What are the responsibilities and job description for the Behavioral Health Technician position at Samba Recovery?
Behavioral Health Technician Job Description:
The Behavioral Health Technician (BHT) is a vital member of the interdisciplinary treatment team, providing direct patient care and support within a structured therapeutic environment. This role serves as a key liaison between patients, clinical staff, and medical providers to ensure continuity of care, safety, and a positive treatment experience.
The BHT plays an essential role in maintaining the therapeutic milieu, supporting daily operations, and promoting patient engagement in treatment. Responsibilities include assisting with admissions, monitoring patient safety, facilitating group participation and documentation, and ensuring timely and compassionate responses to patient needs.
Behavioral Health Technician Responsibilities:
- Maintain a safe, structured, and therapeutic environment through ongoing milieu monitoring and regular patient rounding
- Complete admissions processes, including intake procedures, patient orientation, and review of program expectations and schedules
- Support patients in adhering to daily programming, including escorting to groups, appointments, and activities as needed
- Conduct, monitor, and accurately document attendance and participation in psychoeducational and support groups
- Assist nursing and medical staff with obtaining and recording vital signs, as appropriate
- Complete and maintain accurate inventory logs of patient belongings and valuables upon admission and discharge
- Observe and report changes in patient behavior, mood, or physical condition to clinical staff in a timely manner
- Utilize verbal de-escalation and crisis intervention techniques to manage conflict and ensure safety
- Participate in shift handoffs, team communication, and ongoing staff meetings/trainings
- Provide compassionate, respectful, and trauma-informed interactions with patients at all times
- Ensure compliance with all facility policies, regulatory standards, and confidentiality requirements (HIPAA)
Behavioral Health Technician Qualifications:
- High School Diploma or GED required; Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Behavioral Health, Psychology, or related field preferred
- Prior experience in behavioral health, substance use, or mental health strongly preferred
- Knowledge of substance use and recovery is strongly preferred
- Strong interpersonal, communication, and observational skills
- Ability to remain calm and professional in high-stress or crisis situations
- Basic computer skills and ability to complete electronic documentation
- Current CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain upon hire)
- Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed