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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 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

2. 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

3. 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

4. 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

5. 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

6. 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

7. 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).

Experience

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