Part-Time Mental Health Technician

ALTER MANAGEMENT•Dana Point, CA

3d•$22 - $23•Onsite

About The Position

Alter Behavioral Health is an adult mental health treatment provider with a network of upscale inpatient residential facilities in Orange County and San Diego. As a Care Coordinator (MHT), you play a critical role in ensuring the safety, stability, and recovery journey of the clients entrusted to our care. This role is more than supervision - it’s about being present, supportive, and engaged in the day-to-day recovery experience of each client.

Requirements

Compassionate, professional, and dependable
Able to remain alert and engaged during a 12-hour shift
Calm under pressure with strong situational awareness
Comfortable interacting with clients in a therapeutic residential setting
Prior behavioral health or residential experience preferred (training provided)
High School Diploma required. Bachelor’s Degree preferred.
At least one (1) year of experience in behavioral health or a related field such as mental health, substance use treatment, social services, nonprofit work, youth programs, case management, or similar client-facing roles OR Degree or academic focus in Psychology, Social Work, Counseling, Human Development, or a related field demonstrating commitment to behavioral health
Valid California Driver’s License required
Ability to reliably work the assigned schedule with consistent attendance and punctuality
CPR & First Aid certification required (or ability to obtain prior to start)
Must pass Live Scan fingerprint clearance
Must be legally authorized to work in the United States
Frequent walking, standing, bending, and safety rounds
Ability to regularly walk up and down stairs in multi-level residential homes
Ability to lift and carry up to 25 pounds
Ability to safely intervene during behavioral escalations using trained techniques
Ability to operate computers and EMR systems
Successful Live Scan clearance
Completion of required health/drug screenings and TB testing
Compliance with DHCS, Title 22 regulations, Joint Commission standards, HIPAA, and applicable California employment laws

Nice To Haves

1+ year experience in behavioral health, SUD, or psychiatric settings
Residential treatment or healthcare experience
Knowledge of trauma-informed care practices
Crisis prevention/intervention certification (CPI, PMAB, HWC, or equivalent)
EMR experience (Kipu preferred)

Responsibilities

Conduct routine safety checks (every 15/30/60 minutes) in bedrooms and common areas
Maintain a safe, structured, and respectful environment
Escort clients to activities, appointments, or outings as needed
Provide supportive presence and guidance aligned with treatment goals
Facilitate or assist with group activities as appropriate
Encourage adherence to program structure and expectations
Assist with housekeeping duties to maintain a safe and clean environment
Respond calmly and quickly to behavioral or emotional escalations
Utilize de-escalation techniques and involve clinical staff when appropriate
Observe and document client behaviors and updates in EMR (Kipu)
Communicate concerns promptly to clinical and nursing staff
Collaborate with therapists, case managers, nurses, and supervisors