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Mental Health Rn Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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Mental Health Rn information

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$18

$44

$77

How much do mental health rn jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for mental health rn in Virginia is $44.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30.29 and $52.45 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Mental Health RNs face when working with patients in acute psychiatric settings?

Mental Health RNs in acute psychiatric settings often encounter challenges such as managing unpredictable patient behaviors, de-escalating crises, and maintaining a safe environment for both patients and staff. They also need to balance empathetic communication with clinical boundaries, and collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams—including psychiatrists, social workers, and therapists—to create effective care plans. Adaptability, resilience, and strong teamwork are essential for navigating these dynamic and sometimes high-stress environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Mental Health RN?

To thrive as a Mental Health RN, you need a solid foundation in psychiatric nursing, crisis intervention, and patient assessment, supported by an active RN license and specialized mental health training. Familiarity with electronic health records (EHRs), behavioral health documentation systems, and de-escalation techniques is often required. Compassion, emotional resilience, and strong communication skills help build trust and effectively support patients facing mental health challenges. These skills are vital for ensuring patient safety, fostering therapeutic relationships, and delivering effective, holistic mental health care.

What is a Mental Health RN?

A Mental Health RN (Registered Nurse) is a licensed nurse who specializes in caring for patients experiencing mental health issues or psychiatric disorders. They work in settings such as hospitals, psychiatric facilities, outpatient clinics, and community health organizations. Their responsibilities include assessing patient needs, administering medications, developing care plans, providing therapeutic support, and collaborating with other mental health professionals. Mental Health RNs play a crucial role in promoting recovery, patient safety, and overall well-being for individuals struggling with mental health conditions.

What is the difference between Mental Health Rn vs Psychiatric Nurse?

AspectMental Health RnPsychiatric Nurse
CredentialsRegistered Nurse (RN) license, mental health certificationsRegistered Nurse (RN) license, psychiatric certifications
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, mental health facilitiesPsychiatric hospitals, mental health units, community clinics
Employer & IndustryHealthcare providers, mental health organizationsPsychiatric hospitals, mental health clinics
Job FocusAssessing, treating mental health conditions, patient advocacyManaging psychiatric patients, administering medications, crisis intervention

Both roles require RN licensure and mental health training, but Mental Health Rns often focus on assessment and therapy, while Psychiatric Nurses may have a more clinical, medication management role. They work in similar environments and serve overlapping populations, making them closely related in the mental health field.

What are popular job titles related to Mental Health Rn jobs in Virginia? For Mental Health Rn jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Mental Health Rn jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Mental Health Rn jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Mental Health Rn jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Mental Health Rn job openings:
Infographic showing various Mental Health Rn job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,837 per year, or $44.2 per hour.

Mental Health Registered Nurse (RN) - Richmond, VA

Desort

Richmond, VA • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

Mental Health Registered Nurse (RN) - Richmond, VA
A healthcare organization is seeking a compassionate and dedicated Mental Health Registered Nurse (RN) to support individuals experiencing behavioral health and psychiatric conditions. This opportunity is ideal for nursing professionals who are passionate about patient advocacy, therapeutic care, and helping individuals achieve positive mental health outcomes.
About the Role
The Mental Health RN will provide direct nursing care, coordinate treatment plans, and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to support patients throughout their recovery journey. This role requires strong clinical judgment, empathy, and the ability to build therapeutic relationships in a structured behavioral health setting.
Responsibilities
  • Assess patient mental and physical health status and identify changes requiring intervention
  • Develop, implement, and evaluate individualized treatment and care plans
  • Administer medications and monitor patient responses to treatment
  • Maintain accurate and timely clinical documentation
  • Provide therapeutic support and crisis intervention when necessary
  • Collaborate with psychiatrists, therapists, social workers, and healthcare professionals to coordinate care
  • Monitor patient safety and maintain a secure treatment environment
  • Educate patients and family members regarding treatment plans, medications, coping strategies, and recovery goals
  • Assist with discharge planning and coordination of community-based support services
  • Advocate for patient needs while promoting dignity, respect, and recovery-focused care
Qualifications
  • Current Registered Nurse (RN) license or eligibility for licensure
  • Graduate of an accredited nursing program
  • Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification
  • Crisis intervention or behavioral health certifications preferred or ability to obtain
  • Previous psychiatric, behavioral health, or mental health nursing experience preferred
  • Strong communication, de-escalation, and critical-thinking skills
  • Ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary team environment
Benefits
  • Competitive compensation package
  • Health, dental, and vision coverage
  • Retirement savings opportunities
  • Paid time off and leave programs
  • Continuing education assistance
  • Professional development and advancement opportunities
  • Employee wellness and support resources

How to Apply
Qualified candidates are encouraged to submit their resume to:
Careers@desortstaffing.com
Please complete the online application to be considered.
For more information, please contact:
Laura M.
Senior Talent Acquisition Specialist
Careers@desortstaffing.com
Equal Opportunity Employer
This dental organization is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or veteran status.