Mental Health Therapy Aide (MHTA) is an entry-level direct care position. Candidates must possess a high school diploma, High School Equivalency Diploma, or similar equivalency such as a General Education Development (GED) Certification or higher degree.
In addition:
1. You must be able to communicate and follow oral and written instructions and directions in English in order to perform the duties of the position.
2. If you are selected for appointment, you may be required to attend a physical exam. Your physical and medical condition will be evaluated to ensure that you are able to satisfactorily perform the duties of this position with or without reasonable accommodation. The physical/medical standards include a medical standards evaluation and a drug screening test. Failure to meet the standards may result in your disqualification. A complete statement of the physical and medical standards is available at: http://www.cs.ny.gov/ehs/forms.cfm.
3. License Requirement: Depending on assignment, you may be required to possess a valid license to operate a motor vehicle in New York State at the time of appointment and continuously thereafter.

As a Mental Health Therapy Aide, you would provide direct care services, treatment, rehabilitation, and support to individuals diagnosed with mental illness that receive services in an institutional or community-based setting. You would help individuals to participate in games and recreational programs; coach and encourage individuals to develop daily living skills; and provide a clean, safe, and comfortable environment. You would work with other staff to develop, carry out, and record care plans, and, in accordance with special instructions you may administer medication. This position may be physically demanding. You would need to be prepared to act to ensure the health and safety of patients and staff in emergency situations.