Behavioral Health Specialist

Newport Healthcare • Merrifield, VA

1d

About The Position

The Behavioral Health Specialist (BHS) plays a hands-on frontline role in shaping the daily experience of adolescent and young adult patients in Newport Healthcare’s behavioral health programs. The BHS creates a safe, structured, and compassionate environment where patients feel supported and empowered throughout their healing journey. The role provides meaningful connection and stability as part of the care model.

The position involves providing consistent care and supervision, guiding patients through daily schedules, supporting experiential activities, modeling healthy coping strategies, responding calmly to high-stress situations, and collaborating with team members. Schedules may include day, evening, overnight, weekend, or holiday shifts, and the employee may need to respond to urgent or unexpected conditions during a shift.

Requirements

• At least 21 years old.
• Valid driver’s license.
• High school diploma or GED.
• Patient-first mindset and commitment to high standards of support.
• Flexibility in a fast-paced, changing environment, including readiness to respond to urgent or unexpected conditions during a shift.
• Ability to remain calm and composed and make sound decisions using analysis, wisdom, experience, and judgment.
• Ability to listen attentively and actively with patience, empathy, and cultural sensitivity.
• Collaborative approach, ability to build trust with colleagues, and effective communication skills.
• Problem-solving ability, including using available information to develop effective solutions.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor’s degree in psychology, counseling, or sociology.

Responsibilities

• Create a safe and supportive space through consistent, compassionate care and supervision that supports patients’ emotional and physical well-being.
• Guide and encourage patients through their daily schedules, including therapy, group activities, meals, and transitions.
• Lead or support experiential activities, such as mindfulness practices, recreation, and group experiences, that promote healing and connection.
• Model calm, respectful behavior and healthy coping strategies to build trust and emotional safety.
• Remain grounded and responsive during high-stress or emotionally charged situations, helping restore calm through established strategies.
• Collaborate and communicate with team members to support a connected, unified care environment.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED