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Behavioral Health Jobs in Baton Rouge, LA (NOW HIRING)

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Behavioral Health information

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How much do behavioral health jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for behavioral health in Baton Rouge, LA is $23.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $29.33 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 Baton Rouge, LA?

The most popular types of Behavioral Health jobs in Baton Rouge, LA are:

What cities near Baton Rouge, LA are hiring for Behavioral Health jobs?

Cities near Baton Rouge, LA with the most Behavioral Health job openings:

Infographic showing various Behavioral Health job openings in Baton Rouge, LA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $49,497 per year, or $23.8 per hour.

Behavioral Health Counselor

Open Health Care Clinic

Baton Rouge, LA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

Now Hiring: Behavioral Health Counselor


We are seeking a compassionate, licensed Behavioral Health Counselor to join our integrated care team. In this role, you will provide behavioral health assessments, therapeutic interventions, treatment planning, patient education, and care coordination in a Federally Qualified Health Center environment. The ideal candidate is committed to whole-person care, culturally responsive practice, and collaborative work with multidisciplinary teams.

  • Department: Behavioral Health
  • Reports to: Behavioral Health Manager
  • FLSA Status: Exempt
  • Position Type: Full-time
  • Work Setting: Integrated care/FQHC environment
What You’ll Do
  • Conduct comprehensive behavioral health assessments, screenings, and biopsychosocial evaluations using validated tools.
  • Develop individualized treatment plans with measurable goals and evidence-based interventions.
  • Provide individual, group, and family therapeutic interventions for mental health and substance use concerns.
  • Perform crisis intervention, safety assessments, and de-escalation support as needed.
  • Coordinate care with medical providers, nurses, case managers, social workers, and community partners.
  • Complete referrals and support patients in accessing community-based services and resources.
  • Maintain timely, accurate, and confidential documentation in the electronic health record.
  • Participate in case conferences, clinical supervision, staff meetings, and required trainings.
  • Promote trauma-informed, culturally responsive, patient-centered care across all interactions.
What You’ll Bring
  • Active Louisiana licensure as an LCSW or LPC is required.
  • Master’s degree in Social Work or Counseling required.
  • Experience conducting assessments, formulating diagnoses, and developing treatment plans.
  • Knowledge of evidence-based practices, including trauma-informed care and treatment for co-occurring disorders.
  • Working knowledge of DSM and ICD diagnostic frameworks.
  • Strong interpersonal, communication, and crisis intervention skills.
  • Proficiency with electronic health records and timely clinical documentation.
  • Knowledge of HIPAA, confidentiality requirements, and integrated care best practices.
  • American Heart Association BLS for Healthcare Providers required.
  • Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation are preferred if travel between sites is required.
Preferred Experience

One year of post-graduate paid clinical experience in mental health and/or substance use disorder treatment is preferred. Experience in an FQHC, community health, integrated care, or multidisciplinary setting is also preferred.

Work Environment and Travel

This role may involve work across clinical and community-based settings, including travel between sites as needed. The position requires regular computer use, communication with patients and care teams, and the ability to maintain accurate documentation throughout the workday. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the role.

Equal Opportunity Employer

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at all levels of the organization. All qualified applicants will be considered based on job-related qualifications, merit, and business need.