MHRT/C Certification Information
With administrative support from the Muskie School, Maine’s Office of Behavioral Health has oversight of training, continuing education, and Certification for frontline mental health workers.
There are three types of certification: Community (MHRT/C), Residential (MHRT/I), and Crisis Service Provider (MHRT/CSP).
The MHRT/C certificate qualifies individuals to provide services such as intensive case management and community integration services to adults with serious mental illness. The MHRT/C certification program is competency based, enabling those with a variety of backgrounds who have appropriate education, work experience and training to earn certification. To qualify for the MHRT/C certificate, candidates meet requirements using one or more of the following options: · Academic preparation (eligible degrees or courses from a regionally accredited college or university) · Practical work experience with adults, providing direct services in the behavioral health field · Qualifying non‐academic education and training in the eight competency domains Education, experience and training must address these eight Competency Domains, required to ensure high quality effective services for the adult mental health population. Domains 1, 2, and 3 are Priority Domains.
1. Behavioral, Psychological, and Rehabilitation
2. Community Integration and Inclusion
3. Ethics and Professional Conduct
4. Trauma and Resiliency
5. Policy Knowledge
6. Mind‐Body Connection
7. Cultural Competency
8. Vocational Support
Pathway Preparation
A Degree or certificate from a pre‐approved academic program for full certification · There are currently 30 approved degree and certificate programs across Maine whereby a student can obtain full MHRT/C certification while also earning academic credit.
B 4‐year or higher related degree for provisional certification (good for two years and billable under MaineCare) · Related degrees are in allied areas such as mental health and human service, rehabilitation, social work, counseling, and more, from regionally accredited colleges or universities. · Can complete any missing competency domains toward full certification using six months of related work experience and/or with 24 hours of relevant training.
C 2‐year related degree or 30 related academic credits To earn a two‐year provisional certification: · Satisfy at least 1 of the priority domains, plus 1 other · Can complete any missing competency domains toward full certification using six months of related work experience and/or with 24 hours of relevant training.
D Unrelated or no academic degree To earn a two‐year provisional certification: · Have a minimum of 12‐months full‐time direct service experience in the behavioral health field · Satisfy the 3 priority domains, plus 1 other · Can complete any missing competency domains toward full certification using 12 months of related work experience and/or with 30 hours of relevant training.
Mental Health Rehabilitation Technician/Community certification (MHRT/C) professionals work with adults living with serious mental illness in a variety of settings including:
- Community Integration
- Behavioral Health Home (BHH)
- Mental Health Psychosocial Clubhouse
- Assertive Community Treatment
- Skills Development
- Day Support Services
- Family Psycho-Education (as outlined in Chapter II, section 17 and 65 of the MaineCare Benefits manual)
The MHRT/C certification program is competency based, enabling those with a variety of backgrounds who have appropriate education, work experience and training to earn certification. To qualify for the MHRT/C certificate, candidates must meet requirements using one or more of the following options:
- Academic preparation (eligible degrees or courses must be from a regionally accredited college or university)
- Practical work experience [related to providing direct services in the behavioral health field for adults and/or transition-age youth (16+ years old)]
- Qualifying non-academic education and training in the competency domains
- A Prior Learning Assessment (Info on this process is on the Muskie School’s Center For Learning website Prior Learning Assessment page)
View a complete lists of the knowledge competencies in each domain (PDF).
Please follow this link for the MHRT/C Guidelines (As of 1/21/21).
NOTE: Please contact the Center for Learning for all MHRT/C-related inquiries at (207) 626-5280.
MHRT/C Programs
Bangor
Human Services – Certificate or AAS
This degree program focuses on the knowledge and skills required to work in today’s diverse field of Human Services. Graduates will be prepared for employment within social service organizations, hospitals, programs for the elderly, and community mental health centers. Graduates will be qualified to apply for the Mental Health Rehabilitation Technician/Community (MHRT/C) certification offered through the State of Maine.
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Learning Objectives
Graduates with the Associate in Applied Science Degree in Human Services will:
- Demonstrate knowledge of current principles of elementary counseling
necessary to engage and interact with clients and their families while being
sensitive to diversity and culture - Engage in professional behaviors including: confidentiality, ethical practices
and remaining professionally competent. - Apply strategies that support empowerment and choice for clients utilizing
formal and informal supports in the community. - Analyze problems that occur when working with clients and collaborate with
team membersPrerequisitesHigh School Level Algebra 1 Required
Machias/Hybrid
Any student who is interested in a career in mental health services, including being a counselor, therapist, case manager, or clinical psychologist, or in any associated nursing or medical field, can use MHRT courses to benefit their professional development.
