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Mental Health Associate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Mental Health Associate is a front-line position with responsibility for direct patient care of our adolescent residents. The Mental Health Associate ensures the safety and well-being of the ...

The Mental Health Associate (MHA) is responsible for performing duties necessary to maintain a safe and therapeutic milieu. Under the direct supervision of a registered nurse, the MHA will assist the ...

Mental Health Associate

Methuen, MA · On-site

$18.81 - $27.96/hr

The Mental Health Associate (MHA) is responsible for performing duties necessary to maintain a safe and therapeutic milieu. Under the direct supervision of a registered nurse, the MHA will assist the ...

Mental Health Associate Location: NEW POINT CAMPUS Department Name: Emergency Screening Req #: 0000254817 Status: Hourly Shift: Evening Pay Range: $26.39 - $26.39 per hour Pay Transparency: The above ...

Mental Health Associate Location: MMC Southern Campus Department Name: Emergency Screening Req #: 0000224472 Status: Hourly Shift: Day Pay Range: $25.50 - $25.50 per hour Pay Transparency: The above ...

Mental Health Associate Location: MMC Southern Campus Department Name: Emergency Screening Req #: 0000224472 Status: Hourly Shift: Day Pay Range: $25.50 - $25.50 per hour Pay Transparency: The above ...

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Mental Health Associate information

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$15

$27

$47

How much do mental health associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for mental health associate in the United States is $27.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.67 and $31.97 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a mental health associate do?

A mental health associate provides support to individuals with mental health conditions by assisting with daily activities, monitoring their well-being, and implementing treatment plans under supervision. They often work in clinical or community settings, using communication and observation skills to help clients manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.

How does a Mental Health Associate typically collaborate with clinical staff in a healthcare setting?

Mental Health Associates work closely with psychiatrists, psychologists, nurses, and social workers to provide comprehensive care for patients. They often assist in implementing treatment plans, observe and report patient behavior, and participate in team meetings to share insights about patient progress. Effective communication and collaboration are essential, as Mental Health Associates serve as a bridge between patients and clinical staff, ensuring that care plans are followed and concerns are promptly addressed. This teamwork fosters a supportive environment for both patients and staff.

What Does a Mental Health Associate Do?

Mental health associates supervise patients and document their behavioral problems and strengths. Together with other mental health professionals like doctors and nurses, you develop treatment plans for patients in your facility. Your job duties include leading individual and group therapy or interventions, administering medication, providing assistance to patients with their daily hygiene or self-care routines, and supervising recreational activities. You need patience, compassion, and strong interpersonal skills to do well in mental health associate jobs.

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

AspectMental Health AssociateMental Health Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certificationHigh school diploma or equivalent; certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, mental health facilitiesHospitals, inpatient units, community health settings
Employer & Industry UsageHealthcare providers, mental health agenciesHospitals, psychiatric units, residential facilities
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles, responsibilities, and qualificationsSimilar roles, job duties, and certification requirements

Both Mental Health Associates and Mental Health Technicians work in mental health settings, assisting patients with daily activities and providing support. While their roles overlap, the titles may vary by employer, with similar educational requirements and work environments. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the right position for their skills and career goals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Mental Health Associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Mental Health Associate, you need a foundational understanding of psychology or social work, often supported by a relevant degree or certification such as a Certified Mental Health Technician (CMHT). Familiarity with electronic health records (EHRs), crisis intervention techniques, and patient monitoring systems is commonly required. Strong interpersonal communication, empathy, and resilience are vital soft skills for supporting patients and collaborating with healthcare teams. These competencies are essential for delivering effective patient care, managing crises, and promoting a safe and supportive environment.

What is the highest paying job in mental health?

The highest paying roles in mental health typically include psychiatrists, who are medical doctors specializing in mental health treatment and often earn the highest salaries in the field. Other well-compensated positions include psychiatric nurse practitioners and clinical psychologists with advanced certifications, especially those working in private practice or specialized settings. These roles usually require advanced degrees, licensing, and clinical experience.

Where do mental health associates work?

Mental health associates typically work in hospitals, mental health clinics, outpatient treatment centers, community health organizations, and residential facilities. They may also work in schools, correctional facilities, or private practices, providing support under supervision and often requiring relevant certifications or training.

How to become a mental health associate?

To become a mental health associate, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with relevant experience or training in mental health or social services. Some positions require certification or a related associate degree, and strong communication and interpersonal skills are essential for working with clients in healthcare or community settings.
What cities are hiring for Mental Health Associate jobs? Cities with the most Mental Health Associate job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Mental Health jobs? The most popular types of Mental Health jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Mental Health Associate jobs? The top employers for Mental Health Associate jobs are:
What states have the most Mental Health Associate jobs? States with the most job openings for Mental Health Associate jobs include:
Infographic showing various Mental Health Associate job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,463 per year, or $27.6 per hour.
Mental Health Associate

$27.50 - $32.50/hr

Part-time

Posted 3 days ago


Stepping Stones Group rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 87 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

59th of 235 rated social care providers


Job description

Mental Health Associate – Wraparound Services 


Community-Based Role | Long Beach, CA
Job Type: Part-Time 
Pay Range: $27.50–$32.50/hour 

Position Overview: 

ERA Ed, a Division of The Stepping Stones Group, is seeking a mission-driven and compassionate Mental Health Associate (MHA) to provide individualized, field-based, Wraparound mental health services to children, adolescents and families in Long Beach, CA.

This is an excellent opportunity for pre-licensed clinicians seeking hands-on experience, meaningful client relationships, and support toward BBS licensure through paid supervision and structured training. 

The ideal candidate is an Associate-level clinician (AMFT, ACSW, or APCC) who is passionate about supporting youth and families in school, home, and community settings. This position plays a vital role in a collaborative, multidisciplinary team dedicated to building stability and resilience in underserved communities. 

Mental Health Associates will participate in a yearlong clinical training program, while working with diverse caseloads under the supervision of a licensed clinician. Services are delivered in-person and via telehealth, depending on client needs. 

Key Responsibilities: 

  • Deliver Individualized Counseling Services: Provide strengths-based, culturally responsive therapeutic interventions to youth and families in school, home, and community settings. Services may include individual therapy, family counseling, and parent support, tailored to each family's needs and treatment goals. 
  • Facilitate Family Engagement and Parenting Support: Build rapport and foster trust with caregivers to increase engagement in the therapeutic process. Deliver psychoeducation, coaching, and behavior support strategies to parents and caregivers in a non-judgmental and collaborative manner. 
  • Provide Crisis Intervention and Risk Assessments: Respond promptly to urgent client needs, including safety planning and de-escalation. Conduct risk assessments related to suicidality, self-injury, and harm to others, and follow mandated reporting procedures as needed. 
  • Participate in IEP/504 Planning and School Collaboration: Attend and contribute to IEP meetings as appropriate. Maintain active communication with school teams, including special education staff, to support students with emotional or behavioral challenges. 
  • Maintain Clinical Documentation: Complete all required documentation in a timely, accurate, and professional manner. This includes assessments, treatment plans, session progress notes, and collateral contact notes in accordance with agency standards and regulatory guidelines. 
  • Coordinate Care and Foster Community Linkages: Work closely with Wraparound team members, school personnel, and external service providers to ensure a coordinated, comprehensive approach to care. Provide families with referrals to appropriate community resources as needed. 

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