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Behavioral Health Science Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is required as of the 's last update on 4/27/2025. Employees ... Intermountain Health St George Regional Hospital Work City: St George Work State: Utah Scheduled ...

... Behavioral Health- Neenah Hospital): This 19 bed unit serves a great purpose in the community ... of Science in Nursing (BSN) within five (5) years of hire. PHYSICAL DEMANDS: * Ability to move ...

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Behavioral Health Science information

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How much do behavioral health science jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for behavioral health science in Iowa is $23.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.92 and $28.65 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges Behavioral Health Science professionals face when working with diverse client populations?

Behavioral Health Science professionals often encounter clients from various cultural, socioeconomic, and age groups, each with unique perspectives on mental health and treatment. Navigating these differences requires cultural competence, adaptability, and strong communication skills. Professionals may also face challenges in building trust with clients who are hesitant to seek help or have experienced stigma. Ongoing training and collaboration with multidisciplinary teams are crucial strategies for effectively addressing these challenges and providing tailored support.

What is behavioral health science?

Behavioral health science is the study of how human behavior affects overall well-being, focusing on mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders. Professionals in this field research, prevent, and treat issues like addiction, anxiety, depression, and other behavioral health problems. Careers in behavioral health science can include working as counselors, case managers, or behavioral health technicians, often in settings such as hospitals, clinics, or community organizations. The field combines elements of psychology, counseling, social work, and public health to improve individual and community health outcomes.

What jobs can you get with a BS in behavioral health?

A Bachelor of Science in behavioral health prepares individuals for roles such as behavioral health technician, case manager, mental health technician, or community outreach worker. These positions often involve working directly with clients, implementing treatment plans, and require strong communication and interpersonal skills; some roles may require certification or additional training.

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

AspectBehavioral Health ScienceMental Health Counselor
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Behavioral Health, Psychology, or related fieldsMaster's in Counseling, Psychology, or Social Work; licensure often required
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, community health centers, research settingsPrivate practices, clinics, hospitals, schools
Employer & Industry UsageHealthcare organizations, research institutions, public health agenciesPrivate practices, mental health clinics, hospitals
Common Search & ComparisonBehavioral Health Science vs Mental Health Counselor

Behavioral Health Science focuses on understanding and applying scientific principles to improve mental health through research and program development. Mental Health Counselors provide direct therapy and support to clients. While both roles aim to improve mental well-being, Behavioral Health Science emphasizes research and program design, whereas Mental Health Counselors focus on individual treatment.

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

To excel as a Behavioral Health Science professional, you need a solid background in psychology, counseling, or social work, often supported by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Familiarity with assessment tools, electronic health record (EHR) systems, and evidence-based therapeutic techniques is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, cultural competence, and emotional intelligence help professionals build trust and effectively support clients. These abilities are crucial for delivering effective interventions, ensuring ethical practice, and improving client outcomes in mental health settings.

What is the highest paying job in behavioral health?

The highest paying roles in behavioral health often include clinical directors, psychiatric nurse practitioners, and licensed psychologists, with salaries exceeding $100,000 annually. These positions typically require advanced degrees, licensure, and extensive experience, and they involve leadership, specialized clinical skills, or independent practice.

What do you do with a behavioral science degree?

A behavioral health science degree prepares individuals for roles such as behavioral health technician, case manager, research assistant, or counselor. Graduates often work in healthcare settings, mental health clinics, or community organizations, applying skills in assessment, intervention, and data analysis. Certification or licensure may be required for certain clinical positions.

What can I do with a career in behavioural sciences?

