Mental Health Worker

Ocean view psychiatric hospital • Long Beach, CA

52d • Onsite

About The Position

Mental Health Workers (MHWs) at Ocean View Psychiatric Health Facility play a vital role in supporting the care, safety, and stabilization of adult patients in an acute inpatient behavioral health setting. Working under the supervision of the Mental Health Worker Manager and in collaboration with the nursing and clinical teams, MHWs assist with daily care routines, therapeutic engagement, and clinical support tasks. Responsibilities include monitoring patient safety through regular rounds, assisting with activities of daily living (ADLs), supporting patients during meals, helping with vital signs, and contributing to the admission and discharge process. MHWs also lead and participate in group activities, document patient behaviors and participation, and respond to crises or behavioral escalations as needed. This role requires empathy, strong communication skills, and a commitment to maintaining a therapeutic and secure environment.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent required
• Proficiency in obtaining and recording vital signs (e.g., blood pressure, pulse, temperature, respiration) in accordance with clinical protocols
• Minimum of two (2) years of experience in a behavioral health, healthcare, or hospital setting (role-specific equivalent acceptable)
• Demonstrated ability to remain calm, composed, and effective in high-stress or crisis situations
• Strong teamwork and collaboration skills across disciplines and departments
• Demonstrated sound professional judgment; clinical judgment where applicable to licensure/role.
• Proficiency in the use of computers and standard keyboard functions for data entry and electronic documentation
• Effective verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to read, write, and communicate fluently in English
• Current CPR, BLS, and First Aid certification, or ability to obtain within 90 days of employment

Nice To Haves

• Completion of at least two (2) years of coursework in a related field from an accredited college and/or certification as a Medical Assistant or Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
• Bachelor’s degree in psychology, behavioral health, public health, or a related field
• Ability to safely perform containment, escort, and physical intervention procedures with patients exhibiting assaultive or aggressive behavior, in accordance with facility protocols and training
• Minimum of five (5) years of experience in a behavioral health, healthcare, or related human-services setting (role-specific equivalent acceptable)
• Prior experience using Electronic Health Records (EHR) systems for documentation and coordination of care
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Teams) and/or cloud-based communication platforms (e.g., Slack, Zoom)
• Bilingual in English and Spanish, or other languages commonly spoken by the patient population
• Crisis prevention/intervention training (e.g., HWC, CPI, PMAB) or de-escalation certification
• Knowledge of HIPAA, Title 22, and other applicable regulatory standards
• Familiarity with trauma-informed care principles and culturally responsive practices
• Leadership experience or demonstrated capacity to mentor others (if applicable to the role)

Responsibilities

• Provide direct care and support to patients, promoting independence in hygiene, grooming, and other activities of daily living (ADLs)
• Assist patients during meal and snack times, encouraging healthy routines and proper nutrition
• Conduct and assist with 15-minute safety checks (Q15 rounds) and ensure timely documentation of patient observations
• Assist nursing staff with vital signs monitoring and other routine clinical support tasks
• Support the admission and discharge process by helping patients transition safely and comfortably, including inventory of belongings and orientation to the unit
• Supervise and engage patients during therapeutic groups, recreational activities, and structured social interactions
• Accurately document patient participation, behavior, and progress in the medical record in accordance with facility policies and regulatory standards
• Observe and promptly report changes in patients’ physical or psychiatric condition to the Charge Nurse or appropriate clinical staff
• Maintain a clean, safe, and therapeutic environment for patients, visitors, and staff
• Assist with crisis management, including de-escalation and physical containment procedures when clinically indicated and authorized
• Handle clinical documentation in a timely, accurate, and confidential manner, adhering to all applicable privacy and compliance guidelines
• Demonstrate understanding and be compliant with Patients' Rights, LPS Statutes, and Seclusion and Restraint Protocols.

Benefits

• $2.00/hour shift differential for eligible NOC (overnight) shifts
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance for qualifying employees
• 401(k) retirement savings plan
• Supportive, team-oriented work environment
• Opportunities for professional growth, training, and advancement within the organization

What This Job Offers

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