Behavioral Health Technician

Job description:

Position Summary

The Behavioral Health Technician (BHT) provides direct care and supervision to clients in a behavioral health and substance use treatment setting. This role supports the clinical team by ensuring a safe, structured, and therapeutic environment while assisting clients with daily activities and monitoring their progress throughout treatment.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

· Monitor and supervise clients to ensure safety and compliance with program rules and expectations
· Conduct routine safety checks and maintain awareness of client whereabouts at all times
· Assist clients with activities of daily living (ADLs), including hygiene, meals, and daily routines
· Support and assist during group sessions, educational programming, and recreational activities
· Facilitate or co-facilitate psychoeducational groups as assigned
· Perform intake procedures, including belongings search, room orientation, and documentation
· Accurately document client behaviors, incidents, and observations in a timely manner
· Respond to crisis situations and assist with de-escalation and behavioral interventions
· Enforce facility policies, procedures, and behavioral expectations consistently
· Communicate effectively with nursing, clinical, and administrative staff regarding client status
· Assist with client transportation and appointments as needed
· Maintain a clean, safe, and organized environment throughout the facility
· Participate in shift reports, team meetings, and required trainings

Qualifications

Education:
· High school diploma or equivalent required
· Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Social Work, or related field preferred

Licensure/Certification:
· CPR/First Aid certification required (or willingness to obtain upon hire)

Experience:
· Minimum of 1 year experience in behavioral health, substance abuse, or healthcare setting preferred
· Experience working with mental health and/or substance use populations strongly preferred

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

· Strong observation and documentation skills
· Ability to manage crisis situations calmly and effectively
· Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
· Ability to maintain professional boundaries with clients
· Team-oriented with a compassionate and patient-centered approach
· Ability to work in a fast-paced and structured environment

Working Conditions

· Residential/inpatient behavioral health treatment facility
· May require working evenings, weekends, and holidays
· Exposure to individuals experiencing emotional distress, substance withdrawal, or behavioral crises

Physical Requirements

· Ability to stand and walk for extended periods
· Ability to assist with crisis intervention, including physical management if necessary
· Ability to lift and move up to 25–50 lbs as needed

Compliance Requirements
· Must comply with all state and accreditation standards (DCF, Joint Commission, HIPAA)
· Must complete all required trainings within designated timeframes

Join us in making a positive impact by providing compassionate care that empowers individuals on their journey toward mental wellness. We are committed to supporting your professional growth through ongoing training in behavior management, crisis intervention, medical documentation, and more—all within a vibrant team dedicated to excellence in behavioral health services.