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Behavioral Health Associate Jobs in Washington, MO

Behavioral Health Technician

Wentzville, MO · On-site

$15.50 - $19.25/hr

Associate's degree in the behavioral health or a related field, or equivalent years of experience and education EXPERIENCE * No experience required PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS * Constant standing and ...

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Behavioral Health Associate information

See Washington, MO salary details

$12

$23

$35

How much do behavioral health associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for behavioral health associate in Washington, MO is $23.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.45 and $28.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 cities near Washington, MO are hiring for Behavioral Health Associate jobs?

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

Behavioral Health Technician

Wentzville, MO • On-site


SSM Health

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 551 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

498th of 893 rated healthcare providers

People enjoy working here

Recommended by students

Recommended by parents


$15.50 - $19.25/hr

Other

Medical

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

It's more than a career, it's a calling

MO-SSM Health St. Joseph Hospital - Wentzville

Worker Type:

Regular

Job Highlights:

Hours are from 7:00AM-7:30PM

Every third weekend -requirement

Strong therapeutic communication & able to conduct

educational groups skills are required

Join Our Team and make a difference every day while enjoying competitive pay, great benefits, and a supportive work environment.

We offer competitive, affordable health insurance and benefits designed to support you and your family

Fulfill your calling with SSM Health — apply today!

Job Summary:

Provides direct behavioral health patient care by performing a variety of activities for patients.

Job Responsibilities and Requirements:

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Assists patients with performing activities of daily living.

  • Provides or assists with providing direct patient care and therapeutic interventions based on patient care assignments from RN.

  • Observes and records patient behavior and activities. Reports any changes in condition and suggests modifications to the treatment plan.

  • Establishes a therapeutic relationship with assigned patients.

  • Applies knowledge of group dynamics in participating in therapeutic groups and maintaining the milieu.

  • Monitors patients to ensure safety, including but not limited to rounding, environmental and safety checks.

  • Works in a constant state of alertness and safe manner.

  • Performs other duties as assigned.

EDUCATION

  • Associate's degree in the behavioral health or a related field, or equivalent years of experience and education

EXPERIENCE

  • No experience required

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Constant standing and walking.

  • Frequent use of hearing and speech to share information through oral communication.

  • Frequent use of hearing to distinguish body sounds and/or hear alarms, malfunctioning machinery, etc.

  • Frequent lifting/carrying and pushing/pulling objects weighing 0-25 lbs.

  • Frequent reaching, gripping, and keyboard use/data entry.

  • Frequent use of vision for distances near (20 inches or less) and far (20 feet or more) and to identify and distinguish colors.

  • Occasional bending, stooping, crawling, kneeling, sitting, squatting and repetitive foot/leg and hand/arm movements.

  • Occasional use of vision to judge distances and spatial relationships.

  • Occasional lifting/carrying and pushing/pulling objects weighing 25-50 lbs.

  • Occasional lifting/moving patients.

  • Occasional use of smell to detect/recognize odors.

  • Occasional driving.

REQUIRED PROFESSIONAL LICENSE AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

State of Work Location: Illinois, Missouri, Oklahoma, Wisconsin

  • Basic Life Support HealthCare Provider (BLS HCP) - American Heart Association (AHA)

Work Shift:

Day Shift (United States of America)

Job Type:

Employee

Department:

1201020002 BHS - Adol WZ

Scheduled Weekly Hours:

24

Benefits:

SSM Health values our exceptional employees by offering a comprehensive benefits package to fit their needs.

  • Paid Parental Leave : we offer eligible team members one week of paid parental leave for newborns or newly adopted children (pro-rated based on FTE).

  • Flexible Payment Options: our voluntary benefit offered through DailyPay offers eligible hourly team members instant access to their earned, unpaid base pay (fees may apply) before payday.

  • Upfront Tuition Coverage : we provide upfront tuition coverage through FlexPath Funded for eligible team members.

Explore All Benefits (https://jobs.ssmhealth.com/us/en/benefits)

SSM Health is an equal opportunity employer. SSM Health does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, veteran status , or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. Click here to learn more. (https://www.ssmhealth.com/privacy-notices-terms-of-use/non-discrimination?_ga=2.205881493.704955970.1667719643-240470506.1667719643)


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