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Behavioral Health Entry Level Jobs in Seattle, WA

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Behavioral Health Entry Level information

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$15

$25

$40

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

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for behavioral health entry level in Seattle, WA is $25.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.13 and $32.26 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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 Seattle, WA? The most popular types of Behavioral Health jobs in Seattle, WA are:
What cities near Seattle, WA are hiring for Behavioral Health Entry Level jobs? Cities near Seattle, WA 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 Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, and 29% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $53,987 per year, or $26 per hour.

Adult Outpatient Behavioral Health Counselor

Kitsap Mental Health Services

Bremerton, WA

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago

Kitsap Mental Health Services rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Behavioral Health Counselor I – Adult Outpatient Services 
Hiring Range: $24.94 – $30.55 per hour 
BA Degree Required 
  
Benefits at a Glance  
  • Comprehensive Coverage: Health, Dental & Vision 
  • Generous PTO: Up to 19 days + 2 mental health days + 10 holidays (pro-rated for part-time)
  • Fully Paid YMCA Membership for you and eligible family members
  • Company-Paid Life & Disability Insurance 
  • Student Loan Assistance & Professional Development 
  • 403(b) Retirement Plan with Company Contributions 
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) 
  • Pet Insurance 
  • Free Wellness App (2MorrowHealth) 
  • Collaborative, Supportive Team Environment 

Kitsap Mental Health Services (KMHS) is seeking a Behavioral Health Counselor I to join our Adult Outpatient Team supporting adults 18 and older facing mental health and substance use challenges. Our team of Psychiatric Medication Providers, Masters-Level Therapists, Care Coordinators, and Behavioral Health Professionals collaborates to provide respectful, compassionate, and individualized care. As part of our team, you’ll contribute by delivering essential counseling, crisis intervention, case management, and support to clients as they work toward their recovery goals.
Primary Responsibilities: 
  • Deliver individual, group, and family counseling, as well as crisis intervention and case management to assigned clients. 
  • Develop, implement, and review treatment goals and plans in collaboration with the treatment team. 
  • Educate clients' families, advocating for clients’ rights and maintaining coordination with community agencies such as DSHS, court systems, and housing authorities. 
  • Support clients in accessing primary and psychiatric care, fostering health self-management skills, and coordinating care. 
  • Provide crisis intervention services and collaborate with crisis responders as needed. 
  • Document client progress promptly, using collaborative documentation with clients as appropriate. 
  • Participate in daily team meetings and treatment planning sessions to ensure cohesive care. 
  • Provide education on substance use and coordinate with internal and external substance use treatment providers. 
  • Assist clients in accessing resources to support autonomy and meet basic needs. 
  • Monitor and facilitate compliance with Less Restrictive Alternatives (LRA) as appropriate. 
  • Provide outreach services as deemed clinically appropriate. 
 
  
Minimum Qualifications:  
EDUCATION: Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology, social services, or a related field.
 
EXPERIENCE: Entry level (1 year of experience required)
 
LICENSURE: Agency Affiliated Counselor Registration or ability to obtain after hire.  
This position requires driving clients in a personal vehicle on behalf of the agency. Therefore, the incumbent must meet all agency driving requirements, including being at least 21 years old, having been licensed for a minimum of three years, successfully completing a motor vehicle history check, possessing and maintaining a current, valid driver’s license in the state of Washington, and having reliable, insured transportation.
  
Preferred Qualifications: 
EXPERIENCE: Experienced (minimum 2 years of job-related experience) 
Experience in co-occurring disorders treatment, individual and group therapy, vocational services, or substance abuse treatment.
 
Our recruitment processes are designed to prevent discrimination against our people regardless of gender identity or orientation, religion, ethnicity, age, neurodiversity, disability status, citizenship, or any aspect which makes someone unique. 

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