Behavioral Health Associate 1- 7:00am-3:30pm

Acadia Healthcare•Haverhill, MA

About The Position

Haverhill Pavilion Behavioral Health is seeking a part-time Behavioral Health Associate (BHA) to join its interdisciplinary treatment team. Under the supervision of a Registered Nurse and treatment team, the BHA carries out assigned patient-care activities in accordance with hospital policies, procedures, and standards. The role helps maintain a safe, structured, and therapeutic environment and provides compassionate, individualized support adapted to patients’ clinical presentations and therapeutic needs. Behavioral Health Associates provide hands-on care and may offer 1:1 support to patients experiencing acute psychiatric crises, including suicidal ideation, self-injurious behavior, and escalating emotional distress. The position works collaboratively with nurses and other team members to support patient safety, treatment, and recovery. The listed shift is 7:00 a.m.–3:30 p.m. The position is part-time at 24 hours per week, typically three days per week. All shifts are eight hours, and full-time and part-time employees work every other weekend. The stated pay range is $17–$20.25 per hour. Shift differentials are available: $1.25 per hour for weekends, $1.25 per hour for weekday evenings, $2.50 per hour for weekend evenings, and $4 per hour for overnight shifts. Haverhill Pavilion describes its mission as leading care with light and setting a standard for excellence in mental health treatment. It emphasizes compassionate, individualized care, a supportive employee culture, and opportunities for career growth. The organization also states its commitment to fair and equitable treatment, inclusion, and belonging.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
CPR certification required.
De-escalation and restraint certification required; training is provided upon hire.
Work every other weekend.

Nice To Haves

Six months of experience working with a similar patient population is preferred.
First aid may be required depending on state or facility requirements.

Responsibilities

Conduct safety checks and ensure supervision is completed at 15-minute intervals.
Engage with patients throughout the shift to assess mental status, progress toward treatment goals, and emotional needs.
Interact routinely with patients, observe behavior, and communicate significant observations to nursing staff.
Use therapeutic interactions to support patients’ recovery.
Encourage participation in therapeutic activities and individualized behavior strategies.
Assist in crisis situations using verbal de-escalation and physical interventions consistent with CPI standards and hospital policies.
Provide consistent 1:1 support to assigned patients and maintain therapeutic engagement throughout the shift.
Float to different hospital units based on staffing needs.
Use patient-specific coping skills and sensory strategies described in treatment or safety plans.
Educate colleagues about patient-specific triggers, warning signs, and coping strategies.
Identify and communicate barriers to discharge planning.
Support patient orientation during admissions, including assisting with searches, vital signs, and review of unit guidelines.
Reinforce unit rules and serve as a positive role model for patients.
Provide peer mentorship and help orient new Behavioral Health Associates under nursing leadership guidance.
Protect and advocate for patient rights.
Attend and actively participate in department meetings, or review meeting minutes when unable to attend.
Complete annual mandatory training and proactively identify personal educational needs.
Accept and apply feedback to improve clinical and professional skills.