Behavioral Health Technology
Build a foundation for meaningful work in behavioral health. Structured training designed for the growing demand in mental health support roles.
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Virginia State Registration Requirement
The Virginia Board of Counseling requires an Associate's degree or higher to register as a licensed BHT. OMNA's AAS degree directly satisfies this requirement, putting you on the fastest compliant path to licensure in the state.
The United States is facing a mental health crisis. 1 in 5 Americans experience mental illness each year, yet access to care remains one of the biggest barriers in the healthcare system. Behavioral health technicians are a critical part of closing that gap.
As a BHT, you work directly with individuals in structured care environments: supporting treatment plans, facilitating communication, maintaining documentation, and helping people navigate some of the most difficult moments of their lives.
OMNA's program was built around this reality. The curriculum doesn't just prepare you for an exam. It prepares you for the real work, in real settings, with real people who need real support.
Practice Settings
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Telehealth Environments
Hospitals & Healthcare Systems
Crisis & Support Centers
Schools & Community Organizations
Residential & Rehabilitation Settings
Outpatient Clinics
Community-Based Organizations
Behavioral Health Agencies
What You'll Learn
Foundations of Psychology
Communication & Documentation
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Counseling Concepts
Crisis Management
Cultural Competence & Ethics
Substance Use & Addiction
Group Facilitation
Case Management
The Externship
Every BHT student completes a required externship in a supervised behavioral health setting. This isn't just a checkbox. It's where the classroom becomes real.
You'll work alongside licensed professionals, apply the skills and knowledge you've developed, and begin building the professional awareness that only comes from real experience. By the time you graduate, you've already done the work.
Supervised Clinical Setting
Applied Skill Development
Professional Readiness
Frequently Asked
Questions
What is a Behavioral Health Technician?
A Behavioral Health Technician (BHT) is a trained professional who works alongside licensed clinicians to support individuals experiencing mental health, behavioral, or substance use challenges. BHTs work in a variety of settings, from hospitals and outpatient clinics to schools and community organizations, providing direct support, coordinating care, and helping individuals navigate their care. It's frontline, meaningful work that makes a real difference in people's lives.
Do I need prior healthcare or mental health experience to enroll?
No. OMNA's BHT program is designed to build your foundation from the ground up. Whether you're coming from a completely different field, returning to school after time away, or entering the workforce for the first time: no prior healthcare or mental health experience is required. What matters most is a genuine interest in supporting others.
What is the Virginia BHT registration process after graduation?
In Virginia, the Board of Counseling requires an Associate's degree or higher to register as a licensed Behavioral Health Technician. OMNA's AAS degree directly satisfies this requirement. Upon graduation, you'll submit your application to the Virginia Board of Counseling along with your degree documentation. Our team can help guide you through that process when the time comes.
Will I be working with real clients during the program?
Yes, through the required externship component of the program. You'll be placed in a supervised behavioral health setting where you'll work alongside licensed professionals and apply the skills you've developed in the classroom. This is a required part of the program, not an optional add-on.
Is this program fully online?
The BHT program is hybrid, meaning the majority of your coursework is completed online, with a required in-person externship component. This format is designed to give you flexibility while ensuring you gain the hands-on, real-world experience that employers expect and the Virginia Board of Counseling requires.
Can I continue my education after completing this program?
Yes. OMNA's AAS degree is designed as a stepping stone. Credits may transfer toward a bachelor's degree in psychology, social work, or a related field, opening the door to advanced roles and licensure over time. We encourage students to discuss transfer options with our admissions team during enrollment.
The demand for behavioral health support is growing every year. OMNA's BHT program gives you the knowledge, skills, and real-world experience to answer that call. Apply today or request information to get started.
