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Behavioral Health Program Director Jobs in California

Akua Behavioral Health Inc

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Behavioral Health Program Manager

Newport Beach, CA · On-site

$90K - $116K/yr

Such experience must be in the direct provision of services to clients, of which one (1) year must ... Akua Behavioral Health is California's leading mental health and substance abuse treatment center.

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Behavioral Health Program Director information

What does a behavioral health program director do?

A Behavioral Health Program Director oversees the planning, implementation, and management of behavioral health programs within an organization. They are responsible for supervising staff, ensuring compliance with regulations, developing program policies, and managing budgets. Directors also evaluate program effectiveness, coordinate with other healthcare professionals, and work to improve patient outcomes. Their role is essential in ensuring high-quality mental health and substance abuse services are delivered to clients.

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

To thrive as a Behavioral Health Program Director, you need a strong background in mental health services, program management, and typically a master's degree in psychology, social work, or a related field. Familiarity with electronic health record (EHR) systems, regulatory compliance standards, and crisis intervention protocols is essential. Leadership, strong communication, and problem-solving skills set outstanding directors apart, enabling them to motivate teams and manage complex situations. These skills ensure effective program oversight, quality patient care, and compliance with healthcare standards.

What are some of the main challenges faced by behavioral health program directors, and how can applicants prepare to address them?

Behavioral Health Program Directors often encounter challenges such as balancing administrative duties with clinical oversight, ensuring regulatory compliance, and managing multidisciplinary teams. Additionally, they must address staff burnout and adapt to changes in funding or policy. Applicants can prepare by developing strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills, as well as staying informed about industry standards and best practices to foster a supportive and effective program environment.

What is the difference between Behavioral Health Program Director vs Behavioral Health Clinician?

AspectBehavioral Health Program DirectorBehavioral Health Clinician
CredentialsMaster's degree in psychology, social work, or related field; licensure often requiredMaster's or Bachelor's degree in relevant field; licensure or certification may be required
Work EnvironmentAdministrative settings, overseeing programs, managing staffDirect patient care in clinics, hospitals, or community settings
Employer & Industry UsageHospitals, mental health agencies, community health organizationsClinics, outpatient centers, hospitals, private practices

The Behavioral Health Program Director focuses on managing and overseeing mental health programs and staff, requiring strong leadership and administrative skills. In contrast, the Behavioral Health Clinician provides direct patient care, applying clinical skills to treat individuals. Both roles are essential in mental health services but differ in responsibilities and work settings.

What cities in California are hiring for Behavioral Health Program Director jobs?

Cities in California with the most Behavioral Health Program Director job openings:

Infographic showing various Behavioral Health Program Director job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution.

Behavioral Health Program Director

Walnut Creek, CA • On-site

Walnut Creek Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation Center
See more jobs at Walnut Creek Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation Centerexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Description
Position at Walnut Creek Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation Center
Walnut Creek Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation, Walnut Creek CA
Behavioral Health Program Director, $90,000-$100,000
30 Bed Special Treatment Program
The Behavioral Health Program Director implements a Behavioral Health Residential Program to help rehabilitate adults with moderate to severe mental illness to learn independent life skills. At Generations we have dedicated and committed resources like consultant support, a multidisciplinary team, in beautiful environments with caring and competent staff. This position affords the opportunity to make a difference with a population that is vulnerable and in dire need of care. This position requires strong relational skills, team player - collaborative, problem solving skills, and enjoys to train and develop staff to implement a program that has been developed. Training will be provided on BH program.
Skills/Requirements: Preferred: RN, LPT, LVN, OT, COTA, LCSW, LMFT, or LPCC licensure or near licensure. Strengths to include, management, trainer/educator, supervisory experience. Strong relationship building skills. Assertive and compassionate. Worked with adults with Mental Health Diagnosis before. Highly organized and collaborative.
Benefits:
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Vision insurance

Schedule:
  • 8-hour shift
  • Day shift
  • Monday to Friday

Qualifications & Experience:
  • Mental health Therapist (LCSW, LMFT/AMFT, LPCC, Licensed Psychologist)
  • RN/LVN,
  • OT or COTA
  • Psychiatric Technician
  • Dance Therapist, Music Therapist
  • Program Director STP: preferred
  • Pro-Act certified: preferred
  • Behavioral health: 3 years (Required)
  • Psychiatry: 1 year (Required)

The Company is an equal opportunity employer and makes employment decisions on the basis of merit.
The Company prohibits unlawful discrimination against employees or applicants based on race (including traits historically associated with race, such as hair texture and protective hairstyles), religion, religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, sex, reproductive health decision making, gender, gender identity, gender expression, age, military status, veteran status, uniformed service member status, sexual orientation, transgender identity, citizenship status, pregnancy, or any other consideration made unlawful by federal, state, or local laws. The Company also prohibits unlawful discrimination based on the perception that anyone has any of those characteristics, or is associated with a person who has or is perceived as having any of those characteristics.

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