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Behavioral Health Associate Jobs in Albany, OR (NOW HIRING)

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Behavioral Health Associate information

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$13

$26

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How much do behavioral health associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for behavioral health associate in Albany, OR is $26.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.66 and $32.16 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 is a behavioral health associate?

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 are the most commonly searched types of Behavioral Health jobs in Albany, OR?

The most popular types of Behavioral Health jobs in Albany, OR are:

What job categories do people searching Behavioral Health Associate jobs in Albany, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for Behavioral Health Associate jobs in Albany, OR are:

What cities near Albany, OR are hiring for Behavioral Health Associate jobs?

Cities near Albany, OR with the most Behavioral Health Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Behavioral Health Associate job openings in Albany, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,139 per year, or $26 per hour.

Mental Health Associate - Forensics

Linn County Department of Health Services

Albany, OR • On-site

$4.7K - $6.0K/mo

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

Description Mental Health Associate 1 - Forensics Team Mental Health Department (Classification 755) SEIU Represented Full-Time (37.5 hours/week) position This position is open until filled. First review of applications will be on July 15, 2026. Any applications received after July 15 will be reviewed and considered as needed, and this posting may close at any time after that date

Linn County requires on-site work. Remote work is not available. Job Summary The Qualified Mental Health Associate (QMHA) assigned to the Forensics Team, provides community based skills training, case management, and competency restoration support to individuals who have been found unable to aid and assist in their own defense due to mental illness.

Under the clinical supervision of a Qualified Mental Health Professional (QMHP), the QMHA implements individualized service plans designed to support stabilization, treatment engagement, and restoration of competency. Core duties include providing psychoeducation regarding court processes and roles within the legal system; assisting clients in developing coping, communication, and daily living skills; monitoring client progress toward restoration goals; coordinating services with courts, attorneys, corrections staff, and community providers; transporting clients to appointments and court as appropriate; and documenting all services in accordance with program policies, Medicaid requirements, and applicable Oregon Administrative Rules. The position requires the ability to work effectively with justice involved individuals experiencing serious mental illness, manage complex and high risk situations in community settings, and collaborate as part of a multidisciplinary forensic behavioral health team.

Minimum Qualifications Bachelor's Degree in psychology, social work, counseling or closely related behavior science field preferred; or four years of progressive experience in a mental health service program involving general client needs; or any satisfactory equivalent combination of experience, education and training which demonstrates the ability to perform the work described. Registration with The Mental Health and Addictions Certification Board of Oregon (MHACBO) as a Qualified Mental Health Associate-R (QMHA-R) or Qualified Mental Health Associate (QMHA) I within 30 days of employment. Must be able to be credentialed as a Qualified Mental Health Associate with all Medicaid insurances.

Must be able to pass a criminal history check and not be on the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) disqualified list. Possession of a valid motor vehicle operator's license and an acceptable driving record that meets the county's requirements. This is a non-supervisory position.

Lead work and coordination of work of others is not a typical function assigned to this position. Incumbents in this position may provide training and orientation to newly assigned personnel. PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT: Work is generally performed in an office environment under usual office working conditions.

Work involves traveling all over Linn County including operation of a motor vehicle and movement from the vehicle to the office, clinics, community agencies, or schools. Within the office, typical office environment noise levels exist with some telephones, personal interruptions, and background noise. In the performance of job duties, the employee is required to remain in a stationary position most of the time and occasionally move to access and use office machinery or engage with other County employees and members of the public.

Position requires regularly attending meetings for prolonged periods of time and frequently communicating with County employees and members of the public to exchange information. Position requires interacting and accommodating individuals experiencing communication barriers and behavioral support needs. Must occasionally lift and/or move up to thirty (30) pounds.

Manual dexterity and coordination are required while operating equipment including, but not limited to, phone system and personal computer including word processing, spreadsheets and data base software; computerized record systems; copy and fax machines, calculator, computer keyboard, video display terminal and other related tools and equipment. Position requires the ability to operate a motor vehicle in order to travel between offices and in the community. Some out of County and overnight travel may be required for training.

May be required to flex schedule in order to accommodate community members and complete work. Special Requirements VISA SPONSORSHIP Linn County does not offer VISA sponsorship. Within three days of hire, applicants will be required to complete the US Department of Homeland Security's I-9 form confirming authorization to work in the United States.

If your employment authorization and documentation is contingent on sponsorship now or in the future, you will not meet Agency employment eligibility standards. Linn County is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer