42%
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 Pennsylvania.
Pennsylvania saw declining overdose deaths in 2024. 83% of 2023 deaths were opioid-related, 77% involved fentanyl. One Pennsylvanian dies approximately every 2 hours from overdose.
Overdose rates among Black, Indigenous, and People of Color are higher and showing smaller decreases than white populations-demonstrating widening racial disparities in the crisis.
Pennsylvania's standing order prescription allows any resident to obtain naloxone at participating pharmacies. Warm handoff programs connecting overdose survivors to treatment immediately.
Rural Pennsylvania faces acute provider shortages. Counties in Appalachian regions have highest overdose rates. Major state investment in community mental health centers.
Mental health technicians are critically needed across Pennsylvania to address growing behavioral health needs.
Current MHT job openings across Pennsylvania healthcare systems and facilities.
Entry-level positions start at 35000, experienced MHTs earn up to 52000.
Projected growth rate for behavioral health positions in Pennsylvania.
Mental Health Technicians work across various behavioral health settings throughout the state.
24/7 inpatient psychiatric care for acute mental illness
Long-term care, forensic units, civil commitments
Acute psychiatric treatment in private settings
Short-term stabilization, specialized programs
Psychiatric units within medical hospitals
Crisis stabilization, medical clearance
Extended treatment in therapeutic settings
Adolescent programs, dual diagnosis
Outpatient mental health services
Crisis intervention, case management
Mental health services for veterans
PTSD treatment, substance abuse programs
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.
University of Pennsylvania, Temple University, University of Pittsburgh, Penn State nursing programs
These organizations are actively hiring Mental Health Technicians across Pennsylvania.
Norristown, PA
(610) 313-1000 • 1,200+
Torrance, PA
(724) 459-8000 • 800+
Wernersville, PA
(610) 678-3411 • 600+
Philadelphia, PA
(215) 662-4000 • 44,000+
Pittsburgh, PA
(412) 647-8762 • 95,000+
Philadelphia, PA
(215) 707-2000 • 10,000+
Real career journeys from Mental Health Technicians across Pennsylvania.
State Hospital > Private Hospital > Supervisor
"Starting as an MHT changed everything. I found my calling helping others through crisis."
Now supervises team of 12 MHTs
Community MH > Hospital > RN Program
"The MHT role gave me the foundation to pursue nursing. I knew exactly what I wanted."
Completed RN, now psychiatric nurse
Military > VA MHT > PMHNP Student
"My service prepared me for this. Helping fellow veterans with mental health is personal."
In graduate school for PMHNP
Single Mom > MHT > Unit Manager
"Free training made this possible. Within 3 years I'm managing a psychiatric unit."
Promoted twice, increased income 80%
Common questions about MHT training in Pennsylvania
Find specific resources by program, topic, and state
Important: Mental Health Technician requirements vary by employer and facility type in Pennsylvania. 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 7,500+ MHT positions available across Pennsylvania.
No credit card required. Start learning immediately.