Depending on your skill level and goals, you might determine your ideal position on atreatmentteam.
This article discusses what mental health technicians do and the training requirements needed to work in this field.
What Does a Mental Health Tech Do?
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Recap
Mental health techs work directly with people who are being treated for mental health concerns.
They fill a range of roles, from admitting patients to healthcare facilities to assisting with therapeutic activities.
Traditionally, employers have provided classroom instruction and on-the-job training to develop the relevant skills.
However, this is slowly changing.
Many employers now require college coursework in psychology or social work.
A few even require a bachelors degree.
Instead, techs tend to choose the work locations that suit them best, from halfway houses to clinics.
Techs may also choose to work inchemical dependencyunits or schools for people with developmental disabilities.
Trying several different jobs can help guide you to further studies and specialized education.
Regardless of certifications, excellent relationship skills andproblem-solving abilitiesare essential.
Mental health techs must be flexible, adaptable, and able to think quickly.
The minimum entry-level requirement to become a mental health technician is a high school diploma or GED.
Where Does a Mental Health Tech Work?
People who work in this field often work in a variety of options.
How to Find a Mental Health Technician Job
Career opportunities for mental health technicians are growing.
Psychiatric and substance abuse hospitals paid the best, followed by state governments and residential facilities.
Mental Health Technician vs. ## Summary
Mental health technicians are also known as psychiatric technicians or behavioral health technicians.
Frequently Asked Questions
A mental health technician and behavioral health technician are interchangeable job titles.
The exact title used may depend on the employer or state guidelines.
Some professionals are also referred to as psychiatric technicians.
You do not need to have a postsecondary degree or certification to become a behavioral health technician.
A minimum of a high school diploma or GED is required.
No, a certification isnt required to start as a mental health tech.
If you are looking to grow into a higher-level position, a mental health technician certification is required.
American Association of Psychiatric Technicians.The certification process.
United States Department of Labor: Bureau of Labor Statistics.Psychiatric Technicians and Aides.Occupational Outlook Handbook.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.Occupational employment and wages, May 2021: 29-2053 Psychiatric technicians.
