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Behavioral Health Manager Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Waterloo Medical Center Inpatient Behavioral Health Part-Time 20 Hours Weekly (8 Hour Day Shift) Bachelor's Degree Required Provides therapeutic counseling to behavioral health population. Adheres to ...

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Behavioral Health Manager information

See Iowa salary details

$31.9K

$70.4K

$112.7K

How much do behavioral health manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for behavioral health manager in Iowa is $70,380.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,700.00 and $82,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a behavioral health manager do?

A Behavioral Health Manager oversees mental health and behavioral health programs within healthcare settings such as hospitals, clinics, or community organizations. They are responsible for managing staff, coordinating patient care, ensuring compliance with regulations, and developing treatment plans. Additionally, they may be involved in budgeting, program evaluation, and staff training to improve the quality of behavioral health services. Their role is crucial in ensuring patients receive comprehensive and effective mental health care.

What is the difference between Behavioral Health Manager vs Behavioral Health Specialist?

AspectBehavioral Health ManagerBehavioral Health Specialist
CredentialsMaster's degree in social work, psychology, or counseling; licensure often requiredBachelor's or master's degree in related field; certification may be preferred
Work EnvironmentSupervises staff, manages programs, oversees treatment plans in clinics or healthcare settingsProvides direct patient care, counseling, and support in clinics, hospitals, or community settings
Employer & Industry UsageHealthcare organizations, mental health clinics, hospitalsCommunity health centers, outpatient clinics, hospitals

The main difference is that Behavioral Health Managers oversee staff and programs, focusing on administration and coordination, while Behavioral Health Specialists provide direct patient care and counseling. Both roles require relevant education and certifications, but their responsibilities and work environments differ significantly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a behavioral health manager?

To thrive as a Behavioral Health Manager, you need expertise in mental health practices, program management, and a relevant degree such as psychology, social work, or counseling, often accompanied by state licensure. Familiarity with electronic health records (EHRs), case management software, and compliance regulations is typically required. Outstanding leadership, communication, and problem-solving abilities help you effectively support staff and engage with patients and stakeholders. These skills ensure the delivery of high-quality behavioral health services and the efficient operation of clinical programs.

What is a behavioral health manager?

A behavioral health manager oversees mental health and substance use treatment programs, coordinating care teams and ensuring quality services. They often require knowledge of clinical practices, leadership skills, and relevant certifications, working in healthcare or community settings to support patient recovery and well-being.

What are some typical challenges behavioral health managers face when overseeing multidisciplinary teams?

Behavioral Health Managers often encounter challenges such as aligning the diverse perspectives and treatment approaches of psychologists, social workers, and psychiatric nurses. Effective communication and conflict resolution are essential for fostering collaboration and ensuring consistent care standards. Additionally, managing caseloads, navigating regulatory requirements, and supporting staff through emotionally demanding situations require strong leadership and organizational skills. Regular team meetings and ongoing professional development can help address these challenges and promote a supportive work environment.
What are the most commonly searched types of Behavioral Health jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Behavioral Health jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Behavioral Health Manager jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Behavioral Health Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Behavioral Health Manager job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,380 per year, or $33.8 per hour.

Behavioral Health Therapist

Iowa Primary Care Association

Burlington, IA โ€ข On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
The Iowa Primary Care Association is actively recruiting a Behavioral Health Therapist to provide care at a vibrant community health center (FQHC) in Burlington, Iowa!
LISW & LMHC all encouraged to apply!
Join the dynamic and multidisciplinary behavioral health team at an outpatient community health center, where they provide an integrated care model that includes dental, medical, behavioral health, pharmacy, lab, all working together!
Role Details:
  • Clinic Hours: M/T/W/Th: 7AM - 6 PM; Fri: 7am - 5 PM; no weekends (schedule within these hours will be discussed)
  • Full time position: 36 patient contact hours, 4 admin hours
  • Sees on average 6 patients per day
  • Appointment types: 60 minutes
  • Provider team includes: 1 MD, PMHNP, 1 LMHC, 1 LISW, 1 substance abuse counselor at this location; part of larger behavioral health team with team members at other locations too.
  • EHR: Epic

Duties:
  • Provides psychosocial assessment to patients and families to identify emotional, social and environmental strengths and problems related to their diagnosis, illness, treatment and/or life situation for those referred by primary care providers.
  • Formulates, develops and implements a comprehensive psychosocial treatment plan utilizing appropriate clinical social work and/or counseling treatments and interventions. Interventions may include crisis intervention, brief and long-term individual, marital, and family and/or group therapies.
  • Provides therapeutic crisis intervention and emergency behavioral health services as required.
  • Participates in period staff conferences to present case histories; confer with internal external members of the therapy team to develop comprehensive evaluations or plan pertinent therapy programs to provide maximum benefits for each patients.
  • Prepares and maintains a case record for each patient to describe the nature of social problems and services suggested or provided.
  • Provides education to patients and families around issues related to adaptation to the patient's diagnosis, illness, treatment and/or life situation.
  • Maintains working knowledge of and liaison with community agencies and resources.

Benefits
  • Student Loan Repayment Programs: Eligible for $50,000 in student loan repayment in exchange for 2 years of service through federal programs.
  • Competitive Salary: Starting at $65,000 for LISW; starting at $60,000 for LMSW/LMHC and up based on experience.
  • Licensing and Professional Subscriptions: Reimbursement provided.
  • Comprehensive Insurance: Medical, dental, vision, life, accidental death and dismemberment, short-term disability, long-term disability, and flexible spending available.
  • Wellness Reimbursement Program: Reimburse your monthly gym/fitness/wellness fee up to $25/month.
  • Continuing Education: 5 paid days and $1,500/year
  • Paid Time Off: 20+ PTO days per year, plus 7 paid holidays + 1 extra personal day.
  • Retirement Plans: 403b retirement plan - 4% of salary plus an additional 1% if the employee contributes 2%; 457 plan eligible.
  • Malpractice Insurance: FTCA Malpractice Insurance coverage.

Join us in making a difference in the community while enjoying a rewarding career with excellent benefits and a supportive work environment!
Requirements
  • Graduation from accredited master's social work, counseling, marriage/family therapy and/or behavioral health education program.
  • Licensed as behavioral health professional to practice as LISW in Iowa (LISW or LMHC)
  • BLS, ACLS or ATLS certification required.

Salary Description
$60,000-70,000 per year depending upon experience