How to Be Geriatrics Behavioral Health Technician - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

May 19, 2023 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

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FAQ

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The need for Geriatrics Behavioral Health Technicians is on the rise as the population of elderly individuals increases. In fact, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for such technicians is projected to grow 17% between 2018 and 2028. As aging adults experience physical and mental health changes, such as memory loss and depression, these technicians are responsible for providing a variety of services that help these individuals maintain their quality of life.

From providing physical therapy to helping seniors with their day-to-day activities, Geriatrics Behavioral Health Technicians are an integral part of the healthcare team. As the elderly population continues to grow, so too will the need for Geriatrics Behavioral Health Technicians, making them a critical component in providing quality care for the aging population.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a high school diploma or equivalent. Many employers require applicants for Geriatrics Behavioral Health Technician positions to have a high school diploma or the equivalent.
Consider enrolling in a postsecondary program. While not always required, many employers prefer applicants who have completed a relevant postsecondary program. Such programs may include an associates degree in psychology, social work, or a related field.
Obtain certification. Although certification is not required for all positions, some employers may prefer or require that applicants are certified as Geriatrics Behavioral Health Technicians. Certification may be obtained through the National Association of Geriatric Behavioral Health Technicians (NAGBHT).
Gain experience. Many employers prefer applicants who have prior experience in the field, such as working with elderly patients in a health care setting. Consider volunteering or interning at a nursing home, assisted living facility, or hospital to gain such experience.
Apply for jobs. Once you meet the educational and experience requirements, you can start applying for jobs as a Geriatrics Behavioral Health Technician. Online job boards, such as Indeed and Monster, list available positions. You can also check with local nursing homes and assisted living facilities to inquire about employment opportunities.

The rise in geriatric behavioral health issues is a growing concern due to the aging population. To address this, geriatrics behavioral health technicians are needed to provide a range of services to elderly patients. The technicians must be highly-skilled and qualified, including an understanding of gerontology, mental health, and social services.

Having the right qualifications will help these technicians develop effective treatment plans, provide emotional support, and identify potential risks. In addition to providing necessary care, geriatrics behavioral health technicians can also help reduce the financial burden on families and caregivers. By having the right qualifications, these technicians can ensure that elderly patients receive the best possible care.

You may want to check Geriatrics Mental Health Counselor, Geriatrics Nursing Home Activity Coordinator, and Geriatric Physiotherapy Assistant for alternative.

Job Description

Provide direct care to geriatric patients in behavioral health settings
Assist in developing and implementing treatment plans for geriatric patients with behavioral health issues
Monitor patient behavior to ensure an effective and safe environment
Assist in leading group activities as prescribed by the treatment plan
Provide daily living assistance to geriatric patients needing extra help
Observe and document patient progress
Facilitate communication between patients and care team members
Assist with crisis management as needed
Provide education to patients and families about mental health issues
Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings

Skills and Competencies to Have

Understanding of geriatric mental health and aging process
Knowledge of psychosocial assessment techniques
Ability to identify and assess signs and symptoms of mental health disorders in elderly patients
Ability to communicate effectively with elderly patients
Understanding of the physical, psychological and emotional needs of elderly patients
Knowledge of evidence-based interventions for geriatric mental health
Ability to develop individualized treatment plans for elderly patients
Ability to monitor and document patient progress
Ability to provide crisis intervention, de-escalation and supportive counseling
Knowledge of available community resources and how to access them
Ability to collaborate with members of the interdisciplinary treatment team
Knowledge of relevant laws, regulations, and standards related to geriatric care
Ability to facilitate family meetings and provide family education and support
Ability to maintain accurate and complete patient records
Knowledge of symptom management strategies for common geriatric mental health disorders

The ability to be empathetic and possess strong communication skills is essential for any Geriatrics Behavioral Health Technician. The ability to understand and connect with a senior's emotions, needs and struggles, is essential in providing them with the best possible care. Having a patient and compassionate attitude towards seniors, as well as the knowledge of how to properly handle situations that arise, is key in providing the best possible care.

