Behavioral Health Technician (3rd Shift)- BIRCH Hospital

Job Summary:

The Behavioral Health Technician (BHT) in the BIRCH Program at RiverValley Behavioral Health Children’s Hospital plays a vital role in supporting youth with significant emotional and behavioral needs in a long-term inpatient setting. BIRCH provides structured stabilization and intensive skill development over a period of 6 to 9 months, often for patients who have not succeeded in less intensive settings.

Essential Functions:

•          Support a safe, structured and trauma-informed environment for patients.

•          Serve as a positive role model, reinforcing pro-social behaviors and coping strategies.

•          Implement components of the patient’s individualized treatment plan, including

             coaching on coping skills, de-escalation and behavior regulation.

•          Assist with admission and orientation procedures including contraband searches, patient

             belongings processing and supporting smooth transitions to the unit.

•          Participate in daily therapeutic programming, team huddles and clinical debriefs.

•          Provide verbal prompts and reinforcement to promote engagement in treatment

             activities and skill modules.

•          Maintain detailed, timely documentation of patient behaviors, interactions and

             therapeutic engagement.

•          Assist with basic daily living needs (e.g., hygiene, meals, cleaning) in a manner that

             promotes independence.

•          Ensure room checks, safety checks and consistent monitoring (1:1 ratio) to maintain a

             therapeutic milieu.

•          Collaborate with nursing, clinical and administrative staff to ensure cohesive care and

             address safety concerns.

•          Participate in team meetings, staff development and supervision as assigned.

•          Perform other duties as assigned.

Education and Experience:

• High School Diploma or GED required; college coursework in psychology, education or

   related field preferred.

• One (1) year of experience working with youth in behavioral health, residential or juvenile

   justice settings preferred.

• Valid driver's license preferred.

• Understanding of trauma-informed care principles and behavioral interventions strongly

   encouraged.

• Understanding of child development, behavioral interventions and therapeutic boundaries.

Knowledge and Skills:

• Strong verbal communication, documentation and crisis response skills.

• Ability to remain calm and supportive in stressful situations.

• Capacity to work as part of a multidisciplinary team.

Salary : $20 - $21