Behavioral Health Technician

River Valley Behavioral Health; Owensboro (KY); On-site; USD 32,000 - 42,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay

Comprehensive benefits

Paid time off + holidays

Retirement plan options

Tuition reimbursement + CEUs

Clinical supervision

Wellness programs

Job summary

RiverValley Behavioral Health in Owensboro, KY is seeking a compassionate Behavioral Health Technician (BHT) to support children and adolescents ages 4–17 in the Acute Care Program. The role provides a safe, therapeutic environment with ABA-based instruction and individualized treatment plans developed by the care team.

You will assess mood and behavior, use de-escalation techniques, and work as a consistent role model while delivering 1:1 and group instruction in communication, ADLs, behavior,

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• One year of direct care experience preferred.
• Knowledge of child and adolescent development helpful.

Responsibilities

• Assess mood and behavior changes and take appropriate action.
• Utilize de-escalation techniques to defuse challenging situations.
• Serve as a consistent role model for patients.
• Work 12-hour rotating shifts, including every other weekend.
• Provide 1:1 and group instruction in communication, ADLs, behavior, social skills, and academics.
• Collaborate with the Senior Behavior Analyst (SBA) daily.
• Support skill development per individualized treatment plans.
• Assist with admissions and room searches with nursing staff.
• Document observations and progress according to policy.

Skills

De-escalation techniques

Communication

Teamwork

Observation

Patient support

ADLs assistance

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

Job Summary: Day, 2nd, and Night Shift options availableThe Acute Care Program serves children and adolescents ages 4–17 who are experiencing emotional, behavioral, or psychiatric challenges. Every child receives individualized, trauma-informed care designed to help them build coping skills, strengthen resilience, and thrive at home, in school, and in the community.The Behavioral Health Technician (BHT) supervises and provides a safe and therapeutic environment for children and adolescents admitted to RVBH Hospital. They may provide 1:1 instruction utilizing the principals of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) based upon an individualized intervention plans developed by the treatment team for children diagnosed with autism, intellectual disabilities, and emotional and behavioral disorders. BHTs support each patient’s physical, psychological, spiritual, and social well-being through therapeutic interactions guided by person-centered treatment plans and help them work toward achieving a healthier quality of life.Essential Functions:Assess mood and behavior changes and take appropriate action, including modifying behavior or alerting clinical staff.Utilize de-escalation techniques to defuse challenging situations.Serve as a consistent role model for all patients.Work 12-hour rotating shifts, including every other weekend.Maintain strict confidentiality regarding patient information.Effectively communicate patient status to nursing and leadership teams.Provide 1:1 and group instruction in communication, ADLs, behavior, social skills, and academics as outlined by the treatment team.Collaborate with the Senior Behavior Analyst (SBA) daily regarding questions, concerns, or suggestions.Support skill development aligned with each patient’s individualized treatment plan.Assist with new admissions and room searches in coordination with nursing staff while maintaining patient rights.Support patient ADLs, including bathing, grooming, and room maintenance.Document observations and progress according to policy and report key information to nursing staff.Plan and implement structured activities in coordination with Recreation Therapy staff.Maintain current certifications TB testing and Safe Crisis Management.Comply with all infection control procedures and PPE guidelines.Model the mission and values of RiverValley Behavioral Health.Perform other duties as assigned.Why Choose RiverValley?RiverValley is now a Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC), expanding access to high-quality, integrated care in the communities we serve. Join a mission-driven organization committed to clinical excellence, professional growth, and meaningful impact.We offer:Competitive payComprehensive benefits (health, dental, vision, Telehealth)Paid time off + 9 holidaysRetirement plan optionsTuition reimbursement + free CEUsClinical supervisionWellness & employee assistance programsMileage reimbursement for work related travelPublic Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) - eligible employerEducation and Experience:High school diploma or GED required.Valid driver’s license preferred.One (1) year of direct care experience in a similar facility preferred.Knowledge and Skills:Strong communication, observation and teamwork skills.Organizational, planning and group facilitation skills.Ability to engage youth positively.Ability to remain calm and supportive in high-stress situations.Basic knowledge of child and adolescent development.