Behavioral Health Technician Mercy STL Full Time Days

Full Time - Days

The Behavioral Health Technician (BHT) plays an essential role in supporting patients on their journey toward improved mental and physical wellness. Working under the direction of a Registered Nurse and in collaboration with an interdisciplinary care team the BHT provides direct patient care therapeutic support safety monitoring and operational assistance within a behavioral health setting.

This position is responsible for helping create a safe compassionate and therapeutic environment while assisting patients with daily living activities supporting treatment plans monitoring patient behavior and promoting positive outcomes. The ideal candidate is compassionate adaptable team-oriented and passionate about serving individuals experiencing mental health challenges.

• Assist patients with activities of daily living (ADLs) including personal care ambulation nutrition and mobility.
• Monitor and document patient behaviors moods and physical status reporting any changes to licensed clinical staff.
• Build therapeutic relationships with patients through effective communication and compassionate support.
• Assist with patient admissions transfers and discharges including orientation and safety procedures.
• Conduct and document vital signs weights intake and output safety rounds room checks meals and group participation.
• Support the implementation of individualized treatment plans and behavioral interventions.
• Work one-on-one with patients to promote safety emotional well-being and adherence to safety plans.
• Lead or co-lead therapeutic groups activities and community meetings.

• Maintain a safe clean and therapeutic environment for patients visitors and coworkers.
• Respond appropriately during crisis situations utilizing de-escalation techniques and therapeutic communication.
• Perform safety rounds and patient observations according to provider orders and organizational policies.
• Assist licensed staff with restraint monitoring and documentation when appropriate.
• Ensure patient belongings are secured and managed according to organizational guidelines.
• Adhere to infection prevention standards fall precautions restraint management policies patient rights regulations HIPAA requirements and hospital safety procedures.

• Collaborate with nurses providers social workers and other members of the healthcare team to support patient care goals.
• Accurately document patient observations interventions and outcomes within the electronic medical record (EMR).
• Participate in shift handoff communication to ensure continuity of care.
• Assist with treatment plan updates and actively participate in treatment team discussions.
• Support quality improvement initiatives patient satisfaction efforts and departmental projects.

• Communicate patient concerns behavioral changes and safety risks promptly to the appropriate healthcare team members.
• Provide professional respectful interactions with patients families visitors and coworkers.
• Participate in multidisciplinary care planning and collaborate to ensure optimal patient outcomes.
• Demonstrate sound judgment professional boundaries and ethical communication practices.

• Utilize patient care equipment including vital sign machines EKG equipment bladder scanners and blood glucose monitoring devices.
• Assist with supply inventory ordering stocking cleaning and equipment maintenance.
• Utilize computer systems and the electronic medical record for accurate documentation and communication.
• Support unit operations by ensuring supplies and equipment are readily available and functional.

• Serve as a mentor and preceptor for new team members.
• Support orientation and ongoing training activities.
• Assist leadership with process improvement and unit development initiatives.
• Identify opportunities for team growth and participate in educational efforts to improve patient care outcomes.
• Function as a resource and role model for colleagues.

One of the following is required:

• Bachelors degree in Psychology or a related mental health field; OR
• Associate degree plus experience in a behavioral health setting; OR
• Minimum three (3) years of experience in a behavioral health field.

• Behavioral Health
• Psychiatric Care
• Direct Support Professional (DSP) experience
• Inpatient or residential mental health experience

• Relevant behavioral health certifications preferred.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong interpersonal and therapeutic communication abilities.
• Ability to remain calm and professional in stressful or crisis situations.
• Strong critical thinking and observation skills.
• Ability to prioritize patient safety and respond appropriately to changing patient needs.
• Commitment to compassionate patient-centered care.
• Ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary team environment.
• Strong organizational and documentation skills.

• Frequent standing walking bending and reaching.
• Ability to lift transfer reposition and assist patients as needed.
• Ability to respond quickly and appropriately during patient emergencies and crisis situations.

At Mercy we are committed to bringing healing through compassionate care. As a Behavioral Health Technician you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful difference every day by supporting patients through some of their most challenging moments while working alongside a team dedicated to exceptional care service and clinical excellence.

From day one Mercy offers outstanding benefits - including medical dental and vision coverage paid time off tuition support and matched retirement plans for team members working 32 hours per pay period.

Join a caring collaborative team where your voice matters. At Mercy youll help shape the future of healthcare through innovation technology and compassion. As we grow youll grow with us.