The ability to recognize signs of distress and provide appropriate interventions, as well as the ability to support a senior's autonomy, is also important for Geriatrics Behavioral Health Technicians. In addition, having a sound understanding of the aging process and its associated challenges, including physical, mental, social and emotional changes, is critical for providing quality care. By having these skills, Geriatrics Behavioral Health Technicians can help seniors lead a more fulfilling life, despite age-related challenges.

Geriatric Care Coordinator, Geriatrics Mental Health Technician, and Geriatric Care Facilitator are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have working with elderly clients?
How would you handle a situation where a client refuses to take medication prescribed by their doctor?
What strategies do you use to ensure clients adhere to care plans and therapeutic goals?
How would you handle a client who has dementia and is having difficulty communicating their needs?
Describe a challenging situation you have faced when working with elderly clients, and how you overcame it.
What techniques do you use to help elderly clients stay motivated and engaged in their treatment?
How do you handle difficult conversations with elderly clients about end of life care?
How do you prioritize care for multiple elderly clients with different needs?
How do you build rapport and trust with elderly clients?
How do you stay up to date on the latest developments in geriatric behavioral health?

Common Tools in Industry

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). A type of psychotherapy that helps to identify and change negative thinking and behavior patterns. (e. g. learning relaxation techniques, problem-solving skills, and communication strategies).
Motivational Interviewing. A counseling approach that helps people to explore and resolve ambivalence about changing behavior. (e. g. expressing empathy, supporting self-efficacy, and developing discrepancy between current behavior and goals).
Positive Psychology Interventions. Techniques that help to focus on feelings, strengths, and positive experiences rather than deficits and problems. (e. g. identifying personal values, exploring gratitude, and learning mindfulness).
Psychopharmacology. The use of medication to treat mental health disorders. (e. g. prescribing antidepressants, antipsychotics, or anxiolytics).
Behavioral Activation. A type of therapy that focuses on increasing positive activities in order to improve mood. (e. g. scheduling enjoyable activities, setting realistic goals, and tracking progress).

Professional Organizations to Know

American Geriatrics Society
American Association for Geriatric Psychiatry
Gerontological Advanced Practice Nurses Association
National Council on Aging
Alzheimers Association
National Association of Geriatric Care Managers
National Association of Social Workers
American Psychological Association
Society for Social Work Leadership in Health Care
National Adult Day Services Association

We also have Geriatrics Clinical Nurse Specialist, Geriatrics Exercise Physiologist, and Geriatric Psychiatrist jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Geriatric Mental Health. The study and treatment of mental health issues and conditions that affect older adults.
Geriatric Care Management. A service provided to elderly individuals and their families, to coordinate and manage medical and social services and resources.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). A psychotherapeutic approach that aims to help people identify and address problematic thoughts and behaviors in order to improve their overall mental health.
Social Work. A practice-based profession aimed at helping individuals, families, and communities build stronger and healthier relationships.
Psychosocial Interventions. Interventions that involve both psychological and social components to improve mental health.
Substance Abuse Treatment. A type of therapy used to help people who are struggling with substance use disorders.
End-of-Life Care. Care for individuals with terminal illnesses or nearing the end of life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is a Geriatrics Behavioral Health Technician? A1: A Geriatrics Behavioral Health Technician is a healthcare professional who provides support and care for elderly patients with mental and emotional needs. Q2: What duties does a Geriatrics Behavioral Health Technician typically perform? A2: A Geriatrics Behavioral Health Technician typically assists with daily activities, provides emotional support, monitors patient behavior, and communicates with other healthcare professionals. Q3: What qualifications are necessary to become a Geriatrics Behavioral Health Technician? A3: To become a Geriatrics Behavioral Health Technician, one must have a high school diploma or equivalent, and complete a state-approved certification program. Q4: What kind of setting does a Geriatrics Behavioral Health Technician usually work in? A4: Geriatrics Behavioral Health Technicians usually work in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, or other long-term care settings. Q5: What kind of salary can a Geriatrics Behavioral Health Technician expect to earn? A5: The median salary for a Geriatrics Behavioral Health Technician is approximately $35,000 per year.

Web Resources

Geriatric Behavioral Health | Duke Department of Psychiatry ... psychiatry.duke.edu
Geriatric Certificate Training (GCT) Program - Academy for theacademy.sdsu.edu
Mental Health Technician Program fvi.edu