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Behavioral Health Associate Jobs in Decatur, GA (NOW HIRING)

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Behavioral Health Associate information

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$39

How much do behavioral health associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for behavioral health associate in Decatur, GA is $25.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $31.44 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 Decatur, GA? The most popular types of Behavioral Health jobs in Decatur, GA are:
What job categories do people searching Behavioral Health Associate jobs in Decatur, GA look for? The top searched job categories for Behavioral Health Associate jobs in Decatur, GA are:
What cities near Decatur, GA are hiring for Behavioral Health Associate jobs? Cities near Decatur, GA with the most Behavioral Health Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Behavioral Health Associate job openings in Decatur, GA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,969 per year, or $25.5 per hour.
Assessment Specialist- Behavioral Health,Days

Assessment Specialist- Behavioral Health,Days

Piedmont Healthcare Inc.

Snellville, GA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago


Piedmont Healthcare rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 457 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

377th of 881 rated healthcare providers


Job description

The Assessment Specialist, in conjunction with the Intake Manager, coordinates the pre-admission assessment process and provides clinical assessments for potential patients. The Assessment Specialist responds to all calls for information related to psychiatric resources and inquiries about psychiatric services offered. The Assessment Specialist assists callers with accessing the most appropriate level of service and service provider, to meet the needs of the patient. This position works collaboratively with the Intake team to perform behavioral health assessments and coordinate psychiatric resources and information for patients.

FULL-TIME SCHEDULE: 3 SHIFTS PER WEEK, EACH SHIFT 12 HOURS


This position in conjunction with the Intake Manager, coordinates the pre-admission assessment process and provides clinical assessments for potential patients. The Assessment Specialist responds to all calls for information related to psychiatric resources and inquiries about psychiatric services offered. The Assessment Specialist assists callers with accessing the most appropriate level of service and service provider, to meet the needs of the patient. This position works collaboratively with the Intake team to perform behavioral health assessments and coordinate psychiatric resources and information for patients.

FULL-TIME SCHEDULE: 3 SHIFTS PER WEEK, EACH SHIFT 12 HOURS


Education
  • Masters degree in Social Work, Counseling, Marriage and Family Therapy or related field and holds a professional license as an independent mental health professional within the State of Georgia Required or
  • Associates Degree in Nursing Required
  • Masters degree in Nursing Preferred
Work Experience
  • 3 years of experience in a behavioral healthcare setting performing clinical assessments or in a clinical treatment setting Required
Licenses and Certifications
  • Licensed to perform clinical assessments to determine level of care needs and to provide a diagnostic impression according to the current version of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual Upon Hire Required and
  • Must hold and maintain current licensure as a mental health professional, such as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW), Licensed Associate Professional Counselor (LAPC), Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Associate Marriage Family Therapist (LAMFT), Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), or RN license in the State of Georgia Upon Hire Required and
  • BCLS - Basic Life Support American Red Cross or American Heart Association Basic Life Support Course (BLS or BCLS) and Certification Upon Hire Required and
  • CPI Certified within 90 days of hire within 90 Days Required

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