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Behavioral Health Assistant Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Ballad Health

Behavioral Health Technician

Johnson City, TN · On-site

$15.50 - $19.25/hr

Behavioral Health Technician (7a-7p) - Johnson City, TN Woodridge Hospital | Behavioral Health ... The BHT will assist patients with activities of daily living. This individual will perform basic ...

Bradford at Warrior

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 ...

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How much do behavioral health assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 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 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.

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.

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 or requiring postsecondary training or certification, which can take a few months to a year. On-the-job training is common, and gaining relevant skills or certifications in mental health or healthcare can enhance job prospects and may influence the time needed to start working in the role.
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:
Behavioral Health Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Behavioral Health Assistant job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,072 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

Mental Health Assistant - Various Shifts

Alan B. Miller Medical Center

Nashville, TN • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Mental Health Assistant

The Mental Health Assistant participates in the development and implementation of clients' behavioral programs by providing care and close supervision of facility clients and documenting behavior, by developing positive relationships with clients and co-workers and following facility policies and procedures, by implementing treatment plans and providing crisis intervention as necessary.

Job duties and responsibilities include:

  • Implement individualized treatment plans through continuous line-of-sight supervision.
  • Maintain facility safety through close observation, alertness, and proactive risk awareness.
  • Promote client participation in individual and group activities with positive guidance and encouragement.
  • Complete accurate, timely documentation of client behavior and daily activities.
  • Apply and develop counseling skills under clinical supervision in individual or group settings.
  • Ensure clients' basic needs are met, including hygiene, clothing, and linens.
  • Escort and supervise clients during meals, recreation, education, and medical appointments.
  • Respond to crises using de-escalation techniques and sound safety judgment.
  • Use effective communication, boundaries, and positive reinforcement to support a healthy peer environment.
  • Perform other related duties as assigned.

Benefit highlights include:

  • Paid medical, dental, vision, 401K match, prescription drug plans
  • Stock purchase
  • Competitive compensation & generous paid time off
  • SoFi student loan refinancing program
  • Career development opportunities within UHS and its subsidiaries
  • Free meals

Qualifications:

  • BS/BA degree and/or one year direct care experience or supervised practicum in lieu of the experience preferred
  • High school diploma (or equivalency) and behavioral health experience in lieu of bachelor's degree
  • Behavioral health and residential setting experience preferred
  • Must be at least 21 years of age
  • Must be able to complete a mandatory, two-week new hire orientation (M-F)

This role requires a full background check including fingerprint, drug screen, and employment verification.

EO Statement: All UHS subsidiaries are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and teammates. UHS subsidiaries are equal opportunity employers and as such, openly support and fully commit to recruitment, selection, placement, promotion and compensation of individuals without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), genetic information, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

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