Inpatient Mental Health Technician: Support & Stabilization

UHS; Virginia Beach (VA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay

Generous paid time off

Medical, dental, vision

401(k) with company match

Student loan program

Tuition assistance

Career development

Pet insurance

Access to benefits guest site

Job summary

Universal Health Services (UHS) — Virginia Beach Psychiatric Center is seeking a Mental Health Technician (MHT) to support adult patients in an acute inpatient behavioral health setting. The role emphasizes compassionate supervision, patient engagement, and collaboration with clinical teams to ensure safety and effective care plans.

The position requires a psychology- or behavioral science-related education with direct care experience, plus strong communication skills and a commitment to

Qualifications

• Undergraduate degree in psychology, human services, sociology, counseling or related field.
• Associate’s degree in psychology, human services, sociology, counseling or related field; one year direct care experience with adult psychiatric or chemical dependency clients.
• High School/GED; three years direct care experience with adult psychiatric or chemical dependency clients.
• Must be 21+ years of age.
• Valid driver’s license required.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proven ability to work in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Be a steady, supportive presence guiding patients through meals, activities, and programming in a structured environment.
• Stay proactive to keep everyone safe—anticipate challenges and de-escalate situations.
• Build genuine, trust-based relationships through positive communication and active listening.
• Partner with Clinical and Admissions teams to support screenings and assessments from the start.
• Support daily living needs to empower independence and confidence.

Skills

Communication skills

Verbal communication

Written communication

Education

Undergraduate degree in Psychology / Human Services / Sociology / Counseling

Associate’s degree in Psychology / Human Services / Sociology / Counseling (1 year direct care experience)

High School/GED diploma (3 years direct care experience)

Job description

Universal Health Services (UHS) — Virginia Beach Psychiatric Center is seeking a Mental Health Technician (MHT) to support adult patients in an acute inpatient behavioral health setting. The role emphasizes compassionate supervision, patient engagement, and collaboration with clinical teams to ensure safety and effective care plans.

The position requires a psychology- or behavioral science-related education with direct care experience, plus strong communication skills and a commitment to