Behavioral Health Technician - Full Time - Mercy STL - Days

Find your calling at Mercy!

Under the supervision of the registered nurse, assist in the individualized care of the patient directed toward achieving the patients highest level of physical and mental wellness. Performs designated clinical procedures and non-clinical support tasks essential to nursing care. Assists in unit operational support tasks or duties. Performs duties and responsibilities in manner consistent with our mission, values, and Mercy Service Standards.

Position Details

Behavioral Health Technician

Full Time - Days

Position Overview

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.

Key Responsibilities

Patient Care & Therapeutic Support

• 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.

Safety & Risk Management

• 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.

Care Coordination & Documentation

• 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.

Communication & Team Collaboration

• 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.

Technology & Operational Support

• 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.

Leadership & Professional Development

• 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.

Minimum Qualifications

Education

One of the following is required

• Bachelor's 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.

Preferred Experience

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

Preferred Licensure/Certification

• Relevant behavioral health certifications preferred.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• 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.

Physical Requirements

• 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.

Why Join Mercy?

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.

Why Mercy?

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, you'll help shape the future of healthcare through innovation, technology, and compassion. As we grow, you'll grow with us.