MHRT/C is a standardized training and certification process that prepares people to meet the basic requirements for employment in the field of adult and older adult mental health and rehabilitation services in the state of Maine. This program provides the ten courses required for state certification. Visit the University of Maine System State Authorization & Licensure page (External Site) to learn more about the licensure requirements in other states and territories, in addition to the contact information needed to inquire further into the licensure requirements associated with this program.
UMPI
Online
(also meets MHRT/C)
Estimated certificate completion time
2 semesters, 27 credits
The Community Mental Health Certificate Program is designed to prepare students with the necessary knowledge and skills to pursue a position in the mental health field or provide an opportunity for advancement through credentialing for those already working in the field.
Areas of study include trauma, vocational rehabilitation, substance abuse, listening/communication techniques, and cultural awareness. Upon completion of the certificate requirements students are eligible to apply for the Mental Health Rehabilitation Technician Community (MHRT/C) certificate through the State of Maine. This certificate represents the minimum licensing qualifications necessary for working in the mental health field in Maine and is required for all positions funded by the Maine Department of Health and Human Services. The courses in this program are transferable to the Behavioral Health Studies program.
Qualified graduates of the Community Mental Health certificate will be eligible for entry level employment at community health centers, hospitals, schools, social service and mental health programs, and child care settings. Specific jobs may Include, but are not limited to, Community Support Worker, Residential Service Worker, Rehabilitation Technician, Youth and Family Counselor, Case Manager, Direct Support Professional, Life Skills Coach, and in-home Support Worker. Qualified graduates of the Community Mental Health certificate will be eligible for entry level employment at community health centers, hospitals, schools, social service and mental health programs, and child care settings. Specific jobs may Include, but are not limited to, Community Support Worker, Residential Service Worker, Rehabilitation Technician, Youth and Family Counselor, Case Manager, Direct Support Professional, Life Skills Coach, and in-home Support Worker.
Community Mental Health Certificate Program Sequencing (intended for part-time study) The sequencing of courses in this program begins in the fall semester. Students entering in the spring or summer will likely take longer than one year to complete the program. *Intended for part-time study
Curriculum Requirements: 27 credits
First Year, First Seven Week Fall Semester I (9 credits)
HUS 101 Introduction to Human Services* 3
PSY 101 Introduction to Psychology 3
SOC 101 Introduction to Sociology 3
First Year, Second Seven Week Fall Semester I (6 credits)
PSY 210 Psychology Across the Lifespan* 3
PSY 230 Abnormal Psychology* 3
First Year, First Seven Week Spring Semester I (6 credits)
PSY 232 Introduction to Counseling * 3
SOC 210 Social Problems* 3
First Year, Full Spring Semester (6 credits)
PSY 234 Trauma and Recovery* 3
PSY 244 Psychosocial Rehabilitation* 3
*Indicates courses that must be taken at York County Community College in order to be eligible to apply for the MHRT/C Certificate
Child and Youth Practitioner
UMA –
Online and at centers
May be eligible for financial aid
This program is designed for those who provide direct services to youth in group homes, residential treatment, shelters, juvenile corrections, foster care, community outreach support programs and other youth-focused programs. Graduates will gain an understanding of professionalism, cultural and human diversity, applied human development, family systems, the impacts of trauma, communication skills, boundaries, and assessment skills.
