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Behavioral Health Entry Level Jobs in Washington

Position Summary The Mental Health Therapist works in Mary's Center's outpatient behavioral health ... An entry-level license (LGSW, LMSW, or LGPC) to practice psychotherapy in the District of Columbia ...

EMR Looking for Talented Support Team Members (Telecommuting) Well established Electronic Medical Records company in the behavioral health sector is seeking entry level or higher team members. Our ...

EMR Looking for Talented Support Team Members (Telecommuting) Well established Electronic Medical Records company in the behavioral health sector is seeking entry level or higher team members. Our ...

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Behavioral Health Entry Level information

See Washington salary details

$14

$25

$40

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

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for behavioral health entry level in Washington is $25.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.04 and $32.12 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 Washington?

The most popular types of Behavioral Health jobs in Washington are:

What cities in Washington are hiring for Behavioral Health Entry Level jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Behavioral Health Entry Level job openings:

Infographic showing various Behavioral Health Entry Level job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,730 per year, or $25.8 per hour.

Mental Health Therapist

Mary's Center

Silver Spring, MD • On-site

$77K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago


Mary's Center rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Position Summary
The Mental Health Therapist works in Mary's Center's outpatient behavioral health clinic. The MH Therapist is responsible for providing the following core services: mental health assessment, treatment planning, and individual and family psychotherapy.
Reportability
This position will report directly to the Senior Clinical Manager.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.
  • Explain therapist's role and client rights and responsibilities, including confidentiality and mandated reporting.
  • Complete a diagnostic assessment on all clients referred, gathering information from referral source, client chart and other pertinent sources, including family members and past providers of care.
  • Determine DSM-5 diagnosis;
  • Complete treatment plan and authorizations for services as required by individual insurance payers.
  • Provide individual and family therapy to assist clients in their insight development and achievement of personal goals identified in treatment planning process.
  • Document all contacts, referrals, and other necessary information.
  • Maintain client records that are accurate, comprehensive, and adhere to documentation policies and billing timelines.
  • Meet weekly productivity standards as set by Director.
  • Engage families and significant others as needed to support treatment goals.
  • Apply crisis management skills when necessary to stabilize clients.
  • Maintain monthly statistics and provide reports as needed to Director.
  • Participate in weekly case reviews of clients in peer group supervision.
  • Accept and integrate the family's values and culture into services.
  • Provide 24-hour on-call phone support to clients in rotation with other therapists, 1-2 weeks per year or more as needed.
  • Identify and participate in other trainings or committees that can further enhance professional growth.
  • Perform other duties as assigned by supervisor.

Qualifications
The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skills, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities -
  • Master's degree in Social Work, Counseling, Psychology or related field
  • An entry-level license (LGSW, LMSW, or LGPC) to practice psychotherapy in the District of Columbia or Maryland (depending on job site).

Language Requirement - Ability to communicate effectively in English is required. The ability to communicate in Spanish is preferred but not required.
Physical Demands - Regularly required to sit; frequently required to reach with hands and arms, walk, stoop, kneel, crouch, talk or hear; must be able to lift objects up to twenty-five (25) pounds.
Work Environment - Mostly in a typical office and/or home setting with quiet to moderate noise level. May be exposed to extreme cold, heat, and humidity due to outside weather conditions.Opportunity to work a hybrid schedule - remotely & onsite, as needed.
The Benefits:
  • Health Insurance: medical, dental & vision - plus retirement options through 403(b) contribution and investment opportunities
  • 25 days of paid leave annually (in addition to paid holidays), plus 5 educational days
  • Tuition reimbursement of $2750/year towards education assistance and professional development. Reimbursement is pro-rated based on the employee's regularly scheduled hours worked per week
  • Transportation subsidy via metro & bus
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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