Behavioral Health Technician

Bradford Health Services; Southaven (MS); On-site; USD 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

Bradford Health Services is seeking a Behavioral Health Technician in Southaven, Mississippi, to provide compassionate support within a treatment environment for individuals with substance use disorders. This role requires supervision of patient activities, monitoring adherence to facility policies, and documentation of patient interactions. Candidates must have a high school diploma, CPR certification, and experience in a mental health setting. Additional skills include effective communication and crisis intervention techniques. The position offers a dynamic work environment with ongoing training opportunities.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required; associate degree in behavioral health preferred.
• CPR certification required within 30 days of hire.
• One year of experience in addiction treatment or behavioral health preferred.

Responsibilities

• Supervise patient activities and conduct regular check-ins.
• Monitor and document patient behavior according to facility policies.
• Drive patients to medical appointments and assist with facility maintenance.

Skills

Compassionate support

Observation and documentation skills

Crisis intervention techniques

Effective communication

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Associate degree in behavioral health or related field

Tools

Electronic health record (EHR) systems

Job description

Behavioral Health Technician – Overview

The Behavioral Health Technician (BHT) supports clinical staff by maintaining a safe, structured, and therapeutic environment for individuals undergoing treatment for substance use disorders. The BHT monitors patient activities, facilitates recovery-based education and group sessions, assists with daily routines, and ensures compliance with facility policies and safety standards.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required; associate degree in behavioral health or related field preferred.
• Experience 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, including conducting luggage and body searches as part of intake procedures.
• Monitor and document patient behavior, ensuring adherence to facility policies and schedules.
• Conduct regular patient check‑ins, offering support and encouragement in their recovery journey.
• Supervise 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.
• Lead and facilitate group activities such as 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.
• Support counseling 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.
• Ensure proper documentation of incidents, behavioral concerns, and patient progress reports.

Skills

• Maintain accurate records of patient interactions, observations, and participation in treatment programs.
• Ensure accurate 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 keep the environment 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 factors. In addition to federal law requirements, Bradford Health Services complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities.