Behavioral Health Technician

At Bradford Health Services, we don’t just invest in our patients—we invest in our people.

About the Role

The Behavioral Health Technician (BHT) provides essential support to clinical staff by ensuring a safe, structured, and therapeutic environment for individuals receiving treatment for substance use disorders. The BHT is responsible for monitoring patient activities, facilitating recovery-based education and group sessions, assisting with daily routines, and ensuring compliance with facility policies and safety standards. This role is crucial in fostering a positive and recovery-focused atmosphere for patients.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required; Associate degree in behavioral health or related field preferred.
• Experience working in a mental health or behavioral health setting.
• Knowledge of clinical documentation standards and ability to maintain accurate records.
• Basic understanding of crisis intervention techniques and mental health assessments.
• Ability to work effectively with individuals experiencing serious emotional disturbances (SED).

Preferred Qualifications

• Certification as a Behavioral Health Technician or equivalent credential.
• Training in trauma-informed care and de-escalation strategies.
• Experience with discharge planning and care coordination.
• Familiarity with electronic health record (EHR) systems.
• Additional coursework or certification in mental health or social services.

Responsibilities

• Patient Supervision and Support.
• Assist in patient care, including conducting luggage and body searches as part of intake procedures.
• Monitor and document patient behavior, ensuring adherence to the facility’s policies and schedules.
• Conduct regular patient check-ins, offering support and encouragement in their recovery journey.
• Supervise and facilitate patient activities, ensuring engagement in treatment related programs and interventions.
• Monitor patients for signs of distress, behavioral concerns, or relapse triggers, and report findings to clinical staff.
• Group Facilitation and Patient Engagement.
• Lead and facilitate book studies, recovery meetings, and educational sessions on addiction and coping skills.
• Assist in non-clinical group activities that reinforce positive behavior and promote wellness.
• Encourage patient participation in group discussions and structured recreational activities.

Skills

• The Behavioral Health Technician utilizes clinical documentation skills daily to ensure all client interactions and interventions are accurately recorded, supporting continuity of care and compliance. Crisis management and intervention skills are essential for responding promptly and effectively to behavioral emergencies, ensuring safety for clients and staff. Clinical assessment abilities allow the technician to monitor client progress and identify changes in mental health status, informing treatment adjustments. Knowledge of mental health conditions and serious emotional disturbances (SED) guides the technician in providing empathetic and appropriate support tailored to each client’s needs. Maintaining documentation and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams are critical for coordinating discharge plans and facilitating smooth transitions in care.
• Maintain accurate records of patient interactions, observations, and participation in treatment programs.
• Ensure proper documentation of incidents, behavioral concerns, and patient progress reports.
• Support counselors and nursing staff with documentation as needed.
• Drive patients to and from medical appointments, recovery meetings, and other authorized outings.
• Assist with facility maintenance and ensure the environment remains clean, safe, and therapeutic.
• Maintain clear communication with clinical and administrative teams regarding patient needs and activities.

Qualifications

• and Requirements
• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• CPR certification required within 30 days of hire.
• One year of experience in addiction treatment, behavioral health, or a related field preferred.
• F Endorsement and Valid Driver's License Required.

• Core Competencies
• Strong ability to provide compassionate support to individuals in early recovery.
• Excellent observation and documentation skills to ensure patient safety and compliance.
• Ability to maintain professionalism and enforce facility rules while fostering a supportive environment.
• Strong communication skills to interact with patients, clinical staff, and external providers.
• Ability to handle crisis situations calmly and follow emergency procedures as necessary.

• Physical & Work Environment Requirements
• Ability to stand, walk, and remain active for extended periods while supervising patient activities.
• Must be able to lift up to 20 pounds occasionally for facility needs or patient assistance.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment that may involve exposure to emotionally charged situations.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.

Bradford Health Services does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factor. In addition to federal law requirements, Bradford Health Services comply with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities.