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Assistant Director Behavioral Health Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Position Summary Directly reporting to the Chief Nursing Officer, and to the Behavioral Health Center Administrator, the Director of Patient Care Services is a Master's Degree in psychiatric or ...

Director, Behavioral Health

Fairfield, CA · On-site

$180K - $195K/yr

At NorthBay Health, the Director of Behavioral Health is responsible for the strategic, operational, financial, and clinical oversight of the behavioral health service line. This leader provides ...

Position Summary Directly reporting to the Chief Nursing Officer, and to the Behavioral Health Center Administrator, the Director of Patient Care Services is a Master's Degree in psychiatric or ...

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Assistant Director Behavioral Health information

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$25K

$72K

$147K

How much do assistant director behavioral health jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for assistant director behavioral health in the United States is $71,970.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,500.00 and $89,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an assistant director of behavioral health do?

An Assistant Director of Behavioral Health helps oversee and manage behavioral health programs within an organization, such as a hospital, clinic, or community agency. They assist the director in developing policies, supervising staff, ensuring compliance with regulations, and coordinating services for patients with mental health or substance use issues. This role often involves administrative duties, budget management, and collaborating with other healthcare professionals to improve patient care. The Assistant Director also helps implement new initiatives and evaluates program effectiveness to ensure quality behavioral health services.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an assistant director of behavioral health?

To thrive as an Assistant Director of Behavioral Health, you need advanced knowledge of mental health practices, supervisory experience, and typically a master's degree in psychology, social work, or a related field. Familiarity with electronic health record (EHR) systems, regulatory compliance, and licensure such as LCSW or LPC is commonly required. Leadership, problem-solving, and strong interpersonal communication distinguish top performers in this role. These skills ensure effective team management, regulatory adherence, and high-quality behavioral health care delivery.

What are the main challenges an assistant director of behavioral health might face when managing multidisciplinary teams?

An Assistant Director of Behavioral Health often works with professionals from various backgrounds, such as social workers, psychiatrists, and counselors. One common challenge is ensuring clear communication and collaboration among team members with different expertise and perspectives. Additionally, balancing administrative duties with supporting clinical staff can be demanding, especially in high-volume or crisis-prone settings. Addressing staff burnout and maintaining high-quality patient care while meeting organizational goals are also key aspects of the role.

What is the difference between Assistant Director Behavioral Health vs Program Coordinator Behavioral Health?

AspectAssistant Director Behavioral HealthProgram Coordinator Behavioral Health
CredentialsOften requires a master's degree in social work, psychology, or related field; licensure may be preferredBachelor's degree in a related field; relevant certifications are a plus
Work EnvironmentSupervises staff, manages programs, and collaborates with leadership in healthcare or community agenciesCoordinates program activities, supports staff, and assists in program implementation within behavioral health settings
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in healthcare organizations, mental health clinics, and community agenciesCommon in nonprofit organizations, clinics, and community health programs

The Assistant Director Behavioral Health typically holds a higher level of responsibility, requiring advanced credentials and overseeing staff and programs. The Program Coordinator Behavioral Health focuses on supporting program operations and coordination. Both roles are vital in behavioral health settings but differ mainly in scope and seniority.

More about Assistant Director Behavioral Health jobs

What cities are hiring for Assistant Director Behavioral Health jobs?

Cities with the most Assistant Director Behavioral Health job openings:

What states have the most Assistant Director Behavioral Health jobs?

States with the most job openings for Assistant Director Behavioral Health jobs include:

Infographic showing various Assistant Director Behavioral Health job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, and 21% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $71,970 per year, or $34.6 per hour.

Assistant Director - Behavioral Health

Tenet Health

Modesto, CA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago


Tenet Healthcare rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 355 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

699th of 898 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Job Type: Full Time 

Job Shift: Days

Holiday Rotation: 

Department: Behavioral Health

Position Summary                        
Reporting to the Director, Patient Care Services, the Assistant Director, Patient Care Services is a professional registered nurse who is responsible for planning, organizing, directing, and evaluating nursing care given by a designated healthcare team. In the absence of the Department Director, the Assistant department Director will provide twenty-four hour responsibility for the units standards, staff, leadership, decision-making, fiscal guidelines, and department relationship. The Assistant Department Director fosters a supportive, professional environment of physicians, staff, and patients. The Assistant Department Director is dedicated to Performance Improvement.                        

Doctors Medical Center of Modesto Hospital is committed to providing exceptional patient care in a supportive and collaborative environment. As a member of our team, you will have the opportunity to work with advanced technology and be part of a healthcare community dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of our patients.

At Doctors Medical Center of Modesto, we understand that our greatest asset is our dedicated team of professionals. That’s why we offer more than a job – we provide a comprehensive benefit package that prioritizes your health, professional development, and work-life balance. The available plans and programs include:

  • Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
  • 401(k) retirement savings plan with employer match
  • Generous paid time off
  • Career development and continuing education opportunities
  • Health savings accounts, healthcare & dependent flexible spending accounts
  • Employee Assistance program, Employee discount program
  • Voluntary benefits include pet insurance, legal insurance, accident and critical illness insurance, long term care, elder & childcare, auto & home insurance

Note: Eligibility for benefits may vary by location and is determined by employment status

Doctors Medical Center (DMC), part of the Central Valley Doctors Health System, is the largest full-care hospital between Stockton and Fresno, and from the Sierras to the San Francisco Bay Area, with a 394-bed general acute care and a 67-bed inpatient psychiatric capacity. DMC is known for providing comprehensive inpatient, outpatient and emergency care. Doctors Medical Center offers a wide range of services including cardiology, neurosurgery, orthopedics, emergency and trauma services, minimally-invasive and robotic surgery, women and childrens services, medical/surgical, behavioral health, oncology and critical/intensive care. Join our team!

Minimum Education:

Bachelor's Degree or equivalent, Nursing Preferred

Minimum Experience/Skills:

One to two years management experience

License/Certificates/Credentials:

Current Registered Nursing license for the state of California.


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