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Behavioral Health Entry Level Jobs in Spokane, WA

Behavioral Health Entry Level information

See Spokane, WA salary details

$13

$23

$36

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 Spokane, WA is $23.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.02 and $28.70 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 Spokane, WA?

The most popular types of Behavioral Health jobs in Spokane, WA are:

What cities near Spokane, WA are hiring for Behavioral Health Entry Level jobs?

Cities near Spokane, WA with the most Behavioral Health Entry Level job openings:

Infographic showing various Behavioral Health Entry Level job openings in Spokane, WA 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 $47,967 per year, or $23.1 per hour.

Occupational Therapy Fieldwork Student - Level II

Spokane, WA • On-site

Frontier Behavioral Health
501 - 1,000 employees

$40.75 - $53.50/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

Frontier Behavioral Health's presence in Spokane is more than 100 years strong, allowing our non-profit organization to understand the varied needs of our clients and the larger community. Our programs are designed to provide evidence-based treatment to adults, youth and seniors who are dealing with a wide range of behavioral health issues. As a Trauma-Informed Care Organization, we firmly believe in recovery and that our clients can lead fulfilling and meaningful lives, and we consider it an honor and a privilege to assist them in their journey. If you want to have a positive impact in the lives of others come join us!
WHY CHOOSE FRONTIER BEHAVIORAL HEALTH?

  • At Frontier Behavioral Health, we value our employees and recognize the importance of EVERY employee's contribution to our mission.
  • Our behavioral health services make a positive difference in the lives of those we serve and contribute to the health, safety, and quality of life for everyone in Spokane County.
  • At FBH we have a variety of client services, including outpatient, inpatient, community outreach, crisis services, partnerships with schools, law enforcement and more.
  • Our evidence-based, culturally appropriate, trauma informed behavioral health services address the diverse needs of those we serve.
Frontier Behavioral Health (FBH) offers Level II fieldwork placements for students enrolled in entry-level occupational therapy (OT) and occupational therapy assistant (OTA) programs. As a comprehensive community behavioral healthcare center, FBH offers OT and OTA fieldwork students the opportunity to learn about and practice providing OT services in a mental health setting. Level II fieldwork students are placed in the OT department, but they are also exposed to the broad variety of community behavioral healthcare services at FBH. As an agency that employs trauma-informed care, the recovery model, and client-centered practice, the OT and OTA fieldwork experience at FBH immerses the student in cutting edge models of practice, making the graduate well-suited for employment in a variety of settings.
During this fieldwork placement, you will have the opportunity to do the following:
  • Observe evidence-based practice in OT sessions
  • Administer OT assessments
  • Implement occupation-based interventions
  • Develop a clinical caseload of clients receiving OT services
  • Learn collaborative documentation methods
  • Develop skills for professional practice, including therapeutic use of self
  • Participate in staff meetings and clinical case staffings
  • Shadow staff in programs other than OT
  • Receive direct supervision from a licensed OT.
Requirements for Level II OT and OTA fieldwork student applicants:
  • Simultaneous enrollment in an entry-level OT or OTA program that has signed an affiliation agreement with FBH.
  • Completed online application for Level II OT or OTA fieldwork placement at FBH.
  • Interview in-person with a licensed OT.
  • Successful completion of a background check.
  • Attend In-Person Orientation.
All OT and OTA fieldwork placements at FBH are unpaid. Additionally, OT and OTA fieldwork students at Frontier Behavioral Health are not eligible for benefits or a sign-on bonus.
Our Benefits and Perks are Amazing!
WE BELIEVE IN WORK LIFE BALANCE:
  • Paid Time Off - Employees accrue up to 26 days of PTO in the first year of employment!
  • Plus 9 Paid Federal Holidays!
  • Sick Leave - Extended Sick Leave and Paid Sick and Safe Time.
  • Some positions qualify for a Compressed Workweek option resulting in up to additional 26 days off per year.
BENEFITS: www.fbhwa.org/careers/benefits
  • Medical, Dental and Vision
  • Retirement - We offer an impressive 403b plan including standard 3% employer contribution plus an additional 3% employer match.
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Life Insurance - Company paid coverage that starts the first of the month following 6 months from your date of hire.
PERKS: www.fbhwa.org/careers/perks
  • Signing Bonus!
  • No-cost licensure supervision for those pursuing clinical licensure.
  • Federal and State Loan Forgiveness Program for qualifying Programs.
  • Reimbursement of License/Certification application fee that is required for the position.
  • Free Employee Assistance Program
  • Staff Discounts at various FBH partners throughout Spokane!

Benefits described above are based on employees who hold .5 FTE positions or greater and/or some benefits vary based on FTE. PRN positions are not benefit eligible or eligible for a sign on bonus.