals with behavioral health needs preferred
• Experience in inpatient, residential, emergency, or healthcare settings preferred

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations:

• Basic Life Support (BLS/CPR) required within 30 days of hire
• Crisis Prevention/Intervention Training required within 60 days of hire
• Workplace Violence Prevention Training required per hospital policy
• Certified Mental Health Technician (CMHT) preferred