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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 Iowa.
Iowa is ranked 48th nationally in overdose deaths and 35th in illicit drug use as of 2023, indicating relatively lower rates. However, substance-related deaths rose to record levels in 2021. The state faces increasing challenges with fentanyl and emerging nitazenes.
Iowa has integrated substance use disorder and problem gambling treatment reporting through the Iowa Behavioral Health Reporting System (IBHRS), launched in 2021. This improves coordination of care for individuals with co-occurring conditions.
Iowa law recognizes that children residing in homes where methamphetamine is manufactured constitutes child abuse. Law enforcement and child protective services work together during domestic calls and drug-related situations involving children.
The Iowa Coalition Against Domestic Violence provides services throughout the state, addressing significant overlap between domestic violence and substance abuse. Mandatory reporters are trained to recognize abuse during domestic and drug-related situations.
Mental health technicians are critically needed across Iowa to address growing behavioral health needs.
Current MHT job openings across Iowa healthcare systems and facilities.
Entry-level positions start at 30000, experienced MHTs earn up to 43000.
Projected growth rate for behavioral health positions in Iowa.
Mental Health Technicians work across various behavioral health settings throughout the state.
Independence and Cherokee serving statewide population
MHI Independence, MHI Cherokee
Regional centers serving all 99 counties
Eyerly Ball, Abbe Center, MHDS
Acute care at regional health systems
UnityPoint, MercyOne, UIHC
Residential and outpatient programs
Jackson Recovery, Area Substance Abuse
Integrated with substance abuse treatment
State-funded gambling programs
Outreach to underserved communities
Plains Area MH, rural clinics
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.
Iowa offers advancement pathways through University of Iowa and Allen College nursing programs. State mental health institutes provide excellent benefits and job security. Rural experience is highly valued throughout the Midwest.
These organizations are actively hiring Mental Health Technicians across Iowa.
2277 Iowa Ave, Independence, IA 50644
(319) 334-2583 • 300+
1251 W Cedar Loop, Cherokee, IA 51012
(712) 225-2594 • 200+
1200 Pleasant St, Des Moines, IA 50309
(515) 241-6212 • 28,000+
1111 6th Ave, Des Moines, IA 50314
(515) 358-9000 • 18,000+
200 Hawkins Dr, Iowa City, IA 52242
(319) 356-1616 • 12,000+
1301 Center St, Des Moines, IA 50309
(515) 243-5181 • 300+
Real career journeys from Mental Health Technicians across Iowa.
MHT > Senior Tech > Unit Lead - Independence
"Started at the Mental Health Institute as a new graduate and dedicated my career to serving Iowans with serious mental illness. I now train new staff and advocate for improved patient care."
Unit lead at MHI Independence
Addiction Treatment - Sioux City
"At Jackson Recovery Centers, I help individuals and families affected by substance use disorders. My compassionate approach has supported hundreds of Iowans in their recovery journeys."
Senior addiction technician
Crisis Services - Des Moines
"I work with Eyerly Ball's crisis team, responding to psychiatric emergencies and connecting individuals with ongoing care. My work prevents hospitalizations and helps people stay in communities."
Crisis services specialist
Rural Mental Health - Le Mars
"I serve rural Iowa communities through Plains Area Mental Health, bringing behavioral health services to underserved areas. My dedication to rural healthcare has made a real difference."
Rural outreach specialist
Common questions about MHT training in Iowa
Find specific resources by program, topic, and state
Important: Mental Health Technician requirements vary by employer and facility type in Iowa. 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 750+ MHT positions available across Iowa.
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