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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 Kentucky.
Kentucky recorded 1,410 overdose deaths in 2024, a 30.2% decrease from the previous year. Fentanyl was present in 62.3% of deaths, methamphetamine in 50.8%. This marks the third consecutive year of decline since 2018.
Eastern Kentucky's Appalachian counties face significant mental health access barriers. The state has invested in medication-assisted treatment expansion, with 142,310 Kentuckians receiving addiction services through Medicaid.
Kentucky has historically had high rates of child welfare involvement, with substance abuse as a primary driver. The state is working to address root causes through prevention services and family support programs.
Kentucky has certified 21 counties as Recovery Ready Communities, representing 1.5 million residents. The state distributed $29.7 million in opioid response grants and expanded treatment through the Kentucky Opioid Response Effort.
Mental health technicians are critically needed across Kentucky to address growing behavioral health needs.
Current MHT job openings across Kentucky healthcare systems and facilities.
Entry-level positions start at 30000, experienced MHTs earn up to 44000.
Projected growth rate for behavioral health positions in Kentucky.
Mental Health Technicians work across various behavioral health settings throughout the state.
Eastern, Western, and Central State Hospitals
Eastern State Hospital, Western State Hospital
14 regional CMHCs serving all 120 counties
Centerstone, NorthKey, Comprehend
Acute inpatient care at major health systems
UK HealthCare, UofL Health, Baptist
Medication-assisted treatment programs statewide
Recovery Works, Shepherd's House
Specialized services for Eastern Kentucky
Mountain Comprehensive Care
Federal veteran services
Lexington VA, Robley Rex Louisville VA
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.
Kentucky offers advancement through UK, UofL, and numerous nursing programs. Eastern Kentucky University and Morehead State serve Appalachian students. The state's investment in behavioral health creates opportunities.
These organizations are actively hiring Mental Health Technicians across Kentucky.
1350 Bull Lea Rd, Lexington, KY 40511
(859) 246-7000 • 500+
2400 Russellville Rd, Hopkinsville, KY 42240
(270) 889-6025 • 400+
10510 LaGrange Rd, Louisville, KY 40223
(502) 253-7000 • 300+
245 Fountain Court, Lexington, KY 40509
(859) 323-6021 • 12,000+ system
401 E Chestnut St, Louisville, KY 40202
(502) 588-8000 • 14,000+ system
4000 Kresge Way, Louisville, KY 40207
(502) 896-5000 • 22,000+ system
Real career journeys from Mental Health Technicians across Kentucky.
MHT > Senior Tech > Program Coordinator - Lexington
"Started at Eastern State Hospital and have grown into a program coordinator role. Kentucky's investment in behavioral health has created real career opportunities."
Program coordinator at Eastern State Hospital
Appalachian Services - Hazard
"I serve Eastern Kentucky communities through Mountain Comprehensive Care. Bringing mental health services to Appalachia addresses generations of unmet need."
Community outreach specialist
Addiction Recovery - Louisville
"Working with individuals in early recovery at a Louisville treatment center. Kentucky's opioid crisis has made this work essential. Lives are being saved."
Senior recovery technician
Crisis Services - Northern Kentucky
"NorthKey's crisis team serves the Cincinnati metro area's Kentucky side. We respond to emergencies and connect people with ongoing treatment."
Crisis team specialist at NorthKey
Common questions about MHT training in Kentucky
Find specific resources by program, topic, and state
Important: Mental Health Technician requirements vary by employer and facility type in Kentucky. 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 1,400+ MHT positions available across Kentucky.
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