Mental Health Tech

Basic Purpose

Under close supervision, this position provides non-professional direct or indirect care for consumers of behavioral health treatment in an inpatient, outpatient or residential care setting. This includes participation in de-escalation activities and assuring that consumers are kept safe. This position acts as a role model for consumers, demonstrating effective problem solving and decision-making skills and will assist in providing recreational and therapeutic activities for the consumer, transporting residents to and from medical appointments, and assuring scheduled programming is carried out

Typical Functions

• Assists consumers in activities of daily living; develops and manages group activities to promote recovery and wellness.
• Provides or assists with providing direct patient care and therapeutic interventions based on patient care assignments from RN.
• Performs direct nursing tasks including taking vital signs, assisting with activities of daily living and hygiene needs, and obtaining certain lab specimens.
• Observes and records patient behavior and activities. Reports any changes in condition and suggests modifications to the treatment plan.
• Establishes a therapeutic relationship with assigned patients.
• Monitors patients to ensure safety, including but not limited to rounding, environmental and safety checks.
• Utilize appropriate decision-making related to treatment of consumers of mental health and/or substance abuse services, including but not limited to identifying relevant behaviors/activities, and managing group dynamics.

• Provides culturally competent support and trauma-informed care in order to maintain a safe, respectful and therapeutic environment.
• Supports the department and facility in reducing incidents of seclusion and restraint.
• Escorts consumers to and from various destinations, to include court and medical appointments, meal breaks, recreation, etc. ensuring staff and consumer safety.
• Orders, receives and stores supplies and performs basic clerical functions.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Level Descriptor - Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, and Competencies

The Mental Health Technician has three levels which are distinguished by the complexity of assignments, level of expertise required to perform the duties assigned, and the ability to monitor the direct work of others.

Level I : Code Y0A

Required at this level include knowledge of the English language in order to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.  Ability is required to record observations and activities, to follow oral and written directions, and establish and maintain effective working relationships with others. Basic computer skills are required.

No experience or education is required at this level

Level II : Code Y10B

Required at this level include those identified in Level I plus knowledge of public health services available to the community; of record keeping; of the techniques of interviewing, of basic nursing practices and techniques; of basic methods of sanitation and personal hygiene; and of medical terminology.  Ability is required to apply basic nursing techniques.

One year of experience in providing behavioral health patient care.

Level III : Code Y10C

Required at this level consist of those identified in Level II plus knowledge of planning and organizing work assignments.  Ability is also required to monitor and direct the work of others; to judge a situation accurately and adopt an effective course of action.

Required at this level consists of two years of experience in providing behavioral health patient care.

All Levels:

This position provides care to a vulnerable population which requires employees to adhere to all applicable laws, rules and regulations, including but not limited to consumer rights regulations, confidentiality laws, and accreditation requirements associated with this position and field. As such, incumbents should be proactive, detail-oriented, and diligent with protecting consumer information, and possess the ability to understand all laws and regulations regarding consumer rights.

Incumbent must demonstrate honesty and integrity in their actions and communications regarding issues impacting the organization. Incumbents must demonstrate a commitment to serving the citizens of Oklahoma, including, but not limited to demonstrating compassion in their care of ODMHSAS consumers, focus on achieving positive treatment outcomes, responsible fiscal management, and support for the ODMHSAS mission to serve individuals and families impacted by mental illness and addiction.

ODMHSAS Core Competencies:

• Respect: Treats consumers, stakeholders and fellow employees with dignity and respect. Relates to work and people in ways that value differences in others. Encourages and supports diversity of thought and perspective.
• Integrity: Is honest and respectful in interactions with others, and takes responsibility to make ethical choices in all aspects of job performance. Seeks guidance when needed.
• Responsibility: Employees are personally responsible for meeting commitments and achieving results. Works to improve individuals and organizational performance and presents a positive organizational image.
• Compassion: We recognize that it takes courage to seek help for mental illness and addiction, and we provide constant, respectful support in one’s journey to recovery.
• Public Service: Our mission is to help people, reunite families, and build healthy communities. We strive to provide impactful services to consumers, customers, colleagues and communities.

Special Requirements

May require the possession of a valid U.S. driver’s license at the time of appointment.    

Willing to fulfill any job related travel normally associated with this position. 

Upon a conditional offer of employment, Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services applicants must submit to a physical examination and shall meet the physical examination requirements of occasionally lifting/carrying 50 pounds and able to push and pull a maximum force of 25 pounds.