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Behavioral Associate Jobs in Decatur, GA (NOW HIRING)

Behavioral Health Technician

Roswell, GA · On-site

$15.25 - $18.75/hr

Associates degree and minimum one (1) year experience in BHT or similar patient care role preferred ... Prior experience in behavioral health, healthcare, or human services in roles with emphasis ...

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Behavioral Associate information

See Decatur, GA salary details

$13

$25

$39

How much do behavioral associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for behavioral associate in Decatur, GA is $25.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $31.44 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Behavioral Associates?

Behavioral Associates are professionals who work with individuals, often children or those with developmental or behavioral challenges, to implement behavioral interventions and support plans. They typically work under the supervision of a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) or other clinical supervisors. Their primary role is to help clients develop positive behaviors, improve social skills, and reduce problematic behaviors through evidence-based strategies such as Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). Behavioral Associates may work in schools, clinics, or homes and often collaborate with families and other professionals. This role requires strong communication, patience, and a commitment to helping others achieve their personal goals.

What is the difference between Behavioral Associate vs Behavioral Technician?

AspectBehavioral AssociateBehavioral Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certificationHigh school diploma or equivalent; certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentClinics, schools, or community settings; supervised by cliniciansClinical or home settings; supervised by behavior analysts or clinicians
Employer & Industry UsageHealthcare, mental health, educational servicesBehavior analysis, mental health, autism services
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles, qualifications, and responsibilitiesJob duties, certification requirements, work settings

The main difference between a Behavioral Associate and a Behavioral Technician lies in their roles and responsibilities. Behavioral Associates often have broader responsibilities, may require additional certifications, and work closely with clinicians in various settings. Behavioral Technicians typically focus on implementing behavior plans under supervision. Both roles are vital in behavioral health services, but the Behavioral Associate position generally involves more complex tasks and higher qualifications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Behavioral Associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Behavioral Associate, you generally need a background in psychology or a related field and experience in behavioral health settings. Familiarity with behavioral intervention plans, data collection software, and sometimes certification as a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) are commonly required. Strong communication, patience, and observational skills help professionals build rapport and effectively support clients. These competencies ensure effective implementation of treatment plans and contribute to positive outcomes for individuals receiving behavioral support.

What are some common challenges Behavioral Associates face when working with clients, and how can they be addressed?

Behavioral Associates often encounter challenges such as managing clients with difficult behaviors, maintaining consistent intervention strategies, and ensuring effective communication with families and other team members. To address these challenges, it’s important to receive regular supervision, engage in ongoing training, and collaborate closely with Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) and colleagues. Establishing clear boundaries, practicing patience, and using evidence-based strategies can also help Behavioral Associates navigate the complexities of the role while ensuring positive outcomes for clients.
What are the most commonly searched types of Behavioral jobs in Decatur, GA? The most popular types of Behavioral jobs in Decatur, GA are:
What are popular job titles related to Behavioral Associate jobs in Decatur, GA? For Behavioral Associate jobs in Decatur, GA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Behavioral Associate jobs in Decatur, GA look for? The top searched job categories for Behavioral Associate jobs in Decatur, GA are:
Behavioral Health Associate 2

Behavioral Health Associate 2

Acadia Healthcare

Norcross, GA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago


Acadia Healthcare rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 185 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

692nd of 872 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Overview
Ask your recruiter about EarnIn, our Next Day Pay Benefit! Get paid - AS you work
PURPOSE STATEMENT:
Provide care for patients in accordance of the instructions of physicians or other health practitioners. Demonstrates a positive, empathetic, and professional attitude toward customers always. When patient needs are not met, acknowledges and works to resolve complaints. Recognize that patient safety is a top priority.
Responsibilities
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
  • Demonstrate a sense of urgency related to the importance of patient safety and providing excellent customer services.
  • Ensure the well-being of patients and provide a positive, supportive and structured environment.
  • Responsible for conducting safety checks and ensuring that supervision is conducted at 15 minute intervals, as noted in special precautions, or in accordance with individualized supervision guidelines as needed.
  • Document timely, accurate and appropriate clinical information in patient's medical record.
  • Assist in providing a safe, secure and comfortable environment for patients, significant others and staff.
  • Patient safety is monitored through required rounds completed timely. Patient room is clean and uncluttered. Observation may be assigned every 15 minutes, within reach of patient and/or 1:1 patient care.
  • May obtain patient's vital signs, height and weight as assigned and document in patient record. accurate.
  • Identify self to patient and visitors promptly and respond to patient requests quickly.
  • Engage with patient in activities and interactions designed to encourage achievement of treatment goals.
  • Respond to distressed patient in a non-threatening manner and attempt to understand the source of distress.
  • Apply de-escalation techniques to help manage patient's emotions, behavior and participation in treatment and assist with seclusion and restraint when necessary.
  • As part of the multidisciplinary team provide safety and increase coping skills of patient and assist in developing strategies for helping patients to be as independent as possible.
  • Monitor behavioral improvements and reinforce these behaviors. Report changes and responses to treatment by communicating with team. Significant changes are reported to nurse immediately.
  • Reinforce skills patients learn from nurses, physicians and therapist that promote improved physical and mental wellness.
  • Oversee or assist patients with activities of daily living, including toileting, bathing, dressing, grooming, oral hygiene, meals, snacks, hydration and changing bed linens, as needed.
  • Help with admissions and discharges if needed.
  • Lead or co-lead individual or group sessions as part of specific recreational or therapeutic procedures.
  • Participate in rehabilitation and treatment programs as well as teach strategies to promote patient wellness and independence, as needed.
  • Provide transportation for patient or coordinate transportation with appropriate staff member, as needed.
  • Quality of work exhibited through accuracy, neatness, and timeliness of work completed.
  • Adherence to work schedule and overall attendance.
  • Demonstrate a positive, empathetic and professional attitude towards customers always. When patient needs are not met, acknowledge and work to resolve complaints. Recognize that patient safety is a top priority.

OTHER FUNCTIONS:
  • Perform other functions and tasks as assigned.

Qualifications
EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE/SKILL REQUIREMENTS:
  • High school diploma or equivalent required.
  • Six months experience as a BHA1 preferred.
  • Six months or more experience working with the specific population of the facility preferred.

LICENSES/DESIGNATIONS/CERTIFICATIONS:
  • CPR and de-escalation and restraint certification required (training available upon hire and offered by facility).
  • First aid may be required based on state or facility requirements.

While this job description is intended to be an accurate reflection of the requirements of the job, management reserves the right to add or remove duties from particular jobs when circumstances
(e.g. emergencies, changes in workload, rush jobs or technological developments) dictate.

We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants for employment regardless of an individual's characteristics protected by applicable state, federal and local laws.

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About Acadia Healthcare

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Acadia Healthcare is a leading provider in the healthcare and hospital industry, based in Franklin, Tennessee, United States. The company is recognised for its commitment to creating a behavioural health network that provides accessible, high-quality treatment options for individuals suffering from mental health issues, addiction, eating disorders, and PTSD. Acadia Healthcare was founded in 2005, with the mission to create a world-class organization that sets the standard of excellence in the treatment of specialty behavioural health and addiction disorders.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Franklin, TN, US

Year founded

2005

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