Mental Health Technician at Apex Recovery LLC – Columbia, Tennessee

Mental Health Technician (MHT) – Job Description

Position Summary

The Mental Health Technician (MHT) provides direct support and supervision to clients receiving mental health and/or substance use disorder treatment in a residential or structured treatment setting. The MHT plays a critical role in maintaining a therapeutic environment, assisting with group programming, supporting client engagement in treatment, and responding to behavioral or emotional crises using de-escalation techniques. The ideal candidate is compassionate, observant, and skilled at maintaining boundaries while supporting clients in their recovery and stabilization process.

Key Responsibilities

Client Support and Supervision

- Provide direct care, supervision, and support to clients in a residential treatment setting. - Monitor client behavior, mood, and safety throughout the shift.

- Assist clients with daily structure and participation in scheduled programming. - Model healthy boundaries, coping skills, and appropriate interpersonal behavior.

Group Facilitation

- Facilitate psychoeducational and recovery-oriented groups under the supervision of licensed clinical staff.

- Encourage client participation in therapeutic activities and treatment programming. - Assist therapists with group preparation, attendance tracking, and documentation.

Behavioral Support and Crisis Intervention

- Recognize and respond to mental health crises and escalating behaviors.

- Utilize trauma-informed and therapeutic de-escalation techniques.

- Provide emotional support and redirection during periods of distress.

- Follow safety protocols and assist with crisis management when necessary.

Milieu Management

- Maintain a safe, structured, and therapeutic environment within the treatment program. - Encourage accountability and adherence to program rules and expectations. - Support positive peer interactions among clients.

Documentation and Communication

- Document client observations, incidents, and participation in programming.

- Communicate relevant client updates to clinical staff and leadership.

- Participate in shift reports and team meetings.

Qualifications

Education

- Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Psychology, Counseling, Human Services, or a related behavioral health field preferred.

Experience

- Prior experience working in mental health, substance use treatment, behavioral health, or residential care preferred.

- Experience facilitating groups or working with individuals experiencing mental health challenges is strongly preferred.

Knowledge & Skills

- Understanding of mental health conditions and behavioral health treatment. - Ability to facilitate basic psychoeducational groups.

- Strong de-escalation and crisis intervention skills.

- Ability to maintain professional boundaries with clients.

- Strong observation, documentation, and communication skills.

- Ability to work collaboratively with a multidisciplinary team.

Physical and Work Requirements

- Ability to stand, walk, and remain active throughout the shift.

- Ability to respond quickly during crisis situations.

- Ability to maintain a calm and supportive demeanor in high-stress environments.

Preferred Skills

- Experience in residential treatment, psychiatric care, or SUD programs.

- Training in trauma-informed care, CPI, or crisis prevention/de-escalation techniques. - Experience working with individuals with co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders.