A behavioral health technician is a professional who provides care to individuals with developmental disorders, mental health illnesses, or neurodegenerative conditions. They work directly with patients to implement treatment plans prescribed by doctors, nurses, and other mental health professionals. Behavioral health technicians carry out a wide range of responsibilities involving direct patient care, such as assisting with administrative-related duties, monitoring and recording patients vital signs, observing and documenting the behaviors of patients, and helping patients with the activities of daily living, such as eating, bathing, and dressing. They may work in a variety of settings, including mental health facilities, psychiatric departments, long-term care facilities, homeless shelters, home health aide agencies, residential and outpatient substance abuse treatment facilities, schools, and universities.

To become a behavioral health technician, one can earn a certificate or associate degree in a psychiatric or mental health technology field. It is also recommended to earn a four-year behavioral health technician degree, such as a Bachelor of Science in Behavioral Health Science degree, to provide a superior level of care and set oneself apart from other job applicants. Once completing the program, many people complete an internship or on-the-job training to gain additional skills.

Traits that make a successful behavioral health technician include compassion, good interpersonal and observational skills, and the ability to stay calm in stressful situations. The job outlook for behavioral health technicians is positive due to the increasing prevalence of mental health disorders and developmental disorders, with more jobs expected to be available in the coming years.