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Behavioral Health Associate Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Summit BHC

Behavioral Health Associate- Full Time | Mountain Laurel Recovery Center | Westfield, Pennsylvania About the Job: 12-hour shifts offered! The Behavioral Health Associate I serves as an integral part ...

Summit BHC

Behavioral Health Associate - PRN | Stone River Recovery Center | San Antonio, Texas About the Job: PURPOSE STATEMENT: The Behavioral Health Associate I serves as an integral part of the ...

Summit BHC

Behavioral Health Associate I | Mountain Laurel Recovery Center | Westfield, Pennsylvania About the Job: PURPOSE STATEMENT: The Behavioral Health Associate I serves as an integral part of the ...

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How much do behavioral health associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for behavioral health associate in Virginia is $25.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.52 and $31.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Do you need a degree to be a behavioral health associate?

A behavioral health associate typically does not need a college degree, but relevant certifications or training in mental health or social services are often required. Employers may prefer candidates with a high school diploma or equivalent and some experience working with clients or in healthcare settings.

What can I do with an associate's degree in behavioral health?

A behavioral health associate with an associate's degree can work in settings such as mental health clinics, hospitals, or community agencies, providing support and assisting with patient care. This role often involves skills in communication, documentation, and basic counseling, and may require certification or supervision depending on the state or organization.

What are some common challenges Behavioral Health Associates face during their shifts, and how can they effectively manage them?

Behavioral Health Associates often encounter challenging situations such as managing patients in crisis, de-escalating tense interactions, and maintaining safety in a dynamic environment. It is vital to stay calm under pressure, use therapeutic communication techniques, and follow established protocols to ensure both patient and staff safety. Regular team debriefings, ongoing training, and support from colleagues and supervisors also help associates process difficult experiences and maintain their own well-being.

What are the duties of a behavioral health associate?

A behavioral health associate provides support to individuals with mental health or substance use disorders by assisting with daily activities, monitoring client progress, and implementing treatment plans under supervision. They often document client behavior, facilitate group or individual sessions, and ensure a safe environment, requiring good communication skills and relevant certifications. The role typically involves working in healthcare or community settings and may require adherence to confidentiality and safety protocols.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Behavioral Health Associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Behavioral Health Associate, you need a background in psychology or a related field, knowledge of mental health disorders, and often a relevant certification such as Certified Behavioral Health Technician (CBHT). Familiarity with electronic health records (EHR), crisis intervention techniques, and de-escalation tools is typically required. Compassion, patience, and strong interpersonal communication skills help you effectively support patients and collaborate with healthcare teams. These skills ensure the safety, well-being, and recovery of patients in behavioral health settings.

What are Behavioral Health Associates?

Behavioral Health Associates are professionals who support individuals experiencing mental health or substance use challenges. They typically work in hospitals, residential treatment centers, or outpatient facilities, helping patients with daily activities, monitoring their well-being, and assisting with therapeutic interventions under the supervision of licensed clinicians. Their role is crucial in creating a safe and supportive environment, encouraging patients’ participation in treatment, and communicating observations to the healthcare team. Behavioral Health Associates may also help with crisis intervention and de-escalation, ensuring that patients receive compassionate and effective care.

What is the highest paying job in behavioral health?

The highest paying roles in behavioral health often include clinical directors, psychiatric nurse practitioners, and licensed psychologists, especially those with specialized certifications and extensive experience. These positions typically require advanced degrees, licensure, and leadership responsibilities, and they can offer salaries significantly higher than entry-level positions like behavioral health associates.
What are the most commonly searched types of Behavioral Health jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Behavioral Health jobs in Virginia are:
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Behavioral Health Associate jobs near you
Behavioral Health Associate

Behavioral Health Associate

Embark Behavioral Health

Alexandria, VA

$18 - $23/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago

Embark Behavioral Health rating

5.1

Company rating: 5.1 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

 

Full-Time Position

Hourly Pay: $18.00 - $23.00 per hour (DOE)

Shift Availability:

1pm - 11pm 

4-day work week / Alternating weekends

As a Behavioral Health Associate, you will work collaboratively with a multidisciplinary team to support adolescents ages (12-17) in their journey towards improved mental health and well-being. Every day you will participate and guide teens in experiential therapies like art, music, yoga, hiking, fitness, and a variety of other on and off campus activities. To thrive at Embark, you must have an empathetic heart and maintain personal and professional boundaries with teens.


  • Maintain safe boundaries and relationships with students and staff, utilizing verbal de-escalation or physical intervention techniques as needed.
  • Serve as a positive role model, fostering a supportive atmosphere and encouraging teen engagement in activities of daily living (ADLs) and coping skills.
  • Collaborate with Team Leads and Shift Supervisors to facilitate student schedules, ensure safety, and support daily campus operations.
  • Provide support during classroom instruction, campus events, and recreation therapy, actively engaging with students and staff.
  • Communicate important observations and updates to the Program Director, ensuring clear and timely information flow.
  • Document client progress notes daily at the end of each shift to track progress and ensure continuity of care.
  • Respond to feedback with a positive outlook while promoting a safe and empathetic environment for students

  • Age: 21+ years of age or older
  • Education: High school diploma or equivalent G.E.D required. Associates or bachelor's in human services, psychology, criminal justice, or related field is preferred.
  • Skills: Quick decision-making skills and a growth mindset with a focus on Embarks core values.
  • Experience: Min of 1 year of experience working with adolescent populations is preferred
  • Certifications: CPR and First Aid certification preferred, will provide training 
  • Background Checks: Must pass pre-employment drug screen and federal and state background check in accordance with Virginia state laws.

  • Access to an established Mastery Program that offers professional and financial opportunities for professional growth.
  • Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance – Multiple plan options including PPO and HDHPs with HSA eligibility and company contributions.
  • Paid Parental Leave – Up to 6 weeks fully paid for exempt employees and 4 weeks for non-exempt.
  • Life & Disability Coverage – Company-paid life, AD&D, and long-term disability; voluntary life and optional short-term disability available.
  • 401(k) with Company Match – Retirement savings with matching contributions after eligibility period.
  • PTO & Holidays – Competitive PTO accrual plans and paid holidays throughout the year.
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – Free, confidential support for life’s challenges.

Embark is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. We are committed to enriching the therapeutic and healing experience we offer through the diversity of our employees and community. We actively seek to recruit and support a broadly diverse staff who contribute to our excellence, diversity of viewpoints and experiences, and relevance in a global society.

Embark does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable laws. 

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