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Behavioral Health Associate Jobs in Baltimore, MD

Behavioral Health Technician PRN

Olney, MD · On-site

$19.55 - $34.25/hr

Associate degree OR 2 years' experience in the mental health/addictions field. * Minimum 6 months equivalent experience in hospital/behavioral health setting for those with an Associate's degree.

Behavioral Health Technician PRN

Olney, MD · On-site

$19.55 - $34.25/hr

Associate degree OR 2 years' experience in the mental health/addictions field. * Minimum 6 months equivalent experience in hospital/behavioral health setting for those with an Associate's degree.

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Behavioral Health Associate information

See Baltimore, MD salary details

$13

$25

$39

How much do behavioral health associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for behavioral health associate in Baltimore, MD is $25.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.57 and $32.02 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 Baltimore, MD? The most popular types of Behavioral Health jobs in Baltimore, MD are:
What cities near Baltimore, MD are hiring for Behavioral Health Associate jobs? Cities near Baltimore, MD with the most Behavioral Health Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Behavioral Health Associate job openings in Baltimore, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,908 per year, or $25.9 per hour.

Behavioral Health Associate II

University of Maryland Medical System

Aberdeen, MD • On-site

$17.68 - $24.76/hr

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

Job Requirements

Behavioral Health Associate II


Upper Chesapeake Health - Aberdeen, MD


Work Schedule - Monday -Friday 8:00 am-4:30 pm


Behavioral Health Clinician Associate II's act as an extension of the Behavioral Health Clinician and psychiatric provider(s). Regardless of acute psychiatric treatment setting, the BHC Associate II, working in collaboration with the behavioral health team, medical team, and community stakeholders, is responsible for assisting with tasks that are program specific but center around initiating/coordinating placement in appropriate level of care and/or aftercare planning for patients in order to ensure a smooth transition back into the community once symptoms are stabilized. Familiar with community resources and able to make referrals to community organizations/ programs based on identified treatment needs. Maintains ongoing professional relationships with community organizations for ease of referrals, etc. Assists with obtaining insurance authorizations for treatment as needed, obtaining collateral information related to patient care/assessment, and help with completing psychiatric scales/measurement-based tools.


Work Experience

Education & Training: Associates Degree required. Education may be substituted with two (2) years of previous work experience serving persons with chronic mental illness or working in an acute care setting. Bachelor's Degree in Human Services related field preferred. 

Work Orientation & Experience: Minimum one (1) year previous experience working with acute mental illness and those impacted by trauma is required; two (2) years of experience serving persons with chronic mental illness is preferred. Must be familiar with community resources and referral processes. 

Skills & Abilities: 1) Ability to effectively communicate with patients, family members, medical team members and community stakeholders in a fast-paced setting; 2) Engage with patients in a patient centered, trauma-informed manner; and 3 ) Thorough understanding of HIPAA requirements and confidentiality as it relates to care provided.)


Benefits

Compensation

  • Pay Range: $17.68- $24.76
  • Other Compensation (if applicable): n/a

Review the 2025-2026 UMMS Benefits Guide

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Employment Type: FULL_TIME