Behavioral Health Technician

Company Description

At Henry Ford Health, we're committed to advancing health and improving lives for the millions of people we serve across Michigan and around the world. As one of the nation's leading academic health systems, we provide a comprehensive continuum of care that includes primary and preventive services, specialty and complex care, virtual care, pharmacy, home health, eye care, health insurance, and more. With 12 hospitals and hundreds of ambulatory care locations, including former Ascension Southeast Michigan and Flint Region facilities, our growing network expands access to exceptional care in the communities we serve.

Headquartered in Detroit, Henry Ford Health is helping shape the future of healthcare through the transformative Future of Health: Detroit initiative, a $3 billion investment that is redefining our academic healthcare campus and advancing innovation, research, education, and community impact.

Our work is grounded in purpose, collaboration, and belonging. We empower team members to grow their careers, contribute innovative ideas, and make a meaningful difference every day. Whether you're caring for patients, supporting operations, conducting research, or driving new solutions, you'll be part of a team united by a shared mission: delivering exceptional care, advancing health outcomes, and building healthier communities for all.

Job Description

GENERAL SUMMARY:

Under the direction of the Registered Nurse and in accordance with established policies, procedures, guidelines, and patient care plans, the Behavioral Health Technician performs a variety of direct patient care activities for patients with addiction, behavioral problems, or mental health conditions. The technician provides positive interactions and maintains a safe environment to maximize patient wellbeing. The technician assists patients with activities of daily living, monitors patient behavior and emotional status, and documents observations in accordance with facility protocols. The technician communicates effectively with the clinical team to ensure coordinated and therapeutic care. The technician responds promptly to patient requests and concerns while maintaining professional boundaries and demonstrating empathy. The technician notifies the manager of any significant patient care issues, safety concerns, or changes in patient condition that require immediate attention. The technician supports the treatment plan by encouraging patient participation in therapeutic activities and helping to create a structured, supportive environment conducive to recovery and healing.

Qualifications

**EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE REQUIRED:**

• High School Diploma or G.E.D. equivalent
• Minimum of one year of college experience in Behavioral Health, Allied Health, Psychology, or related field
• OR at least one year of Behavioral Health Technician experience or applicable experience such as Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
• Ability to physically manage patients when necessary in a safe and therapeutic manner

**EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE PREFERRED:**

• Two or more years of experience as a Behavioral Health Technician in an inpatient psychiatric or addiction medicine setting (depending on location hired)

**REQUIRED SKILLS & COMPETENCIES:**

• Interpersonal skills necessary to effectively interact with patients, providing comfort, empathy, encouragement, and support
• Analytical skills necessary to assess patients and gather data relevant to patient care
• Ability to work in cooperation with other healthcare providers to provide quality, safe care to patients

**CERTIFICATIONS/LICENSURES REQUIRED:**

• Complete BLS Heartsaver Certification during orientation and maintain active BLS certification
• Complete WELLE training within first three months of becoming a Behavioral Health Technician (location specific) and maintain active WELLE certification