58%
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 Tennessee.
Tennessee averages 10+ overdose deaths daily. Fentanyl involved in 74% of deaths-slightly above national 70%. Provisional 2024 data shows encouraging declines after years of increases.
Tennessee ranked worst nationwide for addiction severity by 2024. Overdose death rate 72% higher than national average. Rural Appalachian counties have methamphetamine rates 3× higher than urban areas.
Regional Overdose Prevention Specialists have distributed 678,000+ units of naloxone since 2017, documenting 82,000+ lives saved. Tennessee REDLINE provides 24/7 treatment referrals.
Tennessee experienced 98% increase in alcohol-related death rates 2012-2022 vs. 70% national average. Alcohol use disorder affects 10% of adults-a persistent challenge alongside opioid crisis.
Mental health technicians are critically needed across Tennessee to address growing behavioral health needs.
Current MHT job openings across Tennessee healthcare systems and facilities.
Entry-level positions start at 32000, experienced MHTs earn up to 48000.
Projected growth rate for behavioral health positions in Tennessee.
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.
Vanderbilt University, University of Tennessee, East Tennessee State University nursing programs
These organizations are actively hiring Mental Health Technicians across Tennessee.
Nashville, TN
(615) 532-6500 • 2,500+
Chattanooga, TN
(423) 265-2271 • 400+
Nashville, TN
(615) 902-7400 • 350+
Nashville, TN
(615) 327-7000 • 700+
Franklin, TN
(615) 861-6000 • 20,000+
Nashville, TN
(615) 344-9551 • 35,000+
Real career journeys from Mental Health Technicians across Tennessee.
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 Tennessee
Find specific resources by program, topic, and state
Important: Mental Health Technician requirements vary by employer and facility type in Tennessee. 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 3,500+ MHT positions available across Tennessee.
No credit card required. Start learning immediately.