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Behavioral Health Technicians may also be referred to as Mental Health Associates, Mental Health Technicians, Mental Health Aides, Human Service Technicians, Psychiatric Technicians, and other names.

These are healthcare professionals who work directly with patients receiving behavioral health treatment. Technicians can have a wide range of responsibilities which may include monitoring patients, conducting assessments and safety checks, facilitating groups, documenting data such as patient’s progress or behaviors, assisting patients with daily living, and more.

Aspiring behavioral technicians can pursue a behavioral health technician degree or a degree in fields such as human services, human development, behavioral science, and more. Educational requirements vary by employer. 

In behavioral health, nurses assist with conducting assessments, monitoring symptoms, administering and sometimes prescribing medication, supporting de-escalation interventions, and work with an inter-disciplinary team.

Nurses are utilized in psychiatric hospitals, crisis centers, and community-based settings. 

Nurses of all licensure levels are needed in the behavioral health field.

Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) provide basic care to patients, support daily living activities, and monitor patient behavior.

Registered Nurses (RNs) perform comprehensive assessments, develop care plans, administer medication, and coordinate care. They often lead nursing teams, manage crises, and provide therapeutic interventions. 

Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) can be licensed in four roles: Certified Nurse Practitioner (CNP), Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM), Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA), and Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS). In behavioral health, CNPs are the most commonly utilized APRNs. They can diagnose, prescribe medications, provide therapy, treatment planning, and case management. 

A Psychologist is a doctoral-level health professional trained in diagnosing mental health disorders through psychological assessments and treats mental health conditions through various forms of therapy.

Prior to a doctorate in psychology, an aspiring psychologist may choose to pursue an undergraduate degree in psychology, counseling, behavioral or human science, human development,  or social/human services.

A Physician Assistant (PA) is a master's-level health professional working in both inpatient and outpatient settings providing psychiatric assessment & diagnosis, treatment planning, medication management, crisis intervention, and follow-up care. They collaborate closely with other behavioral health professionals such as social workers, counselors, nurses, and case managers to ensure all of the patient's needs are met.

Aspiring physician assistants can obtain an undergraduate degree in pre-physician assistant followed by a physician assistant master's.

A Psychiatrist is a medical doctor who specializes in treating mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders. They can provide diagnoses and help patients manage their symptoms by prescribing medication, therapy, and other medical interventions.

Degree options for aspiring psychiatrists prior to getting their doctoral degree include psychology, pre-med, behavioral science, or biology.

Occupational Therapists help individuals with behavioral health conditions build the skills needed to live independently and engage in meaningful daily activities. They assess how mental health challenges impact a person’s ability to function at home, work, or in the community and develop personalized treatment plans. These plans often focus on improving life skills such as self-care, time management, emotional regulation, and social interaction. Occupational therapists may also lead therapeutic groups, provide coping strategies, and adapt environments to better support their clients’ needs. They work in settings like psychiatric hospitals and community clinics and are an essential part of treatment for some individuals.

Pre-occupational therapy and occupational therapy assistant undergraduate degrees are available as a pre-cursor to a master's in occupational therapy.

Physical Therapists support individuals with behavioral health conditions by helping them improve physical functioning, manage pain, and enhance overall wellbeing through movement and exercise. They assess how mental health challenges, such as depression, anxiety, trauma, or substance use, affect a person’s physical health, mobility, and motivation to engage in daily activities. Physical therapists develop personalized treatment plans that may include therapeutic exercise, body awareness training, relaxation techniques, and strategies to reduce fatigue or chronic pain. They also promote physical activity as a tool for improving mood and reducing stress. Working in settings like psychiatric hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and community clinics, physical therapists are an important part of the behavioral health care team, helping individuals reconnect with their bodies and regain confidence in their physical abilities. 

Pre-physical therapy and physical therapy assistant undergraduate degrees are available as a pre-cursor to a master's in physical therapy.

Certified Prevention Specialists work to promote mental wellbeing and prevent substance misuse, overdoses, and suicides. This often means providing education and awareness of signs and symptoms, how to help others, and connecting individuals to professional help. Prevention Specialists may also assist schools, government, and organizations in implementing policies and procedures to keep people safe and promote wellbeing.  

Aspiring Certified Prevention Specialists will need a bachelor's degree with specialized courses outlined by the Board of Addiction and Prevention Professionals or a program accredited by NASAC.

Peer Support Specialists are individuals with lived experience with a mental health or substance use disorder who help others in their recovery journey. Using their first-hand knowledge of what it is like to live with a behavioral health challenge in combination with professional training, peer support specialists help their clients with navigating the physical, mental, emotional, and logistical aspects of living in recovery. They are often seen as a mentor or coach to the individual as they help them address barriers, improve relationships, learn practical skills, and provide emotional support.  

Peer Support Specialists can also assist loved ones, such as family or friends, with problem-solving, establishing healthy boundaries, reducing conflict, and strengthening their own wellbeing as they support their loved one. 

An Applied Behavior Analyst (ABA) uses scientific approaches to help people understand and change behaviors that interfere with their life. They work with clients on social skills and daily living skills to help them live independently and improve their quality of life. Behavior analysts are most commonly found in clinics or community settings and work with a variety of populations including people with mental health or substance use disorders and developmental disabilities.

A master's degree in applied behavior analysis is required. Bachelor's degree options include applied behavior analysis, psychology, behavioral science, human services, human development, public health, social services, and special education.