Mental Health Technician (62015)

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt - This position is classified as Non‑Exempt under the Fair Labor Standards Act and is eligible for overtime pay.

Job Summary:

The Mental Health Technician (MHT) is responsible for providing direct patient support within the Acute Treatment Unit (ATU). Under the direction of licensed clinical staff and in collaboration with the interdisciplinary team, the MHT assists in maintaining a safe, structured, and therapeutic environment for individuals experiencing behavioral health crises. This position supports patient safety, engagement, stabilization, and continuity of care through observation, therapeutic interaction, crisis intervention support, and assistance with activities of daily living.

Essential Functions:

• Performs required patient observation and safety monitoring, including Q15 checks, line-of-sight observation, one-to-one monitoring as ordered, and environmental safety rounds.
• Identifies and reports safety concerns, including contraband, restricted items, and environmental risks, and conducts searches in accordance with established procedures.
• Supports patient admissions, transfers, and discharges by orienting patients to the unit, securing personal belongings, completing related documentation, and assisting with property return at discharge.
• Assists patients with activities of daily living, including hygiene, grooming, dressing, and nutritional support, and promptly communicates concerns to nursing staff.
• Establishes and maintains therapeutic rapport with patients, reinforces professional boundaries, and utilizes approved verbal de-escalation techniques to support crisis stabilization.
• Facilitates assigned psychoeducational or skills-based groups and documents patient participation in the electronic medical record in accordance with documentation standards.
• Supports visitation processes by verifying required documentation, communicating concerns to the appropriate team members, and assisting with unit workflow.
• Assists licensed staff with delegated duties, including obtaining vital signs and supporting medication reconciliation processes within established timeframes.
• Completes timely, accurate, and professional documentation, including observation records, incident reports, and group notes, in accordance with organizational policy and regulatory requirements.
• Utilizes Handle With Care (HWC) techniques, as trained and authorized, to respond safely to escalated situations and to assist with approved restraint and seclusion procedures when indicated.
• Performs routine housekeeping, sanitation, and infection prevention tasks within patient care and common areas.
• Participates in required meetings, training, supervision, and other assigned duties, and contributes to a collaborative, professional team environment.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:

• Bachelor's Degree in Psychology, Sociology, Social Work, or a related field preferred OR.
• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Demonstrated written and verbal communication skills and the ability to document services accurately, timely, and professionally.
• Basic computer proficiency, including the ability to enter, retrieve, and maintain information in the electronic medical record.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of an interdisciplinary team.
• Ability to complete and apply Handle With Care physical management techniques as required for the ATU setting.