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Assistant Director Behavioral Health Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Assistant Director Behavioral Health information

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$147K

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

As of Jul 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 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Assistant Director of Behavioral Health, and why are they important?

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 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 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:
Medical Director, Behavioral Health (FL)

Medical Director, Behavioral Health (FL)

Molina Healthcare

Long Beach, CA

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago


Molina Healthcare rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 192 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

143rd of 277 rated insurance


Job description

JOB DESCRIPTION Job SummaryProvides medical oversight and expertise related to behavioral health and chemical dependency services, and assists with implementation of integrated behavioral health care programs within specific markets/regions. Contributes to overarching strategy to provide quality and cost-effective member care. 


Based in Nevada


Essential Job Duties 
Provides behavioral health oversight and clinical leadership for health plan and/or market specific utilization management and care management behavioral health programs and chemical dependency services - working closely with regional medical directors to standardize behavioral health utilization management policies and procedures to improve quality outcomes and decrease costs. 
Facilitates behavioral health-related regional medical necessity reviews and cross coverage. 
Standardizes behavioral health-related utilization management, quality, and financial goals across all lines of businesses. 
Responds to behavioral health-related requests for proposal (RFP) sections and reviews behavioral health portions of state contracts. 
Assists behavioral health medical director lead trainers in the development of enterprise-wide education on psychiatric diagnoses and treatment. 
Provides second level behavioral health clinical reviews, peer reviews and appeals. 
Supports behavioral health committees for quality compliance. 
Implements behavioral health specific clinical practice guidelines and medical necessity review criteria. 
Tracks all clinical programs for behavioral health quality compliance with National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). 
Assists with the recruitment and orientation of new psychiatric medical directors. 
Ensures all behavioral health programs and policies are in line with industry standards and best practices. 
Assists with new program implementation and supports for health plan in-source behavioral health services. 
Required Qualifications 
At least 3 of relevant experience, including 2 years of medical practice experience in psychiatry/behavioral health, or equivalent combination of relevant education and experience. 
Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathy (DO). License must be active and unrestricted in state of practice. 
Board Certification in Psychiatry. 
Working knowledge of applicable national, state, and local laws and regulatory requirements affecting medical and clinical staff. 
Ability to work cross-collaboratively within a highly matrixed organization. 
Strong organizational and time-management skills. 
Ability to multi-task and meet deadlines. 
Attention to detail. 
Critical-thinking and active listening skills. 
Decision-making and problem-solving skills. 
Strong verbal and written communication skills. 
Microsoft Office suite/applicable software program(s) proficiency, and ability to learn new programs. 
Preferred Qualifications 
Experience with utilization/quality program management. 
Managed care experience. 
Peer review experience. 
Certified Professional in Healthcare Management (CPHM), Certified Professional in Health Care Quality (CPHQ), Commission for Case Manager Certification (CCMC), Case Management Society of America (CMSA) or other health care or management certification. 
To all current Molina employees: If you are interested in applying for this position, please apply through the Internal Job Board. 
Molina Healthcare offers a competitive benefits and compensation package. Molina Healthcare is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE) M/F/D/V


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About Molina Healthcare

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Molina Healthcare is a nationwide fortune 500 organization with a mission to provide quality healthcare to people receiving government assistance. If you are seeking a meaningful opportunity in a team-oriented environment, come be a part of a highly engaged workforce dedicated to our mission. Bring your passion and talents and together we can make a difference in the lives of others.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Long Beach, CA, US

Year founded

1980

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