A career in behavioral sciences with a focus on behavioral health science involves working to understand and improve mental health, behavior, and well-being. Professionals may work as psychologists, behavioral analysts, mental health counselors, or researchers, often requiring skills in data analysis, communication, and knowledge of mental health treatment methods. Opportunities exist in clinical, research, educational, and community settings, with some roles requiring certification or advanced degrees.
What are popular job titles related to Behavioral Health Science jobs in Iowa? For Behavioral Health Science jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Behavioral Health Science jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Behavioral Health Science jobs in Iowa are:
Infographic showing various Behavioral Health Science job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,416 per year, or $23.3 per hour.
Behavioral Health Consultant

Other

Posted 4 days ago


University Of Iowa rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 85 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

454th of 611 rated colleges and universities


Job description

As part of the newly formed Behavioral Emergency Support Team (BEST), the Behavioral Health Consultant proactively assists clinical staff in assessing individuals with challenging behaviors and developing behavioral treatment plans.  The role responds to behavioral emergencies throughout the hospital to promote a safe and therapeutic healthcare environment for patients, staff, and visitors.  The consultant works with patients who may have a history of mental illnesses, intellectual disabilities, or medical illnesses that make them vulnerable.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Supports staff in proactively preventing and mitigating challenging, aggressive, and disruptive behavior. Completes daily rounding on patients with a heightened risk of violence in coordination with other team members.
  • Acts as a de-escalation and behavioral crisis management resource for staff. Responds to emergent behavioral incidents as part of the interdisciplinary team.
  • In collaboration with BEST and other Workplace Safety staff, collects information about patient contacts through review of medical charts and communication with patients, families, and caregivers.
  • Reviews data with psychologists as needed and develops assessments, individualized best practices, and behavior plans in collaboration with clinical staff.
  • Effectively prevents and de-escalates potential crises following training and with support from the interdisciplinary team. The consultant will regularly work in situations where physical aggression and property destruction occur.
  • Ensures quality in program delivery through collaboration with an interdisciplinary team.
  • Communicates with internal and external stakeholders regarding patient behavior, goals, progress, behavior recommendations, and placement.
  • Manages daily operations of the service, including attendance at all team functions.
  • Assists in creating training materials and conducting training as appropriate, including Management of Aggressive Behaviors (MOAB).
  • Helps complete and maintain documentation of patient contacts.
  • This position will require working holidays on a rotating or scheduled basis.

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Psychology, Social Work, Education, or related field, or an equivalent combination of experience and education is required.
  • One or more years of experience working directly with individuals with challenging behaviors such as verbal and physical aggression, property destruction, or self-harm.
  • Excellent verbal communication skills, including demonstrated positive interpersonal skills and experience leading and/or participating as a member of work teams and groups.
  • Proficiency in computer software applications, including demonstrated experience using MS Office.
  • Demonstrated experience promoting a workforce/academic environment.
  • Demonstrated experience working effectively in a welcoming and respectful work environment
  • Ability to work holidays on a rotating/scheduled basis.

Desired Qualifications

  • Three or more years of direct experience working directly with individuals with challenging behaviors such as verbal and physical aggression, property destruction, or self-harm.
  • Experience with Applied Behavior Analysis or treatment of individuals with developmental disabilities and/or challenging behavior.
  • Experience with counseling, such as Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
  • Experience with MOAB (Management of Aggressive Behavior) or other de-escalation training.
  • Knowledge of University and UI Health Care policies, procedures, and regulations.

Application Process: To be considered, applicants must upload a cover letter and resume (under the submission of relevant materials) that clearly address how they meet the listed required and desired qualifications of this position. Job openings are posted for a minimum of 7 calendar days. Successful candidates will be required to self-disclose any conviction history and will be subject to a criminal background check and credential/education verification.

 Up to 5 professional references will be requested at a later step in the recruitment process. For questions, contact Sharon Walther at sharon-walther@uiowa.edu.

This position is not eligible for University sponsorship for employment authorization now or in the future.

Additional Information
  • Classification Title: Behavioral Health Consultant
  • Appointment Type: Professional and Scientific
  • Schedule: Full-time
  • Work Modality Options: On Campus
Compensation
  • Pay Level: 3A
Contact Information
  • Organization: Healthcare
  • Contact Name: Sharon Walther
  • Contact Email: sharon-walther@uiowa.edu

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