ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Behavioral Health Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Prosperous Health

Behavioral Health Technician

Gorman, CA · On-site

$16 - $30/hr

Behavioral Health Technician (BHT) About Prosperous Health Prosperous Health is dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based behavioral health and substance use disorder treatment services.

NorthBay Health

Director, Behavioral Health

Fairfield, CA · On-site

$180K - $195K/yr

At NorthBay Health, the Director of Behavioral Health is responsible for the strategic, operational, financial, and clinical oversight of the behavioral health service line. This leader provides ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsBehavioral Health JobsBehavioral Health Jobs in California

Behavioral Health information

See California salary details

$13

$24

$39

How much do behavioral health jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for behavioral health in California is $24.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $30.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is behavioral health?

Behavioral health professionals are specialists who work with individuals to address mental health, emotional well-being, and substance use issues. They include psychologists, counselors, social workers, therapists, and psychiatrists who assess, diagnose, and provide treatment for behavioral and mental health conditions. These professionals may work in hospitals, clinics, schools, or private practices, and often collaborate in multidisciplinary teams to support patients' overall well-being. Their goal is to help people manage stress, cope with life challenges, and improve their quality of life.

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

Behavioral health professionals often encounter challenges such as managing high caseloads, addressing diverse client needs, and coping with emotional stress from clients' situations. Maintaining clear boundaries, seeking regular supervision, and utilizing self-care practices are essential strategies for managing these challenges. Many organizations also offer ongoing training and peer support to help staff navigate complex cases and prevent burnout, fostering a collaborative and supportive work environment.

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

To thrive in Behavioral Health, a solid understanding of psychological principles, mental health assessment, and treatment planning is essential, often supported by degrees in psychology, social work, counseling, or related fields. Familiarity with electronic health records (EHRs), crisis intervention techniques, and, in some roles, relevant licensure or certifications like LCSW or LPC are typically required. Exceptional empathy, active listening, and strong communication skills help professionals effectively support clients and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams. These competencies are vital for delivering effective care, ensuring patient safety, and fostering positive therapeutic outcomes.

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

AspectBehavioral HealthMental Health Counselor
CredentialsVaries; may include licenses, certifications in behavioral healthTypically requires state licensure (e.g., LCSW, LPC)
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, community agencies, schoolsPrivate practices, clinics, hospitals, community agencies
Industry UsageBroad term encompassing mental, emotional, and behavioral healthSpecialized role focusing on mental health diagnosis and therapy

Behavioral Health is a broad field covering mental, emotional, and behavioral well-being, often including various professionals. Mental Health Counselors are specific practitioners within this field, primarily providing therapy for mental health issues. While both roles may require similar credentials and work in similar environments, Behavioral Health professionals may have a wider scope, including prevention and community programs, whereas Mental Health Counselors focus on individual therapy and diagnosis.

How long does it take to become a behavioral health technician?

Becoming a behavioral health technician typically requires completing a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by a training program or certification that can take a few weeks to several months. Some positions may require on-the-job training or specific certifications such as CPR or first aid, but there is generally no formal degree requirement, allowing for quicker entry into the field.

What jobs fall under behavioral health?

Jobs in behavioral health include roles such as mental health counselor, clinical social worker, substance abuse counselor, psychiatric technician, and psychologist. These positions typically require relevant certifications or licenses and involve providing therapy, assessment, and support for individuals with mental health or substance use issues.

What are the most commonly searched types of Behavioral Health jobs in California?

The most popular types of Behavioral Health jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Behavioral Health jobs?

Cities in California with the most Behavioral Health job openings:

Behavioral Health jobs near you
Infographic showing various Behavioral Health job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,872 per year, or $24.5 per hour.

