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Behavioral Health Coder Jobs (NOW HIRING)

TH Medical

Behavioral Health Associate

Detroit, MI · On-site

Utilizes knowledge of Michigan Mental Health Code to educate patients and their families about rights guaranteed by the code. Minimum Qualifications 1. Two years of college study in behavioral health ...

TH Medical

Behavioral Health Associate

Detroit, MI · On-site

Utilizes knowledge of Michigan Mental Health Code to educate patients and their families about rights guaranteed by the code. Minimum Qualifications 1. Two years of college study in behavioral health ...

DotHouse Health

Behavioral Health Clinician

Dorchester, MA · On-site

$65K - $89K/yr

The Behavioral Health Clinician is based primarily in the Behavioral Health (BH) Department and ... coding as needed. Perform other duties as required by the position or as assigned by the BH ...

Dothouse Health

Behavioral Health Clinician

Dorchester, MA · On-site

$65K - $89K/yr

... coding as needed. • Perform other duties as required by the position or as assigned by the BH ... behavioral health integration within the primary care setting. • Must have demonstrated ...

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How much do behavioral health coder jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for behavioral health coder in the United States is $22.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Behavioral Health Coder vs Medical Coder?

AspectBehavioral Health Coder

Behavioral Health Coders specialize in coding mental health and substance abuse treatment records, requiring knowledge of mental health diagnoses and specific coding systems like ICD-10-CM and CPT codes related to behavioral health. Medical Coders generally handle a broader range of medical specialties, including hospital and outpatient records, with a focus on general medical procedures and diagnoses. Both roles require certifications such as CPC or CCS, work in healthcare settings, and are essential for accurate billing and record-keeping. The main difference lies in the specialization area, with Behavioral Health Coders focusing exclusively on mental health services.

What are some common challenges Behavioral Health Coders face when working with clinical documentation?

Behavioral Health Coders frequently encounter challenges such as incomplete or ambiguous clinical documentation, which can make it difficult to assign accurate codes. They must often work closely with providers to clarify diagnoses and treatment details, ensuring coding compliance with mental health-specific regulations. Staying up to date with evolving coding guidelines, such as changes in ICD-10 and CPT codes for behavioral health services, is also essential. Effective communication, attention to detail, and ongoing education are key to overcoming these challenges and maintaining billing accuracy.

Will a medical coder be replaced by AI?

Behavioral health coders, like other medical coders, perform tasks that involve interpreting clinical documentation and applying coding standards. While AI tools can assist with coding accuracy and efficiency, human oversight remains essential for complex cases and ensuring compliance, so complete replacement is unlikely in the near term.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Behavioral Health Coder, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Behavioral Health Coder, you need in-depth knowledge of medical coding systems (ICD-10, CPT), behavioral health terminology, and a certification such as CPC or CCA. Familiarity with coding software, electronic health record (EHR) systems, and compliance regulations like HIPAA is typically required. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication are essential soft skills for accurately interpreting documentation and collaborating with healthcare providers. These competencies ensure precise coding, maximize reimbursement, and support regulatory compliance in behavioral health settings.

What are Behavioral Health Coders?

Behavioral Health Coders are specialized medical coding professionals who assign standardized codes to diagnoses, procedures, and treatments related to mental health and substance use disorders. They ensure that healthcare providers and facilities accurately document behavioral health services for billing, insurance reimbursement, and regulatory compliance. Behavioral Health Coders must be familiar with coding systems such as ICD-10-CM, CPT, and HCPCS, as well as specific guidelines for mental and behavioral health records. Their work helps maintain accurate patient records and supports the financial health of behavioral health practices.

Is behavioral health coding hard?

Behavioral health coding involves translating clinical documentation into standardized codes for mental health services, which requires understanding coding guidelines and mental health terminology. It can be challenging initially due to the need for accuracy and attention to detail, but with training and experience, coders typically become proficient. Familiarity with coding software and ongoing education are important for success in this role.

What skills do you need to be a BHT?

