Turn your compassion into a career in high-demand behavioral health
Apprenticeship that trains you to lead in mental health and recovery.
Bates Tech has partnered with the SEIU Healthcare Training Fund to offer a unique opportunity for high school student to jumpstart a career in behavioral health fields. You can earn high school credits, tuition free, gain apprenticeship experience, and prepare for a meaningful and in-demand career –all while in high school!
Who is eligible?
- High school students ages 16-20
The Youth Behavioral Health Apprenticeship is designed for students interested in:
- Behavioral health
- Mental health
- Healthcare
- Psychology
- Human services
- Community support
- Other helping professions
Behavioral health technicians provide daily support and safety for patients with mental health and substance use challenges. You will lead therapeutic activities and monitor patient progress, all while being a consistent, caring presence that helps people stay on track toward recovery.
A Behavioral Health Technician is comparable to many other healthcare industry roles, including Psychiatric Aide/Psychiatric Nursing Assistant, Mental Health Aide/Technician, Healthcare Aide, and Behavioral Health Nurse Aide.
What you get:
- Trained to assist clinics, treatment centers, and hospitals with behavioral healthcare for patients.
- Nursing Assistant Certification (NA-C)
Certification Requirements:
- 2,000 hours of work experience
- Pass the Washington State Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) exam
Upon Successful Completion:
- You’ll earn a high school diploma and an Associate of Applied Science degree
Program highlights
As a student in the Youth Behavioral Health Apprenticeship, you’ll:
- Earn tuition-free college credit while in high school
- Work toward earning an associate degree in Community Services and Public Safety
- Be committed to your job for two years following graduation.
- Complete Nursing Assistant-Certified (NAC) training
- Develop career-ready skills
- Explore a meaningful career pathway in behavioral health and healthcare
- Receive personalized support from Bates Tech and the SEIU Healthcare Training Fund
Mostly online with some in-person coursework. Complete in approximately one year.
Have Questions? Give us a call or drop by!
Kevin Kildun, Advisor and Technical High School Counselor
253.680.7605
kevin.kildun@batestech.edu
South Campus, 2201 South 78th Street, Tacoma
Room A104A
Walk–in hours: Wednesdays 9 – 11a.m., or by appointment
Central Campus, 2320 South 19th Street, Tacoma
Room B104D
Walk in hours: Mon./Tues./Thurs./Fri. 9 .– 11 a.m., or by appointment.