Behavioral Health Technician Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the ever-evolving field of healthcare, the role of Behavioral Health Technicians is becoming increasingly prominent.

As society becomes more aware and accepting of mental health issues, the demand for skilled professionals who can provide, monitor, and coordinate behavioral health services grows stronger.

But let’s dig a little deeper: What is really expected from a Behavioral Health Technician?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager defining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply interested in the field of behavioral health,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Behavioral Health Technician job description template, designed for straightforward posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s delve right into it.

Behavioral Health Technician Duties and Responsibilities

Behavioral Health Technicians work alongside medical professionals and therapists to assist in the treatment of patients with disorders such as substance abuse, alcoholism, mental health issues, and developmental disabilities.

Their primary duties and responsibilities include:

• Assisting with the development and implementation of treatment plans
• Monitoring patients’ behaviors and reactions to treatment
• Assisting patients with daily activities and ensuring their safety
• Recording patient progress and reporting to medical professionals
• Providing emotional support and guidance to patients
• Organizing therapeutic recreational and educational activities
• Maintaining a clean and safe environment for patients
• Assisting in crisis situations and intervening when necessary
• Working closely with other healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive patient care
• Adhering to professional standards, hospital policies and procedures, federal, state, and local requirements

 

Behavioral Health Technician Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Behavioral Health Technician to join our team.

Your role will include providing care and assistance to patients with behavioral health conditions, including substance abuse disorders, mental health conditions, and developmental disabilities.

You will be responsible for observing, recording and reporting patient’s behavior, implementing care plans, and promoting patient’s physical and mental health.

Our ideal candidate has a strong passion for helping others, is empathetic, and has experience in the behavioral health field.

 

Responsibilities

• Monitor patients and document their behavioral patterns, vital signs, and treatment progress
• Assist in developing and implementing care plans
• Conduct therapeutic and recreational activities
• Help patients with daily activities, such as bathing, dressing, and eating
• Maintain a safe, clean, and supportive environment for patients
• Provide crisis intervention as needed
• Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals
• Adhere to professional standards, follow policies and procedures and abide by federal, state and local requirements

 

Qualifications

• Previous experience as a Behavioral Health Technician or in a related role
• Knowledge of patient care procedures and medical terminology
• Understanding of behavioral health conditions and treatment plans
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to manage stressful situations and handle physical demands of the job
• High school diploma or equivalent required; relevant certification or degree in behavioral health, psychology, or related field preferred

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Behavioral Health Technician
• Work Environment: This role may involve working in a hospital, clinic, or residential setting. Evening, weekend, and holiday shifts may be required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Behavioral Health Supervisor or Lead Mental Health Professional.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $28,000 minimum to $45,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Behavioral Health Technician Do?

Behavioral Health Technicians, also known as Behavioral Health Technicians or Psychiatric Technicians, primarily work in medical and psychiatric care facilities, under the supervision of psychologists and psychiatrists.

They help in the care for patients suffering from mental illness, addiction, developmental disabilities or emotional problems, providing both emotional support and physical assistance.

Their duties include monitoring patients’ behaviors, recording observations, leading therapeutic and recreational activities, and assisting in implementing treatment plans.

They also help in managing crisis situations like outbursts or suicide attempts and intervene appropriately, often using de-escalation techniques.

Behavioral Health Technicians may also be involved in facilitating group discussions or sessions, administering medication under supervision, and helping patients with personal hygiene tasks.

This role requires strong empathy, patience, and excellent communication skills as they work closely with patients and medical professionals to help improve patients’ lives.

 

Behavioral Health Technician Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Behavioral Health Technician should have the skills and qualifications that align with your job description, such as:

• Understanding of various psychological disorders and treatment modalities to provide appropriate care to patients.
• Strong interpersonal skills to establish rapport and build trust with patients, helping them feel comfortable and supported.
• Effective communication skills to interact with patients, their families, and healthcare providers, accurately conveying information and empathetically listening to concerns.
• Observational skills to monitor patient behavior and progress, noting any significant changes and reporting them to the healthcare team.
• Ability to remain calm and composed during crisis situations, providing necessary intervention and ensuring patient safety.
• Knowledge of ethical guidelines and patient privacy regulations to maintain the dignity and confidentiality of patients.
• Physical stamina to assist patients in daily activities and perform tasks like lifting or moving patients if needed.
• Problem-solving skills to identify issues in the treatment plan and propose adjustments for better outcomes.
• Willingness to continue learning and adapt to new treatment methods or technologies in the field of behavioral health.

