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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.

OPSAM Health

Behavioral Health Therapist

National City, CA · On-site

$95K - $135K/yr

Behavioral Health Director Status: Full Time / Part Time Location/s: Granger: 2101 Granger Avenue Suite 101A, National City, CA 91950 National City, 2743 Highland Avenue, National City 91950 The ...

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Behavioral Health information

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$39

How much do behavioral health jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 56% Full Time, and 44% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $50,872 per year, or $24.5 per hour.

Behavioral Health Technician

Clear Behavioral Health

Torrance, CA • On-site

$21 - $22.50/hr

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

About Us:

Clear Behavioral Health is dedicated to supporting individuals facing mental health and substance use challenges through compassionate, holistic, and evidence-based care. We provide a full continuum of services, including detox, dual diagnosis treatment, residential and outpatient programs, and specialized mental health services, all delivered by a multidisciplinary team of experienced clinicians and support professionals. Our person-centered approach focuses on treating the whole individual, while empowering clients with the tools, structure, and support needed to achieve long-term recovery and lasting stability.

Summary of Position

As a Behavioral Health Technician, you will perform basic patient care services related to behavioral health under the supervision of the Program Manager or Program Director. You will assist the patient care team with maintaining a safe and therapeutic environment, crisis intervention, and activities of daily living

Job Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Facilitates clients' daily activities in the facility; wake ups, chore supervision, assists with meal service and assists with laundry.
  • Observes and monitors clients' behavior and intervenes based on schedule, individual client's treatment plan and facility needs.
  • Facilitates assigned groups/meetings/activities per program schedule.
  • Documents observations/milieu interventions in client records (minimum of one entry per shift/group).
  • Coordinates milieu treatment with counseling staff (via consent record, staff communication, and counseling/staff meetings.)
  • Completes the staff shift report (including check-in and check-out as well as a summary of the shift events).
  • Transports clients per supervisor's directives (for court, doctor's appointments, ancillary services, etc.)
  • Ensures client telephones are available (ringer on) during designated hours.
  • Supervises self-administration of client medications (only after provided with appropriate
  • training.)
  • Orients new clients to house rules.
  • Conducts check-in of new clients including search of belongings and lock-up of contraband and medications.
  • Follow emergency procedures (including escalation protocol, etc.)
  • Provides Against Treatment Advice (“ATA”) prevention including 1:1 counseling, notification of assigned counselor, and immediate notification of supervisor or a counselor, whenever a client talks about leaving the program.
  • Supports the aftercare component by facilitating aftercare groups and conducting sober living house checks (when assigned).
  • Conducts UA drug screen collection when directed, following appropriate procedures.
  • Other duties assigned by supervisor.

Minimum Qualifications/Requirements:

  • 1 year of experience working with mental health or dual diagnosis(preferred).
  • Must be able to obtain a CPR/First Aid certification
  • Must be able to pass TB or X-Ray clearance.
  • Clean background check/ability to pass livescan.

Pay: $21.00 - $22.50 per hour

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