About The Position

The Behavioral Health Specialist provides direct patient care under the supervision of a designated healthcare professional, in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local regulations and Bon Secours Mercy Health policies, procedures, and guidelines. The position is in Adult Mental Health at Southside Medical Center in Petersburg, Virginia, and is listed as full time with a day shift. The schedule is 36 hours per week; the stated work shift is Days/Evenings. The role supports patient care through vital sign measurement, hygiene and mobility assistance, patient observation and safety services, data collection and screening, and timely documentation. The specialist communicates patient changes and pertinent information to nursing staff and participates in ongoing education and in-service training. A $2,500 sign-on bonus may be available to eligible candidates accepting a full-time offer; restrictions apply, and current Bon Secours Mercy Health associates are not eligible. A high school diploma or GED is required. A bachelor's degree in a related field and several relevant certifications are preferred. One year of experience in a mental health or health care setting is preferred. The listed pay range is $18.11 to $27.17.

Requirements

  • High school diploma or GED.
  • Basic Life Support (BLS) from the American Heart Association must be obtained from an approved source before providing direct patient care; the credential is preferred upon hire.
  • Work under the supervision of a designated healthcare professional and comply with applicable regulations and Bon Secours Mercy Health policies, procedures, and guidelines.

Nice To Haves

  • Bachelor's degree in a related field.
  • State Tested Nursing Aide (STNA) certification.
  • Certified Nursing Aide (CNA) certification.
  • Registered Social Work Assistant (SWA) certification.
  • Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistant (CDCA) certification.
  • Counselor in Training credential.
  • Human Services-Board Certified Practitioner (HS-BCP) credential.
  • American Association of Psychiatric Technicians (AAPT) credential.
  • One year of experience in a mental health or health care setting.
  • Basic Life Support (BLS) certification upon hire.

Responsibilities

  • Ensure quality patient care, including measuring vital signs, maintaining patient hygiene, assisting with mobility, and supporting unit-based specialty duties.
  • Serve as a liaison between patients and nurses by reporting changes and sharing pertinent information.
  • Provide accurate, precise, and timely documentation when applicable for patient care.
  • Complete patient rounding, 15-minute patient checks, and patient safety companion services as assigned.
  • Collect patient data and complete patient screenings as applicable.
  • Participate in continuing education and in-service training.
  • Perform other job-related duties as required by a supervisor, subject to reasonable accommodation.

Benefits

  • Potential sign-on bonus up to $2,500 for eligible candidates accepting a full-time offer; restrictions apply and internal associates are not eligible.
  • Competitive pay, incentives, and referral bonuses.
  • 403(b) with employer contributions, when eligible.
  • Medical, dental, vision, and prescription coverage.
  • HSA/FSA options and life insurance.
  • Mental health resources and discounts.
  • Paid time off, parental leave, and FMLA leave.
  • Short- and long-term disability.
  • Backup care for children and elders.
  • Tuition assistance, professional development, and continuing education support.
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