Mental Health Technician observes and assists assigned mental health patients and helps with daily living activities, therapeutic activities, and socialization. Responsible for the overall maintenance of a therapeutic environment in the psychiatric unit and to ensure the safety of patents and staff. Being a Mental Health Technician attends and participates in group therapy, in-service education, and staff meetings. Records information about patients including vital signs, weight, and demeanor. Additionally, Mental Health Technician may communicate with patients family as needed. Typically requires an associate degree or equivalent. Typically reports to a registered nurse (rn) or other supervisor. The Mental Health Technician works under moderate supervision. Gaining or has attained full proficiency in a specific area of discipline. To be a Mental Health Technician typically requires 1-3 years of related experience. (Copyright 2024 Salary.com)
Job Summary:
The Mental Health Technician is responsible for establishing a therapeutic relationship with patients and facilitates the maintenance of a therapeutic environment by providing supportive services to individuals with mental health challenges in a 24-hour clinic and residential setting. This position will also document services provided in the resident’s electronic health record and facility log, provide crisis intervention services as needed, provide transportation of residents, and maintain the upkeep & operations of facilities.
Responsibilities:
All direct care staff shall have graduated from high school or possess a GED and have a minimum of one (1) year of full-time experience, or its part-time equivalent, working in a program serving persons with mental disabilities. Such experience must be in the direct provision of services to clients. If the employee does not have the required experience, the program shall document a specific plan of supervision and in-service training for the employee which will guarantee the ongoing qualification of the employee to perform the job. The plan should include but not be limited to the frequency and number of hours of training, the subjects to be covered, and a description of the supervision to be provided.
Physical Requirements/Work Environment:
Work is primarily sedentary in nature, occasionally lifting 30 or more pounds and must be able to lift up to 50 pounds (ie. luggage). Must be able to walk, stoop, sit, stand, climb, stretch, reach, and possess finger/dexterity. Must be able to walk and work standing on feet up to 75% of the day. Must have a level of mobility necessary to meet patients’ needs.Quality of hearing (whether natural or with accommodation) must be acceptable due to frequent phone conversations with business representatives, potential clients, and families. They must exhibit the ability to display coping skills to handle multiple calls and duties. The risk of exposure to unpredictable situations (i.e., client behavior) exists.
Education/Experience/Skills Required: