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treatment technician

title: 'Job Specification: Treatment Technician (Behavioral Health)'
salary: Competitive, based on experience and location
categories: [Healthcare, Social Services, Behavioral Health, Mental Health]
description: A comprehensive overview of the key responsibilities, required technical skills and professional background for the role of a 'Job Specification: Treatment Technician (Behavioral Health)'.

🎯 Role Definition

The Treatment Technician is a frontline, direct-care professional responsible for creating and maintaining a safe, structured, and therapeutic environment for clients undergoing treatment for substance use disorders and/or mental health conditions. They serve as a crucial support system for clients, observing behaviors, assisting with daily activities, and reinforcing clinical treatment plans under the guidance of licensed clinicians and medical staff. This role is fundamental to the day-to-day success of our clients' recovery process and requires a unique blend of empathy, vigilance, and professionalism.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) or Medical Assistant (MA)
  • Direct Support Professional
  • Recent graduate in Psychology, Social Work, or a related Human Services field

Advancement To:

  • Lead Treatment Technician / Shift Supervisor
  • Case Manager
  • Admissions Coordinator or Counselor
  • Clinical Program Director (with advanced education and licensure)

Lateral Moves:

  • Peer Support Specialist
  • Community Outreach Coordinator

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Diligently observe, monitor, and meticulously document client behavior, mood, and active participation in the treatment program, recording all observations in the Electronic Health Record (EHR) system with a high degree of accuracy and timeliness.
  • Provide comprehensive, one-on-one support and guidance to clients, utilizing active listening and motivational interviewing techniques to foster trust and encourage engagement in their recovery journey.
  • Facilitate or co-facilitate psycho-educational and skills-based groups on topics such as coping skills, relapse prevention, and life skills, under the direct supervision of the clinical team.
  • Ensure the physical and emotional safety of the client community by proactively identifying and de-escalating potential crises, employing approved non-violent crisis intervention techniques.
  • Supervise and assist clients with their daily living activities, including personal hygiene, chore completion, and adherence to the daily program schedule, to promote accountability and structure.
  • Conduct regular rounds and comprehensive security checks of the facility to maintain a safe, secure, and therapeutic environment for all clients and staff.
  • Administer client medications as prescribed and in strict accordance with medical protocols and state regulations, accurately documenting all administrations in the Medication Administration Record (MAR).
  • Perform and document client vital signs, such as blood pressure, heart rate, and temperature, reporting any abnormalities or significant changes to the nursing or medical staff immediately.
  • Conduct and document searches of client belongings upon admission and as needed throughout their stay to ensure a contraband-free environment.
  • Collect, process, and document urine drug screens (UDS) and breathalyzer tests in a professional and respectful manner, maintaining a clear chain of custody.
  • Safely transport clients to and from appointments, 12-step meetings, recreational outings, and other off-site activities using a company-provided vehicle.
  • Participate actively in multidisciplinary team meetings and case consultations, providing valuable insight into client progress, challenges, and behavior from a direct-care perspective.
  • Assist in the client admission and orientation process, helping new clients get acclimated to the facility, program rules, and community expectations.
  • Uphold and enforce all program policies and procedures consistently and fairly, setting clear and professional boundaries with clients at all times.
  • Respond effectively to medical and psychiatric emergencies, initiating emergency protocols, administering First Aid/CPR when necessary, and notifying the appropriate clinical and leadership staff.
  • Maintain a deep understanding of and strict adherence to client confidentiality laws, including HIPAA and 42 CFR Part 2, in all verbal and written communication.
  • Document all client interactions, interventions, and significant events in progress notes, ensuring documentation meets clinical, legal, and billing standards.
  • Provide empathetic support to clients experiencing emotional distress, cravings, or ambivalence about treatment, acting as a stabilizing and encouraging presence.
  • Assist in the planning and execution of therapeutic recreational activities designed to promote sober fun, social skills, and overall well-being.
  • Support clients in developing and practicing essential life skills, such as time management, budgeting, and healthy communication, as part of their comprehensive treatment plan.

Secondary Functions

  • Assist with the inventory management and ordering of facility supplies, including client necessities, cleaning materials, and office supplies.
  • Contribute to ongoing quality improvement initiatives by providing constructive feedback on program structure, effectiveness, and the overall client experience.
  • Participate in community outreach events or psychoeducational workshops as a representative of the organization, as needed.
  • Support the general maintenance, cleanliness, and organization of the treatment facility to ensure it remains a welcoming and healing space.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • Proficiency with Electronic Health Record (EHR) or Electronic Medical Record (EMR) systems for clinical documentation.
  • Current CPR and First Aid Certification (e.g., from American Heart Association or Red Cross).
  • Formal training in Crisis Prevention and Intervention (CPI), Pro-ACT, or a similar de-escalation and behavior management methodology.
  • Comprehensive knowledge of HIPAA regulations and 42 CFR Part 2 patient confidentiality laws.
  • Valid Driver's License and a clean driving record suitable for transporting clients.
  • Foundational understanding of addiction science, mental health diagnoses, and the 12-Step recovery model.
  • Competency in conducting vital sign measurements and understanding their significance.
  • Experience with medication administration protocols and documentation (MAR).

Soft Skills

  • Exceptional Empathy and Compassion
  • Active Listening and Observational Acuity
  • Strong Verbal and Written Communication Skills for clear documentation and team collaboration.
  • Proven Conflict Resolution and De-escalation Abilities
  • High Level of Resilience and Effective Stress Management Techniques
  • Unwavering Professionalism and the ability to maintain strong Ethical Boundaries
  • Collaborative Teamwork and Interpersonal Skills
  • Deep-seated Patience and a Consistent Non-judgmental Attitude
  • Reliability and a Strong Sense of Personal Accountability

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

  • High School Diploma or GED equivalent.

Preferred Education:

  • Associate's or Bachelor's degree in a relevant field.

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Psychology
  • Social Work
  • Sociology
  • Human Services
  • Addiction Counseling

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

  • 1-3 years of professional experience in a behavioral health, mental health, or direct patient care setting.

Preferred:

  • Direct experience working with populations facing substance use disorders or co-occurring mental health conditions is highly valued. Certification as a Certified Addiction Technician (CAT), Registered Behavior Technician (RBT), or a similar state-level credential is a significant asset.
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