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Behavioral Health Rn Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

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Behavioral Health Rn information

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$14

$42

$73

How much do behavioral health rn jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for behavioral health rn in Tennessee is $42.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30.34 and $51.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to make an extra 2000 a month as a nurse?

Behavioral Health RNs can increase their income by taking on per diem or agency shifts, which often pay higher rates, or by working additional hours in specialized settings. Gaining certifications in areas like mental health or addiction can also qualify RNs for higher-paying roles or overtime opportunities.

How to make $100,000 as a RN?

To earn $100,000 as a Behavioral Health RN, gaining experience, obtaining specialized certifications, and working in high-demand settings such as hospitals or outpatient facilities can help increase earning potential. Working overtime, taking on leadership roles, or pursuing advanced education like a master's degree may also contribute to higher salaries.

What Does a Behavioral Health RN Do?

The job duties of a behavioral health RN revolve around providing patient care in a mental health capacity. You work with psychologists, psychiatrists, and physicians to offer psychiatric and behavioral care. As a behavioral health nurse, you perform duties such as helping patients perform exercises to change thought patterns or habits. You may also assist with relaxation techniques for stress management or pain management. With specialized training, you may also employ biofeedback techniques or work with clients on long-term therapies such as personality development and behavior modification.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Behavioral Health RN, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Behavioral Health RN, you need a nursing degree, RN licensure, and expertise in mental health assessment and crisis intervention. Familiarity with behavioral health documentation systems, de-escalation tools, and relevant certifications like BLS or PMH-BC is typically required. Strong communication, emotional resilience, and empathy are vital soft skills for supporting patients and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These skills and qualifications are essential for ensuring safe, effective care and fostering a therapeutic environment for individuals facing mental health challenges.

What are some typical challenges a Behavioral Health RN might encounter when working with patients in a mental health setting?

Behavioral Health RNs often face challenges such as managing unpredictable patient behaviors, de-escalating crisis situations, and balancing the emotional demands of supporting individuals with complex mental health needs. They must also maintain clear and compassionate communication with both patients and interdisciplinary team members, while adhering to strict safety protocols. Successfully navigating these challenges requires resilience, adaptability, and strong teamwork skills within a supportive mental health care environment.

What is the difference between Behavioral Health Rn vs Psychiatric Nurse?

AspectBehavioral Health RnPsychiatric Nurse
CredentialsRegistered Nurse (RN) license, possibly additional behavioral health certificationsRegistered Nurse (RN) license, often with psychiatric or mental health certifications
Work EnvironmentHospitals, mental health clinics, community health settingsPsychiatric hospitals, mental health units, outpatient clinics
Employer & IndustryHospitals, mental health facilities, outpatient centersPsychiatric hospitals, mental health clinics, residential facilities
Common Search & ComparisonBehavioral Health Rn vs Psychiatric Nurse

Both roles involve providing mental health care, but Behavioral Health Rns often work in diverse settings with a focus on behavioral health interventions, while Psychiatric Nurses typically work specifically within psychiatric hospitals or units. The credentials and work environments overlap significantly, making them closely related roles in mental health care.

How to make 150,000 as a nurse?

A Behavioral Health RN can earn $150,000 by gaining extensive experience, obtaining advanced certifications, working in high-demand settings, or taking on leadership roles such as charge nurse or clinical supervisor. Working overtime, specializing in areas like psychiatric or addiction treatment, and working in regions with higher pay scales can also increase earnings.

What does a behavioral health RN do?

A behavioral health RN provides nursing care to patients with mental health or substance use disorders, assessing their needs, administering medications, and developing treatment plans. They often work in psychiatric hospitals, clinics, or community settings, utilizing skills in patient assessment, crisis intervention, and therapeutic communication.

What are Behavioral Health RNs?