| Delivery Area: Online Coordinator: Wendy St Pierre (207) 621-3121 wendy.stpierre@maine.edu /Dave Samuelian (207) 262-7980 davidjs@maine.edu (Bangor) This certificate program will elevate a person’s professional aspirations of those who provide direct services to youth in group homes, residential treatment, shelters, juvenile corrections, foster care, and community outreach support programs. Upon completion of this program, students will have: a working knowledge of the core competencies established by the Association of Child and Youth Care Practice (ACYCP) an understanding of the roles and process to seek employment in agencies that provide direct services to youth in group homes, residential treatment, shelters, juvenile corrections, foster care, day care and community outreach support programs met the standards established by the Maine Association of Group Care Providers (MAGCP) a foundational knowledge in professionalism, cultural and human diversity, applied human development, relationship and communication and developmental methods |
| UMA Certificate Requirements: Minimum 50% of the required courses taken through UMA Minimum 2.00 G.P.A. in the Certificate Prerequisites (12 Credit Hours): COM 102 – Interpersonal Communication 3 CR HUS 101 – Introduction to Human Services 3 CR PSY 100 – Introduction to Psychology 3 CR SOC 101 – Introduction to Sociology 3 CR Certificate Requirements (18 Credit Hours): HUS 212 – Case Management 3 CR HUS 220 – Child Mental Health 3 CR HUS 221 – Adolescent Mental Health 3 CR HUS 232 – Crisis Intervention 3 CR PSY 308 – Human Development 3 CR Complete one of the following courses (3): JUS 307 – Violence in the Family 3 CR HUS 233 – Trauma Recognition and Intervention 3 CR HUS 318 – Adolescence: Substance Related and Criminogenic Thinking 3 CR PSY 345 – Problems and Interventions in Childhood 3 CR Advising Notes: This certificate program is offered state-wide at over 100 sites and centers, as well as The University of Maine at Augusta and Bangor campuses. The Child & Youth Care Practitioner Program will elevate the professional aspirations of persons who provide direct services to youth in group homes, residential treatment shelters, juvenile corrections, foster care, early childhood education and community outreach support programs. This program serves as the focal point for a statewide Child & Youth Care Certification model. |
Community Mental Health
(also meets MHRT/C)
Estimated certificate completion time
2 semesters, 27 credits
Online
The Community Mental Health Certificate Program is designed to prepare students with the necessary knowledge and skills to pursue a position in the mental health field or provide an opportunity for advancement through credentialing for those already working in the field.
Areas of study include trauma, vocational rehabilitation, substance abuse, listening/communication techniques, and cultural awareness. Upon completion of the certificate requirements students are eligible to apply for the Mental Health Rehabilitation Technician Community (MHRT/C) certificate through the State of Maine. This certificate represents the minimum licensing qualifications necessary for working in the mental health field in Maine and is required for all positions funded by the Maine Department of Health and Human Services. The courses in this program are transferable to the Behavioral Health Studies program.
Qualified graduates of the Community Mental Health certificate will be eligible for entry level employment at community health centers, hospitals, schools, social service and mental health programs, and child care settings. Specific jobs may Include, but are not limited to, Community Support Worker, Residential Service Worker, Rehabilitation Technician, Youth and Family Counselor, Case Manager, Direct Support Professional, Life Skills Coach, and in-home Support Worker. Qualified graduates of the Community Mental Health certificate will be eligible for entry level employment at community health centers, hospitals, schools, social service and mental health programs, and child care settings. Specific jobs may Include, but are not limited to, Community Support Worker, Residential Service Worker, Rehabilitation Technician, Youth and Family Counselor, Case Manager, Direct Support Professional, Life Skills Coach, and in-home Support Worker.
Community Mental Health Certificate Program Sequencing (intended for part-time study) The sequencing of courses in this program begins in the fall semester. Students entering in the spring or summer will likely take longer than one year to complete the program. *Intended for part-time study
Curriculum Requirements: 27 credits
First Year, First Seven Week Fall Semester I (9 credits)
HUS 101 Introduction to Human Services* 3
PSY 101 Introduction to Psychology 3
SOC 101 Introduction to Sociology 3
First Year, Second Seven Week Fall Semester I (6 credits)
PSY 210 Psychology Across the Lifespan* 3
PSY 230 Abnormal Psychology* 3
First Year, First Seven Week Spring Semester I (6 credits)
PSY 232 Introduction to Counseling * 3
SOC 210 Social Problems* 3
First Year, Full Spring Semester (6 credits)
PSY 234 Trauma and Recovery* 3
PSY 244 Psychosocial Rehabilitation* 3
*Indicates courses that must be taken at York County Community College in order to be eligible to apply for the MHRT/C Certificate
Articulation agreements exist between York County Community College and various colleges and universities. Please contact Career and Transfer Services for information regarding these agreements.
