Mental Health Technicians (MHTs) play a crucial role in supporting individuals experiencing mental illness, behavioral challenges, or emotional distress.
In Alaska, demand for skilled MHTs is growing as healthcare services expand in both urban and rural areas.
This career offers the chance to make a meaningful impact while serving as a stepping stone for further roles in mental health, nursing, or behavioral healthcare.
Go to Section:
- What Does a Mental Health Technician Do?
- Top Schools Offering Mental Health Technician Programs in Alaska
- #1 University of Alaska Anchorage
- #2 Alaska Career College
- #3 Charter College Anchorage
- Education Requirements in Alaska
- Certification Options in Alaska
- Step-by-Step: How to Become a Mental Health Technician in Alaska
- How Long Does It Take to Become a Mental Health Technician in Alaska?
- Salary for Mental Health Technicians in Alaska
- Cost to Become a Mental Health Technician in Alaska
- Job Outlook for Mental Health Technicians in Alaska
- Frequently Asked Questions
What Does a Mental Health Technician Do?
Mental Health Technicians provide direct care, monitor patient behavior, and assist healthcare teams in treatment and rehabilitation.
In Alaska, MHTs can work in hospitals, residential facilities, community mental health centers, and correctional institutions.
While often used interchangeably with Behavioral Health Technicians (BHTs) or Psychiatric Technicians, MHTs primarily focus on patient observation, crisis intervention, and support during therapy sessions rather than broader medical tasks.
Key Responsibilities of Mental Health Technicians
| Responsibility | Description | Typical Setting in Alaska |
|---|---|---|
| Patient Observation | Monitor patients for safety and behavioral changes | Hospitals, Residential Facilities |
| Support Therapy | Assist with group/individual therapy sessions | Clinics, Community Centers |
| Medication Assistance | Help with medication administration under supervision | Hospitals, Nursing Facilities |
| Documentation | Record patient progress and incidents | All Healthcare Settings |
| Crisis Intervention | Respond to emergencies and behavioral episodes | Psychiatric Units, Correctional Facilities |
Top Schools Offering Mental Health Technician Programs in Alaska
#1 University of Alaska Anchorage
About the School
The University of Alaska Anchorage is the largest university in the state and offers a variety of healthcare and behavioral health programs.
The school emphasizes hands-on learning, particularly for students pursuing careers in mental health and allied health fields.
UAA has strong connections with local hospitals, clinics, and community mental health centers, giving students plenty of clinical experience opportunities.
Courses Offered
The Mental Health Technician program includes courses in human behavior, psychology, anatomy and physiology, psychiatric disorders, patient care techniques, crisis intervention, and ethics in healthcare.
Students also complete supervised clinical rotations in hospitals or residential facilities, typically totaling 120 to 150 hours of practical experience.
Program Cost
Tuition for in-state students is approximately $3,500 per semester, while out-of-state students can expect about $9,000 per semester.
The program usually takes two semesters to complete for a certificate, totaling around $7,000 for in-state students and $18,000 for out-of-state students.
Additional costs for textbooks and supplies range from $400 to $700.
Contact Information
- Address: 3211 Providence Dr, Anchorage, AK 99508, United States
- Phone: +1 907-786-1800
- Website: Visit School Website
#2 Alaska Career College
About the School
Alaska Career College is a private career-focused school in Anchorage that specializes in healthcare and technical programs.
The school is known for small class sizes, personalized instruction, and strong support for students entering the workforce quickly.
Many graduates find employment in local hospitals, clinics, and behavioral health facilities soon after completing the program.
Courses Offered
The Mental Health Technician certificate program includes courses in psychiatric nursing fundamentals, patient observation, crisis intervention techniques, mental health ethics, and communication skills.
The program also requires 120 hours of supervised clinical experience in a hospital, nursing home, or mental health facility.
Program Cost
Tuition for the full certificate program ranges from $15,000 to $17,500.
Most programs can be completed in 9 to 12 months.
Additional costs include uniforms, textbooks, and clinical supplies, which typically add up to $600 to $900.
The school also provides financial aid options for eligible students.
Contact Information
- Address: 1415 E Tudor Rd, Anchorage, AK 99507, United States
- Phone: +1 907-563-7575
- Website: Visit School Website
#3 Charter College Anchorage
About the School
Charter College in Anchorage is a private institution that focuses on applied health programs designed to prepare students for specific careers quickly.
The school emphasizes hands-on training and offers flexible scheduling options, including evening classes for students who work while completing the program.
Charter College maintains relationships with multiple healthcare providers in Anchorage and the surrounding areas to provide students with real-world experience.
Courses Offered
The program includes courses in behavioral health, mental health assessment, patient care, anatomy and physiology, crisis management, and professional ethics.
Students complete a clinical externship of 100 to 150 hours in a mental health or residential care facility.
The curriculum is designed to meet national certification requirements for mental health technicians.
Program Cost
Tuition for the certificate program is approximately $16,000.
Most students complete the program in 10 to 12 months.
Additional expenses such as textbooks, uniforms, and clinical supplies typically total $500 to $800.
Charter College also offers financial aid assistance and payment plans to help students manage costs.
