Behavioral Health Technician (BHT)

At Decypher, we are dedicated to supporting the health and readiness of service members, veterans, and their families through the delivery of exceptional behavioral health services. We are seeking a passionate and skilled Behavioral Health Technician (BHT) to join our team. As a Behavioral Health Technician (BHT), you will play a vital role in providing direct patient care and clinical support, assisting with assessments, treatment, rehabilitation, and therapeutic interventions for individuals receiving behavioral health services. Decypher partners with the Defense Health Agency to deliver innovative healthcare solutions and is committed to fostering a work environment where your contributions are highly valued.

Working as a Behavioral Health Technician (BHT) at Decypher offers a unique opportunity to impact the lives of military personnel, veterans, and their families. You will be part of a collaborative team that emphasizes high-quality patient care, teamwork, and professional growth. The Behavioral Health Technician (BHT) role is ideal for those who are passionate about mental health and committed to supporting individuals on their journey to wellness.

Behavioral Health Technician (BHT) - Summary

The Behavioral Health Technician (BHT) provides direct patient care and clinical support within a multidisciplinary setting. This role is responsible for conducting assessments, monitoring patient progress, maintaining accurate records, and implementing therapeutic interventions in collaboration with healthcare professionals. The Behavioral Health Technician (BHT) also ensures patient safety, coordinates care with community resources, and upholds the highest standards of behavioral health care delivery.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Conduct or assist in behavioral health treatment and rehabilitation of patients.
• Perform initial basic assessment procedures, including psychological testing, clinical interviewing, mental status exams, and substance abuse evaluations.
• Identify mental health and nursing diagnoses and provide patient education as needed.
• Observe, monitor, accurately record, and report patient progress throughout treatment.
• Conduct or assist in individual and group counseling sessions, therapeutic community activities, and related milieu interventions.
• Implement precautionary measures to maintain patient safety and prevent injury or self-harm.
• Assist patients with daily living activities, including nutrition, hygiene, and comfort measures.
• Obtain and document vital signs and other relevant patient information.
• Coordinate with military and community agencies regarding patient care, treatment, prevention, and rehabilitation needs.
• Gather collateral information from external agencies and interpret mental health services to patients and their families.
• Arrange and facilitate patient referrals to public, private, and military community agencies as appropriate.
• Prepare and maintain treatment, specialty service, and administrative records and reports.
• Assist with the care of individuals experiencing acute and post-traumatic stress reactions.
• Respond promptly and effectively during behavioral health emergencies.

Salary & Benefits

• Competitive compensation package aligned with industry standards for Behavioral Health Technician (BHT) roles.
• Comprehensive benefits including health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Opportunities for professional development and career advancement within a supportive organization.
• Access to resources and support to foster work-life balance and overall well-being.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Graduation from an accredited Psychiatric Technician Program or equivalent education and experience as defined by the American Association of Psychiatric Technicians.
• Completion of education and experience as a behavioral science specialist/technician in the United States military, including completion of an Armed Forces psychiatric technician training course or an accredited civilian course in behavioral health patient care.
• Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification.
• A minimum of one year of experience as a Behavioral Health Technician (BHT) or Psychiatric Technician after graduation.
• Ability to stand, walk, sit, bend, stoop, and reach for extended periods; lift and move up to 25 pounds occasionally; assist patients with mobility and daily living; and respond promptly to emergencies.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary environment.
• U.S. Citizenship is required.

Ideal Candidate Snapshot

• Demonstrates compassion and respect in all patient interactions and works effectively with a diverse population.
• Possesses strong organizational skills and attention to detail for maintaining accurate medical records and documentation.
• Exhibits resilience and adaptability in fast-paced, dynamic healthcare settings.
• Shows a genuine commitment to continuous learning and professional growth in behavioral health care.
• Approaches challenges with a solution-oriented mindset and values teamwork.

Other Relevant Information

• The Behavioral Health Technician (BHT) position is an on-site role requiring physical presence to best support patient care needs.
• Join a mission-driven organization with a long-standing commitment to supporting the health and readiness of those who serve and their families.
• Decypher is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer committed to a diverse and inclusive workforce (M/F/D/V).