Youth who seek treatment at KVC Wheatland Hospital are struggling with depression, anxiety, thoughts of self-harm, the effects of trauma, and other behavioral health challenges. Behavioral Health Technicians help ensure these youth are safe, supported and learn healthy new skills. Mr. Michael is a Behavioral Health Technician who works with youth at the hospital. We sat down with Michael to learn why he is passionate about helping children and teens and what he does to help those in care.

Tell us a little bit about yourself. 

Michael: I played soccer for four years for the Kansas State Olympic Program and recently started snowboarding. I currently attend Fort Hays University for Human Health and Performance with an emphasis in sports management. I’d really like to continue to help people and combine it with my love of sports.

Q: How does your role as a Behavioral Health Technician help children and teens at KVC Hospitals? 

Michael: I am able to help the youth learn right from wrong. I help teach them valuable coping skills as well as when and how to use those skills in order to be healthy in their lives. Every day I have an opportunity to teach them how to positively and successfully interact out in the community and teach them new things about brain development and how to handle stress and anger. After working here, I wouldn’t consider it a job or “work”; it’s a chance to help better myself and others.

Q: What do you wish people knew about your role and its impact on kids?

Michael: I wish people knew that these are just kids. It doesn’t matter that they are in a psychiatric hospital seeking treatment; these are children and teens who like video games, learning and having fun. When I get to work with these kids, I’m also learning and having fun.

Q: What’s the most rewarding part of your job?

Michael: The most rewarding part of my job is that I am able to help out kids. They help me learn a lot about myself, too and have taught me to be patient, understanding and look at life in a different way.

Q: Can you share advice for people you work with or who might be interested in becoming a BHT?

Michael: I love when parents are involved in their child’s treatment. It’s so important for the home network to support the skills learned at KVC. I would also say that transformation doesn’t happen overnight, but it will happen and patience is key.

For clients, I would remind them that each day is a new day. You are able to start fresh and try to make each day better than the one before by making good choices and using those new skills to improve yourself and your relationships.