Mental Health Worker (Acute) - Inpatient Adult

Location Detail: Backus Hospital (10309)

Shift Detail: 7:00 am - 3:30 pm, rotating weekends and holidays.

Work where every moment matters.

Every day, more than 40,000 Hartford HealthCare colleagues come to work with one thing in common: Pride in what we do, knowing every moment matters here. We invite you to become part of Connecticut’s most comprehensive healthcare network as a Mental Health Worker.

Join us at Backus Hospital as we live our values every day. As part of Hartford HealthCare we create a better future for healthcare in Connecticut and beyond. By embodying these values we have become nationally respected for patient care and most trusted for personalized coordinated care. Come be part of something special!

For more than 118 years, Backus Hospital has been the primary source of healthcare services for much of Eastern Connecticut. We are home to the only trauma center in New London and Windham counties, and are the only area hospital with LIFE STAR helicopter services. We deliver and coordinate a continuum of high-quality healthcare with the goal of improving the health of our communities.

Job Summary

The Mental Health Worker provides direct care and support to adult patients experiencing mental health and behavioral challenges in an inpatient setting. This role focuses on maintaining a safe therapeutic environment, assisting with daily activities, running groups and supporting treatment plans under the supervision of nursing staff.  The setting is a fast-paced clinical environment with potential exposure to emotionally and physically challenging situations. The Mental Health Worker position may require standing, walking, and assisting patients with mobility and requires shift work, including evenings, nights, weekends, and holidays.

Key Responsibilities:

• Monitor patient behavior, safety, and well-being through regular observation and documentation

• Assist patients with activities of daily living (ADLs), including hygiene, meals, and mobility

• Support and facilitate therapeutic activities, groups, and structured programs

• Implement and reinforce individualized treatment plans as directed by nurses or clinicians

• De-escalate crisis situations using approved intervention techniques

• Maintain a safe, clean, and therapeutic environment on the unit

• Communicate effectively with the interdisciplinary team regarding patient status and concerns

• Assist with patient admissions, discharges, and transfers

• Ensure compliance with hospital policies, confidentiality standards (e.g., HIPAA), and safety protocols

Qualifications

• High School diploma or equivalent is required, Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in psychology, human services, or related field preferred 

• Two (2) years direct experience in behavioral health, psychiatric care, or human services preferred

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills

• Ability to remain calm and professional in high-stress situations

• Ability to read and understand oral and written instructions, and effectively communicate information in English.

• Basic computer skills (including opening/reading email, basic internet use) 

Skills & Competencies:

• Knowledge of mental health disorders such as Depression, Bipolar Disorder, and Schizophrenia preferred

• Crisis management and de-escalation techniques

• Observation and documentation accuracy

• Empathy and patient-centered care approach

• Team collaboration and adaptability 

We take great care of careers.

Hartford HealthCare provides eligible employees with an extensive benefits package and all the benefits of working with a top notch organization:

• Medical and dental benefits
• 401(k) plan with employer match up to 7%
• Generous paid time off with accrual starting on the date of hire.
• Tuition Assistance
• Discounts on services, products and optional coverages – movie tickets, pet insurance, travel and more!

With locations around the state, Hartford HealthCare offers exciting opportunities for career development and growth. Here, you are part of an organization on the cutting edge – helping to bring new technologies, breakthrough treatments and community education to countless men, women and children. We know that a thriving organization starts with thriving employees-- we provide a competitive benefits program designed to ensure work/life balance. Every moment matters. And this is your moment.