MHT - Hospital

Beacon Behavioral Hospital; Lutcher (LA); On-site; USD 19,000 - 28,000; Full time

Job summary

Beacon Behavioral Hospital is seeking a Mental Health Technician (MHT) to join the inpatient team on a PRN basis for 7AM–7PM and 7PM–7AM shifts. You will work with a multidisciplinary team to support patient care, monitor behavior, and assist in therapeutic activities to promote safety and recovery.

Ideal candidates will have a high school diploma, MHT certification or equivalent experience, strong interpersonal skills, and the ability to document observations accurately for treatment planning.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Certification or training as a Mental Health Technician or Psychiatric Aide, or equivalent experience in a mental health care setting.
• Basic knowledge of mental health disorders and treatment modalities.
• Ability to pass background checks and comply with hospital credentialing requirements.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Provide direct care and support to patients with mental health conditions, including assisting with daily living activities and therapeutic exercises.
• Observe and document patient behavior, mood, and interactions to inform clinical assessments and treatment planning.
• Assist clinical staff in implementing individualized care plans and therapeutic interventions.
• Maintain a safe and secure environment by monitoring patient safety and responding appropriately to emergencies or behavioral crises.
• Facilitate communication between patients, families, and healthcare providers to ensure coordinated and effective care.
• Participate in team meetings and contribute observations and insights to support patient progress.
• Adhere to hospital policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements related to patient care and confidentiality.

Skills

Observation skills

Communication skills

Crisis management

Safety awareness

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Certification/training as MHT or Psychiatric Aide

Associate degree or higher in psychology/social work/nursing

Job description

About The Role

Beacon's Mental Health Technician (MHT) in an inpatient hospital setting plays a critical role in supporting the mental health and well-being of patients experiencing psychiatric or emotional challenges. This position involves working closely with a multidisciplinary team to provide direct care, monitor patient behavior, and assist in therapeutic activities that promote recovery and safety. The MHT serves as a vital link between patients and clinical staff, ensuring that patient needs are communicated effectively and that care plans are implemented consistently. Through compassionate interaction and observation, the MHT helps to create a safe, supportive environment conducive to healing. Ultimately, this role contributes significantly to the overall treatment outcomes and quality of life for patients within the hospital's mental health services. We are looking to add to our PRN pool for 7AM - 7PM & 7PM - 7AM shifts.

About The Role

Beacon's Mental Health Technician (MHT) in an inpatient hospital setting plays a critical role in supporting the mental health and well-being of patients experiencing psychiatric or emotional challenges. This position involves working closely with a multidisciplinary team to provide direct care, monitor patient behavior, and assist in therapeutic activities that promote recovery and safety. The MHT serves as a vital link between patients and clinical staff, ensuring that patient needs are communicated effectively and that care plans are implemented consistently. Through compassionate interaction and observation, the MHT helps to create a safe, supportive environment conducive to healing. Ultimately, this role contributes significantly to the overall treatment outcomes and quality of life for patients within the hospital's mental health services. We are looking to add to our PRN pool for 7AM - 7PM & 7PM - 7AM shifts.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Certification or training as a Mental Health Technician or Psychiatric Aide, or equivalent experience in a mental health care setting.
• Basic knowledge of mental health disorders and treatment modalities.
• Ability to pass background checks and comply with hospital credentialing requirements.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Associate degree or higher in psychology, social work, nursing, or a related field.
• Experience working in a hospital or inpatient psychiatric unit.
• Certification in CPR and First Aid.
• Familiarity with electronic health record (EHR) systems.
• Additional training in crisis intervention or de-escalation techniques.

Responsibilities

• Provide direct care and support to patients with mental health conditions, including assisting with daily living activities and therapeutic exercises.
• Observe and document patient behavior, mood, and interactions to inform clinical assessments and treatment planning.
• Assist clinical staff in implementing individualized care plans and therapeutic interventions.
• Maintain a safe and secure environment by monitoring patient safety and responding appropriately to emergencies or behavioral crises.
• Facilitate communication between patients, families, and healthcare providers to ensure coordinated and effective care.
• Participate in team meetings and contribute observations and insights to support patient progress.
• Adhere to hospital policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements related to patient care and confidentiality.

Skills

Beacon's team of Mental Health Technician's utilize strong observational skills daily to monitor patient behavior and identify changes that may require clinical attention. Effective communication skills are essential for interacting compassionately with patients and collaborating with healthcare team members to ensure coordinated care. Problem-solving and crisis management skills are frequently applied when responding to behavioral emergencies or safety concerns. Organizational skills support accurate documentation and adherence to treatment protocols, which are critical for maintaining high standards of care. Additionally, empathy and patience are vital interpersonal skills that help build trust and rapport with patients, fostering a therapeutic environment conducive to recovery.