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Bht Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Behavioral Health Technician

Lake Elsinore, CA · On-site

$16.50 - $20.50/hr

BHT obtains client signature at time of Intake and answers any questions from the client. * Completes patient belonging searches according to protocol. Logs all valuables of the client. Remove ...

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RADT/BHT

San Jacinto, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $20/hr

A Registered Alcohol and Drug Technician provides substance use disorder (SUD) treatment under the supervision of a certified counselor. This entry-level position provides structured, supervised ...

Bht information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$12

$18

$24

How much do bht jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for bht in Riverside, CA is $18.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.30 and $20.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a BHT?

As a behavioral health technician (BHT), your job is to assist in the treatment of mental health conditions under the direction of a doctor or registered nurse. In this role, you may focus on specific age groups or illnesses and address behavioral issues like addictions or PTSD. Your responsibilities may include providing basic nursing care, observing and responding to changes in patient care needs, participating in admissions processes, helping patients through the discharge process, and documenting vital signs. You also frequently work with patients who have difficulty with everyday activities like bathing, dressing, and eating.

What types of individuals or teams do behavioral health technicians typically collaborate with in a clinical setting?

Behavioral Health Technicians (BHTs) work closely with a multidisciplinary team that may include psychiatrists, psychologists, nurses, social workers, and counselors. Collaboration often involves participating in treatment planning meetings, reporting on patient progress, and supporting therapeutic activities. BHTs also frequently communicate with patients' families and help coordinate care to ensure a supportive environment for recovery. This teamwork is crucial for providing comprehensive and consistent care to individuals receiving behavioral health services.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a behavioral health technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Behavioral Health Technician, you need a foundational understanding of mental health disorders, crisis intervention, and basic patient care, often supported by a high school diploma or associate degree and relevant certifications like CPR or CPI. Familiarity with electronic health records, incident reporting systems, and behavioral health protocols is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, patience, and the ability to remain calm under pressure help BHTs connect with patients and handle challenging situations. These competencies are crucial for ensuring patient safety, effective support, and a therapeutic environment within behavioral health settings.

What is the difference between Bht vs Cna?

AspectBhtCna
Required CredentialsCertification as a Behavioral Health TechnicianCertified Nursing Assistant certification
Work EnvironmentBehavioral health facilities, mental health clinicsHospitals, nursing homes, long-term care facilities
Employer & Industry UsageHealthcare providers focusing on mental healthLong-term patient care settings
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for mental health support rolesCompared for patient care and basic nursing tasks

The main difference between a Bht and a Cna lies in their focus and certification. Bhts specialize in behavioral health support, working primarily in mental health settings, while CNAs provide basic patient care in various healthcare environments. Both roles require specific certifications and serve distinct but sometimes overlapping functions in healthcare.

Is being a behavioral health technician a stressful job?

Being a behavioral health technician can be stressful due to the emotional and physical demands of working with individuals experiencing mental health or behavioral issues. The job often involves managing challenging behaviors, working in high-pressure environments, and requiring strong communication and de-escalation skills. Proper training and support can help mitigate some of the stress associated with the role.

What can I do with a BHT certification?

A Behavioral Health Technician (BHT) certification qualifies individuals to provide support and assistance to clients with mental health or substance abuse issues, often working under supervision in settings like clinics or residential facilities. BHTs perform tasks such as monitoring client behavior, assisting with daily activities, and implementing treatment plans, often requiring knowledge of mental health practices and communication skills.

What are popular job titles related to Bht jobs in Riverside, CA?

For Bht jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Bht jobs in Riverside, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Bht jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Bht jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Bht job openings:

Infographic showing various Bht job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,971 per year, or $18.7 per hour.

Behavioral Health Technician(BHT)

Resilience Rehabilitation

Murrieta, CA

$16.50 - $20.50/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

JOB SUMMARY: The BHT staff  assists in the maintenance of a safe, secure environment that enhances treatment in a residential environment.  The BHT is compassionate and has a strong desire to assist in providing the best care to clients that come for mental health/substance abuse.

DUTIES AND ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:                                                                 • Provides care to clients in a manner that promotes safety, comfort, and the therapeutic environment.                                                                                               • Monitors and logs all rounds with clients.                                                                   • Assists clients with activities of daily living; attends to client behavioral issues and provides assistance in crisis intervention, as needed.                                           • Charts client observations, following policy and procedures requirements/mandates.                                                                                                 • Maintains confidentiality of client and all records.                                                     • Transports clients to and from  appointments, clinics, labs, and or outing activities, as and when appropriate.                                                                               • Maintains established policies and procedures, objectives, quality assurance program, and safety, environmental and infection control standards to maintain clean and sanitary environment.                                                                                     * Complete a shift note at the end shift                                                                *Other duties may be assigned as needed. 

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:                                                                                           • At least 18 years of age                                                                                               • A Health Screening with TB test results                                                                     • High School Diploma or equivalency test preferred.                                                 • Must be detail oriented with good oral and written communication skills.             • 1 year experience working in residential treatment but willing to train the right candidate.                                                                                                                       

REQUIRED LICENSES/CERTIFICATIONS:                                                                       • Valid  Driver’s License                                                                                                 • Current CPR certification                                                                                            • RADT or willing to obtain within  two weeks of hire                                                  • Food Handlers Certification or willing to obtain within 2 weeks of hire.