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Behavioral Health Assistant Jobs in Lexington, SC

Job Title Palmetto Lowcountry Behavioral Health serves the state of South Carolina with a broad ... Effectively communicate with unit staff and assist patient to unit. Complete nursing admission ...

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Behavioral Health Assistant information

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How much do behavioral health assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for behavioral health assistant in Lexington, SC is $16.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.98 and $19.95 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 Lexington, SC?

The most popular types of Behavioral Health jobs in Lexington, SC are:

What job categories do people searching Behavioral Health Assistant jobs in Lexington, SC look for?

The top searched job categories for Behavioral Health Assistant jobs in Lexington, SC are:

What cities near Lexington, SC are hiring for Behavioral Health Assistant jobs?

Cities near Lexington, SC with the most Behavioral Health Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Behavioral Health Assistant job openings in Lexington, SC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, and 30% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $34,962 per year, or $16.8 per hour.

Nursing Assistant (Non-Certified) / Behavioral Health Assistant (Harris Hospital)

State of South Carolina

Cayce, SC • On-site

$32K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago


State Of South Carolina rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

24th of 50 rated states


Job description

Job Responsibilities Are you passionate about making a real difference in people's lives. Join our team at the Office of Mental Health where we are dedicated to providing compassionate and accessible care to our community. We are seeking a Nursing Assistant Non-Certified who is motivated to help individuals and families navigate life's challenges and achieve long-term wellness.

If you want to use your skills to build a healthier, more resilient community, we encourage you to apply. This position is located at the SC Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities (BHDD) - Office of Mental Health, Patrick B. Harris Psychiatric Hospital, 130 SC-252, Anderson, SC 29621.

As the Behavioral Health Assistant (BHA), working under direct supervision of licensed nursing personnel, you will perform routine and specialized patient care duties to psychiatric patients on any assigned unit. You will apply knowledge in age-specific criteria and advanced therapeutic interventions with psychiatric patients including those who have diverse backgrounds, disabilities and co-occurring disorders. Responsibilities for the Nursing Assistant (Non-Certified): Observe, monitor and report patients' physical and behavioral conditions, including those who have diverse backgrounds, disabilities and co-occurring disorders, with consideration to age-specific interventions.

Document pertinent information in the clinical record. Relay patient's therapeutic activities to treatment team. Assist patients with their personal needs, including bathing, dressing, ambulating and oral hygiene.

Care for patients with, disabilities and co-occurring disorders. Use appropriate body mechanics when stooping, bending, and lifting. Engage with patients in conversation and activities to encourage community participation.

Plan and implement patient care activities and groups based on individual treatment plans. Utilize age-specific interventions. Take and record patient's vital signs, including temperature, blood pressure, pulse, respiration, and oxygen saturation.

Collect specimens. Precept new Behavioral Health Assistants to a designated lodge. May be chosen to model outstanding patient care practices and policy and procedure adherence throughout.

Responsible for the orientation and care management instructions for new BHAs assigned to the unit. Maintain clinical competency by mastering/qualifying required mandatory and non-mandatory in-services/training during this rating period (e.g. MANDT/MAPS, CPR, SCEIS courses, cross training, and age-specific criteria)

Minimum and Additional Requirements A high school diploma or GED. Additional Requirements: Ability to lift up to fifty (50) pounds; ability to see, hear at normal volumes, stand, walk, reach, pull, stoop, bend and climb at least two (2) flights of stairs. Ability to tolerate noise level and circulate in patient areas for long periods.

Must be able to work with repetitive patient behaviors. Possible exposure to blood/body fluids. Preferred Qualifications Health care or related experience.

Knowledge of nursing procedures, personal hygiene, basic health and safety practices, basic human anatomy. Bilingual abilities in English and Spanish (or another language) are a plus. Additional Comments Post hire, employees must: Successfully complete the Basic Fundamentals course with a minimum grade of 75.

Be able to pass CPR and have the ability to perform MANDT and emergency care during emergencies. Have knowledge of nursing procedures, personal hygiene, basic health and safety practices, basic human anatomy. The Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions including, but not limited, to lactation), national origin, age (40 or older), disability or genetic information.

Supplemental questions are considered part of your official application. Any misrepresentation will result in your disqualification from employment. Please complete the state application to include all current and previous work history and education.

A resume will not be accepted nor reviewed to determine if an applicant has met the qualifications for the position. The Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities offers an exceptional benefits package for full time (FTE) employees: Health, dental, vision, long-term disability, and life insurance for employees, spouse, and children. Click here for additional information.

15 days annual (vacation) leave per year 15 days sick leave per year 13 paid holidays Paid Parental Leave S.C. Deferred Compensation Program available (S.C. Deferred Compensation) Retirement benefit choices * State Retirement Plan (SCRS) State Optional Retirement Program (State ORP) *Enrollment in one of the listed plans is required for all FTE employees; please refer to the contribution section of hyperlinked retirement sites for the current contribution rate of gross pay

60028185, 60014066, 60029553, 60013823, 60028195, 60028942


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About State of South Carolina

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

State of South Carolina is not a typical corporation, but the governing body of the US state of South Carolina, located in the capital city of Columbia. Its industry focuses on public administration, providing key essential services to ensure the efficient functioning of the state. These services range from public safety and environment protection to education, healthcare, and economic development. The state was founded in 1788, grounded in democratic principles meant to support the overall well-being of its citizenry. Its core values revolve around service, integrity, accountability, and transparency. The mission of the State of South Carolina is to improve the quality of life for all its people, with a focus on education advancement, economic growth, and improved healthcare.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Columbia, SC, US

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