Mental Health Assistant - Per Diem - Hours & Shift Varies - Atlantic Health Newton Medical Center, NJ

A Mental Health Assistant (MHA) provides essential support to individuals facing mental health challenges, working under the supervision of licensed professionals to enhance patient care and recovery. Job Responsibilities /

Essential Functions Direct Patient Support:

Assist patients with daily activities, including personal care, meals, and acclimating to unit environment and peers. Completing assessment of Vital signs,

Intake and Output Therapeutic Engagement:

Build supportive relationships with patients, providing emotional support and encouragement to promote their mental well-being.

Monitoring and Reporting:

Observe and document patient behavior, progress, and any changes in condition, reporting significant findings to the supervising mental health professional.

Implementation of Care Plans:

Work collaboratively with a multidisciplinary team to implement individualized care plans tailored to each patient's needs.

Crisis Intervention:

Recognize signs of distress or crisis and employ de-escalation techniques to ensure patient safety and comfort.

Facilitation of Group Activities:

Organize and lead therapeutic group sessions to foster a supportive environment for sharing and personal growth. Required - A high school diploma or equivalent is required BLS Preferred - Additional training or certification in mental health or related fields. Previous experience in a mental health support role or similar environment to inpatient adult mental health is advantageous. Experience as a patient care technician in acute care medicine or ED with a vested interest in mental health will be considered.

Skills:

Strong interpersonal and communication skills, empathy, patience, and the ability to work effectively in a team setting.

Education:

A high school diploma or equivalent is required, additional training or certification in mental health or related fields is preferred.

Skills:

Strong interpersonal and communication skills, empathy, patience, and the ability to work effectively in a team setting.

Experience:

Previous experience in a mental health support role or similar environment to inpatient adult mental health is advantageous. Experience as a patient care technician in acute care medicine or ED with a vested interest in mental health will be considered. BLS is required