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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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$26

$40

How much do behavioral health associates jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 19, 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.

Is being a BHT a stressful job?

Behavioral Health Associates often work in high-pressure environments that involve managing challenging behaviors and emotional situations, which can contribute to job stress. The level of stress varies depending on the work setting, workload, and support systems, but it is generally considered a demanding role requiring strong coping skills and emotional resilience.

What can I do with an associate's degree in behavioral health?

Behavioral Health Associates 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. They often perform tasks like monitoring clients, documenting progress, and supporting treatment plans, sometimes requiring basic certifications or training in CPR or first aid.

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.

What does a behavioral health associate do?

A behavioral health associate provides support to individuals with mental health or substance use issues by assisting with daily activities, monitoring progress, and implementing treatment plans under supervision. They often work in clinical or community settings and may need certification or training in mental health practices. Their role involves direct client interaction and documentation of behavioral observations.

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 typically require advanced degrees, licensure, and specialized training, and they often work in clinical or hospital settings with a focus on mental health diagnosis and treatment.

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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 26% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,253 per year, or $26.1 per hour.
Behavioral Health Associate - On Call

Behavioral Health Associate - On Call

COMPREHENSIVE HEALTHCARE

College Place, WA

$20.24 - $30.36/hr

Other

Re-posted 26 days ago


Job description

Who is Comprehensive Healthcare?
Comprehensive Healthcare provides innovative behavioral health and integrated healthcare services to clients of all ages. We take pride in our creative and collaborative work environment and in delivering clinically excellent, trauma-informed, recovery-oriented services.
What are we looking for in a Behavioral Health Associate?
Behavioral Health Associates provide care, support, and a safe living environment for individuals residing within our 24-hour inpatient and residential facilities. Behavioral Health Associates follow trauma-informed care practices to support clients in stabilizing symptoms and learning illness management skills with the goal of improving quality of life. This position is supported by a multidisciplinary team that includes nurses, therapists, prescribers, and other direct care staff. This Behavioral Health Associate position is On-Call and as-needed, with no set schedule. Available shifts may include days, evenings, nights, and weekends. This position is not eligible for benefits. 
Behavioral Health Associate duties may include:

  • promoting and engaging in therapeutic activities with clients
  • accompanying clients to appointments, community events, and outings
  • collaborating with the client’s family & natural supports, and with community support and healthcare providers
  • providing coaching and supportive counseling in both group & individual settings
  • monitoring medication self-administration, symptoms & medication response
  • maintaining a safe and clean environment, which may vary from general housekeeping to deep cleaning depending on assigned facility
  • completing required documentation that reflects the activities, goals, and progress of each client

Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or GED
  • Previous related experience preferred
  • Must be eligible for registration as Agency Affiliated Counselor
  • Must have valid driver's license and vehicle liability insurance 
  • Must be willing to comply with N95 respirator requirements, including the removal of facial hair for initial fit testing and throughout employment when donning N95 respirators is clinically indicated
  • In compliance with state and federal law, Comprehensive Healthcare requires all candidates to complete a post-offer, pre-employment drug screen and background check. Please refer to WAC 388-113-0020 through 388-113-0030 for information on criminal convictions and pending charges that automatically disqualify an individual from working for Comprehensive Healthcare. Please refer to RCW 49.44.240 for information on pre-employment drug screening.

It is the policy of Comprehensive Healthcare to ensure that employees are provided the equipment necessary to protect their health from respiratory disease in accordance with applicable laws and regulations. Respirators, training, and medical evaluations are provided at no cost to the employee during normal working hours. The medical evaluation will determine the employee’s ability to use a respirator and is required prior to completing fit testing of the respirator. Fit testing will be performed using the same make, model, style, and size of respirator that will be used by the employee when at work. A respirator is designed to achieve a very close facial fit and very efficient filtration of airborne particles. The edges of the respirator are designed to form a seal around the nose and mouth. To achieve this, employees must (a) arrive for fit testing clean shaven around the sealing surface of the mask; (s) have nothing to eat or drink other than plain water for 20 minutes prior to the appointment; and (3) have not smoked, vaped, or chewed gum for 20 minutes prior to the appointment.


What Comprehensive Healthcare Can Offer You 
Training and Development

  • A variety of career opportunities in a wide range of settings with room for mobility and promotion
  • Regular training opportunities including support, supervision, and consultation in implementing evidence-based services and programs

Innovative Program & Services

  • A strong reputation for providing quality, evidence-based services within a collaborative multi-disciplinary team environment 
  • Innovative, forward-looking leadership that seeks to thrive in an ever-changing healthcare environment
  • Joint Commission-accredited organization committed to continuous quality improvement
  • Established partnerships with major research universities and other community and healthcare providers to implement cutting-edge treatment programs and services

In compliance with state and federal law, Comprehensive Healthcare requires all candidates to complete a post-offer, pre-employment drug screen and background check. Please refer to WAC 388-113-0020 through 388-113-0030 for information on criminal convictions and pending charges that automatically disqualify an individual from working for Comprehensive Healthcare. Please refer to RCW 49.44.240 for information on pre-employment drug screening.

Comprehensive Healthcare is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based on race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, veteran status, disability status, or any other basis prohibited by federal, state, or local law. We value the diverse perspectives and strengths that our employees bring to the workplace and we encourage individuals from underrepresented groups to apply for our positions. The Human Resources department provides accommodations and assistance to complete the application and interview process; please contact us to make arrangements.