Discovering meaningful work with room to raise a family

What do you do as a Mental Health Rehabilitation Technician/Community, or MHRT/C?

I work with people who have mental health diagnoses, which could include anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, or other issues. My job is to come in to meet with people in their space in the community– wherever it is –  and work as a case manager, helping to coordinate and link them to services, so that they can move into a place of independence. We listen to their needs and help them come up with a plan that they can do at their own pace. Every day can be different. I help them access resources like MaineCare and Social Security benefits, and transportation if they need it. I really do anything that can help them, until they’re in a place where they can do more on their own.

How did you get into this line of work?

I started out working in the school system, as an Ed Tech. There was a young girl who needed extra care, so I applied for a job to provide her with support outside of school. I enjoyed it so much that I stuck with it, continued working with that company, and acquired my trainings to begin working with adults, and get into this corner of the field.

There’s so much opportunity for flexibility. Early on, I was able to work a part-time schedule that allowed me to be home with my kids, homeschool them, and take time off when I needed it. Now that my children aren’t home anymore, I can do a different kind of schedule, and that’s okay too. I have 15 grandkids, and I can go to all their activities.

What do you enjoy about your job?

It’s such a privilege to be able to do what I do. You are providing a service that’s really so important for them. You get to hear their stories and be present and engaged. It’s really rewarding. I go home at the end of the day and know I did good, important work.

What types of skills and qualities does it take to be successful in this field?

With most agencies, training is provided. The training is really team focused, which is important for the nature of this job. Working in the mental health field can be intimidating, but we’ve all encountered people who have been in a hard place, so it’s not really as scary as one may think it is. I think it’s a great field for anyone to start in. You can start part time, get your training, and get a feeling for what avenue you want to take.