Mental Health Technician (Per Diem)

About the role

South County Mental Health Center, Inc. is seeking compassionate and reliable Mental Health Technicians (MHTs) to support patients in our Crisis Stabilization Unit during evening, overnight, and weekend shifts. This role plays a vital part in maintaining a safe, structured, and therapeutic environment for individuals experiencing acute mental health crises.

Responsibilities

• Direct Patient Support
• Monitor and observe patient behavior to ensure safety and well-being
• Assist patients with activities of daily living (ADLs), including hygiene and meals
• Provide one-to-one observation as assigned
• Support a structured and therapeutic unit environment
• Crisis Intervention & Safety
• Intervene in behavioral crises using approved de-escalation techniques
• Aid clinical staff during emergencies and code situations
• Monitor patients under special precautions (e.g., suicide or close observation)
• Follow all safety protocols, including restraint and seclusion procedures
• Program Support
• Assist with or co-facilitate group activities as directed
• Encourage patient participation in treatment programming
• Support daily unit routines and schedules
• Documentation & Communication
• Accurately document patient behaviors, activities, and incidents
• Communicate observations and concerns to nursing and clinical staff
• Complete required logs and reports in a timely manner
• Unit Support
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe unit environment
• Assist with admissions, discharges, and patient flow as needed
• Support team operations and step in where needed during shifts

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent (required)
• Experience in behavioral health, healthcare, or human services (preferred)
• Knowledge of mental health conditions and crisis intervention techniques (preferred)
• Ability to safely manage and de-escalate behavioral situations
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Basic computer and documentation skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Behavioral Health or related field
• Experience in acute care or crisis stabilization settings
• CPR/BLS Certification
• Fluency in Spanish

Core Competencies

• Ability to stay calm and composed under pressure
• Strong observation and situational awareness
• Dependability and accountability
• Effective communication and teamwork
• Empathy and respect for diverse populations
• Able to follow direction and adhere to protocols
• Professional boundaries and ethical conduct

Physical Demands

• Frequent standing, walking, and active monitoring of patients
• Ability to assist with patient mobility and physical interventions when required
• Occasional lifting, bending, and reaching
• Ability to respond quickly in emergency situations

Working Conditions

• Acute care psychiatric environment (Crisis Stabilization Unit)
• Exposure to high-stress and emotionally charged situations
• Interaction with individuals experiencing severe mental health symptoms
• Potential exposure to aggressive or unpredictable behavior
• Requires adherence to strict safety and infection control protocols

Schedule & Work Details

• Part-Time and Full-Time Opportunities Available
• Shifts: Daytime and Weekend coverage
• Schedule may include: Day and Night shifts
• Weekends (Saturday & Sunday required for some roles)

Location

In-person (Delray Beach, FL)

Benefits

• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off
• 401(k) with employer match
• Opportunity for growth in behavioral health careers

Additional Information

• Background check required
• Drug-free workplace
• Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE)