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How much do behavioral health tech bht jobs pay per hour?

As of May 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for behavioral health tech bht in Chicago, IL is $18.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $19.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Behavioral Health Tech (BHT), and why are they important?

To thrive as a Behavioral Health Tech (BHT), you need a foundational understanding of psychology or behavioral health, often supported by a high school diploma or associate's degree and relevant certifications such as CPR or CPI. Familiarity with electronic health records (EHR) systems and crisis intervention protocols is typically required. Strong observation, empathy, communication, and teamwork skills help BHTs support patients and collaborate with clinical staff. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring patient safety, effective care, and a supportive therapeutic environment.

What are some common challenges Behavioral Health Technicians (BHTs) face when supporting clients in crisis situations?

Behavioral Health Technicians often encounter clients experiencing acute emotional distress or psychiatric crises. Managing these situations requires staying calm under pressure, using de-escalation techniques, and maintaining clear communication with both clients and the clinical team. BHTs must balance empathy with enforcing safety protocols, which can be emotionally demanding. Team support and thorough training are key to navigating these challenges effectively and providing the best care for clients.

What are Behavioral Health Techs (BHTs)?

Behavioral Health Techs, or BHTs, are professionals who assist in the care of patients with behavioral, mental health, or substance abuse issues. They work under the supervision of licensed clinicians, helping to implement treatment plans, monitor patient behavior, and provide emotional support. BHTs may work in hospitals, residential treatment centers, or outpatient facilities, and their daily tasks can include observing patients, leading therapeutic activities, and ensuring a safe environment. They play a crucial role in supporting both patients and clinical staff throughout the treatment process.

What is the difference between Behavioral Health Tech Bht vs Mental Health Technician?

AspectBehavioral Health Tech BhtMental Health Technician
CertificationsCPR, First Aid, state-specific certificationsCPR, First Aid, state-specific certifications
Work EnvironmentHospitals, mental health facilities, residential programsHospitals, psychiatric units, community clinics
Employer & Industry UsageHealthcare providers, mental health agenciesHospitals, mental health clinics, residential centers

Both roles involve supporting individuals with mental health needs, often requiring similar certifications and working in healthcare settings. The main difference lies in job titles used by employers, but their responsibilities and work environments are quite comparable.

What are popular job titles related to Behavioral Health Tech Bht jobs in Chicago, IL? For Behavioral Health Tech Bht jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Behavioral Health Tech Bht jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Behavioral Health Tech Bht jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Behavioral Health Tech Bht jobs near you
Behavioral Health Tech

Behavioral Health Tech

Discovery Behavioral Health

Glenview, IL • On-site

$17 - $23/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Discovery Behavioral Health rating

5.8

Company rating: 5.8 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

139th of 227 rated social care providers

Job description

Center for Discovery
At Discovery, we offer career opportunities nationwide in residential, day treatment, and intensive outpatient eating disorder treatment. Discovery is currently seeking Program Directors, Primary Therapists, Facility Managers, Counselors/Mental Health Specialists, Dietitians, Diet Techs, and Nurses. Discovery is specifically seeking individuals who consistently strive to provide exemplary care and are passionate about transforming the lives of others.
If you are interested in a challenging and rewarding career in the behavioral health field, the first step is to look for Open job positions that match your skills, qualifications and interest. Each posting includes a description and minimum required qualifications.
When we review candidate information, we are looking for the best matches for the position based on the qualifications listed in the job posting. If your skills and experience appear to match an open position, a recruitment services professional or hiring manager may contact you to further discuss your qualifications.
Position Summary:
Behavioral Health Tech I (BHT I) is responsible for assisting and supporting patients through the entire treatment experience from admission through discharge. BHT I will be contributing insightful, practical, and meaningful information to the treatment planning process. BHT I responsibilities primarily include ensuring patient safety, providing patient interventions, leading psychoeducational groups, and supporting patients.
Essential Job Functions:
  • Adheres to all DBH policies and procedures.
  • Conducts self in a manner that represents DBH values.
  • Maintains a positive and respectful attitude.
  • Provides exemplary customer service to all patients.
  • Exhibits understanding and respect for cultural and lifestyle diversity.
  • Understand and maintain professional boundaries and professional ethics.
  • Follows directions as given by facility leadership.
  • Maintains confidentiality of patient information and records; and of facility/company proprietary, privileged, and/or confidential information.
  • Facilitates patient daily needs per the program schedule, including but not limited to: waking/bedtime routines and hygiene, meals/snacks, bathroom safety observations, free time.
  • Assists Nursing staff with duties as directed, for example: patient supervision, vitals, room searches, patient searches, etc.
  • Recognizes, responds to, and assists in crisis situations and provides interventions as appropriate.
  • Consistently reports to work on time and prepared to perform the duties of the position.
  • Assists in the implementation of individual patient treatment plans per clinical team.
  • Supports patients during admission and discharge processes. This may include checking in patient belongings, acclimating patients to the program, preparing patients for returning home
  • Monitors patient activity and documents any significant patient issues. Ensure accuracy and timely completion of all shift notes, group notes, and other required documentation by the end of shift.
  • Maintains an organized and safe environment and performs basic housekeeping duties.
  • Conducts regular facility and grounds checks, advising facility leadership of any irregularities or safety concerns.
  • Responsible for scheduled shifts and finding coverage if a shift cannot be worked, unless experiencing an emergency
  • Attends all staff meetings and in-service trainings.
  • Completes all online training, policy verification, and ensures that their employee HR file is kept up to date.
  • Observes infection control policies and participates in proper hand hygiene
  • Performs other duties as assigned.
  • Eating Disorder Division:
    • Providing supervision and support to patients during mealtimes requires staff to eat meals and snacks with patients.
    • Obtain Food Handling/Safety certification within 30 days of hire, training provided. Tasks include food temperature checks, expiration date checks, and proper food storage.
    • Must refrain from comments and actions that directly contradict the CFD Clinical Model and Dietary CARE model.
  • Substance Use Division:
    • Accurately and securely collecting urine specimens including verifying donor identification, ensuring chain of custody, and following specific handling procedures
  • Residential Treatment Only:
    • In states where permissible, passing medicine will be required. Training and/or required certification will be provided.
    • Provides transportation services including patient transportation/supervision, errands, shopping, admits, outings, etc. (must be pre-qualified to drive a company vehicle).

Knowledge, Education & Experience:
  • High School Diploma (or equivalent) preferred
  • Valid and unrestricted State Driver's License
  • Must obtain and maintain CPI certification within 90 days of hire, training provided
  • Must obtain and maintain CPR, AED, and First Aid, training provided
  • Substance Use Division: Minimum 1 year sobriety if in recovery
  • Eating Disorder Division: Minimum 1 year recovery from eating disorder if in recovery

Employment Status: Full Time
Schedule: ON Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday, Sunday 9:30pm-8:00am
Work Location: Onsite - Glenview, IL
Compensation: Pay Range: $17 - $23 hourly
Discovery Behavioral Health seeks to build a diverse staff that is reflective of the patients we serve and the communities where we work. DBH encourages multiple perspectives, experiences, and strives to hire and retain a diverse workforce.
We are proud to be an EEO employer M/F/D/V. We maintain a drug-free workplace and perform pre-employment substance abuse testing. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.

What Discovery Behavioral Health employees say

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About Discovery Behavioral Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Discovery Behavioral Health (DBH) is a national leader in behavioral healthcare and one of the fastest growing companies in the field. DBH offers world-class treatment for those struggling with eating, mental health, and substance use disorders, and places a high priority on seeking employees who share our passion for improving the lives we serve. Since 1997, Center for Discovery, DBH's eating disorder division, has helped thousands of patients discover their path to the full and rewarding lives they deserve with evidence-based and inclusive treatment options.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Irvine, CA, US

Year founded

1998

Social media

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