Job Description

Behavioral Health Technician 

Location: Coastal Oaks Recovery, Port Royal, South Carolina 

Shift: Nights/Weekends

About Coastal Oaks Recovery 

Located in the heart of the Lowcountry in South Carolina, Coastal Oaks Recovery is a 72-bed substance-use treatment center serving adults aged eighteen and older. Nestled on five serene acres near the coastal waters and wetlands of Port Royal, Coastal Oaks provides a tranquil environment for individuals suffering from addiction to stabilize and embark on their journey toward recovery and wellness. 

At Coastal Oaks Recovery, we offer medically monitored detoxification under the direct care of physicians and nurses, supported by a multidisciplinary treatment team. In addition to withdrawal management, our residential treatment services provide a safe and structured environment for 30 to 45 days, ensuring that each patient builds a solid foundation of recovery skills prior to discharge. 

Our evidence-based programming includes group therapy, individual counseling, family programming, and specialized care tailored to meet individual needs. With a holistic and experiential approach, we emphasize safety, collaboration, and a patient-first culture that nurtures recovery and wellness for both patients and staff. 

Position Purpose 

The Mental Health Technician (MHT) plays a critical role on the treatment team at Coastal Oaks Recovery, providing direct patient care and support. This includes ensuring patient safety, assisting with activities of daily living, interacting therapeutically, and performing routine technical nursing tasks. The MHT contributes to the overall therapeutic environment and helps patients develop the skills needed to achieve their recovery goals. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities 

Patient Care and Support 

• Monitor patients’ safety and well-being, responding appropriately to medical and behavioral emergencies.
• Continuously manage the unit milieu, patient behavior, and activity. 
• Effectively conduct rounds on all patients assigned during the shift and have a comprehensive understanding of the distinct levels of observation assigned by nursing.  
• Assist patients with activities of daily living, promoting independence and healthy routines. 
• Escort patients to and from various therapeutic activities and appointments. 
• Conduct regular checks and monitor patients’ vital signs as required. 
• Assist patients with clinical program schedule attendance and daily activities. emphasizing the need to stay on schedule and maintain structure.  
• Re-direct patients as needed  
• Assist patients during family programming and visitation 
• Assist all staff during patient outings and therapeutic sessions off-site.  
• Provide transpiration as requested for patients to outside meetings and appointments as assigned.  
• Maintain patient store-run lists for outside approved purchases. 
• Assist with intake and admission processes specific to patient belongings checks as assigned.  
• Assist with patient laundry as needed – turning beds over and assisting housekeeping 

Therapeutic Interventions 

• Build therapeutic relationships with patients to foster trust and engagement in the recovery process while maintaining strong personal and professional boundaries. 
• Utilize verbal and non-verbal therapeutic techniques to support patient communication and expression. 
• Actively participate in group activities, psychoeducation sessions, and community meetings. 
• Model healthy behaviors and encourage positive interactions among patients. 
• Support nursing staff with all appropriate requests related to patient care, behavior modification and therapeutic interventions.  
• Act as a first responder to all called codes.  
• Assist patients in the event of emergency evacuations, disaster and potential breaches of safety and security while maintaining a calm and professional demeanor.  
• Maintain inventory sheets for patients' belongings and storage.  

Environment and Safety 

• Maintain a safe and health-promoting environment by addressing potential hazards and following infection control protocols. 
  Respond effectively to crises, utilizing verbal de-escalation techniques, CPR, and first aid, as necessary. 
  Ensure patient rights, dignity, confidentiality, and privacy are always upheld in accordance with HIPPA standards outlined in Part 42 CFR. 

Collaboration and Communication 

• Work as part of a multidisciplinary team, communicating effectively with other team members to coordinate care. 
• Attend all shift change reports prior to starting shift and when leaving a shift.
• Report patient progress and any incidents to clinical staff, documenting observations accurately and promptly.
• Participate in treatment team meetings to provide input on patient care plans. 

Compliance and Documentation 

• Complete required documentation, including incident reports, patient monitoring logs, and charting, in a timely and accurate manner. 
• Follow organizational policies and procedures to ensure compliance with regulatory standards. 

Skills and Abilities 

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills to interact effectively with patients and staff. 
• Ability to maintain a calm and professional demeanor in high-stress situations. 
• Knowledge of basic safety standards, infection control protocols, and emergency procedures. 
• Flexibility and adaptability to meet the needs of a dynamic treatment environment. 
• Ability to establish rapport and demonstrate empathy toward patients. 

Education and Experience 

• Required: High school diploma or GED. 
• Preferred: At least 12 college credits in psychology, behavioral sciences, or a related field. 
• Minimum of six months of experience in a psychiatric, acute care, or substance use treatment setting preferred. 

Licensure/Certification 

• Current CPR and First Aid certification (training available upon hire). 
• Valid South Carolina driver’s license. 

Physical and Work Environment Requirements 

• Frequent standing, walking, bending, and lifting up to 50 pounds. 
• Work primarily indoors in a temperature-controlled environment. 
• High degree of mental alertness and ability to manage stress in crisis situations. 

Why Join Coastal Oaks Recovery? 

At Coastal Oaks Recovery, we value the critical contributions of every team member. As a Mental Health Technician, you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of individuals on their recovery journey. 

We Offer: 

• Competitive salary and benefits package. 
• Opportunities for professional growth and development. 
• A supportive and inclusive work environment committed to excellence in patient care. 

If you are a compassionate and dedicated professional looking to contribute to a dynamic team, apply today to join Coastal Oaks Recovery as a Mental Health Technician! 

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