Mental Health Technician

Arista Recovery; Paola (KS); On-site; USD 32,000 - 46,000; Full time

Job summary

Arista Recovery is seeking a Mental Health Technician (MHT) to support patients in our substance use treatment facility. The role blends CNA and BHT responsibilities to provide safe, compassionate care and help implement treatment plans.

The MHT will assist with daily living, monitor patient status, conduct safety checks, and document accurately in clinical records while upholding patient rights and confidentiality.

Qualifications

• Must have high school diploma or equivalent.
• CNA certification preferred but not required.
• CPR, BLS/First Aid certification required after hire.
• CLIA Waived training if applicable.
• MH technician certification or relevant experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Provide direct care and supervision for activities of daily living.
• Monitor, document, and report patients' status to staff.
• Assist with intake procedures and safety rounds.
• Support implementation of individualized treatment plans.
• Perform safety checks and facility rounds.
• Escort and transport patients to appointments when needed.
• Conduct urine analysis and CLIA-waived tests when required.
• Assist with vital signs, specimen collection, and med administration under supervision.
• Maintain accurate, confidential documentation.

Skills

Observation and judgment

Effective communication

Composure under stress

Compassion and teamwork

Confidentiality awareness

Adaptability

Documentation proficiency

Regulatory knowledge

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

CNA certification preferred

CPR/BLS First Aid certification

CLIA Waived training (if applicable)

Mental Health Technician certification or experience

Tools

Documentation systems

Job description

The Mental Health Technician (MHT) plays a key role in supporting patients within our substance abuse treatment facility. The MHT provides compassionate, direct care for individuals with behavioral health needs, assisting with daily living, monitoring safety, and supporting treatment plans. This role integrates the responsibilities of both a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) and a Behavioral Health Technician (BHT), ensuring a safe, supportive, and therapeutic environment for all patients.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide direct care and supervision to patients, assisting with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, and feeding.
• Monitor, document, and report patients' mental and physical status, including any changes or incidents, to nursing or clinical staff promptly.
• Assist with intake procedures, including obtaining patient information upon arrival and supporting initial searches/rounds to ensure safety.
• Support the implementation of individualized treatment plans, including participation in therapeutic activities and behavioral interventions.
• Perform regular safety checks, complete facility rounds, conduct room searches, and maintain observation of patients to ensure a safe and orderly environment.
• Escort and transport patients to appointments, activities, and therapy sessions as needed (must have a valid driver's license if driving is assigned; follow all safety and regulatory guidelines).
• Conduct urine analysis (U/A) and other CLIA-waived tests when required.
• Assist with vital signs, specimen collection, and medication administration under supervision, in accordance with facility policy.
• Maintain accurate, timely, and confidential documentation in all clinical and operational records.
• Prepare patient rooms and common areas for admissions and discharges; communicate and help resolve housekeeping or maintenance needs.
• Foster a supportive, ethical, and respectful environment, upholding patient rights and facility rules at all times.
• Seek out and report contraband or any suspicions immediately to the supervisor.
• Communicate all grievances, incidents, suspected abuse, neglect, trauma, or safety concerns to the supervisor as required by law and policy.
• Attend and complete all required trainings, certifications, in-services, and continuing education sessions as assigned.
• Participate in team meetings and contribute to a positive team atmosphere.
• Maintain flexibility and adaptability to changing patient and facility needs.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by supervisors or the facility director.
• Excellent observation and judgment skills
• Effective communication (verbal and written) and interpersonal skills
• Ability to maintain composure and effectiveness under stress
• Compassion, teamwork orientation, and strong bedside manner
• Customer/client focus, ethical conduct, and thoroughness
• Flexibility, adaptability, and personal credibility
• Proficiency with current technology and documentation systems
• Knowledge of state and federal patient confidentiality laws and compliance programs
• Familiarity with substance use disorder and community resources

Licenses/Certifications:

• High school diploma, GED, or equivalent required
• CNA certification preferred but not required
• CPR, BLS/First Aid (must be obtained and maintained after hire)
• CLIA Waived training (if applicable)
• Mental Health Technician certification or relevant experience preferred

Experience and Qualifications:

• Two years' work experience in behavioral health, substance abuse, hospital, or related healthcare or customer service setting preferred
• Experience in psychiatric or human services settings is a plus
• Must be able to pass a background check, drug screening, and TB test
• Must have a valid driver's license and be able to clear a Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) check if assigned or required to drive clients, including in emergencies
• If in personal recovery, must have a minimum of 1 year clean and sober
• Ability to work under stressful conditions and as a team member
• Knowledge of TJC standards, Drug Free Workplace policies, and harassment/discrimination prevention
• Ability to work in a fast-paced and emotionally intense environment