Behavioral Health Technician I

David Lawrence Center; Naples (FL); On-site; USD 21,000 - 30,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Immediate PTO Accrual

Full Benefits with 401k Match

Professional Development & Tuition Aid

EAP & Wellness Programs

Job summary

David Lawrence Center in Naples, FL, is hiring a Behavioral Health Technician (BHT) for Adult & Child Crisis Units on an hourly, non-exempt basis.

The role focuses on maintaining a safe, therapeutic milieu, providing compassionate care, and supporting admissions, discharges, and visitation. The BHT uses de-escalation and trauma-informed approaches to assist individuals in crisis, working with adults and children in a fast-paced setting.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Prior behavioral health/crisis unit experience strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Maintain a safe and therapeutic milieu with monitoring and safety checks.
• Support admissions, discharges, and visitation with trauma-informed care.
• Provide non-clinical support including ADLs and personal hygiene assistance.
• Assist with verbal de-escalation and crisis management under clinical guidance.
• Collaborate with nurses, therapists, and psychiatrists; participate in handoffs.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Communication

Trauma-informed care

Crisis intervention

Stress management

Diversity awareness

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

MS Office 365

EMR systems

Video conferencing

Job description

Job Title: Behavioral Health Technician (BHT) - Adult & Child Crisis Units

Job Type: Hourly/Non-Exempt

Location: Naples, Florida

Hiring Incentives:Immediate PTO Accrual, Full Benefits W/401k Match, Professional Development & Tuition Assistance, EAP & Wellness Programs.

Job Summary: The Behavioral Health Technician (BHT) plays a critical role in supporting individuals experiencing a behavioral health crisis. Working with both adult and pediatric populations in a fast-paced crisis stabilization unit, the BHT ensures the safety, stability, and therapeutic environment of the unit. The role includes providing compassionate care, monitoring clients, assisting with visitation, admissions, and discharges, and using verbal de-escalation and trauma-informed approaches to support patients through acute episodes.

Key Responsibilities:

• Maintain a Safe and Therapeutic Milieu:
  • Monitor the environment to ensure safety and reduce risks.
  • Observe and document patient behavior and interactions.
  • Perform regular safety checks and environmental rounds.
  • Support clients in adhering to unit rules and routines.
  • Conduct regular safety checks on patients to ensure safety
• Patient Support and Care:
  • Interact compassionately and respectfully with individuals in crisis.
  • Provide non-clinical support to patients to include assisting patients with activities of daily living (ADLs), personal hygiene as needed.
  • Participate in therapeutic group activities and recreational interventions.
  • Use trauma-informed care practices to support patient dignity and recovery.
• Verbal De-Escalation and Crisis Management:
  • Apply effective verbal de-escalation techniques to manage agitation and prevent escalation.
  • Assist in crisis intervention under the direction of clinical staff.
  • Maintain a calm, professional demeanor in high-stress situations.
• Admissions, Discharges, and Visitation:
  • Support intake and discharge processes, including orienting patients to the unit.
  • Collaborate with clinical and administrative staff to ensure timely documentation and coordination.
  • Monitor and manage visitations in accordance with unit policy, ensuring safety and therapeutic appropriateness.
  • Team Collaboration and Communication:
    • Communicate effectively with clinical team members including nurses, therapists, and psychiatrists.
    • Attend and participate in shift handoffs, staff meetings, and trainings.
    • Report changes in patient behavior or condition promptly.

  Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or GED = Required
  • Prior experience in a behavioral health setting, especially in crisis units or inpatient psychiatric care = Strongly Preferred

  Skills and Competencies:

  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
  • Ability to maintain composure and effectiveness in high-pressure, emotionally charged situations.
  • Knowledge of mental health diagnoses and basic treatment approaches.
  • Commitment to trauma-informed, patient-centered care.
  • Ability to work with diverse populations including children, adolescents, and adults.
  • Microsoft Office 365 skills (Including Teams/Video Conferencing) and Electronic Medical Records experience = Strongly Preferred
  • Staying compliant on all trainings and immunizations = Required
  • Ability to pass Level II DCF Mental Health Fingerprinting (General Information can be found (HERE), Drug Screen and Local Criminal Check = Required

  Working Conditions:

  • Fast-paced, high-acuity environment.
  • Rotating shifts, including weekends and holidays.
  • Physical demands include standing, walking, and potentially assisting in physical interventions when necessary.

  Physical Requirements: This position requires a mix of physical activities throughout the workday. Duties involve periods of standing, sitting, and walking, often across various areas of the site. The role also includes tasks that may require bending, reaching, and other physical movements. Candidates must be able to occasionally lift and carry items weighing up to 50 pounds. A reasonable level of physical stamina and mobility is necessary to successfully perform the essential functions of this role.