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Behavioral Health Entry Level Jobs in New Mexico

Therapist I | Peak Behavioral Health | Las Cruces, New Mexico About the Job: PURPOSE STATEMENT ... entry level licensure or independent level licensure. * CPR and de-escalation and restraint ...

Program Aide

Santa Fe, NM · On-site

$15.56/hr

Must complete a 45 hour entry level course or an approved three credit early care and education ... Our diverse services include primary care, dental, behavioral health, early childhood education ...

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Behavioral Health Entry Level information

See New Mexico salary details

$12

$22

$34

How much do behavioral health entry level jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for behavioral health entry level in New Mexico is $22.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.30 and $27.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a behavioral health entry level job?

Behavioral health entry level jobs are positions that provide support to individuals with mental health or substance use challenges, typically under the supervision of licensed professionals. Examples include behavioral health technicians, mental health aides, peer support specialists, and case management assistants. These roles often involve monitoring clients, assisting with daily activities, documenting progress, and supporting treatment plans. Entry requirements vary, but many positions require a high school diploma or associate degree, along with strong communication and empathy skills. These jobs offer valuable experience for those interested in pursuing advanced behavioral health careers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a behavioral health entry level professional?

To thrive as a Behavioral Health Entry Level professional, you need foundational knowledge in psychology or social work, typically supported by a relevant associate's or bachelor's degree and sometimes a Basic Life Support (BLS) certification. Familiarity with electronic health record (EHR) systems and behavioral assessment tools is commonly required. Strong interpersonal skills, active listening, and emotional resilience help you support clients and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams. These skills are crucial for providing effective client care, maintaining accurate documentation, and fostering a supportive therapeutic environment.

What are some common challenges faced by behavioral health entry level professionals, and how can they be managed?

Behavioral Health Entry Level professionals often encounter challenges such as managing emotionally intense situations, adapting to varied client needs, and maintaining appropriate boundaries with clients. It’s common to feel overwhelmed at first, but seeking regular supervision, participating in team debriefings, and utilizing institutional support resources can help. Building resilience through self-care and ongoing training also supports success in this role, while collaboration with more experienced colleagues provides valuable guidance and perspective.

What is the difference between Behavioral Health Entry Level vs Behavioral Health Technician?

AspectBehavioral Health Entry LevelBehavioral Health Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certificationHigh school diploma or equivalent; certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, community health centersHospitals, residential facilities, outpatient clinics
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level roles in mental health and social servicesSupport roles in behavioral health settings
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Behavioral Health Entry Level positions typically require minimal experience and serve as an entry point into mental health careers. Behavioral Health Technicians often work directly with clients, providing support under supervision. Both roles are essential in behavioral health settings, with similar credentials and work environments, but the Technician role may involve more direct client interaction and specific job duties.

How to get into the behavioral health entry level?

To enter a behavioral health entry-level position, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some roles requiring a certification such as CPR or first aid. Relevant skills include strong communication, empathy, and basic knowledge of mental health concepts; some employers may prefer prior volunteer or related experience. Obtaining relevant certifications and demonstrating a compassionate attitude can improve job prospects in this field.

What are the most commonly searched types of Behavioral Health jobs in New Mexico?

The most popular types of Behavioral Health jobs in New Mexico are:

Infographic showing various Behavioral Health Entry Level job openings in New Mexico as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,972 per year, or $22.1 per hour.

Office Support Staff - Full-time

Albuquerque, NM • On-site

RiverValley Behavioral Health
Offices of Mental Health Practitioners • 501 - 1,000 employees

$15.33 - $16.86/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

Entry-Level Opportunity Start Your Career in Behavioral Health
Are you looking for a meaningful career where you can make a difference - even if you're just getting started?
New Mexico Solutions is seeking motivated, service-driven individuals who want to gain experience in Behavioral Health and build a long-term career with a mission-focused organization. This role is an excellent entry point into the field and provides exposure to clinical services, medical records, insurance processes, and direct collaboration with providers.
Why Choose New Mexico Solutions?
New Mexico Solutions is a Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC), expanding access to high-quality, integrated care across our communities. We are committed to clinical excellence, professional development, and creating real impact for the individuals and families we serve.
When you join us, you are not just taking a job - you are starting a pathway.
We offer:
  • Competitive pay
  • Comprehensive benefits including health, dental, vision, and Telehealth
  • Paid time off plus 9 holidays
  • Retirement plan options
  • Tuition reimbursement and free CEUs
  • Clinical supervision opportunities
  • Wellness and Employee Assistance Programs
  • Mileage reimbursement for work-related travel
  • Public Service Loan Forgiveness eligible employer
  • Eligible clinical roles may qualify for NHSC Loan Repayment

What You Will Do
This role performs essential administrative duties that keep our clinics running smoothly and ensure our patients receive timely, high-quality care. You will use office technology such as phones, email, and web-based systems to support daily operations.
You will gain hands-on experience in:
Customer Service
  • Welcoming patients and visitors with professionalism and positivity
  • Answering and routing incoming calls
  • Assisting individuals in identifying their needs and connecting them to appropriate services
  • Answering general questions about services offered

Supporting Clinical Providers
  • Conducting reminder calls and patient outreach
  • Checking patients in and out for appointments, including fee collection
  • Scheduling, canceling, or modifying appointments
  • Assisting with vitals collection, prescription refill coordination, and prior authorizations

Medical Records & Documentation
  • Creating and maintaining electronic medical records
  • Updating patient demographics and required documentation
  • Ensuring files meet regulatory and agency standards
  • Processing releases of information accurately

Eligibility & Insurance Support
  • Verifying insurance eligibility
  • Entering and updating claims data
  • Assisting in resolving billing errors or denials
  • Learning funding source requirements

Cultural Competency & Person-Centered Care
  • Providing respectful, inclusive service to diverse populations
  • Demonstrating a welcoming and non-judgmental approach
  • Supporting person-centered care practices

Professional Growth & Development
  • Participating in required training programs
  • Engaging in cross-training across departments
  • Developing foundational knowledge of behavioral health systems
  • Building skills that can lead to roles in billing, clinical services, case management, HR, compliance, leadership, and more

What Makes This Role a Career Starter?
This position provides exposure to:
  • Clinical operations
  • Insurance and revenue cycle processes
  • Behavioral health documentation standards
  • Patient engagement practices
  • Compliance and regulatory requirements
  • Interdisciplinary teamwork

Whether your long-term goal is to become a therapist, nurse, case manager, medical records specialist, billing professional, or leader - this role builds the foundation.
What We're Looking For
  • Strong customer service mindset
  • Excellent organizational and time management skills
  • Comfort using technology and learning new systems
  • Desire to work in a mission-driven healthcare environment
  • Commitment to professionalism, confidentiality, and continuous improvement

If you are ready to build a meaningful career in behavioral health and join a team that values growth, service, and impact, we encourage you to apply.
Your career can start here.
Education and Experience:
  • High school diploma/GED or at least 1 year office experience.
  • One year experience in mental health or medical setting preferred. Bilingual (Spanish) preferred. Proficient in Microsoft Word, Outlook, and Excel.

Knowledge and Skills:
  • Excellent communication skills in all areas of office operations.
  • Knowledge of office equipment and front desk procedure.
  • Ability to conduct interviews and meetings and to manage time and prioritize projects.
  • Good writing and verbal skills.
  • Valid driver's License-Required
  • CPR/First Aid - Preferred
  • CPI- Preferred
  • Blood Borne Disease Exposure Category-Category II
  • Other Potential Hazard(s): N/A