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Behavioral Health Rn Jobs in Columbus, OH (NOW HIRING)

Behavioral Health Nurse IDD

Dublin, OH · On-site

$64K - $71K/yr

Graduate of an accredited nursing program. * RN license. * Experience in psychiatric, mental and behavioral health services. * Willingness to travel throughout assigned service area. * Preferably has ...

Graduate of an accredited nursing program. * RN license. * Experience in psychiatric, mental and behavioral health services. * Willingness to travel throughout assigned service area. * Preferably has ...

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Behavioral Health Rn information

See Columbus, OH salary details

$15

$45

$78

How much do behavioral health rn jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for behavioral health rn in Columbus, OH is $45.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32.26 and $55.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to make an extra 2000 a month as a nurse?

Behavioral Health RNs can increase their income by taking on per diem or agency shifts, which often pay higher rates, or by working additional hours in specialized settings. Gaining certifications in areas like mental health or addiction can also qualify RNs for higher-paying roles or overtime opportunities.

How to make $100,000 as a RN?

To earn $100,000 as a Behavioral Health RN, gaining experience, obtaining specialized certifications, and working in high-demand settings such as hospitals or outpatient facilities can help increase earning potential. Working overtime, taking on leadership roles, or pursuing advanced education like a master's degree may also contribute to higher salaries.

What Does a Behavioral Health RN Do?

The job duties of a behavioral health RN revolve around providing patient care in a mental health capacity. You work with psychologists, psychiatrists, and physicians to offer psychiatric and behavioral care. As a behavioral health nurse, you perform duties such as helping patients perform exercises to change thought patterns or habits. You may also assist with relaxation techniques for stress management or pain management. With specialized training, you may also employ biofeedback techniques or work with clients on long-term therapies such as personality development and behavior modification.

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

To thrive as a Behavioral Health RN, you need a nursing degree, RN licensure, and expertise in mental health assessment and crisis intervention. Familiarity with behavioral health documentation systems, de-escalation tools, and relevant certifications like BLS or PMH-BC is typically required. Strong communication, emotional resilience, and empathy are vital soft skills for supporting patients and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These skills and qualifications are essential for ensuring safe, effective care and fostering a therapeutic environment for individuals facing mental health challenges.

What are some typical challenges a Behavioral Health RN might encounter when working with patients in a mental health setting?

Behavioral Health RNs often face challenges such as managing unpredictable patient behaviors, de-escalating crisis situations, and balancing the emotional demands of supporting individuals with complex mental health needs. They must also maintain clear and compassionate communication with both patients and interdisciplinary team members, while adhering to strict safety protocols. Successfully navigating these challenges requires resilience, adaptability, and strong teamwork skills within a supportive mental health care environment.

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

AspectBehavioral Health RnPsychiatric Nurse
CredentialsRegistered Nurse (RN) license, possibly additional behavioral health certificationsRegistered Nurse (RN) license, often with psychiatric or mental health certifications
Work EnvironmentHospitals, mental health clinics, community health settingsPsychiatric hospitals, mental health units, outpatient clinics
Employer & IndustryHospitals, mental health facilities, outpatient centersPsychiatric hospitals, mental health clinics, residential facilities
Common Search & ComparisonBehavioral Health Rn vs Psychiatric Nurse

Both roles involve providing mental health care, but Behavioral Health Rns often work in diverse settings with a focus on behavioral health interventions, while Psychiatric Nurses typically work specifically within psychiatric hospitals or units. The credentials and work environments overlap significantly, making them closely related roles in mental health care.

How to make 150,000 as a nurse?

A Behavioral Health RN can earn $150,000 by gaining extensive experience, obtaining advanced certifications, working in high-demand settings, or taking on leadership roles such as charge nurse or clinical supervisor. Working overtime, specializing in areas like psychiatric or addiction treatment, and working in regions with higher pay scales can also increase earnings.

What does a behavioral health RN do?

A behavioral health RN provides nursing care to patients with mental health or substance use disorders, assessing their needs, administering medications, and developing treatment plans. They often work in psychiatric hospitals, clinics, or community settings, utilizing skills in patient assessment, crisis intervention, and therapeutic communication.

What are Behavioral Health RNs?

Behavioral Health Registered Nurses (RNs) are specialized nurses who care for patients experiencing mental health issues, emotional disorders, or substance abuse problems. They work in settings such as psychiatric hospitals, mental health clinics, and residential treatment centers. Their responsibilities include assessing patients’ mental health needs, administering medications, developing care plans, and providing support to patients and their families. Behavioral Health RNs collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to ensure comprehensive care and promote patient recovery.
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Registered Nurse Behavioral Health

Registered Nurse Behavioral Health

Business Integra LLC

Columbus, OH • On-site

Contractor

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

Job description:

Job Title: Behavioral Health Registered Nurse (RN) – Day Shift | 13-Week Contract

Job Type: Contract (13 Weeks) - with possible extension/Full-Time (36 hours/week)

  • Day Shift: 3x12-Hour Shifts (7:00 AM – 7:30 PM)
  • Every Other Weekend Required
  • Float Pool Position

Job Summary:

We are actively hiring an experienced Behavioral Health Registered Nurse (RN) to join a multidisciplinary float team serving several inpatient psychiatric units. This is a 13-week contract position ideal for RNs who are passionate about mental health and trauma-informed care.

The RN will work in a highly supportive environment with access to a full team of interdisciplinary professionals and resources, while supporting patient-centered psychiatric and dual-diagnosis care for adults and geriatric populations.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Deliver direct nursing care to psychiatric patients in an inpatient setting
  • Administer medications including antipsychotics, antidepressants, mood stabilizers, and sedatives
  • Monitor and assess behavioral and physical health of patients
  • Manage psychiatric emergencies including suicidal ideation, aggression, and psychosis
  • Collaborate with physicians, social workers, and behavioral health specialists
  • Use de-escalation techniques, therapeutic communication, and trauma-informed care
  • Follow legal guidelines for voluntary/involuntary commitment, seclusion, and restraint procedures
  • Float between 4 inpatient psych units with varying acuity (including geriatric and young adult populations)

Required Qualifications:

Licensure & Education:

  • Valid Registered Nurse (RN) license in the state of assignment (in good standing)
  • Graduate of an accredited nursing program (ADN or BSN)

Experience:

  • Minimum 2 years of inpatient psychiatric nursing experience
  • Previous experience working with 1:6 nurse-to-patient ratios
  • Prior float pool or multi-unit experience preferred
  • Charge experience preferred (not required)

Certifications:

  • BLS (Basic Life Support) – Required
  • CPI (Crisis Prevention Intervention) – Preferred
  • Aegis de-escalation training – Preferred

Systems Experience:

  • Epic EMR – Required

Key Skills & Competencies:

Behavioral Health Skills:

  • Medication administration: antipsychotics, antidepressants, mood stabilizers, sedatives
  • Managing care for patients with:
  • Schizophrenia-spectrum and psychotic disorders
  • Bipolar disorder, major depressive episodes, anxiety
  • PTSD, personality disorders, trauma-related conditions
  • Substance use and dual-diagnosis patients
  • Suicidal ideation and self-harming behavior
  • Therapeutic interventions: de-escalation, behavior management, psychoeducation, and crisis response
  • Emergency interventions: use of physical holds, chemical restraints, and CPR

Clinical Skills:

  • Starting and maintaining IVs
  • Wound care and dressing changes
  • Oxygen administration
  • Blood glucose monitoring
  • Foley catheter management
  • EKG acquisition
  • Feeding tube care