As the new Permian Basin Behavioral Health Center prepares to open in 2026, the need for mental health professionals in the area becomes more apparent. Midland College has announced the upcoming enrollment deadline for its new Mental Health Technician Program, the first of its kind in West Texas.
Interested individuals have until Monday, July 22, to apply for this comprehensive, two-semester program designed to prepare students to work in both inpatient and outpatient settings within the Permian Basin community. Thanks to scholarships, the program is fully funded for the 2024-25 academic year for the first 20 accepted applicants.
"This certificate program is a really important and innovative initiative that is a part of Midland College’s larger workforce development that we are creating for the Behavioral Health Center," said Dr. Stephanie Caples, Director of Behavioral Health at Midland College.
Those who earn the Mental Health Technician Certificate will have the opportunity to be placed at the Behavioral Health Center where they will serve as support staff, transporting patients, assisting with psychotherapy encounters, engaging in crisis de-escalation, and having regular interactions with patients.
The application process for the Mental Health Technician Program includes:
1. Applying to Midland College.
2. Completing the Health Sciences General Application.
3. Submitting transcripts to the MC Registrar.
Applicants must meet several requirements:
- Be 18 years of age by September 1.
- Have a high school diploma or GED.
- Have a negative result on a 10-panel drug screen.
- Maintain current health insurance coverage throughout the program.
- Have required Title 25, Texas Administrative Code §97.64 and Clinical Affiliate immunizations.
For more information about the program and application process or to view Dr. Caples’ video message, visit Midland College's website. The Welcome Center at Midland College also provides general information about various programs and options available to students.