Family Studies – Family Futures Downeast
Machias
On-campus
Family Futures Downeast – special eligibility requirements and many supports
This five-course, 15-credit certificate program in Family Studies is designed to give students introductory level core curriculum credits with a focus on parenting and strengthening families. This curriculum helps students assume the role of change agents for their children, families, and communities as well as prepares them for additional coursework that transfers into future degree programs. This certificate is part of a larger innovative post-secondary program, Family Futures Downeast (FFD) (External Site) for Washington County parents. The program is dedicated to assisting families to break the cycle of poverty through whole-family education. Parents with children apply for free to this cohort program that has been collaboratively designed with an emphasis on removing barriers that make it difficult for parents to transition into college and find success.
Members of University of Maine at Machias (UMaine Machias), Washington County Community College, and the Community Caring Collaborative developed curriculum and support structures that allow parents to achieve in a post-secondary setting while gaining skills and knowledge in order to change outcomes for themselves and their children. This structure provides a rich and rewarding educational experience in which students receive all possible opportunities to flourish. Individual students receive academic, financial, and social supports for navigating the college setting, which for many will be new and challenging terrain.
How to Apply
Since 2016, a cohort of 20-32 families are enrolled at either the University of Maine at Machias or Washington County Community College. A cohort program groups students into the same program with the same classes in order to make sure the necessary supports are available for each family. As this program is different from a traditional student applying to college, prospective families must apply to the program through FFD on the Family Futures Downeast website (External Site).
Substance Use
ONLINE
Diploma Program – 14 months
Discover a Rewarding Future in Addiction Counseling
Skilled counselors are needed to fight a growing epidemic. If you have a desire to help others who are struggling with substance addiction, consider Beal University’s Addiction Counseling Degree & Diploma programs. Earn your education online while working in the field. Select from three programs to fit your desired path and career goals: Bachelor of Science Degree (42 months, 100% online), Associate’s Degree (20 months, 100% online) or Diploma (14 months, online). Complete courses from anywhere and gain the education you need to enter this important and fulfilling field.
100% online
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Select the addictions counseling degree program that fits your educational or career goals. Earn a bachelor’s degree, associate’s degree or diploma.
Since 1891
Headquartered in Bangor, Maine, Beal University has been providing exceptional, career-focused education for more than 130 years.
High Demand for Addiction Counselors Nationwide
Addiction counselors are needed across the United States to combat the growing opioid epidemic and other substance abuse disorders. Careers in this field are projected to grow at a rate of 22% between 2021 and 2031 – more than 5x the rate of all U.S. occupations.
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Next Start Date: Jul 3rd
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Our Online Addiction Counseling Degree & Diploma Programs
Beal University’s Addiction Counseling Degree & Diploma programs are designed to provide you with invaluable skills so you can counsel clients through the recovery process. Topics include assessment, treatment planning, individual and group counseling, case management, crisis intervention, vocational rehabilitation, trauma and recovery, client education and community resources. Discussions will occur around special issues including sexual harassment, gender, aging, disabilities, cultural differences and co-occurring disorders.
Throughout our addiction counseling online degree program, you’ll learn to apply theories of addiction, substance assessment and counseling techniques, including motivational counseling. You’ll grow to understand the neurobiology of addiction, family addiction dynamics and special population concerns.
Throughout the program you will also explore ethics and boundary considerations, all while working and interacting with those involved in Addiction Counseling. Lastly, but still very important, you’ll develop an understanding of diversity and tolerance for others.
Diploma
Diploma in Addiction Counseling
Length: 14 months*
Location: 100% Online
If you are looking to quickly start a career in Addiction Counseling, consider our 14-month* Diploma program. This program is intended for those who wish to complete a shorter program as a first step to becoming an Addiction Counselor.
Bangor
Substance Abuse Rehabilitation Technician
Human Services AAS – includes this certification and MHRT/C.
Purpose: The Human Services Program prepares students in a number of areas to enter the human services or medical fields as entry level case workers. A series of foundational courses and experience that provide skills for a range of employment opportunities based on a solid foundation of service delivery and understanding of human growth and development. It will qualify them for skilled entry into a specialty of their choice. The program will provide opportunities for personal and professional growth through applied and classroom instruction, community involvement, and practical experience under direct supervision of professionals in local agencies.
Career Opportunities: Positions available in the field include case managers in both the human services and medical fields, volunteer coordinators for various agencies, human service specialists, and substance abuse counselors.
Program Learning Outcomes: Upon completion of the Associate in Applied Science degree in Human Services the graduate is prepared to:
- Demonstrate knowledge of the human services professions, its’ history and structures, and the implications of social policy on the helping professions.
