56%
Mental Health Technicians provide direct patient care in psychiatric and behavioral health settings. You'll work alongside psychiatrists, nurses, and counselors to support patient recovery.
Monitor patients, conduct safety checks, de-escalate crisis situations, and maintain secure environments.
Assist with daily living activities, facilitate group sessions, and support therapeutic activities.
Record behavioral observations, track treatment progress, and communicate with clinical teams.
Mental Health Technicians serve diverse populations facing behavioral health challenges across Hawaii.
Hawaii recorded 346 drug-related overdose deaths in 2023, a 6% increase from 320 in 2022. Methamphetamine deaths rose 10% and fentanyl deaths surged 35% statewide. Hawaii is classified as a High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA), and 1 in 5 deaths among young adults are now opioid-related.
Hawaii faces alarming trends and disparities in behavioral health conditions. Many residents struggle to access mental health services on neighbor islands, creating significant treatment gaps. Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander populations experience higher rates of psychological distress.
In 2023, the Children's Justice Center reported 1,800 child abuse cases in Hawaii. Of 4,269 children reported as potential victims, 788 had confirmed cases (18% rate). Native Hawaiian children are 34.4% of confirmed cases. Infants under one year represent 16.6% of victims.
Hawaii Island saw a 60% increase in domestic violence program participants from 2021-2023, rising from 976 to 1,606 enrolled. On a single day in September 2023, 581 victims were housed or received services statewide. Nearly 88% of child abusers are parents.
Mental health technicians are critically needed across Hawaii to address growing behavioral health needs.
Current MHT job openings across Hawaii healthcare systems and facilities.
Entry-level positions start at 38000, experienced MHTs earn up to 52000.
Projected growth rate for behavioral health positions in Hawaii.
Mental Health Technicians work across various behavioral health settings throughout the state.
Hawaii State Hospital serving statewide population
Hawaii State Hospital
Regional centers with cultural programs throughout islands
Child & Family Service, Mental Health Kokua
Acute inpatient care at major medical centers
Queen's Medical Center, Kapiolani
Residential and outpatient substance abuse programs
Hina Mauka, Hawaii Island Recovery
Federal veteran services at Tripler Army Medical Center
Tripler AMC, VA Pacific Islands
Culturally-anchored healing programs
Papa Ola Lokahi, ALU LIKE
MHT is the entry point to a rewarding career in behavioral health. Advance through education and experience.
High school diploma + training. Entry into behavioral health.
ASN/BSN required. Clinical leadership in behavioral health units.
Master's degree. Prescriptive authority, independent practice.
Hawaii offers advancement pathways through University of Hawaii nursing programs and culturally-informed behavioral health specializations. The state's unique population provides experience with Pacific Islander mental health that's valued nationwide.
These organizations are actively hiring Mental Health Technicians across Hawaii.
45-710 Keaahala Rd, Kaneohe, HI 96744
(808) 247-2191 • 400+
1301 Punchbowl St, Honolulu, HI 96813
(808) 691-5100 • 4,000+
91-2301 Old Fort Weaver Rd, Ewa Beach, HI 96706
(808) 671-8511 • 200+
75-170 Hualalai Rd, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
(866) 390-5070 • 50+
45-845 Po'okela St, Kaneohe, HI 96744
(808) 236-2600 • 100+
91-1841 Fort Weaver Rd, Ewa Beach, HI 96706
(808) 681-1500 • 300+
Real career journeys from Mental Health Technicians across Hawaii.
MHT > Lead Tech > Unit Supervisor - Kaneohe
"Started at Hawaii State Hospital after completing training. Now I lead the acute care unit, combining Western psychiatric practices with Hawaiian cultural values."
Unit supervisor at Hawaii State Hospital
Career Changer - Honolulu
"Transitioned from hotel hospitality to mental health care. My aloha spirit helps de-escalate crisis situations. Now pursuing my nursing degree while working full-time."
Crisis team at Kahi Mohala
Recovery Support - Kona
"A recovery success story myself, I use my lived experience to connect with clients. I've helped dozens of community members begin their recovery journey."
Peer support specialist at Hawaii Island Recovery
Youth Services - Honolulu
"Working with youth at Child & Family Service using culturally-responsive approaches. The work addresses unique mental health needs of Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander youth."
Child & adolescent specialist
Common questions about MHT training in Hawaii
Find specific resources by program, topic, and state
Important: Mental Health Technician requirements vary by employer and facility type in Hawaii. Some positions may require additional certifications, background checks, or state-specific credentials. Always research specific employer requirements before applying.
Free training. No prerequisites. Start today and join the 450+ MHT positions available across Hawaii.
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