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Behavioral Health Entry Level Jobs in Chicago, IL

Total Spectrum

Behavior Technician (ABA)

Aurora, IL

$20/hr

... Behavioral! With one in 36 children diagnosed with autism, this entry-level job is in big demand ... Gaining training and skills to support a career in behavior analysis, behavioral health, teaching ...

Total Spectrum

Behavior Technician (ABA)

Naperville, IL

$20/hr

... Behavioral! With one in 36 children diagnosed with autism, this entry-level job is in big demand ... Gaining training and skills to support a career in behavior analysis, behavioral health, teaching ...

Total Spectrum

Behavior Technician (ABA)

Aurora, IL · On-site

$20/hr

... Behavioral! With one in 36 children diagnosed with autism, this entry-level job is in big demand ... Gaining training and skills to support a career in behavior analysis, behavioral health, teaching ...

Total Spectrum

Behavior Technician (ABA)

Naperville, IL · On-site

$20/hr

... Behavioral! With one in 36 children diagnosed with autism, this entry-level job is in big demand ... Gaining training and skills to support a career in behavior analysis, behavioral health, teaching ...

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Behavioral Health Entry Level information

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$36

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

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for behavioral health entry level in Chicago, IL is $23.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.36 and $29.23 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 and relevant certifications such as CPR or first aid. Gaining experience through volunteer work or internships and developing strong communication and empathy skills can improve job prospects; some roles may require a background check or additional training.

What jobs fall under behavioral health?

Jobs under behavioral health include roles such as mental health counselor, substance abuse counselor, psychiatric technician, case manager, and behavioral health technician. These positions typically involve providing support, therapy, or assistance to individuals with mental health or substance use issues and often require relevant certifications or training. They are commonly found in clinics, hospitals, community health centers, and outpatient facilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Behavioral Health jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Behavioral Health jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Behavioral Health Entry Level jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Behavioral Health Entry Level job openings:

Behavioral Health Entry Level jobs near you
Infographic showing various Behavioral Health Entry Level job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $48,869 per year, or $23.5 per hour.

Behavioral Health Technician (BHT) Full Time - Varied Shifts

Wellington Regional Medical Center

Streamwood, IL • On-site

$16 - $19.75/hr

Other

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Behavioral Health Technician (BHT) – Full Time - Varied Shifts

The Behavioral Health Technician (BHT) functions as an active and integral part of the Treatment Team, providing continuous patient care, supervision, interaction, and role modeling to patients ranging in age from children, adolescents, and adults depending on the unit assigned. Primary responsibilities include the provision of a safe and therapeutic milieu, crisis intervention, and activities of daily living. The BHT also provides group activities and assists with milieu management. The BHT will be able to demonstrate effective communication skills and will work with patients of any age population and demonstrate an understanding of normal growth and development. The BHT will understand and implement verbal de-escalation and collaborative problem solving techniques. The BHT works under the direction of a Registered Nurse. The Behavioral Health Technician position is considered an entry-level position in the Behavioral Health field and a career track of promotion to other positions of increased responsibility and salary is available.

Streamwood Behavioral Healthcare System (SBHS) is a 178-bed acute care facility located in Streamwood, IL and has been providing mental health treatment to the Chicagoland community and the state of Illinois since 1991. We are dedicated to offering services to meet the ever-changing emotional and behavioral healthcare needs of children, adolescents, adults, and their families.

Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or equivalent is required.
  • Bachelor's Degree or college courses in health care, mental health, recreational therapy, education, or human growth & development is preferred.
  • One year in behavioral health is required.
  • Candidates must possess excellent verbal and written communication skills. Diplomacy and discretion are essential, as well as excellent organizational skills and the ability to prioritize multiple projects. Professional demeanor and appearance required.

EEO Statement: All UHS subsidiaries are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and teammates. UHS subsidiaries are equal opportunity employers and as such, openly support and fully commit to recruitment, selection, placement, promotion and compensation of individuals without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), genetic information, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

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