Behavioral Health Registered Nurses (RNs) are specialized nurses who care for patients experiencing mental health issues, emotional disorders, or substance abuse problems. They work in settings such as psychiatric hospitals, mental health clinics, and residential treatment centers. Their responsibilities include assessing patients’ mental health needs, administering medications, developing care plans, and providing support to patients and their families. Behavioral Health RNs collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to ensure comprehensive care and promote patient recovery.
More about Behavioral Health Rn jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Behavioral Health Rn jobs in Tennessee? The most popular types of Behavioral Health Rn jobs in Tennessee are:
What are popular job titles related to Behavioral Health Rn jobs in Tennessee? For Behavioral Health Rn jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Behavioral Health Rn jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Behavioral Health Rn jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Behavioral Health Rn jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Behavioral Health Rn job openings:
Infographic showing various Behavioral Health Rn job openings in Tennessee as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 55% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 15% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% In-person, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,403 per year, or $42.5 per hour.
RN Behavioral Health

$20K/mo

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago


Community Health Systems rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 263 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

450th of 871 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Behavioral Health Registered Nurse

Position Type: Full Time Days

Benefits:

  • Health Insurance (Medical, Dental, Vision)

  • 401(k) with matching

  • Student Loan Repayment: Up to $20,000

  • Educational Assistance

  • Paid Time Off

  • Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.

Job Summary

The Registered Nurse (RN) provides patient-centered care through the nursing process of assessment, diagnosis, planning, implementation, and evaluation. This role is responsible for coordinating and delivering high-quality care based on established clinical protocols and physician/provider orders. The RN collaborates with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to ensure effective patient care and desired outcomes, while maintaining a supportive and compassionate environment for patients and their families.

Essential Functions

  • Coordinates and delivers high-quality, patient-centered care in accordance with organizational policies, protocols, and the nursing process.

  • Conducts thorough patient assessments and documents findings accurately, reporting changes in condition to the appropriate care team members.

  • Utilizes knowledge of human growth and development to provide age-appropriate care and education.

  • Administers prescribed medications, monitors for side effects, and documents administration in accordance with standards of practice.

  • Assists physicians during procedures within the scope of documented competency and skill level.

  • Collaborates with the healthcare team to develop, implement, and evaluate individualized care plans based on patient assessments and needs.

  • Responds to medical emergencies and participates in life-saving interventions, such as CPR and code team activities, as appropriate.

  • Advocates for the rights and needs of patients, ensuring their voices are heard and respected in care planning and delivery.

  • Provides patient and family education on medical conditions, treatment plans, and post-discharge care, ensuring understanding and adherence to instructions.

  • Implements and adheres to infection control protocols to prevent the spread of healthcare-associated infections.

  • Monitors and operates medical equipment (e.g., IV pumps, monitors, ventilators) as needed for patient care and safety.

  • Promotes patient safety by adhering to National Patient Safety Goals and maintaining a clean, safe environment for patients and staff.

  • Participates in audits, chart reviews, and compliance checks to ensure adherence to standards of practice and regulatory requirements.

  • Demonstrates responsible decision-making in planning, delegating, and providing care based on patient needs and organizational policies.

  • Documents patient care and education thoroughly and promptly in the medical record.

  • Engages in professional development to maintain clinical competency and understanding of current nursing standards and regulations.

  • Participates in performance improvement initiatives, including data collection and process development, to enhance patient outcomes and care delivery.

  • Performs other duties as assigned.

  • Maintains regular and reliable attendance.

  • Complies with all policies and standards.

Qualifications

  • 0-2 years of experience in a clinical nursing role or student clinical rotations in an acute care setting required

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

  • Strong knowledge of the nursing process and clinical nursing practices.

  • Ability to perform thorough patient assessments and communicate findings effectively.

  • Proficient in administering medications and monitoring for side effects.

  • Effective communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate with interdisciplinary teams.

  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail in documenting patient care.

  • Knowledge of safety standards, infection control, and quality improvement initiatives.

Licenses and Certifications

  • RN - Registered Nurse - State Licensure and/or Compact State Licensure required

  • BCLS - Basic Life Support required

  • ACLS - Advanced Cardiac Life Support preferred

  • PALS - Pediatric Advanced Life Support preferred

  • NRP - Neonatal Resuscitation preferred

  • Refer to facility or unit-specific guidelines for additional requirements.

INDBH

Equal Employment Opportunity

This organization does not discriminate in any way to deprive any person of employment opportunities or otherwise adversely affect the status of any employee because of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, genetic information, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, citizenship, veteran status, or military or uniformed services, in accordance with all applicable governmental laws and regulations. In addition, the facility complies with all applicable federal, state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. This applies to all terms and conditions of employment including, but not limited to: hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training. If you are an applicant with a mental or physical disability who needs a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process, contact the director of Human Resources at the facility to which you are seeking employment; Simply go to http://www.chs.net/serving-communities/locations/ to obtain the main telephone number of the facility and ask for Human Resources.


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