62%
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 West Virginia.
West Virginia saw a dramatic 42.4% drop in overdose deaths in 2024-from 1,389 to 800. Among the top 7 states with 35%+ reductions. However, state still has highest per-capita rate nationally at 44.1/100K.
Despite historic decline, West Virginia maintains the nation's highest overdose death rate. McDowell County leads state at 183 deaths per 100,000-more than 4× the national average.
Office of Drug Control Policy increased naloxone distribution by over 300%. 72,437 naloxone kits distributed in 2024 alone. Emergency department screenings and treatment referrals expanded.
Fentanyl involved in 76% of overdose deaths, methamphetamine in 52%. More than half of meth deaths also involve fentanyl. Poly-drug use makes treatment more complex.
Mental health technicians are critically needed across West Virginia to address growing behavioral health needs.
Current MHT job openings across West Virginia healthcare systems and facilities.
Entry-level positions start at 30000, experienced MHTs earn up to 45000.
Projected growth rate for behavioral health positions in West Virginia.
Mental Health Technicians work across various behavioral health settings throughout the state.
Inpatient treatment for acute mental illness
State and private psychiatric facilities
Outpatient services and case management
Local mental health centers
Short-term crisis intervention
23-hour observation, crisis residential
Extended care in therapeutic setting
Group homes, halfway houses
Veterans behavioral health services
PTSD treatment, addiction recovery
Mental health services in justice system
Jails, prisons, forensic units
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.
West Virginia University, Marshall University, Wheeling University nursing programs
These organizations are actively hiring Mental Health Technicians across West Virginia.
Huntington, WV
State psychiatric hospital serving southern West Virginia. Named after pioneering African American psychiatrist. Adult acute and forensic services. • 400+
Weston, WV
State psychiatric facility in central West Virginia. Built on grounds of historic Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum. Serves adult civil patients. • 300+
Morgantown, WV
West Virginia University health system. Comprehensive behavioral health including Chestnut Ridge Center psychiatric hospital. State's academic medical hub. • 20,000+
Charleston, WV
Charleston Area Medical Center-largest health system in state capital. Behavioral health services including crisis stabilization and inpatient care. • 8,000+
Huntington, WV
Marshall University health network. Behavioral health services in region hardest hit by opioid crisis. Training future providers. • 2,500+
Charleston, WV
Charleston-area health system with behavioral health services. Community-based mental health and addiction treatment. • 2,000+
Real career journeys from Mental Health Technicians across West Virginia.
MHT > Charge MHT > RN
""Starting as an MHT gave me the foundation I needed. Now I'm pursuing my BSN.""
Now earning $68K as RN
CNA > MHT > Case Manager
""The crisis intervention skills I learned as an MHT opened new doors.""
MSW program while working
Security > MHT > Program Lead
""Transitioning from security, I found my calling in behavioral health.""
Leading residential program
Retail > MHT > PMHNP Student
""Free MHT training changed my career trajectory completely.""
PMHNP program at state university
Common questions about MHT training in West Virginia
Find specific resources by program, topic, and state
Important: Mental Health Technician requirements vary by employer and facility type in West Virginia. 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 900+ MHT positions available across West Virginia.
No credit card required. Start learning immediately.