Behavioral Health Specialist (Full Time, 0.9 Night)

Connections Health Solutions is a leading provider of immediate‑access behavioral health crisis care. Founded by emergency‑room psychiatrists, the physician‑led, data‑driven model combines medical and recovery‑oriented treatment to stabilize individuals in crisis and connect them to community‑based resources. The organization is recognized as a national best practice and is guided by values that emphasize safety, hope, intentionality, teamwork, and innovation.

Responsibilities

• Manage and maintain the safety and well‑being of individuals and staff within the unit.
• Conduct vital‑signs assessments and document results.
• Assist individuals with daily needs and activities of daily living (e.g., eating, bathing, dressing).
• Provide exceptional customer service and orientation to the Observation Unit and Residential Crisis Stabilization Unit.
• Accurately document services and significant interactions in the Electronic Health Record (EHR).
• Conduct security screening and inventory property of individuals upon admission.
• Educate individuals on their rights under DBHDS and DMAS regulations, grievance process, expectations, and unit rules.
• Maintain unit safety by monitoring and documenting individuals every 15 minutes.
• Intervene with escalated individuals using therapeutic de‑escalation techniques; perform restraints or seclusions when necessary.
• Provide 1‑to‑1 observation for individuals in seclusion or mechanical restraints every 15 minutes for the duration of the event.
• Lift, move, and transport individuals using proper body mechanics and accident‑prevention techniques.
• Conduct and document blood alcohol level (BAL), urine drug screens, and urine pregnancy tests; report questionable results to the RN/Physician.
• Maintain cleanliness of the facility and assigned unit, perform light cleaning, collect soiled linen, and launder clothing as needed.
• Complete required training, attend monthly meetings, and maintain required competencies.
• Perform Safe Clinch restraint techniques and CPR; respond quickly to emergent situations.
• Perform all other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• At least 1 year of behavioral health or relevant experience.
• Experience using Electronic Health Records (EHR) and basic computer applications (preferred).
• Mandatory vaccination policy – fully vaccinated or exempt per company process.
• State of Virginia fingerprint clearance.
• Pass Virginia Department of Behavioral Health & Developmental Services (VA DBHDS) background check.
• Pass Virginia Department of Social Services (VA DSS) background check.
• Obtain a Virginia Food Handlers Card for BHS/RSS positions.
• Physical ability to safely perform interventions (standing, pivoting, reaching, kneeling, supporting another person’s weight).
• Ability to lift, push, pull, or carry up to 50 lb occasionally.
• Tolerance for prolonged walking, standing, and observation in a fast‑paced environment.
• Capability to work with individuals who may exhibit agitation, aggression, or unpredictable behavior.
• Certified training in Safe Clinch, CPR, First Aid, or therapeutic options (preferred).
• Completion of a CNA or Patient Care Tech program (preferred).
• Completion of a Behavioral Health Technician (BHT) certification (preferred).

Benefits

• Comprehensive health insurance (Medical, Dental, Vision, Accident, Critical Illness, Hospital Indemnity).
• Company‑paid Basic Life, AD&D, Short‑Term and Long‑Term Disability.
• Voluntary life insurance options for employees and families.
• Health Savings Accounts with employer contribution of $1,000–$2,000 (depending on plan).
• Flexible Spending Accounts (health care and dependent care).
• 401(k) company match after 6 months (50 % of deferrals up to 6 % of compensation).
• Generous PTO starting at 160 hours accrued annually plus 12 recognized company holidays.
• Company‑paid parental leave for eligible employees.
• Employee Assistance Program for confidential emotional, financial, legal, and online support.
• Automatic enrollment in the 401(k) plan after 90 days.
• Second‑Chance employer status.

Pay

Shift differentials: +$2 /hr for Monday‑Thursday nights, +$3 /hr for Friday‑Sunday nights, and +$2 /hr for Saturday‑Sunday days. Virginia pay range: $21.56 – $25 USD per hour (based on experience, education, internal equity, and budget).