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This program is designed for compassionate individuals ready to support others through mental health challenges.
Seeking meaningful work that makes a real difference in people's lives
Passionate about reducing stigma and supporting mental wellness
Turn your journey into a powerful tool to help others heal
Expand your skills into behavioral health specialization
Comprehensive AMCA-aligned curriculum covering crisis intervention, clinical skills, and professional knowledge
Start as an MHT and advance through specialized behavioral health roles
Provide direct patient care in psychiatric settings
Supervise units, train new staff
Psychiatric nursing specialist
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
State-specific resources for Mental Health Technician training, jobs, and certification requirements
Find specific resources by program, topic, and state
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MA Training CA • PCT Jobs TX • DA Cert FLYes! Training is completely free to enroll and complete. You can access all course materials, practice exams, and student support at no cost. The only payment is the $650 total program cost when you're ready for certification.
The total program cost is $650. This one-time payment covers your entire MHT program when you're ready to pursue certification. This is significantly lower than traditional programs that can cost $3,000-$5,000.
Mental Health Technicians specialize in behavioral health, working in psychiatric hospitals and crisis units. Patient Care Technicians focus on physical care in medical hospitals. MHTs handle crisis intervention, while PCTs perform vital signs and specimen collection.
No prior experience is required. Our program starts with fundamentals and builds your skills progressively. Many successful MHTs come from unrelated fields like retail, hospitality, or are new to healthcare entirely.
MHTs work in state psychiatric hospitals, crisis stabilization units, community mental health centers, hospital behavioral health units, addiction treatment centers, residential treatment facilities, and VA mental health clinics.
Yes! Many addiction treatment centers hire MHTs. Our training includes substance use disorder components. You'll learn about co-occurring disorders, medication-assisted treatment support, and recovery principles.
Excellent. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 9-16% growth through 2034, much faster than average. The mental health crisis, expanded insurance coverage, and growing awareness of behavioral health needs drive strong demand.
The program is self-paced with up to 6 months access. Most students complete training in 8-12 weeks studying 10-15 hours per week. You can go faster or slower based on your schedule and learning style.
Yes. The American Medical Certification Association (AMCA) Mental Health Technician Certification (MHTC) is recognized by employers nationwide. It validates your knowledge and readiness for behavioral health positions.
Career paths include Senior MHT, Lead Technician, Unit Supervisor, or advancing to RN Psychiatric ($58K-$95K) and PMHNP ($95K-$165K). Many employers offer tuition assistance for continuing education.
Externships are recommended but not always required. Many students arrange self-managed externships at psychiatric facilities to gain hands-on experience. We provide templates and resources, but you secure your own placement.
Yes! VA medical centers nationwide hire MHTs for their mental health units. Working with veterans requires understanding PTSD, combat trauma, and military culture. Many find this work especially meaningful.
National average ranges from $26K-$56K depending on location and experience. High-cost states like California pay up to $62K. State psychiatric hospitals often offer the best benefits packages including pensions.
You must be 18+ to work as an MHT. Some facilities prefer 21+ for certain units. Background checks are standard in behavioral health settings. Life experience is valued in this field.
Absolutely! MHT experience demonstrates healthcare commitment and provides patient care skills. Many nursing programs favor applicants with direct patient care experience. The behavioral health specialty is particularly valuable.
EHired does NOT place, arrange, or supervise externships. All externships are self-managed. You are responsible for identifying and securing your own externship site at a hospital or healthcare facility. EHired provides state-specific resources and guidance, but placement is not guaranteed.
Join thousands making a difference in behavioral healthcare. Free training, pay only $650 when ready.