Behavioral Health Technician

Samba Recovery; Jonesboro (GA); On-site; USD 19,286 - 30,307; Full time

Job summary

Samba Recovery in Georgia is seeking a Behavioral Health Technician to support a structured treatment environment and act as a liaison among patients, staff, and providers. The role emphasizes ensuring safety, documenting care, and engaging patients in treatment activities.

Responsibilities include admissions, milieu monitoring, facilitating group participation, recording vitals, and maintaining HIPAA compliance.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required; degree preferred.
• Prior experience in behavioral health or related field preferred.
• Knowledge of substance use and recovery preferred.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and observational skills.
• CPR/First Aid certification or willingness to obtain.

Responsibilities

• Maintain a safe, structured environment through milieu monitoring and patient rounds.
• Complete admissions steps including intake, orientation, and program expectations.
• Assist patients with daily programming, escorting to groups and activities.
• Document attendance and participation in psychoeducational groups.
• Record vital signs and support nursing staff as appropriate.
• Manage inventory logs of patient belongings on admission/discharge.
• Observe changes in patient mood, behavior, or condition and report promptly.
• Use verbal de-escalation and crisis intervention to maintain safety.
• Participate in shift handoffs and team trainings.
• Provide compassionate, trauma-informed interactions at all times.
• Ensure HIPAA compliance and adherence to facility policies.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Communication skills

Observational skills

Crisis management

CPR/First Aid certification

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Behavioral Health, Psychology, or related field preferred

Job description

The Behavioral Health Technician (BHT) is a vital member of the interdisciplinary treatment team, providing direct patient care and support within a structured therapeutic environment. This role serves as a key liaison between patients, clinical staff, and medical providers to ensure continuity of care, safety, and a positive treatment experience.

The BHT plays an essential role in maintaining the therapeutic milieu, supporting daily operations, and promoting patient engagement in treatment. Responsibilities include assisting with admissions, monitoring patient safety, facilitating group participation and documentation, and ensuring timely and compassionate responses to patient needs.

Responsibilities

• Maintain a safe, structured, and therapeutic environment through ongoing milieu monitoring and regular patient rounding
• Complete admissions processes, including intake procedures, patient orientation, and review of program expectations and schedules
• Support patients in adhering to daily programming, including escorting to groups, appointments, and activities as needed
• Conduct, monitor, and accurately document attendance and participation in psychoeducational and support groups
• Assist nursing and medical staff with obtaining and recording vital signs, as appropriate
• Complete and maintain accurate inventory logs of patient belongings and valuables upon admission and discharge
• Observe and report changes in patient behavior, mood, or physical condition to clinical staff in a timely manner
• Utilize verbal de‑escalation and crisis intervention techniques to manage conflict and ensure safety
• Participate in shift handoffs, team communication, and ongoing staff meetings/trainings
• Provide compassionate, respectful, and trauma‑informed interactions with patients at all times
• Ensure compliance with all facility policies, regulatory standards, and confidentiality requirements (HIPAA)

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required; Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Behavioral Health, Psychology, or related field preferred
• Prior experience in behavioral health, substance use, or mental health strongly preferred
• Knowledge of substance use and recovery is strongly preferred
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and observational skills
• Ability to remain calm and professional in high‑stress or crisis situations
• Basic computer skills and ability to complete electronic documentation
• Current CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain upon hire)
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed