Behavioral Health Technician (BHT) InternAt — South Shores Detox

The Behavioral Health Technician (BHT) Internship provides undergraduate students pursuing a degree in psychology, social work, human services, or a related field with direct, hands-on experience in a residential substance use and mental health treatment setting. Interns will support clients under the supervision of licensed and certified clinical staff while gaining exposure to trauma-informed care, group facilitation, behavioral observation, and crisis management techniques. This internship is designed to offer meaningful contributions to the treatment team while reinforcing professional development and ethical practice in the behavioral health field.

Tasks:

Interns will perform the following duties under supervision to support client care and demonstrate learning outcomes:

Assist with client check-ins and monitor client engagement and behavior throughout the day.

Document client behaviors, observations, and group participation in shift notes using facility templates and approved clinical language.

Support the facilitation of psychoeducation, life skills, and recovery-based groups by co-leading or taking notes as appropriate.

Participate in team huddles and case conferences to observe interdisciplinary care coordination.

Escort clients to off-site appointments or support recreational and wellness activities as needed.

Model professional and ethical behavior in interactions with clients and staff.

Support crisis intervention procedures by remaining present, alert, and communicative with the treatment team during client escalations.

Maintain client confidentiality and practice appropriate boundary setting at all times.

Training:

General Orientation (Mandatory): Includes facility protocols, safety procedures, confidentiality (HIPAA), and staff structure.

Shadowing: Weekly job shadowing of lead BHTs and clinical staff in group settings, community management, and crisis support.

Weekly Supervision: One-on-one meetings with a clinical supervisor or internship mentor to review tasks, discuss challenges, and reflect on learning.

Skills Workshops: Exposure to motivational interviewing basics, de-escalation techniques, and trauma-informed care practices.

Task Contextualization: Staff will provide clear explanations of the purpose and clinical relevance of assigned tasks.

Training Materials: Review of select readings on behavioral health documentation, substance use treatment models, and trauma-informed care practices.

Learning Outcome:

Demonstrate effective communication and rapport-building skills with clients in a residential treatment environment.

Identify and apply trauma-informed and recovery-oriented interventions under supervision.

Observe and accurately document client behaviors, mood, participation, and progress using appropriate clinical language.

Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings and demonstrate an understanding of collaborative treatment planning.

Apply knowledge of ethical standards and professional boundaries in behavioral health settings.