Why You’ll Love Working Here:

• Comprehensive Health Coverage – Medical, dental, & vision plans to keep you and your family healthy. Life Insurance is also available.
• Future Security – 401(k) with employer matching to help you build long-term financial stability.
• Educational Assistance – Tuition Reimbursement- because we invest in your future.
• Competitive Pay & Full Benefits – A salary and package designed to reward your expertise and dedication.
• Paid Time Off – Generous paid time off- giving you a good work/life balance and time to recharge.

Role: Behavioral Health Tech

Location: Merit Health Wesley- Hattiesburg, MS

Schedule:  Full time- Day shift 7am-7pm with rotating weekends & holidays

Job Summary

The Behavioral Health Technician provides direct patient care and support in a behavioral health setting, assisting in the implementation of treatment plans, monitoring patient behavior, and ensuring a safe and therapeutic environment. This role works under the supervision of licensed healthcare professionals, providing emotional support, crisis intervention, and assistance with daily activities for individuals experiencing mental health or substance use disorders. The Behavioral Health Technician adheres to safety protocols, regulatory standards, and confidentiality guidelines while fostering a compassionate and structured care environment.

Essential Functions

• Provides direct patient care, assisting with daily activities, therapeutic interventions, and monitoring patient behavior, emotional state, and safety needs (every 15 minutes).
• Observes, documents, and reports patient behaviors, responses to interventions, and any changes in mental or physical status to the healthcare team.
• Assists in implementing individualized treatment plans under the direction of behavioral health professionals, ensuring compliance with prescribed therapies and interventions.
• Engages patients in structured activities and therapeutic programming, encouraging participation in group discussions, skill-building exercises, and coping strategies.
• Responds effectively to crisis situations, de-escalating conflicts and implementing safety interventions in accordance with facility protocols.
• Ensures a safe and therapeutic environment by following established safety procedures, conducting room checks, and preventing elopement or self-harm incidents.
• Assists with vital signs monitoring, specimen collection, and documentation of clinical data as required by facility guidelines.
• Collaborates with nurses, therapists, and other healthcare providers to support patient progress and address behavioral or medical concerns.
• Adheres to HIPAA, patient confidentiality, and professional boundaries, ensuring respectful and ethical interactions with all individuals.
• Educates patients on healthy coping mechanisms, emotional regulation, and daily living skills to promote recovery and independence.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
• Maintains regular and reliable attendance.
• Complies with all policies and standards.

Qualifications

• 0-2 years of experience in a behavioral health, mental health, or healthcare setting required
• Experience working with patients with psychiatric disorders, developmental disabilities, or substance use disorders preferred

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Understanding of mental health disorders, crisis intervention techniques, and therapeutic approaches.
• Strong observation and documentation skills to accurately report patient behavior and responses to interventions.
• Ability to remain calm and professional in high-stress situations, using effective de-escalation and conflict-resolution skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills to engage, motivate, and support individuals with behavioral health needs.
• Knowledge of safety protocols, infection control practices, and patient rights regulations.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.

Licenses and Certifications

• De-escalation training certification within 30 days of hire required
• BCLS - Basic Life Support obtained within 30 days of hire required
• Certified Behavioral Health Technician (CBHT) preferred