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Behavioral Health Insurance Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Behavioral Health Director

Auburn, CA · On-site

$154K - $190K/yr

Employer-paid Health Insurance (medical, dental and vision): 100% for employee and 80% for ... Provide integrated behavioral health care by assessing, diagnosing, and delivering brief, evidence ...

Director, Behavioral Health

Fairfield, CA · On-site

$180K - $195K/yr

At NorthBay Health, the Director of Behavioral Health is responsible for the strategic, operational ... Benefits may include medical, dental, and vision insurance, life, disability, and long-term care ...

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Behavioral Health Insurance information

See California salary details

$13

$24

$39

How much do behavioral health insurance jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for behavioral health insurance in California is $24.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $30.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is behavioral health insurance?

Behavioral health insurance is a type of coverage that helps pay for mental health and substance use disorder services. This can include therapy, counseling, psychiatric care, medication management, and treatment programs for issues like depression, anxiety, addiction, and more. Most health insurance plans are required by law to offer behavioral health benefits, often covering both inpatient and outpatient care. Coverage details, such as copays, deductibles, and approved providers, can vary depending on the specific insurance plan. It's important to review your plan's summary of benefits to understand what behavioral health services are included.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a behavioral health insurance role?

Success in a Behavioral Health Insurance role requires a solid understanding of mental health concepts, insurance policy knowledge, and often a bachelor’s degree in a related field such as psychology, social work, or health administration. Familiarity with claims processing systems, ICD-10 coding, and regulatory compliance tools like HIPAA is typically necessary. Strong analytical thinking, empathy, and excellent communication skills help professionals navigate complex cases and interact with clients and providers. These competencies are vital for ensuring appropriate coverage decisions, supporting clients effectively, and maintaining regulatory standards.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in behavioral health insurance, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Behavioral Health Insurance often encounter challenges such as navigating complex coverage policies, managing high caseloads, and staying up-to-date with changing regulations. These roles require strong communication skills to effectively coordinate between patients, providers, and insurance companies. Collaborating closely with clinical teams and utilizing ongoing training can help address these challenges, ensuring accurate assessments and appropriate care authorizations. Developing expertise in behavioral health guidelines and maintaining a proactive approach to policy changes are key to success in this field.

What is the difference between Behavioral Health Insurance vs Mental Health Counselor?

AspectBehavioral Health InsuranceMental Health Counselor
CredentialsInsurance policies, provider networksState licensure, certifications (e.g., LPC, LMHC)
Work EnvironmentInsurance companies, healthcare plansClinics, private practices, hospitals
Industry UsageFunding, coverage, claims processingPatient therapy, assessment, treatment

Behavioral Health Insurance focuses on coverage, claims, and policy management related to mental health services, while Mental Health Counselors provide direct patient care through therapy and assessments. Both roles are integral to mental health treatment but serve different functions within the industry.

What are popular job titles related to Behavioral Health Insurance jobs in California?

For Behavioral Health Insurance jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Behavioral Health Insurance jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Behavioral Health Insurance jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Behavioral Health Insurance jobs?

Cities in California with the most Behavioral Health Insurance job openings:

Infographic showing various Behavioral Health Insurance job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,872 per year, or $24.5 per hour.

Behavioral Health Associate

Embark Behavioral Health

San Martin, CA • On-site

$24 - $26/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


Embark Behavioral Health rating

5.4

Company rating: 5.4 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Overview

Hourly Pay: $24.00 - $26.00 per hour (DOE)

Location: 1470 E. Middle Ave. San Martin, CA 95046 (On-Site)

Schedule (Multiple Openings):

  • Wed-Sat (PM Shift): 12:00 PM - 10:30 PM
  • Sun-Wed (Overnight Shift): 9:00 PM - 7:30 AM
  • Wed-Sat (Overnight Shift): 9:00 PM - 7:30 AM

Are you empathetic, patient, and committed to empowering adolescents on their journey towards sustainable mental wellness?

As a Behavioral Health Associate , you will work collaboratively with a multidisciplinary team to support adolescents ages (12-17) in their journey towards improved mental health and well-being. Every day you will participate and guide teens in experiential therapies like art, music, yoga, hiking, fitness, and a variety of other on and off campus activities. To thrive at Embark, you must have an empathetic heart and maintain personal and professional boundaries with teens.

We warmly welcome EMTs to apply for this position! Your experience in emergency medical care and crisis management makes you uniquely qualified to transition into the Behavioral Health Associate role.

Responsibilities
  • Utilize de-escalation techniques and crisis management training to support clients, ensuring a calm and safe environment.
  • Build meaningful, supportive relationships with clients, maintaining professional boundaries while assisting with their daily needs and activities.
  • Review and apply treatment team strategies daily to drive client progress and ensure effective intervention.
  • Embrace being a positive role model with empathy and intentionality, fostering attuned relationships and providing constructive feedback to support client growth.
  • Contribute to a clean and welcoming environment by managing campus upkeep, supporting clients with chores, and addressing maintenance issues promptly.
  • Maintain thorough and precise documentation of client interactions and staff interventions to ensure consistent and effective care.
Qualifications
  • Requirements: Valid driver's license, clean driving record eligible for company-paid auto insurance, and ability to work independently and as part of a team. 
  • Age: 21+ years of age or older
  • Education: High school diploma or equivalent G.E.D required. Associates or bachelor's in human services, psychology, criminal justice, or related field is preferred.
  • Skills: Quick decision-making skills and a growth mindset. 
  • Experience: Minimum of 1 year of experience working with adolescent populations is preferred
  • Certifications: CPR and First Aid certification preferred, will provide training 
  • Background Checks: Must pass pre-employment drug screen and federal and state background check in concordance with VA state laws. 
Benefits
  • Access to an established Mastery Program that offers professional and financial opportunities for professional growth.
  • Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance - Multiple plan options including PPO and HDHPs with HSA eligibility and company contributions.
  • Paid Parental Leave - Up to 6 weeks fully paid for exempt employees and 4 weeks for non-exempt.
  • Life & Disability Coverage - Company-paid life, AD&D, and long-term disability; voluntary life and optional short-term disability available.
  • 401(k) with Company Match - Retirement savings with matching contributions after eligibility period.
  • PTO & Holidays - Competitive PTO accrual plans and paid holidays throughout the year.
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) - Free, confidential support for life's challenges.

Embark is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. We are committed to enriching the therapeutic and healing experience we offer through the diversity of our employees and community. We actively seek to recruit and support a broadly diverse staff who contribute to our excellence, diversity of viewpoints and experiences, and relevance in a global society.

Embark does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable laws. Accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities. #LI-AD2

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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