Behavioral Health Technician (Sw)

Summary: 

Develops, coordinates and implements structured and unstructured milieu treatment interventions. Participates in structured and unstructured therapeutic groups, including role of co-therapist in identified groups. Participates as an active member of the health care team in the collaboration of care. Provides education and leadership to peers regarding milieu theories and concepts. Provides education to clients and families regarding milieu interventions. Participates in research activities, as required by program. Provides consistent milieu support and acts as an available resource to the unit.  Provides direct care and maintains a safe and therapeutic milieu for patients on assigned unit. The BT must adhere to all hospital and department policies and procedures. The BT provides care as assigned or directed by the Nurse Manager and/or Charge RN. Examples of position responsibilities include: documenting patient observations and accurately reporting patient status to the RN; facilitating groups and activities as assigned or directed by the RN Manager and/or Charge RN; assisting with patients to complete daily care activities (toileting, showers, eating), and assisting with admissions, discharges, and transfers as per department policy.

Education:         

Bachelors degree in psychology or equivalent preferred.  Experience may be substituted for education. Participation in the Departments orientation and training program is required.

Experience:        

Experience in a psychiatric and/or addiction medicine treatment setting preferred.

Skills and Abilities: 

• Ability to communicate effectively and work collaboratively with peers/other disciplines.
• Ability to follow complicated, diversified instructions .
• Knowledge of the basic sciences underlying psychiatric care such as psychology and sociology.
• Ability to establish therapeutic interactions with patients who suffer from mental illness.
• Ability to read, write and comprehend basic medical terminology.
• Knowledge of basic Infection Control principles.
• Knowledge of Medical Terminology
• Ability to utilize positive interpersonal skills when interacting with patients and taking into consideration cultural background, linguistic skills and age of customers.
• Maintains information confidential (HIPAA)
• Demonstrated customer service skills
• Ability to responsive customer service skills when interacting and taking into consideration cultural background, linguistic skills and age of customers
• Ability to work cooperatively with peers and other disciplines
• Ability to communicate effectively and work collaboratively with peers and other interdisciplinary teams

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations:   CPR Certification to be obtained within 1 month of hire. Arrangements will be arranged by hiring manager 

Working Conditions, Physical Environment and/or Safety Requirements: Visual acuity and hand dexterity. Physical ability involves variety of body movements including stooping, bending, kneeling, lifting, standing, walking, twisting, stretching and reaching. Physical ability involves pushing, pulling and lifting more than 30 lbs.