- Exercise effective interpersonal communications techniques when dealing with diverse populations. Understand and demonstrate basic counseling skills and group communications techniques.
- Exercise professional ethics in all matters pertaining to the helping relationship and the workplace.
- Exhibit professional conduct in a human services organization including legal and ethical responsibilities and demonstrated understanding of roles and boundaries.
- Demonstrate knowledge of the formal and informal support systems in the community.
- Show an understanding of, and skill at, accessing available resources.
- Collaborate with other treatment team members from a variety of disciplines and perspectives in the treatment of individuals, families, and other groups.
- Demonstrate awareness of the challenges faced by individuals with psychological, social or economic deficits as they regard human rights, access to services, financial strain, and social stigma.
- Establish and engage in a process of continued personal and professional growth in order to remain personally healthy and professionally competent.
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Human Services Contact
Elizabeth Sullivan
Human Services Instructor
207.454.1022
esullivan@wccc.me.edu
The Human Services program requires completion of the Student Disclosure of Criminal Convictions, Pending Criminal Charges and Certain Disqualifications. Completion of this form does not automatically deny admission to the program. Prospective applicants will meet with the Dean of Enrollment Management and Student Services to review information.
Online and at Centers
Substance Abuse Rehabilitation Technician
Delivery Area: Online
Coordinator: Wendy St. Pierre (207) 621-3317 wendy.stpierre@maine.edu /Dave Samuelian (207) 262-7980 davidjs@maine.edu (Bangor)
The Substance Abuse Rehabilitation Technician (SART) Certificate Program provides coursework relevant to the education requirements for entry-level licensure for substance use disorder treatment in Maine. At present, an applicant for entry-level licensure to provide substance use disorder treatment must have ONE of the following: a minimum of an associate degree in a substance abuse rehabilitation related field, be a Certified Mental Health Rehabilitation Technician in the Community (MHRT/C), possess the UMA SART certificate or have completed a specific amount of hours working in the field of substance use treatment services. The UMA SART certificate provides the necessary course work for people who are interested in becoming substance use treatment counselors or who already have a degree in another field. The certificate also provides the education for someone who is working on a degree in a field other than substance use rehabilitation. UMA’s SART certificate program prepares students to become Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselors. For further information regarding the licensing requirements, contact the Professional and Financial Regulations Department of the State of Maine at (207) 624-8603 (website: https://www.maine.gov/pfr/professionallicensing/professions/alcohol/index.html).
Calais
Substance Use and Recovery Technician
Certificate – 37 Credits
Purpose: The Certificate in Substance Use and Recovery prepares students to test to become a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor in the State of Maine. Students will become familiar with substance use and the skills necessary to support individuals seeking various pathways to recovery. Students will learn their role as a contributing member to a treatment team, including screening, assessment, diagnosis, and treatment planning. This one-year certificate will provide students the opportunity to certify in the state of Maine as Alcohol and Drug Counselors and will also provide a path to continue on to complete and Associate in Applied Science degree in Human Services.
Career Opportunities: The Certificate in Substance Use and Recovery is designed to prepare students to take the State of Maine test to become a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor. Both statewide and nationally substance use counselors are needed, and it is currently considered a high-growth field. Locally, Washington County has several agencies who hire Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselors, including Discovery House, Groups: Recover Together, and AMHC.
Program Learning Outcomes: Upon completion of the Associate in Applied Science degree in Human Services the graduate is prepared to:
- Students will demonstrate understand types of substances and their physiological, behavioral, and emotional impact.
- Students will have knowledge of different counseling theories and their applications in treatment and treatment planning.
- Students will be able to assess, diagnose and treatment plan with individuals with substance use disorders.
- Students will understand a variety of treatment interventions and settings for substance use disorders and people with co-occurring disorders.
- Students will understand the role of the Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor as a contributing member of the treatment team.
Substance Use and Recovery Program Contact
Elizabeth Sullivan
Human Services Instructor
207.454.1022
esullivan@wccc.me.edu
The Substance Use and Recovery program requires completion of the Student Disclosure of Criminal Convictions, Pending Criminal Charges and Certain Disqualifications. Completion of this form does not automatically deny admission to the program. Prospective applicants will meet with the Dean of Enrollment Management and Student Services to review information.
Hub 1 College & Career Program Options 