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Behavioral Health Assistant Jobs in Rhode Island

Lifespan

Behavioral Health Attendant

Newport, RI · On-site

$18.04 - $28.46/hr

Position Summary Under the general direction of a Registered Nurse, the Behavioral Health Attendant ... Care Assistance * Assist with activities of daily living (ADLs), including: * Hygiene * Meals

Elwyn

Mental Health Assistant

Cranston, RI

Provide clear lines of responsibility and accountability within the Behavioral Health Technician ... * Assist in consumer transportation planning and provide transportation as needed * Maintain ...

Elwyn

Mental Health Assistant

Cranston, RI

Provide clear lines of responsibility and accountability within the Behavioral Health Technician ... * Assist in consumer transportation planning and provide transportation as needed * Maintain ...

Elwyn

Mental Health Assistant

Cranston, RI · On-site

Provide clear lines of responsibility and accountability within the Behavioral Health Technician ... * Assist in consumer transportation planning and provide transportation as needed * Maintain ...

Elwyn

Mental Health Assistant

Cranston, RI · On-site

Provide clear lines of responsibility and accountability within the Behavioral Health Technician ... * Assist in consumer transportation planning and provide transportation as needed * Maintain ...

Elwyn

Mental Health Assistant

Cranston, RI · On-site

Provide clear lines of responsibility and accountability within the Behavioral Health Technician ... * Assist in consumer transportation planning and provide transportation as needed * Maintain ...

Elwyn

Mental Health Assistant

Cranston, RI · On-site

Provide clear lines of responsibility and accountability within the Behavioral Health Technician ... * Assist in consumer transportation planning and provide transportation as needed * Maintain ...

Brownhealth

Behavioral Health Attendant

Providence, RI · On-site

$18.04 - $28.46/hr

Under the general direction of the Registered Nurse, the Behavioral Health Attendant (BHA) provides ... Ensure the care area is free of hazards and complies with safety guidelines, and assist with the ...

Brownhealth

Behavioral Health Attendant

Providence, RI · On-site

$21.09 - $22.04/hr

Under the general direction of the Registered Nurse, the Behavioral Health Attendant (BHA) provides ... Ensure the care area is free of hazards and complies with safety guidelines, and assist with the ...

Brownhealth

Behavioral Health Attendant

Providence, RI · On-site

$21.09 - $22.04/hr

Under the general direction of the Registered Nurse, the Behavioral Health Attendant (BHA) provides ... Ensure the care area is free of hazards and complies with safety guidelines, and assist with the ...

Lifespan

Behavioral Health Attendant

Providence, RI · On-site

$21.09 - $22.04/hr

Under the general direction of the Registered Nurse, the Behavioral Health Attendant (BHA) provides ... Ensure the care area is free of hazards and complies with safety guidelines, and assist with the ...

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All JobsBehavioral Health JobsBehavioral Health Assistant JobsBehavioral Health Assistant Jobs in Rhode Island

Behavioral Health Assistant information

See Rhode Island salary details

$8

$19

$28

How much do behavioral health assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for behavioral health assistant in Rhode Island is $19.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.81 and $22.84 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a behavioral health assistant?

Behavioral Health Assistants are professionals who support individuals dealing with mental health or behavioral issues under the supervision of licensed clinicians. They help implement treatment plans, monitor patients’ progress, and provide guidance in daily activities to promote mental well-being. Their duties may include observing behaviors, assisting with therapeutic activities, maintaining patient records, and offering emotional support. This role is vital in settings such as hospitals, clinics, residential facilities, and community organizations.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a behavioral health assistant?

To thrive as a Behavioral Health Assistant, you need a foundational understanding of mental health concepts, basic patient care skills, and often a relevant associate degree or certification in behavioral health or a related field. Familiarity with electronic health records (EHRs), crisis intervention techniques, and patient observation tools is typically required. Strong interpersonal communication, empathy, and the ability to remain calm under stress are standout soft skills in this role. These skills ensure effective support for patients, accurate documentation, and the maintenance of a safe, therapeutic environment.

What are common challenges faced by behavioral health assistants and how can they be managed?

Behavioral Health Assistants often encounter emotionally charged situations, such as working with individuals experiencing mental health crises or behavioral outbursts. Managing personal stress, maintaining professional boundaries, and practicing self-care are essential for sustaining effectiveness in this role. Many organizations provide regular supervision, peer support, and access to training programs to help Behavioral Health Assistants navigate these challenges and enhance their resilience. Being proactive in seeking support and utilizing available resources contributes to both personal well-being and professional growth.

