Behavioral Health Technician I (Crossroads Continuum)

Job Title: Behavioral Health Technician (BHT)

Department: Substance Use Treatment and Detox Program

Reports To: Program Director / Clinical Supervisor

Location: Naples, Florida

Employment Type: Full-Time/Non-exempt

Schedule: Thursday through Sunday 2:00pm to 12:00am (4- 10hr shifts) 

Hiring Incentives: Immediate PTO Accrual, Full Benefits W/401k Match, Professional Development & Tuition Assistance, EAP & Wellness Programs.

Position Summary:

The Behavioral Health Technician (BHT) plays a critical role in supporting individuals undergoing detoxification and substance use treatment. This position involves monitoring patient safety, processing admissions and discharges, assisting with daily care routines, and ensuring patients are supported throughout their recovery journey. The BHT will work closely with clinical staff and patients to ensure a safe, structured, and therapeutic environment, attend community meetings, and help facilitate recovery-oriented activities.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Patient Monitoring and Safety:

• Safety Checks: Conduct regular safety checks on patients to ensure their well-being, monitor vital signs, and assess for withdrawal symptoms, side effects, or other physical or emotional concerns.
• Detox Monitoring: Observe patients closely during detox to assess their comfort and any changes in their condition, providing immediate feedback to the clinical team when necessary.
• Crisis Intervention: Respond to and manage any behavioral or medical emergencies, utilizing de-escalation techniques and alerting the appropriate medical or clinical personnel as needed.
• Environment Safety: Ensure that the treatment and detox environment is safe, secure, and conducive to patient recovery, addressing any hazards immediately.

2. Admission and Discharge Processing:

• Admission Support: Assist with the processing of new patient admissions, ensuring that all intake forms are completed, patient records are properly maintained, and the necessary assessments are conducted.
• Discharge Assistance: Assist with the discharge process, ensuring patients are prepared for transition, have necessary follow-up care instructions, and are provided with any required documentation.
• Coordination with Clinical Team: Collaborate with clinical and medical staff to ensure a smooth intake and discharge process, and communicate any special patient needs or concerns.

3. Patient Support and Care:

• Direct Patient Care: Provide non-clinical support to patients, including assisting with activities of daily living, personal hygiene, medication reminders, and ensuring patients are following the treatment plan.
• Emotional Support: Offer emotional and motivational support to patients, building trust and rapport to foster engagement in their treatment and recovery journey.
• Behavioral Observation: Monitor patient behavior and interactions, documenting any notable changes or concerns related to mental health, withdrawal symptoms, or compliance with treatment plans.

4. Group and Individual Activities:

• Community Meetings: Attend and assist with community meetings, group therapy, and support groups, ensuring patient participation and engagement.
• Activity Facilitation: Support therapeutic activities such as group exercises, educational sessions, and recovery workshops designed to support emotional well-being, personal growth, and relapse prevention.

5. Documentation and Reporting:

• Patient Documentation: Maintain accurate and timely records of patient observations, incidents, admissions, discharges, and treatment progress in compliance with facility policies and HIPAA regulations.
• Reporting to Clinical Team: Provide clear, concise reports on patient status, behavior, and any concerns or changes in condition to the clinical team.

6. Collaboration with Team:

• Team Coordination: Work closely with clinicians, physicians, counselors, and other staff to provide holistic care to patients, assisting with treatment planning, progress reviews, and any necessary interventions.
• Interdisciplinary Meetings: Participate in team meetings to discuss patient care plans, progress updates, and collaborative strategies for enhancing treatment outcomes.

Requirements:

Education:

• High school diploma or GED=Required

Experience & Requirements

• 1-2 years' experience with detox programs, crisis management, or addiction treatment is a plus.
• Current CPR Certification

Skills and Abilities:

• Knowledge of substance use disorders, detoxification processes, and mental health care.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build rapport with patients and team members.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple tasks at once.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and adhere to ethical and legal standards in all aspects of patient care.
• Strong observational skills and attention to detail in documenting patient behavior, progress, and incidents.
• Microsoft Office 365 skills (Including Teams/Video Conferencing) and Electronic Medical Records experience = Strongly Preferred
• Staying compliant on all trainings and immunizations = Required
• Ability to pass Level II DCF Mental Health Fingerprinting (General Information can be found HERE), Drug Screen and Local Criminal Check = Required
  

Physical and Working Conditions:

• Ability to work in a high-stress, fast-paced environment.
• Exposure to patients in various stages of withdrawal and recovery.
• Ability to perform physical tasks such as standing, walking, assisting patients, and occasionally lifting.
• Must be available to work flexible shifts, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Physical Requirements:

This position requires a mix of physical activities throughout the workday. Duties involve periods of standing, sitting, and walking, often across various areas of the site. The role also includes tasks that may require bending, reaching, and other physical movements. Candidates must be able to occasionally lift and carry items weighing up to 50 pounds. A reasonable level of physical stamina and mobility is necessary to successfully perform the essential functions of this role.