 

Behavioral Health Technician Experience Requirements

Behavioral Health Technicians often start their careers by gaining a foundational level of experience in the healthcare sector.

This can be achieved through volunteering, internships, or part-time roles in various healthcare settings such as hospitals, rehabilitation centers, or mental health facilities.

Entry-level Behavioral Health Technicians may need a minimum of 1 to 2 years of experience working in a healthcare or mental health setting.

This experience can be gained from roles such as a Certified Nursing Assistant, Home Health Aide, or a Mental Health Assistant.

For those who wish to advance in the field, they typically need around 3 to 5 years of direct experience working with patients who have mental health disorders or behavioral issues.

This could be in the capacity of a Behavioral Health Technician or a related role.

Professionals with more than 5 years of experience often have had exposure to administrative or supervisory responsibilities.

They may have been involved in planning and implementing behavioral health programs or coordinating a team of healthcare professionals.

This level of experience can prepare them for senior or managerial roles within the behavioral health field.

In addition to on-the-job experience, it is also essential for a Behavioral Health Technician to have formal education or certification from an accredited institution.

Having a good understanding of crisis intervention techniques, patient rights, therapeutic intervention techniques, and mental health laws is crucial to excel in this role.

 

Behavioral Health Technician Education and Training Requirements

Behavioral Health Technicians typically need at least a high school diploma, but more often, a postsecondary degree in a field such as psychology, counseling, social work or a related discipline is required.

Theoretical and practical training is usually part of the curriculum, providing a solid foundation in mental health theories, therapeutic techniques, and a strong understanding of ethics and patient rights.

In addition to formal education, most employers prefer candidates with some experience in mental health or addiction treatment settings.

This could include internships, volunteer work, or paid positions in similar roles.

Many states require Behavioral Health Technicians to be certified.

The certification process generally involves a combination of education, work experience, and passing an examination.

Certification requirements vary by state.

Continuing education and training are crucial in this field due to the evolving nature of behavioral health disorders and their treatment methods.

This could include workshops, seminars, or advanced degree programs.

Moreover, a successful Behavioral Health Technician should have a compassionate nature, strong communication skills, and patience, as they are working with individuals who are dealing with challenging mental and behavioral health conditions.

 

Behavioral Health Technician Salary Expectations

A Behavioral Health Technician earns an average salary of $31,106 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings may fluctuate based on the professional’s experience, the complexity of the cases they handle, geographic location, and the institution they work for.

 

Behavioral Health Technician Job Description FAQs

What qualifications does a Behavioral Health Technician need?

A Behavioral Health Technician usually requires at least a high school diploma, though many employers prefer an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in a related field such as psychology, counseling, or social work.

They must also typically complete a certification course and obtain a certification in behavioral health.

Some states may require additional licensing.

 

What are the daily duties of a Behavioral Health Technician?

Behavioral Health Technicians may work with patients who have mental illnesses or behavioral problems.

Their daily responsibilities can include monitoring patient behavior, recording patient information, implementing treatment plans, and assisting with therapeutic activities.

They may also assist in crisis situations and help manage the overall environment to ensure safety.

 

What skills should a Behavioral Health Technician possess?

Behavioral Health Technicians should have strong communication and interpersonal skills as they work closely with patients and a team of healthcare professionals.

They also need patience and empathy to deal with individuals who may be challenging due to their mental or behavioral conditions.

The ability to stay calm under pressure and crisis management skills are also important in this role.

 

What should you look for in a Behavioral Health Technician resume?

When reviewing a resume for a Behavioral Health Technician, you should look for a relevant educational background and certification in behavioral health.

Previous experience in a similar role or working with individuals with mental health issues or behavioral problems is a plus.

Skills like strong communication, empathy, patience, and ability to work in a team should also be highlighted in their resume.

 

Is it difficult to hire a Behavioral Health Technician?

The difficulty of hiring a Behavioral Health Technician can depend on various factors including the location, specific needs of the position, and the current job market.

Given the demanding nature of the job, it can sometimes be challenging to find candidates who are both qualified and have the necessary soft skills like empathy and patience.

Offering competitive salary and benefits and providing a supportive work environment can help attract qualified candidates.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we’ve unveiled the true essence of being a behavioral health technician.

Guess what?

It’s not just about providing therapeutic care.

It’s about shaping the future of mental health, one patient at a time.

With our definitive behavioral health technician job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take the next step.

But why limit yourself?

Dive deeper with our job description generator. It’s your guide to crafting precision-targeted job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every patient interaction is part of a larger journey.

Let’s shape that future. Together.

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