Mental heath tech interview help!!

[Notanurse1101]

Hi there, 

I am 19 years old and am preparing for my first interview as a mental health tech for an adolescent unit at a psych hospital in my area. Even though I have no formal experience or training they said they are willing to train me and still want to pursue my interview!! I’m very excited as I’m currently a psychology major and feel like this would be a good step for my future. I feel like I have a lot to bring to the table for this job and am confident in my abilities to learn protocol etc. I have personally been on a unit myself as well! My mom is a nurse and has given me some pointers for the interview process but any advice is appreciated thank you!!

 

 

 

[tonyC77]

It all depends on what type of adolescent unit you're going to work on, is it open or closed (locked or unlocked).   Is it a private hospital or a city or a state unit.   I was in nursing school when I started as Mental health tech in a privately run psychiatric hospital, the only real psychiatric experience I had was what I had seen on TV, which was really zero. In the interview, just let them know that the experience is new for you, I was hired because I was a male, and males are always needed especially with adolescents.  Remember take your time and try to absorb what's being taught, it could come in handy later.

[RatchedAfterMidnight, MSN, APRN]

I would not bring up personal health history in an interview. Think about what you like about psychology, specific conditions you are interested in, why you want to work in the hospital, and what personal qualities you possess that make you a good candidate. If I were the person interviewing you, I would be most concerned about your ability to maintain appropriate boundaries with patients due to your age. Many psychiatric facilities do not consider applicants until they are at least 21. It sounds like you are a great candidate but trust me when I say it is difficult to be a healthcare worker, especially in psych, at a young age. I was first a psych tech at 21 and my limits were pushed daily by patients and the staff. Be prepared to be tested in the job and think about how you would answer questions about your age. 

[Notanurse1101]

Here is more info on the unit/facility - private, locked facility, 173 beds (total), accepts patients of all ages however my position applied was to the adolescent unit. 

Thank you so much for your response! If you'd be interested in reading and examining my cover letter and resume I would be so grateful! If not its no problem!