The Mental Health Technician Program prepares students for entry-level employment in psychiatric hospitals, behavioral health centers, and residential treatment facilities. This 480-hour program combines classroom instruction, hands-on lab practice, and clinical rotations at local healthcare and educational facilities. Students gain skills in patient care, crisis intervention, and therapeutic communication while preparing for roles such as psychiatric aide, mental health technician, behavioral health technician, or nursing assistant.
480 Hours (*see prior credits tab)
Day Time Classes
Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday
8 AM to 4 PM
Estimated total cost may vary based on program start date and program class schedule.
Approximate cost range for Florida Resident: $1682.00 – $2106.58
Approximate cost range for Non-Florida Resident: $5102.30 – $6316.18
(**All fees subject to change)
High School Diploma or GED
Background Check, Drug Screening, Health Certificate, and Immunization Records
Completed MTC and Program Applications (see required forms below)
2 Professional Recommendation Forms
Marion Technical College (Main Campus)
1014 SW 7th Road
Ocala, FL 34471
Main Line: 352-671-7200
Q: Do students need to retake CNA coursework if I’m already licensed?
A: No, they receive 75 hours of transfer credit.
Q: Do students need to retake the Mental Health course if I completed it in high school?
A: No, with proof of completion, they can receive 90 hours of articulation credit.
Q: What is the grading scale?
A: A Health Science Scale (80% minimum passing grade) is used.
You will receive additional paperwork by email after applying online. Please allow up to two business days for the email to come through. Students may also visit the campus located at 1014 SW 7th Road, Ocala, FL, 34471 to pick up the paperwork in person. For further questions, please contact the school.
MTC Main Line | 352-671-7200
CTE Admissions Office | 352-671-4134
Patient Care & Safety
Communication & Interpersonal Skills
Basic Psychiatric Knowledge
Legal & Ethical Responsibilities
Therapeutic Interventions
Cultural Competency
Employment partner MCPS (ESE): Starting wage is $18.70 per hour. After completing 1,000 hours of on-the-job training, employees become eligible for the Certified Behavioral Tech certification, with a potential wage increase to $19.90 per hour.
Employment partner HCA Healthcare: Mental Health Technician wage is between $18 and $23 per hour, which includes base salary and additional compensation.
– Experienced Mental Health Technicians can earn up to $32.54 per hour (Indeed)
– Participants earn a CNA certification during the program, opening up further earning opportunities.
- HCA Florida Ocala Hospital
- HCA West Marion Hospital
- Bridgewater Park
- Hampton Manor Deerwood
- Marion County Public Schools
Credentials Earned:
– Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
– Certified Mental Health Technician (CMHT)
Post-Program Credential:
– Certified Behavioral Health Technician (CBHT) (after 1000 hours supervised employment)
Current Demand: The demand for Mental Health Technicians in Ocala aligns with national trends, which project a 13% growth in employment for psychiatric technicians and aides from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations.
Certified Mental Health Technicians are employed in:
– Psychiatric hospitals (public/private)
– Residential facilities
– School districts
– Addiction treatment centers
– Correctional institutions
– Nursing homes