1

Behavioral Health Assistant Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Behavioral Health Technician

Memphis, TN · On-site

$14.50 - $17.75/hr

Behavioral Health Technicians (BHT) at Woodland Recovery Center Behavioral Health Technicians (BHT ... Patient supervision and support * Assist in patient care, including conducting luggage and body ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Behavioral Health Assistant information

See Tennessee salary details

$7

$17

$25

How much do behavioral health assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for behavioral health assistant in Tennessee is $17.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.75 and $21.15 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 Tennessee?

The most popular types of Behavioral Health jobs in Tennessee are:

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

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

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

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

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Behavioral Health Assistant jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Behavioral Health Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Behavioral Health Assistant job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, and 26% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,072 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

Behavioral Health Associate

Louisville, TN • On-site

Village Behavioral Health
Offices of Mental Health Practitioners • 11 - 50 employees

$15.82/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

Overview

Hiring for Behavioral Health Technicians, at Village Behavioral Health!

Village Behavioral Health is a psychiatric residential treatment center that offers a full spectrum of treatment options for children and adolescents ages 9-17. A uniqueness about Village Behavioral Health is that we use nature as part of our therapeutic process. We are nestled in Louisville, TN right on the Tennessee River spread out over 65 wooded acres.

Available shifts:

  • FT Days 7:00am - 7:00pm (starting at $15.82/hr)
  • FT Nights 7:00pm - 7:00am (starting at $15.82/hr)
  • FT Evenings - 3:00pm - 11:00pm (starting at $15.82/hr)
  • PRN (Per diem) shifts available  ($15.07/hr.)
  • Shift differentials: 
    • Weekday Nights (Mon. 7pm - Thurs. 7am) - +$1.25/hr
    • Weekend Days (Fri. 7am - Sun. 7pm) - +$2.00/hr 
    • Weekend Nights (Fri. 7pm - Mon. 7am) - +$4.00/hr
Responsibilities

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

  • Demonstrate a sense of urgency related to the importance of patient safety and provide 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. 
  • Interact routinely with patients, observe behaviors and communicate significant observations to nursing staff. 
  • May oversee or assist patients with activities of daily living, including toileting, bathing, dressing, grooming, oral hygiene, meals, snacks, hydration and changing bed linens.  
  • May obtain patient's vital signs, height and weight as assigned and document in patient record.  
  • Facilitate patient educational-rehabilitative groups which cover a variety of topics including social skills, coping skills, anger management and independent living skills. 
  • Engage patients in activities and interactions designed to encourage achievement of treatment goals.  
  • Complete and maintain required documentation.  Assist with follow-up and paperwork as required on incidents and events that may take place in the facility.  
  • May provide transportation for patient or coordinate transportation with appropriate staff member. 
  • 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 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.

#VILLBH

Employment Type: FULL_TIME