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Mental Health Assistant Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Mental Health Counselor

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

Ellie Mental Health is a highly successful mental health organization with clinics structured to remove many of the daily obstacles that get in the way of providing world-class mental health services.

Mental Health Therapist

Woodbridge, VA · On-site

$65K - $90K/yr

Health insurance * Paid time off Ellie Mental Health is hiring an outpatient mental health therapist for its Woodbridge, Virginia location! Come be a part of a growing team that is working to break ...

Mental Health Therapist

Potomac, MD · On-site

$70K - $83K/yr

Company parties Come join one of the fastest-growing outpatient mental health practices in Howard County, Md! This position is flexible remote, meaning some in person and some through Telehealth We ...

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Mental Health Assistant information

See Reston, VA salary details

$23.4K

$52.6K

$81.1K

How much do mental health assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for mental health assistant in Reston, VA is $52,553.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36,900.00 and $64,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a mental health assistant?

A mental health assistant works with psychiatric patients in hospitals, residential care facilities, and outpatient centers. Your job duties as a mental health assistant are to monitor patients’ behavior and progress, assist patients with basic care like bathing and eating, and update medical records. You may also take patients’ vital signs, provide therapeutic care, and engage patients in social and recreational activities. Occasionally, you may have to help restrain patients who become physically violent or out of control. Mental health assistants report to psychiatrists or other physicians and follow their instructions for patient care.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a mental health assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Mental Health Assistant, you typically need a background in psychology or social work, experience with behavioral health, and sometimes relevant certifications such as Mental Health First Aid. Familiarity with electronic health records (EHRs), crisis intervention techniques, and patient management systems is often required. Compassion, patience, and strong communication skills enable effective support of clients and collaboration with clinical teams. These skills are vital for ensuring client safety, building trust, and supporting effective treatment outcomes in mental health environments.

What are some common challenges faced by mental health assistants, and how can they be managed?

Mental Health Assistants often encounter emotionally charged situations and may work with individuals experiencing crises or behavioral challenges. Managing stress and maintaining emotional resilience are key, and it's important to utilize supervision, peer support, and self-care strategies. Building strong communication skills and setting healthy boundaries can also help navigate difficult interactions. Many organizations provide ongoing training and regular debriefings to support staff well-being and professional growth.

What is the difference between Mental Health Assistant vs Mental Health Technician?

AspectMental Health AssistantMental Health Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certificationHigh school diploma; certification may be preferred or required
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, community health centersHospitals, mental health facilities, residential treatment centers
Employer & Industry UsageHealthcare providers, mental health agenciesBehavioral health facilities, hospitals
Common Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

Both roles support mental health patients and work in healthcare settings, often with similar credentials. Mental Health Assistants typically focus on providing basic patient care and support, while Mental Health Technicians may have more specialized responsibilities in mental health treatment. The roles are closely related, with overlapping work environments and employer usage, making them common points of comparison for job seekers in mental health support roles.

What are the duties of a mental health assistant?

A mental health assistant supports mental health professionals by monitoring patients, assisting with daily activities, and providing emotional support. They may also help with documentation, observe patient behavior, and facilitate group activities, often working under supervision in clinical or community settings. Strong communication skills and basic knowledge of mental health conditions are important for this role.

What are the most commonly searched types of Mental Health jobs in Reston, VA?

The most popular types of Mental Health jobs in Reston, VA are:

What are popular job titles related to Mental Health Assistant jobs in Reston, VA?

For Mental Health Assistant jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Mental Health Assistant jobs in Reston, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Mental Health Assistant jobs in Reston, VA are:

What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Mental Health Assistant jobs?

Cities near Reston, VA with the most Mental Health Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Mental Health Assistant job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,553 per year, or $25.3 per hour.

$47 - $55/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

Join us at Columbia Mental Health, a member of Transformations Care Network (TCN), as we embark on an exciting journey to empower Mental Health Therapists like you to make a difference in the field of behavioral health. We are committed to improving access to mental health care in our communities which means we are committed to being a great place to be a therapist.  

As a Therapist on our team, you will experience an environment where both you and your clients can thrive. Emerging, early career therapists appreciate a collaborative environment, where they are supported by a clinical team that prioritizes growth and development as they work to gain licensure. Our clinics provide a supportive space to practice therapeutic interventions and develop skills that impact our diverse local community. Licensed Therapists appreciate the ability to practice in a sustainable and personalized way, with the support of a clinical and administrative team. Leadership and supervision opportunities allow our Therapists to build a career that works for them while guiding the next generation of mental health providers.  

Key Responsibilities   

  • Conduct culturally sensitive, strength-based assessments for new clients and families, creating a welcoming and understanding environment for diverse backgrounds. 
  • Provide tailored outpatient individual and family therapy based on the unique needs and circumstances of each client, fostering a path to healing and resilience. 
  • Develop comprehensive crisis plans, safety plans, relapse prevention plans, and wellness plans, supporting the maintenance of stable functioning and empowering clients in their mental health journey. 
  • Actively participate in case consultations, agency meetings, and discharge planning, contributing your expertise to enhance client care. 
  • Ensure timely completion of billing, documentation, individualized treatment plans, and insurance authorization forms, upholding the highest standards of professional responsibility. 
  • Engage in collaborative care with our team of psychiatrists, nurse practitioners, dietitians, administrative staff, and fellow therapists, to provide a holistic approach to mental health care. 

Qualifications   

  • Possess a Master’s degree in Social Work, Counseling, Marriage and Family Counseling, or a related field. 
  • If required, provisional license per state regulation. 
  • Educational background that leads to or has resulted in professional licensing. 
  • Passionate about mental health and committed to providing high-quality care. 
  • Dedicated to ongoing professional development in mental health including free supervision and continuing education. 
  • Eager to collaborate with a multidisciplinary team to enhance client care. 
  • Strong commitment to ethical practice and maintaining confidentiality. 
  • Excellent communication skills and ability to build rapport with clients and families. 
  • Ability to manage time effectively and complete documentation and administrative tasks efficiently. 

Explore the Advantages of Joining Our Team: 

  • Enjoy competitive compensation and a wide range of benefits, including medical, dental, vision, low-cost virtual care, dependent and domestic partner coverage, 401K, and more, designed to support your well-being and financial security. 
  • Immerse yourself in a community united by a deep commitment to enhance mental health and revolutionize the care that clients receive. 
  • Embrace a journey of growth and development through continuous learning, guided by seasoned professionals, fostering your career growth in a nurturing environment. 
  • Play a pivotal role in reshaping how mental health care is perceived and delivered in your local community as well as on a national scale, with your efforts directly improving client lives. 
  • Deliver mental health care in a sustainable way, with the support and tools you need to thrive. 
  • Thrive in an environment that celebrates collaborative success, driven by effective communication, support, and unity. 
  • Receive comprehensive onboarding and ongoing educational resources, tailored to cultivate your talents, and assure your triumph in your role. 

Columbia Mental Health is committed to fair and equitable compensation practices. The base compensation range for this role is $47 – $55 per billable unit. Actual compensation may vary based on licensure, experience, market-driven enhancements, and incentive opportunities available for this role. These ranges represent our current standard compensation practices and may be adjusted over time to remain competitive and aligned with organizational needs.

Transformations Care Network is an equal opportunity employer, committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace.