52%
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 Texas.
Texas averages 5 fentanyl deaths daily. 45% of overdose deaths involve fentanyl. Despite large numbers, Texas rate of 17/100K is significantly below national average and peer states like CA (27) and FL (38).
Texas has lost 76,000+ lives to drug overdoses since 1999. Drug overdose deaths increased 75%+ over past 5 years. Travis County (Austin) has highest rate at 33/100K vs. state average of 17/100K.
Texas Opioid Abatement Fund Council administers $1.6 billion over 18 years from pharmaceutical settlements. Funds support prevention, treatment, naloxone distribution, and education programs.
Texas's lower overdose rate may reflect strong economy, large Hispanic population (historically lower opioid overdose rates), and later fentanyl market penetration. Border counties track differently than urban centers.
Mental health technicians are critically needed across Texas to address growing behavioral health needs.
Current MHT job openings across Texas healthcare systems and facilities.
Entry-level positions start at 33000, experienced MHTs earn up to 50000.
Projected growth rate for behavioral health positions in Texas.
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.
UT Austin, Texas A&M, Baylor, UT Health Houston, Texas Tech nursing programs
These organizations are actively hiring Mental Health Technicians across Texas.
Austin, TX
(512) 424-6500 • 50,000+
Austin, TX
(512) 452-0381 • 900+
Big Spring, TX
(432) 267-8216 • 600+
Terrell, TX
(972) 524-6452 • 700+
Dallas, TX
(214) 750-5000 • 50,000+
Dallas, TX
(214) 820-0111 • 50,000+
Real career journeys from Mental Health Technicians across Texas.
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 Texas
Find specific resources by program, topic, and state
Important: Mental Health Technician requirements vary by employer and facility type in Texas. 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 12,000+ MHT positions available across Texas.
No credit card required. Start learning immediately.