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Behavioral Health Nursing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Veracity

Director Behavioral Health Nursing

Lawton, OK · On-site

Director Behavioral Health Nursing Lawton, OK 73505 Must-Haves Three (3) - Five (5) years of experience as Behavioral Health Director or Manager Registered Nurse License for the State of Oklahoma ...

Veracity

Director Behavioral Health Nursing

Lawton, OK · On-site

Director Behavioral Health Nursing Lawton, OK 73505 Must-Haves Three (3) - Five (5) years of experience as Behavioral Health Director or Manager Registered Nurse License for the State of Oklahoma ...

Olaro

Nursing / Behavioral Health

Nashua, NH · On-site

Behavioral Health Nurse We are seeking a dedicated and empathetic Behavioral Health Nurse to join our mental health care team. In this meaningful and highly interactive role, you will support ...

Olaro

Nursing / Behavioral Health

Rochester, NY · On-site

Behavioral Health Nurse We are seeking a dedicated and empathetic Behavioral Health Nurse to join our mental health care team. In this meaningful and highly interactive role, you will support ...

Olaro

Nursing / Behavioral Health

Seattle, WA · On-site

Behavioral Health Nurse We are seeking a dedicated and empathetic Behavioral Health Nurse to join our mental health care team. In this meaningful and highly interactive role, you will support ...

Olaro

Nursing / Behavioral Health

Akron, OH · On-site

Behavioral Health Nurse We are seeking a dedicated and empathetic Behavioral Health Nurse to join our mental health care team. In this meaningful and highly interactive role, you will support ...

Olaro

Nursing / Behavioral Health

Cleveland, OH · On-site

Behavioral Health Nurse We are seeking a dedicated and empathetic Behavioral Health Nurse to join our mental health care team. In this meaningful and highly interactive role, you will support ...

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Behavioral Health Nursing information

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$15

$46

$81

How much do behavioral health nursing jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for behavioral health nursing in the United States is $46.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33.41 and $57.21 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is behavioral health nursing?

Behavioral health nursing is a specialized field of nursing focused on caring for individuals with mental health disorders, emotional challenges, and substance use issues. Behavioral health nurses assess, diagnose, and treat patients experiencing psychiatric symptoms, often working in hospitals, clinics, or community settings. They provide therapeutic support, administer medications, and collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to develop care plans that promote patients’ mental and emotional well-being. Their role is crucial in helping patients manage symptoms, develop coping skills, and improve their overall quality of life.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a behavioral health nurse, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Behavioral Health Nurse, you need a solid background in psychiatric nursing, mental health assessment, and crisis intervention, usually supported by an RN license and experience or certification in psychiatric-mental health nursing. Familiarity with electronic health records (EHRs), behavior management tools, and de-escalation techniques is essential. Outstanding active listening, emotional resilience, and strong interpersonal communication help nurses build trust and effectively support patients. These skills are crucial for ensuring patient safety, delivering compassionate care, and achieving positive outcomes in challenging behavioral health environments.

What are some typical challenges faced by nurses in behavioral health settings, and how can they be managed?

Behavioral health nurses often encounter challenges such as managing unpredictable patient behaviors, de-escalating crises, and maintaining personal resilience in a high-stress environment. Effective communication, strong teamwork, and ongoing training in crisis intervention can help nurses navigate these difficulties. Many facilities also offer support through regular debriefings and mental health resources for staff. Building strong therapeutic relationships with patients and collaborating closely with multidisciplinary teams are key strategies for success in this role.

What is the difference between Behavioral Health Nursing vs Psychiatric Nursing?

AspectBehavioral Health NursingPsychiatric Nursing
CredentialsRN license, possibly certifications in mental healthRN license, certifications in psychiatric or mental health nursing
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, community health settings, outpatient facilitiesPsychiatric hospitals, mental health clinics, inpatient units
Employer & IndustryHealthcare providers, mental health organizations, community agenciesSpecialized psychiatric facilities, hospitals, mental health clinics

Both Behavioral Health Nursing and Psychiatric Nursing require RN licensure and focus on mental health care. Behavioral Health Nursing often involves a broader range of settings, including outpatient and community-based care, while Psychiatric Nursing typically refers to inpatient psychiatric units. Understanding these differences helps professionals choose the right career path and employers.

More about Behavioral Health Nursing jobs

What cities are hiring for Behavioral Health Nursing jobs?

Cities with the most Behavioral Health Nursing job openings:

What states have the most Behavioral Health Nursing jobs?

States with the most job openings for Behavioral Health Nursing jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Behavioral Health Nursing jobs?

For Behavioral Health Nursing jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Behavioral Health Nursing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Behavioral Health Nursing job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $97,401 per year, or $46.8 per hour.

Behavioral Health Nursing Assistant

Gadsden, AL • On-site

Prime Healthcare
Hospitals • 10K+ employees
Learn more about Prime Healthcareexternal

$26K - $35K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

Prime Healthcare rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 289 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

649th of 898 rated healthcare providers

Job description

$1,500
Sign-On Bonus Available for Qualified Candidates. Eligibility and payout terms apply. Details discussed during the interview process.

Department: PSYCH ACUTE ADULT/Behavioral Health

Shifts Available: Days  

Employment Type: Full-time 

Hours: 12-hour - 7:00am to 7:00pm 

Location: Riverview Regional Medical Center - Gadsden, AL

We are seeking a Behavioral Health Nursing Assistant (Certified or Non-Certified), also referred to as a Psychiatric Nursing Assistant (NA) or Mental Health NA. A Behavioral Health NA or Mental Health NA provides care for patients with mental health or behavioral challenges by assisting with daily activities, monitoring behaviors, and promoting a safe, supportive environment. They collaborate with the healthcare team to offer emotional support, identify changes in patient condition, and assist in de-escalating potentially critical situations.  


** If you are a non-licensed Nursing Assistant (NA) or a Certified (CNA) and have no prior experience, we encourage you to apply.  Entry-Level NAs or CNAs are welcome to apply! 

  • Assist patients with daily activities: bathing, dressing, feeding, toileting, and ambulation 
  • Monitor and report changes in behavior, mood, or physical condition to nurses or doctors; observe for signs of agitation, self-harm, or aggression 
  • Help maintain a safe, structured environment, use de-escalation techniques to calm distressed or agitated patients 
  • Accurately document behavior, interventions, and vital signs, communicate effectively with the care team  
  • Encourage patients to participate in group activities or therapy sessions, offer emotional support and help build trust with patients 
  • Help with cleaning and maintaining patient rooms, ensure equipment and supplies are stocked 

1. Current Certified Nursing Assistant certificate upon hire, required.
2. Current BLS upon hire and maintain current.
3. Possesses knowledge of Medical Terminology.
4. Minimum six months’ previous experience in an acute care hospital or physician’s office preferred.

Here are some of the benefits of working at Prime Healthcare: 

  • Health, dental, and vision insurance options 
  • Paid vacation, sick time and holidays 
  • Bereavement leave, FMLA and other leave options 
  • Employer 401K options 
  • Tuition reimbursement options  
  • Life, disability, and other insurance options 
  • Many other amazing benefits 

Full benefits at Prime Healthcare: https://www.primehealthcare.com/careers/benefits/  


Full Time
Days

Company is an equal employment opportunity employer. Company prohibits discrimination against any applicant or employee based on race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, age (subject to applicable law), disability, military status, genetic information or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. The Company also prohibits harassment of applicants or employees based on any of these protected categories. Know Your Rights: https://www.eeoc.gov/sites/default/files/2022-10/EEOC_KnowYourRights_screen_reader_10_20.pdf

 

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