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Behavioral Health Associate Jobs in Festus, MO (NOW HIRING)

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Behavioral Health Associate information

See Festus, MO salary details

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How much do behavioral health associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for behavioral health associate in Festus, MO is $22.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.73 and $27.36 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 cities near Festus, MO are hiring for Behavioral Health Associate jobs?

Cities near Festus, MO with the most Behavioral Health Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Behavioral Health Associate job openings in Festus, MO as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,046 per year, or $22.1 per hour.

Behavioral Health Associate - full time - Mercy Jefferson

Mercy

Valmeyer, IL

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Mercy rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 209 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

605th of 887 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Find your calling at Mercy! Under the supervision of the registered nurse, assist in the individualized care of the patient directed toward achieving the patients highest level of physical and mental wellness. Performs designated clinical procedures and non-clinical support tasks essential to nursing care. Assists in unit operational support tasks or duties. Performs duties and responsibilities in manner consistent with our mission, values, and Mercy Service Standards. Position Details: Behavioral Health Tech36 hours per week, DaysMercy Hospital JeffersonFestus, MO 63028

Mercy Behavioral Health Services provides a structured and therapeutic environment to individuals suffering from psychiatric illness, behavioral disorders and substance use disorder. Here at Mercy our dedicated multi-disciplinary team promotes a structured therapeutic program to help those in crisis through evaluation, education, medication therapy, individual and group therapy and relapse prevention.

Qualifications:

  • Education: High school diploma, G.E.D., CNA/CPCT or enrolled in a healthcare career program through their high school curriculum, and/or a current co-worker of Mercy.

  • Experience: If no previous experience, Mercy will provide a required 175-hour training program that meets the state of practice Department of Health and Senior Services requirements. The program will be completed as part of the new hire orientation process and must be completed within 90 days of hire to remain in the PCT position per state guidelines.

  • Certifications: BLS Required within one month of hire, completion of PCT competencies within 3 months of hire.

  • Other: Minimum Physical Requirements- Position requires individuals to push, pull, and/or lift 50 pounds on a regular basis.- Position requires prolonged standing and walking each shift.- Position requires the ability to grip, reach, bend, kneel, twist, and squat to perform duties.

  • Preferred Experience: EMT, Paramedic or Previous Patient Care Experience.- Preferred Certifications: Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), Advanced Unlicensed Assistant (AUA) in the state of practice, Certified Patient Care Technician (CPCT).

Why Mercy?

From day one, Mercy offers outstanding benefits - including medical, dental, and vision coverage, paid time off, tuition support, and matched retirement plans for team members working 32+ hours per pay period.

Join a caring, collaborative team where your voice matters. At Mercy, you'll help shape the future of healthcare through innovation, technology, and compassion. As we grow, you'll grow with us.


keyword(s): Behavioral health psych psychiatric BHT behavioral disorder Behavioral Health Services psychiatric illness behavioral disorders substance use disorder

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About Mercy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Our mission is clear. We bring to life a healing ministry through our compassionate care and exceptional service. At Mercy, we believe in careers that match the unique gifts of unique individuals - careers that not only make the most of your skills and talents, but also your heart.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Chesterfield, MO, US

Year founded

1827