A Mental Health or Psychiatric Technician cares for patients with mental illnesses. Works under the direction of a physician and works with specialists involved in mental health care, such as psychiatrists and therapists. Monitors patient symptoms and administers medications. Works in a mental health facility or in a hospital or other healthcare facility.
The above reflects the anticipated hourly wage range for this position if hired to work in New Jersey. The compensation offered to the candidate selected for the position will depend on several factors, including the candidate's educational background, skills and professional experience. Mental Health Worker, Inpatient Behavioral Health - RWJBarnabas Health At RWJBarnabas Health, Mental Health Workers become part of a compassionate, patient-centered environment dedicated to supporting individuals receiving inpatient behavioral health care. Working under the direct supervision of a Registered Nurse, the Mental Health Worker helps maintain a safe, structured, and therapeutic environment while providing hands-on support with patient care needs. This role offers the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of patients through attentive supervision, compassionate assistance, effective communication, and teamwork. As part of RWJBarnabas Health, Mental Health Workers contribute to a culture of Total Quality Management focused on safety, service excellence, and respect for every patient and colleague. A typical day for a Mental Health Worker, Inpatient Behavioral Health may include: Providing direct patient care and maintaining a safe environment under the supervision of the Registered Nurse Conducting group and individual patient supervision while remaining attentive to patient behavior, safety, and changing needs Facilitating educational group activities that encourage patient participation, engagement, and appropriate social interaction Assisting patients with activities of daily living (ADLs), including feeding, bathing, toileting, ambulating, and other personal care needs Taking and accurately recording patient vital signs according to established hospital procedures Observing and reporting relevant changes in patients' physical, behavioral, or emotional conditions to the Registered Nurse Following hospital policies, procedures, and established methods of practice while performing all assigned patient care responsibilities Providing care and assistance with concern, consideration, dignity, and respect for each patient's individual needs Collaborating with Registered Nurses and other members of the healthcare team to support safe and effective patient care Maintaining appropriate supervision and helping create a structured inpatient behavioral health environment Communicating effectively with patients, families, coworkers, and other internal and external customers Applying the Barnabas Health philosophy of Total Quality Management (TQM) to patient interactions, teamwork, and daily responsibilities Demonstrating strong time management and organization while balancing supervision, patient care, activities, and documentation Participating in required orientation, training, and competency development, including EKG and phlebotomy training and validation Performing other assigned responsibilities in accordance with departmental needs and hospital standards This role might be for you if: You are passionate about providing compassionate and respectful care to individuals receiving inpatient behavioral health services Creating a safe, supportive, and structured environment for patients is important to you You have strong communication and interpersonal skills and enjoy building positive relationships with patients and coworkers You are comfortable supervising patients individually and in groups while remaining alert to safety concerns and changing patient needs You approach personal care responsibilities with patience, dignity, and consideration for each patient's needs Strong time management and organizational skills allow you to effectively manage multiple patient care responsibilities You value teamwork and enjoy working closely with Registered Nurses and other healthcare professionals You are committed to following hospital policies and performing your responsibilities with a high level of competence and professionalism You are interested in developing your healthcare skills through hands-on experience, training, and continuing education You are dependable and comfortable working a schedule that includes every other weekend To be considered for this Mental Health Worker, Inpatient Behavioral Health opportunity, you are committed to providing safe, compassionate, and respectful patient care while supporting the behavioral health team and maintaining a therapeutic inpatient environment. This position requires a Baccalaureate Degree in Psychology, Social Work, or a Health-Related Field . BLS Certification is required, with EKG and Phlebotomy validation required by the end of orientation ; training will be provided. A minimum of one year of experience, training, or education in the field of treatment is preferred. Experience as a Nursing Assistant, Patient Care Technician, EMT, Medical Assistant, Phlebotomist, EKG Technician, or equivalent patient care experience is helpful. Candidates must possess excellent communication, time management, and interpersonal skills and must be able to work every other weekend. Part-Time shift. RWJBarnabas Health is an Equal Opportunity Employer Internal Apply External Apply
