The Behavioral Health Technician (BHT) is a person who provides mental health support, patient care, and crisis intervention support. They understand mental illness, ethical practices, and effective communication with patients. They also hold foundational knowledge for positions in mental health settings or further education in the field, demonstrating empathy, compassion, and professionalism in mental health care.
Skills Developed
Behavioral Health Technicians develop skills in active listening, effective communication, and empathy, crucial for supporting individuals with mental health challenges. They understand crisis intervention techniques, assist in implementing treatment plans under the guidance of licensed professionals, while demonstrating ethical decision-making and teamwork.
Careers
Social Worker
Health Coaching
Mental Health Counselor
Registered Behavior Technician
Crisis Intervention Specialist
Psychologist
Behavioral Health focuses on how behaviors affect our mental and physical well being, including the impact of actions, emotions and thoughts.
Certifications
Basic Life Support (BLS) through American Heart Association
This course explores the basic principles of behavioral health in a behavioral health care setting. This course develops interpersonal and technical skills while working with clients in psychiatric care settings. Students obtain skills used daily by Behavioral Health Technicians (BHT’s) such as therapeutic communication and relationship building and conducting psychoeducational therapy groups. Students will also explore aspects of mental health and factors that influence human development and behavior.
Suggested Prerequisite: Advanced Studies in Health Care
Concurrent Enrollment: Intro to Behavioral Health Care & Wellness (PTE 1010, 3 credits), Mental Health Crisis and Intervention: Preparedness and Emp (BEH 1001, 3 credits), Behavioral Health Case Management and Clinical Documentation (BEH 1030, 1 credit), Applied Therapeutic Communication Skills (BEH 2030, 3 credits) semester only
Related Higher Education in Colorado
Community College of Aurora: Behavioral Health Assistant, Psychology and Sociology
University of Colorado, Colorado Springs: Behavioral Health and Human Services
Metropolitan State University of Denver: Clinical Behavioral Health Studies
Arapahoe Community College: Behavioral Health Assistant
