Mental Health Technician

This program is designed to give students the knowledge and skills to provide safe, therapeutic patient care to individuals who have mental and behavioral health needs in an effective and ethical manner.

Students who complete the program are prepared to take the American Association of Psychiatric Technicians (AAPT) Level 1 certification exam, and qualify for entry level positions such as Psychiatric Aides, Mental Healthcare Technicians and Healthcare Technicians and certified nursing assistants whose primary patient population has special mental health/behavioral needs.

Topics will include:

• History of mental health care

• Identifying normal growth and development

• Importance of trust and communication in health care

• Proper safety in the workplace

• Chemical dependency and its effects

• Common psychiatric disorders

• Proper documentation for patients

• Understanding and respecting patient rights