Behavioral Health Associate 1- 7:00am-3:30pm

About the role

As a Behavioral Health Associate, you are an integral part of the treatment team for patients upon admission. The facility uses a team nursing approach where nurses collaborate with Behavioral Health Associates to provide the highest standard of care. You help enable a safe and therapeutic environment by providing a positive, supportive, and structured environment for patients. Under the supervision of a Registered Nurse and the treatment team, you carry out assigned patient care activities in accordance with hospital policies, procedures, and standards, including providing 1:1 support to patients experiencing acute psychiatric crises such as suicidal ideation, self‑injurious behavior, and escalating emotional distress.

Responsibilities

• Conduct safety checks and ensure supervision is conducted at 15‑minute intervals.
• Engage with patients to assess mental status, progress toward treatment goals, and emotional needs throughout the shift.
• Observe patient behaviors and communicate significant observations to nursing staff.
• Encourage patient participation in therapeutic activities and individualized behavior strategies.
• Assist in crisis situations using verbal de‑escalation techniques and physical interventions following CPI standards and hospital policies.
• Provide consistent 1:1 support for assigned patients, maintaining therapeutic engagement throughout the shift.
• Float to different units within the hospital based on staffing needs.
• Utilize patient‑specific coping skills and sensory strategies as outlined in treatment or safety plans.
• Educate colleagues on patient‑specific triggers, warning signs, and coping strategies.
• Identify and communicate barriers to discharge planning.
• Support patient orientation during admissions by assisting with searches, vital signs, and reviewing unit guidelines.
• Reinforce unit rules and serve as a positive role model for patients.
• Provide peer mentorship and help orient new Behavioral Health Associates under nursing leadership guidance.
• Protect and advocate for patient rights.
• Attend and actively participate in department meetings; review minutes when unable to attend.
• Complete annual mandatory training and proactively identify personal educational needs.
• Accept and apply feedback to continuously improve clinical and professional skills.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or equivalent
• Six months of experience working with a similar patient population preferred
• CPR and de‑escalation and restraint certification required (training provided upon hire)
• First aid may be required based on state or facility requirements

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Company‑paid short‑term disability
• Earned wage access
• 401(k) plan with company match
• Paid time off and holidays
• Employee assistance program
• Ongoing training and career growth opportunities
• Tuition reimbursement up to $3,000 per year

Pay

Base pay range: $17.00 – $20.25 per hour. Shift differentials add to the base rate: Weekend + $1.25/hour, Weekday Evening + $1.25/hour, Weekend Evening + $2.50/hour, Overnight + $4.00/hour.

Schedule

Shifts are 8 hours, e.g., 07:00 AM – 3:30 PM. Part‑time schedule: 24 hours per week (3 days). All full‑time and part‑time employees work every other weekend.