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Behavioral Health Associate Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Ascension Alexian Brothers Behavioral Health Hospital Department: Geriatric Psychiatry Unit ... We empower our 97,000+ associates to bring their skills and expertise every day to reimagining ...

Ascension Alexian Brothers Behavioral Health Hospital Department: Geriatric Psychiatry Unit ... We empower our 97,000+ associates to bring their skills and expertise every day to reimagining ...

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Behavioral Health Associate information

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$13

$26

$40

How much do behavioral health associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for behavioral health associate in Chicago, IL is $26.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.71 and $32.21 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 Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Behavioral Health jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What job categories do people searching Behavioral Health Associate jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Behavioral Health Associate jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Behavioral Health Associate jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Behavioral Health Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Behavioral Health Associate job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 3% Temporary. Highlights an 91% In-person, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,216 per year, or $26.1 per hour.

Mental Health Associate II - Palatine - Day Shift

Endeavor Health

Palatine, IL

$26.61 - $39.92/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


Endeavor Health rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 396 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

381st of 887 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Hourly Pay Range:

$26.61 - $39.92 - The hourly pay rate offered is determined by a candidate's expertise and years of experience, among other factors.

Position Highlights:

  • Position: Mental Health Associate II

  • Location:  Palatine

  • Full Time/Part Time: Full Time

  • Hours: Day Shift 7:30-4:00

What you will do:

Provides direct care to patients with psychiatric disorders by participating in treatment planning and implementation.  Precepts new employees to the unit.  Trains new Behavioral Health Associates to conduct groups. Supports the maintenance of therapeutic milieu.  Conducts program in services as directed.  Ensures the safety and well-being of the patients. Maintains documentation according to department/organization procedures.

What you will need:

Education, Skills and/or Experience Required:

  • A Bachelor's Degree in a Behavioral Health related field

  • A minimum of one year of experience in behavioral health

  • Maintain information as highly confidential

  • Ability to exercise self-control in potentially volatile situations, such as being verbally or physically confronted in a threatening or aggressive manner

  • Ability to maintain professional boundaries and willingness to seek supervision

 Education, Skills and/or Experience Preferred:

  • Minimum of three years of previous psychiatric experience

  • Familiarity with medical and psychological terminology

  • Skills in teaching or assisting with activities of daily living

  • Prior experience with therapeutic limit-setting, along with milieu management

3.          Licensure and/or Certification Required:

  • A valid driver’s license is required. If the incumbent uses their personal vehicle to perform work related duties at an off-site location, the incumbent must maintain automobile liability coverage as required by law and evidence of such coverage may be requested

  • CPI (Crisis Prevention Intervention) certification within 90 days of hire

  • Current CPR Certification issued by either American Heart Association

Benefits:

  • Career Pathways to Promote Professional Growth and Development

  • Various Medical, Dental, Pet and Vision options

  • Tuition Reimbursement

  • Free Parking

  • Wellness Program Savings Plan

  • Health Savings Account Options

  • Retirement Options with Company Match

  • Paid Time Off and Holiday Pay

  • Community Involvement Opportunities

Endeavor Health is a fully integrated healthcare delivery system committed to providing access to quality, vibrant, community-connected care, serving an area of more than 4.2 million residents across six northeast Illinois counties. Our more than 25,000 team members and more than 6,000 physicians aim to deliver transformative patient experiences and expert care close to home across more than 300 ambulatory locations and eight acute care hospitals – Edward (Naperville), Elmhurst, Evanston, Glenbrook (Glenview), Highland Park, Northwest Community (Arlington Heights) Skokie and Swedish (Chicago) – all recognized as Magnet hospitals for nursing excellence. For more information, visit www.endeavorhealth.org.  

When you work for Endeavor Health, you will be part of an organization that encourages its employees to achieve career goals and maximize their professional potential.

Please explore our website (www.endeavorhealth.org) to better understand how Endeavor Health delivers on its mission to “help everyone in our communities be their best”. 

Endeavor Health is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities. Please refer to the main career page for more information.

At Endeavor Health, we are united by a shared commitment to working together to create a culture of connection and belonging—each of us bringing different skills and experiences as we deliver safe, seamless, and personal care. Every person, every time. We are committed to fostering an environment where all team members can be their best, learn, and pursue excellence together.

EOE: Race/Color/Sex/Sexual Orientation/ Gender Identity/Religion/National Origin/Disability/Vets, VEVRRA Federal Contractor.


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