Behavioral Health Specialist (Part Time, 0.3 Day)

About the organization

We’re not just behavioral health people—we’re crisis people. Connections Health Solutions is a leading provider of immediate‑access behavioral health crisis care. Our team combines medical and recovery‑oriented treatment to stabilize individuals in crisis and connect them to community‑based resources for ongoing recovery. Founded by emergency‑room psychiatrists Dr. Chris Carson and Dr. Robert Williamson, our model is physician‑led and data‑driven, drawing upon more than 15 years of crisis care expertise. Recognized by SAMHSA and the National Council for Mental Wellbeing as a national best practice, we’ve delivered invaluable treatment to hundreds of thousands of individuals facing crises. Our commitment remains consistent: improve access, inspire hope, and provide the right support. Our values shape our decisions, define our culture, and foster continuous learning and growth. We accept people as they are, creating safe spaces where they feel valued and respected. We inspire hope by walking with people side‑by‑side, showing them grace and compassion. We act with intention, holding ourselves and each other accountable, and doing the right thing. We work as one team, trusting and supporting each other. We embrace change and innovation, striving to find better ways to fulfill our mission. We are on a mission to change the face of behavioral health. Help us save lives and make a difference.

Shift Differentials

• +$2/hr – Monday‑Thursday Nights
• +$3/hr – Friday‑Sunday Nights
• +$2/hr – Saturday‑Sunday Days

Responsibilities

• Manage and maintain the safety and well‑being of individuals and staff within the unit.
• Conduct vital‑signs assessments and accurately document them in the Electronic Health Record (EHR).
• Assist individuals with daily needs and activities of daily living, including eating, bathing, and dressing.
• Provide orientation to the Observation Unit and Residential Crisis Stabilization Unit.
• Educate individuals on their rights under DBHDS and DMAS regulations, grievance process, expectations, and unit rules.
• Monitor and document individuals every 15 minutes to maintain unit safety.
• Intervene with escalated individuals using therapeutic de‑escalation techniques; perform restraints or seclusions when necessary.
• Complete 1‑to‑1 observation on 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 BAL, urine drug screens, and urine pregnancy tests.
• Report any questionable vital results to the RN/Physician attending the individual.
• Document all services and significant interactions in the EHR.
• 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, responding 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).
• Full COVID‑19 vaccination (or documented exemption) prior to start date.
• Virginia Fingerprint Clearance.
• Pass Virginia Department of Behavioral Health & Developmental Services (VA DBHDS) background check.
• Pass Virginia Department of Social Services (VA DSS) Office of Background Investigations – Central Registry Search.
• Obtain a Food Handlers Card for the State of Virginia (required for BHS/RSS positions).
• Ability to safely perform physical interventions (standing, pivoting, reaching, kneeling, lowering to the floor, supporting another person’s weight).
• Ability to lift, push, pull, or carry up to 50 lb occasionally.
• Ability to tolerate prolonged walking, standing, and observation in a fast‑paced environment.
• Ability to work with individuals who may exhibit agitation, aggression, or unpredictable behavior.
• Certified training in Safe Clinch, CPR, First Aid, therapeutic options (preferred).
• Completion of a CNA or Patient Care Tech program (preferred).
• Completion of BHT certification (preferred).

Benefits

• Comprehensive health insurance (Medical, Dental, Vision, Accident, Critical Illness, Hospital Indemnity).
• Basic Life, AD&D, Short‑Term