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Behavioral Health Associates Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Calo Programs is hiring Behavioral Health Associates -also known as Direct Support Professionals (DSPs), Youth Care Workers, Residential Counselors, Youth Mentors, or Behavioral Health Technicians ...

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Behavioral Health Associates information

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$13

$26

$40

How much do behavioral health associates jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for behavioral health associates in the United States is $26.08, 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 jobs pay 10,000 a month without a degree?

Behavioral Health Associates typically do not earn $10,000 a month without advanced education or specialized certifications. High-paying roles that can reach this level without a degree often include sales, real estate, entrepreneurship, or skilled trades like plumbing or electrical work, which rely on experience and skills rather than formal education.

What are Behavioral Health Associates?

Behavioral Health Associates are professionals who support individuals dealing with mental health, emotional, or behavioral issues. They typically work alongside psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and other healthcare providers to assist with patient care, counseling, case management, and treatment planning. Their responsibilities may include conducting intake interviews, monitoring patient progress, facilitating group or individual therapy sessions, and connecting clients with community resources. Behavioral Health Associates play a vital role in helping clients achieve better mental and emotional well-being.

What are some common challenges Behavioral Health Associates face when working with diverse patient populations?

Behavioral Health Associates often work with patients from varied backgrounds, each with unique mental health needs and cultural perspectives. One common challenge is building trust and effective communication with individuals who may be hesitant or unfamiliar with behavioral health services. Additionally, associates must adapt their approach to respect cultural sensitivities and tailor interventions accordingly. Ongoing training in cultural competence and trauma-informed care is essential to successfully navigate these challenges and provide inclusive, effective support.

Can I be a BHT without a degree?

Behavioral Health Associates, often called BHTs, typically need a high school diploma or equivalent to qualify for entry-level positions. Some employers may require or prefer relevant training or certification, but a college degree is generally not mandatory for this role.

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, counseling, or social work, typically with at least a high school diploma or associate degree and relevant experience or certifications (such as CPR or crisis intervention). Familiarity with electronic health records (EHRs), patient monitoring systems, and documentation protocols is important for daily tasks. Strong interpersonal skills, empathy, and the ability to remain calm under pressure help you effectively support patients and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams. These competencies ensure the safe, ethical, and compassionate care of individuals with behavioral health needs.

What is the highest paying job in behavioral health?

In behavioral health, licensed clinical psychologists and psychiatrists tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding $100,000 annually. These roles require advanced degrees, licensure, and specialized training, and they typically work in clinical or hospital settings with a focus on mental health diagnosis and treatment.

What can you do with an Associates in behavioral health?

An associate's degree in behavioral health prepares individuals for entry-level roles such as behavioral health technician, mental health aide, or case aide. These positions involve supporting clients, assisting with treatment plans, and working under supervision in healthcare or community settings. Additional certifications or training may be required for certain roles.

What is the difference between Behavioral Health Associates vs Mental Health Technicians?

AspectBehavioral Health AssociatesMental Health Technicians
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certificationHigh school diploma or equivalent; certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentHospitals, mental health clinics, residential facilitiesHospitals, psychiatric units, community mental health centers
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly employed in behavioral health settings, assisting with patient careOften found in psychiatric hospitals and mental health facilities, supporting treatment

Behavioral Health Associates and Mental Health Technicians share similar roles in supporting mental health patients, often working in similar environments. While both roles typically require a high school diploma and may involve certification, the specific job duties can vary slightly based on employer and setting. Understanding these differences can help job seekers identify the right position for their skills and career goals.

More about Behavioral Health Associates jobs
What cities are hiring for Behavioral Health Associates jobs? Cities with the most Behavioral Health Associates job openings:
What states have the most Behavioral Health Associates jobs? States with the most job openings for Behavioral Health Associates jobs include:
Infographic showing various Behavioral Health Associates job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 7% As Needed, 33% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 32% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,253 per year, or $26.1 per hour.
Behavioral Health Associate

$18 - $23/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

 

Behavioral Health Associate - Alexandria, VA

Pay $18.00 - $23.00 per hour (DOE)

Full-Time

Shift Available:

1pm-11pm 

4-day work week / Alternating weekends

Creating Joy, Healing Generations

Are you empathetic, patient, and committed to empowering adolescents on their journey towards sustainable mental wellness?

As a Behavioral Health Associate, you will work collaboratively with a multidisciplinary team to support adolescents ages (12-17) in their journey towards improved mental health and well-being. Every day you will participate and guide teens in experiential therapies like art, music, yoga, hiking, fitness, and a variety of other on and off campus activities. To thrive at Embark, you must have an empathetic heart and maintain personal and professional boundaries with teens.

At Embark our mission is to lead the way in driving teen and young adult anxiety, depression, and suicide from the all-time highs of today to all-time lows by 2028.

We warmly welcome EMTs to apply for this position! Your experience in emergency medical care and crisis management makes you uniquely qualified to transition into the Behavioral Health Technician role.


  • Maintain safe boundaries and relationships with students and staff, utilizing verbal de-escalation or physical intervention techniques as needed.
  • Serve as a positive role model, fostering a supportive atmosphere and encouraging teen engagement in activities of daily living (ADLs) and coping skills.
  • Collaborate with Team Leads and Shift Supervisors to facilitate student schedules, ensure safety, and support daily campus operations.
  • Provide support during classroom instruction, campus events, and recreation therapy, actively engaging with students and staff.
  • Communicate important observations and updates to the Program Director, ensuring clear and timely information flow.
  • Document client progress notes daily at the end of each shift to track progress and ensure continuity of care.
  • Respond to feedback with a positive outlook while promoting a safe and empathetic environment for students

  • Age: 21+ years of age or older
  • Education: High school diploma or equivalent G.E.D required. Associates or bachelor's in human services, psychology, criminal justice, or related field is preferred.
  • Skills: Quick decision-making skills and a growth mindset with a focus on Embarks core values.
  • Experience: Min of 1 year of experience working with adolescent populations is preferred
  • Certifications: CPR and First Aid certification preferred, will provide training 
  • Background Checks: Must pass pre-employment drug screen and federal and state background check in accordance with Virginia state laws.

  • Access to an established Mastery Program that offers professional and financial opportunities for professional growth.
  • Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance – Multiple plan options including PPO and HDHPs with HSA eligibility and company contributions.
  • Paid Parental Leave – Up to 6 weeks fully paid for exempt employees and 4 weeks for non-exempt.
  • Life & Disability Coverage – Company-paid life, AD&D, and long-term disability; voluntary life and optional short-term disability available.
  • 401(k) with Company Match – Retirement savings with matching contributions after eligibility period.
  • PTO & Holidays – Competitive PTO accrual plans and paid holidays throughout the year.
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – Free, confidential support for life’s challenges.

 

Embark is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. We are committed to enriching the therapeutic and healing experience we offer through the diversity of our employees and community. We actively seek to recruit and support a broadly diverse staff who contribute to our excellence, diversity of viewpoints and experiences, and relevance in a global society.

Embark does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable laws. 

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