Contact Information
- Address: 2221 E Northern Lights Blvd #120, Anchorage, AK 99508, United States
- Phone: +1 907-277-1000
- Website: Visit School Website
Schools Summary Table
| Rank | School | |
|---|---|---|
| | #1 | University of Alaska Anchorage |
| | #2 | Alaska Career College |
| | #3 | Charter College Anchorage |
Education Requirements in Alaska
To become an MHT in Alaska, a high school diploma or GED is the minimum requirement.
Many aspiring technicians pursue additional training through certificate or associate degree programs in behavioral health to gain hands-on clinical experience and improve job prospects.
Relevant coursework often includes psychology, anatomy, and patient care skills.
Education Options in Alaska
| Education Level | Typical Duration | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| High School Diploma | 4 years | Entry-level eligibility |
| Certificate Program | 6–12 months | Prepares for certification & clinical experience |
| Associate Degree | 2 years | Broader healthcare knowledge + clinical skills |
Certification Options in Alaska
While Alaska does not currently require state-specific MHT licensure, many employers prefer candidates with nationally recognized certifications.
Popular certifications include the Certified Mental Health Technician (CMHT) and Behavioral Health Technician (BHT).
Popular Mental Health Technician Certifications
| Certification | Provider | Exam Required | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|
| CMHT | National Association of Mental Health Technicians | Yes | 2 years |
| Behavioral Health Technician (BHT) | National Healthcareer Association | Yes | 2 years |
| State MHT License | Alaska Board of Nursing/Behavioral Health (if applicable) | Varies | Varies |
Step-by-Step: How to Become a Mental Health Technician in Alaska
- Meet Eligibility Requirements: Be at least 18 years old and pass a background check.
- Complete Education/Training: Obtain a high school diploma, certificate, or associate degree.
- Gain Clinical Experience: Participate in supervised clinical rotations or internships.
- Pass Certification Exams (if applicable): Earn CMHT or BHT certification to enhance employability.
- Apply for State Registration (if required): Some facilities may have specific registration requirements.
- Apply for Jobs: Seek positions in hospitals, residential facilities, or community mental health centers.
How Long Does It Take to Become a Mental Health Technician in Alaska?
The timeline varies depending on the path chosen:
Timeline to Become a Mental Health Technician
| Pathway | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Certificate Program | 6–12 months | Shortest path; includes exam preparation |
| Associate Degree | 2 years | In-depth healthcare knowledge |
| On-the-Job Training Only | 3–6 months | Some employers provide training without a formal certificate |
Salary for Mental Health Technicians in Alaska
Mental Health Technician pay in Alaska isn’t one size fits all.
Entry-level roles usually start modestly, with pay growing as technicians gain confidence, clinical judgment, and hands-on experience.
The more you learn and take on, the more valuable you become.
What shapes earning potential most?
- Location: Urban hubs and hard-to-staff regions often pay more to attract qualified workers.
- Work Setting: Hospitals and high-acuity facilities tend to pay differently than community or residential programs.
- Certification: National credentials signal expertise and can unlock better-paying opportunities.
- Experience: Seasoned MHTs with specialized skills or leadership duties typically earn more.
In short, pay rises with skill, setting, and demand, making this a career where growth is closely tied to how far you choose to go.
Average Salary of Mental Health Technicians in Alaska
Annual Salary Range:| Item | Percent |
|---|---|
$38K | |
$49K | |
$61K |
Alaska Salary by Metro Area
| Metro Area | Employed | Avg. Annual | Avg. Hourly | Top 10% | Bottom 10% |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anchorage, AK | 280 | $49,570 | $23.83 | $62,350 | $38,860 |
| Fairbanks-College, AK | 40 | $50,130 | $24.10 | $52,450 | $48,940 |
* Employment conditions may vary by location.
Cost to Become a Mental Health Technician in Alaska
Estimated Costs
| Cost Type | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Certificate Program Tuition | $1,500–$5,000 | Depends on the school |
| Associate Degree Tuition | $5,000–$20,000 | Public vs private colleges |
| Certification Exam | $100–$250 | National certifications |
| Background Check & Licensing | $50–$150 | State-specific requirements |
Job Outlook for Mental Health Technicians in Alaska
Employment opportunities for MHTs in Alaska are growing steadily due to increased awareness of mental health issues and the expansion of community-based programs.
Demand is particularly high in urban centers like Anchorage and Fairbanks, but rural regions also need qualified professionals.
Job Outlook in Alaska
| Setting | Employment Growth | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Hospitals | +10% | Highest demand in urban centers |
| Residential Care | +8% | Steady growth in suburban areas |
| Community Mental Health | +12% | Expanding programs for youth and adults |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you need certification to be a Mental Health Technician in Alaska?
It depends on the employer; certification is preferred but not always required.
How long does it take to become a Mental Health Technician in Alaska?
Certificate programs take about 6–12 months, associate degrees take roughly 2 years, and some employers provide 3–6 months of on-the-job training.
How is this role different from a CNA or MA?
MHTs focus on mental health care, behavioral monitoring, and crisis intervention rather than general medical tasks.
Is this a good entry-level healthcare career?
Yes, it provides hands-on experience in mental health and can be a stepping stone to advanced nursing or therapy careers.
Can you become a Mental Health Technician without a college degree?
Yes, many entry-level roles accept a high school diploma plus on-the-job training.