How long does it take to become a behavioral health assistant?

Becoming a behavioral health assistant typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions preferring postsecondary education or certification in mental health or related fields. Training programs or on-the-job training usually last from a few weeks to several months, depending on the employer and state requirements.

Is a behavioral health assistant entry-level?

Yes, a behavioral health assistant is typically an entry-level position that requires a high school diploma or equivalent. It often involves on-the-job training and may require basic knowledge of mental health practices or certifications such as CPR or first aid. The role is suitable for individuals starting their careers in behavioral health settings.

What skills do you need to be a behavioral health assistant?

A behavioral health assistant needs strong communication and interpersonal skills to support clients effectively. They should have basic knowledge of mental health conditions, be compassionate, and often require certification or training in CPR and first aid. Organizational skills and the ability to work as part of a healthcare team are also important.

What are the most commonly searched types of Behavioral Health jobs in Rhode Island?

The most popular types of Behavioral Health jobs in Rhode Island are:

What are popular job titles related to Behavioral Health Assistant jobs in Rhode Island?

For Behavioral Health Assistant jobs in Rhode Island, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Behavioral Health Assistant jobs in Rhode Island look for?

The top searched job categories for Behavioral Health Assistant jobs in Rhode Island are:

What cities in Rhode Island are hiring for Behavioral Health Assistant jobs?

Cities in Rhode Island with the most Behavioral Health Assistant job openings:

Behavioral Health Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Behavioral Health Assistant job openings in Rhode Island as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 69% Full Time, and 31% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,001 per year, or $19.2 per hour.

Behavioral Health Attendant

Brown University Health

Newport, RI • On-site

$18.04 - $28.46/hr

Other

Re-posted 3 days ago

Brown University Health rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 94 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

499th of 891 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Behavioral Health Attendant

Under the general direction of a Registered Nurse, the Behavioral Health Attendant (BHA) provides direct, non-clinical support to patients requiring observation who may be experiencing mental health or behavioral challenges.

BHAs collaborate closely with clinical staff to maintain a safe and therapeutic environment while upholding patient dignity and aligning with Brown University Health's core values:

  • Compassion
  • Accountability
  • Respect
  • Excellence

All employees are also expected to demonstrate the organization's core success factors:

  • Instill Trust and Value Differences
  • Patient and Community Focus
  • Collaborate effectively
Key Responsibilities
  • Patient Observation & Support
  • Receive report on assigned patient(s) prior to assuming observation responsibilities
  • Conduct continuous or intermittent observations as assigned
  • Maintain constant attention on patient(s), free from distractions
  • Promptly report changes in patient condition to nursing or clinical staff
  • Monitor and document patient behavior, mood, and activities per established protocols
  • Patient Care Assistance
  • Assist with activities of daily living (ADLs), including:
    • Hygiene
    • Meals
    • Mobility
  • Provide appropriate patient engagement, including:
    • Conversation
    • Recreational activities in line with training
  • Safety & De-escalation
  • Utilize approved verbal de-escalation techniques to ensure safety
  • Maintain a safe, hazard-free care environment
  • Adhere to all hospital safety protocols and procedures
  • Support clean, organized patient care areas
  • Training & Compliance
  • Obtain and maintain required certifications:
    • De-escalation and restraint training (initial + annual re-certification)
    • Basic Life Support (BLS)
    • Safe patient handling training
  • Participate in staff development, supervision, and meetings as required
  • Maintain:
    • Patient confidentiality
    • Privacy standards
    • Patient rights
  • Additional Duties
  • Perform other duties as assigned
Minimum Qualifications
  • Education
  • High school diploma or equivalent (required)
  • Experience
  • Previous patient care experience or education in a human services field (preferred)
  • Work Environment & Physical Requirements
  • Active participation in patient care and ADLs
  • Ability to perform physical tasks, including:
    • Lifting
    • Turning
    • Assisting patient movement (sitting, standing, kneeling positions)
  • Independent Action & Teamwork
  • Work collaboratively with interdisciplinary teams, including:
    • Nurses
    • Social workers
    • Therapists
    • Physicians
  • Supervisory Responsibility
  • None

Pay Range: $18.04-$28.46

EEO Statement: Brown University Health is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and maintaining a work environment free from all forms of unlawful discrimination and harassment.

Location: Newport Hospital - 11 Friendship Street Newport, Rhode Island 02840

Work Type: 7p-730a

Work Shift: Night

Daily Hours: 12 hours

Driving Required: No

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