Behavioral Health Technicians (BHTs) need strong communication and interpersonal skills to support clients effectively. They should have knowledge of mental health conditions, be able to follow treatment plans, and often require certification or training in CPR and first aid. Attention to detail, patience, and the ability to work in a team are also important for success in this role.

What pays more, CCS or CPC?

For a Behavioral Health Coder, CPC (Certified Professional Coder) typically offers higher pay than CCS (Certified Coding Specialist) because CPCs often work in outpatient settings and have broader coding responsibilities. CCS coders, usually employed in hospital or inpatient environments, may have slightly lower salaries but often require specialized knowledge of inpatient coding. Salary differences can vary based on experience, location, and employer, but generally CPC certification is associated with higher compensation in outpatient coding roles.
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Behavioral Health Coder jobs near you
Behavioral Health Technician

Behavioral Health Technician

Valleywise Health System

Phoenix, AZ • On-site

$16.87 - $24.88/hr

Other

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Valleywise Health rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 59 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

227th of 877 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Behavioral Health Technician (BHT) Academy Program
Valleywise Health
Begin Your Career in Behavioral Health!
No experience? No problem, start your journey in Behavioral Health with paid training and hands-on experience. Start your career in Behavioral Health and make a real impact from day one.
The Behavioral Health Technician (BHT) Academy at Valleywise Health is a structured, comprehensive 12-week paid training program designed to prepare first-time Behavioral Health Technicians for success in acute inpatient Behavioral Health settings.
The BHT is an entry-level position intended for employees to receive paid on-the-job training while caring for patients under Court Ordered Evaluation or Treatment due to mental illness. Services are provided at one of Valleywise Health's inpatient Behavioral Health facilities located in Phoenix, Mesa, and Maryvale.
The program is designed to support individuals transitioning into Behavioral Health career by building the knowledge, confidence, and skills needed to thrive in a fast-paced clinical environment. There will be a strong focus on patient safety, therapeutic communication, teamwork, engagement, and readiness for the BHT role.
Participants receive hands-on clinical instruction under the direct supervision of experienced Behavioral Health staff and nursing personnel while working collaboratively with the interdisciplinary treatment team, patients, and families as a vital part of the therapeutic environment.
Compensation
  • Hourly Pay Rate: $18.00/hr

Program Duration
  • 12-week Academy program

Weekly Schedule
Participants will complete:
  • Three (3) 12-hour clinical shifts per week on a Behavioral Health unit
  • One (1) 4-hour classroom/didactic session weekly

Hourly Pay Rate: $18.00
Qualifications
Education:
  • Requires a High School Diploma or GED.

Experience:
  • This is an entry-level behavioral health position, no prior experience required.
  • Prefer one year of work experience in a healthcare or behavioral health setting.

Specialized Training:
  • Must be able to complete Crisis Prevention and Intervention Training upon hire.

Certification/Licensure:
  • Requires BLS issued by the American Heart Association or completes BLS during NEO training.
  • Valleywise Behavioral Health Center - Mesa Unit 2 Adolescent: Must have a valid fingerprint clearance card issued by the Arizona Department of Public Safety or submit completed application to the Arizona Department of Public Safety within seven days of hire date. Fingerprint clearance cards must remain valid for the entire period of issuance and must be renewed prior to expiration.
  • Pursuant to Arizona Administrative Code R9-10-306 CHAPTER 10 of the Dept. of Health Services, personnel must be at least 21 years of age, or at least 18 years of age and licensed or certified under A.R.S. Title 32 and providing services within the personnel member's scope of practice.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
  • Must demonstrate the skills and knowledge to provide behavioral health services to adults, including those over the age of 65, adolescents, individuals with substance abuse, individuals who are seriously mentally ill, individuals who have co-occurring disorder, and/or individuals who may be victims or perpetrators of domestic violence.
  • Requires basic computer word processing skills (e.g., formatting, editing, printing, composing email, internet searches, etc.) to be able to successfully navigate through an electronic medical record using a computer.
  • Requires the ability to read, write, and speak effectively in English.

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