Mental Health Technician

This program prepares entry-level caregivers with the foundational knowledge and skills needed to support patients with mental impairments.

Available Dates

Mental Health Technician Training

Mental Health Technicians play an important role in supporting individuals experiencing mental health conditions, substance use disorders, dementia, developmental disabilities, and other cognitive challenges. Working alongside nurses, counselors, social workers, and healthcare providers, Mental Health Technicians help create safe, therapeutic environments while providing compassionate, direct patient care.

This rewarding career combines healthcare knowledge, communication skills, and behavioral health support to improve the well-being of individuals in a variety of settings, including hospitals, residential treatment centers, behavioral health facilities, long-term care settings, and community-based programs.

Whether you're beginning a healthcare career or expanding your existing skills, Mental Health Technician Training provides the knowledge and practical experience needed to support individuals facing mental health and behavioral challenges.

What will I learn?

Students will learn how to:

  • Assist individuals experiencing mental health and behavioral health challenges.
  • Apply therapeutic communication techniques to build trust and rapport.
  • Recognize signs of emotional distress, crisis situations, and behavioral changes.
  • Implement behavior support and de-escalation strategies.
  • Understand common mental health disorders and treatment approaches.
  • Support patients while maintaining dignity, safety, and confidentiality.
  • Work effectively as part of a healthcare and behavioral health team.
  • Follow ethical, legal, and professional standards in mental health settings.

Who Should Attend?

This program is ideal for individuals who:

  • Want to start or advance a career in healthcare or behavioral health.
  • Enjoy working directly with patients.
  • Are passionate about providing compassionate care and support.

Prerequisite: Current Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification required.

Age Requirement: Students must be 18 years old by the certification exam at the end of the program

What You’ll Earn:

  •  Mental Health First Aid Certification through the National Council for Mental Wellbeing.
  • Eligibility to sit for the AAPTC Mental Health Technician Certification Exam.
  • Industry-recognized skills that can support career advancement in healthcare and behavioral health.

Explore Your Career Options

If you are interested in learning about career opportunities in the Magic Valley take a look below.

If you are interested in learning more about our Work-Based Learning Center resources explore your options below.

Instructor Bio

Savannah Lind

Savannah Lind, BSN, RN, is a healthcare instructor at the College of Southern Idaho with experience in medical-surgical, labor & delivery/postpartum, and perioperative nursing. She is passionate about helping students build strong clinical and communication skills.

Samantha Brizee

Samantha Brizee is a healthcare instructor at the College of Southern Idaho with experience in patient care and healthcare education. She is dedicated to helping students gain the knowledge and confidence needed for success in healthcare careers.