Behavioral Health Tech\

Discovery Behavioral Health

Del Mar, CA • On-site

$17 - $25/hr

Part-time

Posted 13 days ago

Discovery Behavioral Health rating

5.8

Company rating: 5.8 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

144th of 242 rated social care providers

Job description

Center for Discovery
At Discovery, we offer career opportunities nationwide in residential, day treatment, and intensive outpatient eating disorder treatment. Discovery is currently seeking Program Directors, Primary Therapists, Facility Managers, Counselors/Mental Health Specialists, Dietitians, Diet Techs, and Nurses. Discovery is specifically seeking individuals who consistently strive to provide exemplary care and are passionate about transforming the lives of others.
If you are interested in a challenging and rewarding career in the behavioral health field, the first step is to look for Open job positions that match your skills, qualifications and interest. Each posting includes a description and minimum required qualifications.
When we review candidate information, we are looking for the best matches for the position based on the qualifications listed in the job posting. If your skills and experience appear to match an open position, a recruitment services professional or hiring manager may contact you to further discuss your qualifications.
Position Summary:
Behavioral Health Tech II (BHT II) is responsible for assisting and supporting patients through the entire treatment experience from admission through discharge. BHT II will be contributing insightful, practical, and meaningful information to the treatment planning process. BHT II responsibilities primarily include ensuring patient safety, providing patient interventions, leading psychoeducational groups, and supporting patients.
Essential Job Functions:
  • Adheres to all DBH policies and procedures.
  • Conducts self in a manner that represents DBH values.
  • Maintains a positive and respectful attitude.
  • Provides exemplary customer service to all patients.
  • Exhibits understanding and respect for cultural and lifestyle diversity.
  • Understand and maintain professional boundaries and professional ethics.
  • Follows directions as given by all facility leadership.
  • Maintains confidentiality of patient information and records; and of facility/company proprietary, privileged, and/or confidential information.
  • Facilitates patient daily needs per the program schedule, including but not limited to: waking/bedtime routines and hygiene, meals/snacks, bathroom safety observations, free time.
  • Assists Nursing staff with duties as directed, for example: patient supervision, vitals, room searches, patient searches, etc.
  • Recognizes, responds to, and assists in crisis situations and provides interventions as appropriate.
  • Consistently reports to work on time and prepared to perform the duties of the position.
  • Assists in the implementation of individual patient treatment plans per clinical team.
  • Supports patient during admission and discharge processes. This may include checking in patient belongings, acclimating patient to the program, preparing patient for returning home.
  • Monitors patient activity and documents any significant patient issues. Completes all shift notes, group notes, and other required documentation by the end of shift.
  • Maintains and organized and safe environment and performs basic housekeeping duties.
  • Conducts regular facility and grounds checks, advising facility leadership of any irregularities or safety concerns.
  • Facilitates and leads daily groups as directed by facility leadership if applicable.
  • Attends all staff meetings and in-service trainings.
  • Completes all online training, policy verification, and ensures that their employee HR file is kept up to date.
  • Provides transportation services including patient transportation/supervision, errands, shopping, admits, outings, etc. (must be pre-qualified to drive a company vehicle).
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

  • Eating Disorder Division:
    • Providing supervision and support to patients during mealtimes requires staff to eat meals and snacks with patients.
    • Must refrain from comments and actions that directly contradict the CFD Clinical Model and Dietary CARE model.
    • Familiarizes and adopts the Philosophy, Mission, Goals, and Objectives of the Center for Discovery treatment programs.
    • Has basic knowledge of the clinical orientation and interventions used at Center for Discovery.
  • Residential Treatment Only:
    • In states where permissible, passing medicine will be required. Training and/or required certification will be provided.

Knowledge, Education & Experience:
  • Bachelor's Degree preferred
  • High School Diploma (or equivalent) preferred
  • One or more years experience working within the mental health, substance use or eating disorder field preferred
  • Valid and unrestricted State Driver's License

Employment Status: Part-Time
Schedule:Sunday, Monday 6:00AM-2:30PM OR Sunday, Thursday, Friday 2:00PM-10:30PM
Work Location: Onsite- Del Mar, CA
Compensation: Pay Range: $17 - $25 hourly
Discovery Behavioral Health seeks to build a diverse staff that is reflective of the patients we serve and the communities where we work. DBH encourages multiple perspectives, experiences, and strives to hire and retain a diverse workforce.
We are proud to be an EEO employer M/F/D/V. We maintain a drug-free workplace and perform pre-employment substance abuse testing. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.

What Discovery Behavioral Health employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Discovery Behavioral Health logo

About Discovery Behavioral Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Discovery Behavioral Health (DBH) is a national leader in behavioral healthcare and one of the fastest growing companies in the field. DBH offers world-class treatment for those struggling with eating, mental health, and substance use disorders, and places a high priority on seeking employees who share our passion for improving the lives we serve. Since 1997, Center for Discovery, DBH's eating disorder division, has helped thousands of patients discover their path to the full and rewarding lives they deserve with evidence-based and inclusive treatment options.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Irvine, CA, US

Year founded

1998

Social media

FacebookTwitter

View All Discovery Behavioral Health Jobs

Apply