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Behavioral Health Assistant Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

Behavioral Health Technician

Andover, MA · On-site

$16.50 - $20.25/hr

Behavioral Health Technician Guidelight Health is a cutting-edge behavioral healthcare company ... Encourage client participation in treatment programming and daily activities. * Assist clients in ...

Behavioral Health Technician

Andover, MA

$16.50 - $20.25/hr

Guidelight Health is a cutting-edge behavioral healthcare company dedicated to transforming lives ... Encourage client participation in treatment programming and daily activities. * Assist clients in ...

Behavioral Health Clinician

Dorchester, MA · On-site

$65K - $89K/yr

SUMMARY : The Behavioral Health Clinician is based primarily in the Behavioral Health (BH ... Prepare appropriate transfer, discharge plans and assist clients in a therapeutic transition from ...

Behavioral Health Clinician

Dorchester, MA · On-site

$65K - $89K/yr

The Behavioral Health Clinician is based primarily in the Behavioral Health (BH) Department and ... Prepare appropriate transfer, discharge plans and assist clients in a therapeutic transition from ...

Behavioral Health Clinician

Dorchester, MA · On-site

$65K - $89K/yr

... assist clients in a therapeutic transition from services. • Use tests, measurements, and ... Behavioral Health department policy and procedures, including use of the EHR and use of DSM-5 ...

Behavioral Health Technician

Wilmington, MA · On-site

$17.75 - $21.75/hr

Behavioral Health Technician Come work at the North Shore's best Detox Facility. In addition to a ... The BHT is the liaison between patient and clinical/medical staff whose priority is to assist in ...

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Behavioral Health Assistant information

See Boston, MA salary details

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How much do behavioral health assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for behavioral health assistant in Boston, MA is $21.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.44 and $25.34 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 Boston, MA?

The most popular types of Behavioral Health jobs in Boston, MA are:

What are popular job titles related to Behavioral Health Assistant jobs in Boston, MA?

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

What cities near Boston, MA are hiring for Behavioral Health Assistant jobs?

Cities near Boston, MA with the most Behavioral Health Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Behavioral Health Assistant job openings in Boston, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 65% Full Time, and 35% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,372 per year, or $21.3 per hour.

Behavioral Health Associate - Evenings

Malden, MA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Overview

Behavioral Health Associate (BHA) - Tufts Medicine Behavioral Health Hospital

This is a full-time evening shift position, 3-11:30pm, 3 weekdays plus every other weekend.

Our BHAs are responsible for providing personal care services to patients at the facility under the direction of clinical or nursing leadership. 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.

Acadia Healthcare is a leading provider of behavioral healthcare services across the United States. Acadia operates a growing network of 250 plus behavioral healthcare facilities with approximately 11,100 beds in 39 states and Puerto Rico. With more than 23,000 employees serving approximately 75,000 patients daily, Acadia is the largest stand-alone behavioral health company in the U.S.

Acadia Healthcare's purpose is to Lead Care With Light and our mission is to be a world-class organization that sets the standard for excellence in the treatment of mental health and addiction concerns. We strive to maintain our standing as a thought leader in the behavioral healthcare industry, providing treatment that is synonymous with compassion and innovation.

Tufts Medicine, a leading integrated academic health system in Massachusetts, and Acadia Healthcare, the largest standalone provider of behavioral health services in the U.S., have partnered to create the Tufts Medicine Behavioral Health Hospital, a state-of-the-art, 144-bed facility in Malden, Massachusetts. Slated to open in February 2026, this hospital is designed to address the growing need for high-quality behavioral health services in the region.

The Tufts Medicine Behavioral Health Hospital will serve as a center of excellence, offering inpatient and intensive outpatient programs for patients of all ages. Additionally, it will function as a teaching hospital, providing a vital training site for future behavioral health professionals, including students and residents from the Tufts University School of Medicine. This initiative aims to address the regional shortage of behavioral health clinicians while ensuring a continuum of care for patients and their families.

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.

TUFBH

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Employment Type: FULL_TIME