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Behavioral Health Administrator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Responsible for all aspects in managing the Behavioral Health Department, including but not limited to overseeing treatment of patients, developing staffing standards and ensures staffing is ...

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Behavioral Health Administrator information

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$31.5K

$86.3K

$144.5K

How much do behavioral health administrator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for behavioral health administrator in the United States is $86,287.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,000.00 and $92,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a behavioral health administrator?

Behavioral Health Administrators are professionals who oversee the operations of mental health and behavioral health programs or facilities. They are responsible for managing staff, budgets, policies, and compliance with regulations to ensure effective delivery of mental health services. Their work often involves coordinating care, improving service quality, and implementing programs to support individuals with mental health or substance use disorders. They play a key role in bridging clinical staff, clients, and organizational goals for better patient outcomes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a behavioral health administrator?

To thrive as a Behavioral Health Administrator, you typically need a background in behavioral health, healthcare administration, or a related field, often supported by a master’s degree and relevant licensure. Familiarity with electronic health record (EHR) systems, regulatory compliance frameworks, and budgeting software is important for managing clinical operations. Leadership, conflict resolution, and strong communication skills help administrators effectively manage teams and collaborate with diverse stakeholders. These competencies are crucial for ensuring high-quality care delivery, operational efficiency, and adherence to healthcare standards.

What are the main challenges behavioral health administrators face in managing multidisciplinary teams?

Behavioral Health Administrators often work with teams that include clinicians, counselors, social workers, and support staff. One common challenge is aligning different professional perspectives and ensuring effective communication among team members. Administrators must also manage workflow coordination, resolve conflicts, and foster a collaborative culture to deliver high-quality care. Balancing administrative duties with supporting clinical staff and addressing compliance requirements are additional complexities in this role.

What is the difference between Behavioral Health Administrator vs Behavioral Health Clinician?

AspectBehavioral Health AdministratorBehavioral Health Clinician
CredentialsTypically requires a master's degree in social work, psychology, or counseling, along with administrative certificationsRequires a master's degree in social work, psychology, counseling, or related field; licensure often needed
Work EnvironmentOversees programs, manages staff, and handles administrative tasks in clinics or healthcare organizationsProvides direct patient care, therapy, assessments, and treatment in clinical settings
Employer & IndustryHospitals, clinics, mental health agencies, healthcare organizationsPrivate practices, mental health clinics, hospitals, community health centers

In summary, Behavioral Health Administrators focus on managing programs and staff, requiring strong leadership and administrative skills, while Behavioral Health Clinicians provide direct patient care, emphasizing clinical expertise and therapy skills. Both roles are essential in mental health services but differ in responsibilities and daily tasks.

What does a behavioral health administrator do?

A behavioral health administrator oversees the operations of mental health and substance abuse programs, managing staff, budgets, and compliance with healthcare regulations. They coordinate services, develop policies, and ensure quality care delivery within behavioral health facilities or organizations.
More about Behavioral Health Administrator jobs

What cities are hiring for Behavioral Health Administrator jobs?

Cities with the most Behavioral Health Administrator job openings:

What states have the most Behavioral Health Administrator jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Behavioral Health Administrator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $86,287 per year, or $41.5 per hour.

Behavioral Health Administrator (76717)

Centurion Health

Mountain City, TN

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago


Centurion Health rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 140 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

647th of 895 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Want to make a different - We have a great opportunity to create change?

Centurion is proud to be the provider of comprehensive healthcare services to the Tennessee Department of Correction. 

We are currently seeking a full-time Behavioral Health Administrator to join our team at the Northeast Correctional Complex located in Mountain City, Tennessee.

The Behavioral Health Administrator is responsible for managing the overall operations of the contracted behavioral health program at a designated correctional facility or complex of facilities within a Centurion contract. Additional responsibilities include planning, coordinating, directing, and supervising the behavioral health program providing services to patients in a correctional setting to meet service deliver requirements of the specific contract.


  • Master's degree in Behavioral Science required
  • Experience in healthcare administration required
  • Experience in correctional environment preferred
  • Must have ability to effectively communicate in writing and orally with staff and institutional administration
  • Ability to obtain a security clearance, to include drug screen and criminal background check

Shift:  8:00 am - 4:30 pm  Monday through Friday


We offer excellent compensation and comprehensive benefits for our full-time team members including:

  • Health, dental, vision, disability and life insurance
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Generous paid time off
  • Paid holidays
  • Flexible Spending Account
  • Continuing Education benefits
  • Much more...

Contact: Patrick Jones at pjones1@teamcenturion.com 

indmhm

#PJ


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