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Posted 12 August, 2026

Behavioral Health Specialist - Adult Psychiatrist Unit - Maryview Medical Center

Bon Secours Mercy Health
Portsmouth, VA, US Full Time

Job Description

Job Description
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Scheduled Weekly Hours:
36

Work Shift:
Evenings/Nights (United States)

About Our Organization

We are a faith-driven and patient-centered organization dedicated to improving the health and wellness of individuals in mind, body, and spirit through outstanding patient care. Achieving this mission necessitates a culture rooted in compassion, collaboration, excellence, and respect. We seek individuals who embody our core values of compassion, human dignity, integrity, service, and stewardship, fostering an environment where team members thrive and communities flourish.

Position: Behavioral Health Specialist – Maryview Medical CenterJob Overview:

The Behavioral Health Specialist delivers direct patient care under the guidance of a designated healthcare professional, adhering to federal, state, and local regulations, as well as the policies and procedures of our organization.

Key Responsibilities:
  • Provide high-quality patient care, including vital sign monitoring, maintaining patient hygiene, assisting with mobility, and supporting unit-specific duties.
  • Serve as a communication link between patients and nursing staff to relay changes and share relevant information.
  • Document patient care accurately and promptly when required.
  • Conduct patient rounds, perform 15-minute checks, and offer patient safety companion services as assigned.
  • Gather patient data and complete screenings as necessary.
  • Engage in ongoing education and in-service training.

This description is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, skills, duties, requirements, or working conditions associated with the role. Employees may be asked to undertake additional job-related tasks as directed by their supervisor, with reasonable accommodations considered.

Educational Requirements:
  • High School Diploma or GED (mandatory)
  • Bachelor’s Degree in a related field (preferred)
Licensing & Certifications:
  • Basic Life Support (BLS) certification from an approved source (preferred upon hire, must be obtained before direct patient care)
  • State Tested Nursing Aide (STNA) certification (preferred)
  • Certified Nursing Aide (CNA) certification (preferred)
  • Registered Social Work Assistant (SWA) certification (preferred)
  • Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistant (CDCA) certification (preferred)
  • Counselor in Training certification (preferred)
  • Human Services-Board Certified Practitioner (HS-BCP) certification (preferred)
  • American Association of Psychiatric Technicians (AAPT) certification (preferred)
Experience:
  • At least 1 year of experience in a mental health or healthcare environment (preferred)
Required Skills:
  • Critical thinking abilities
  • Conflict resolution skills
  • Engagement and relationship-building with patients and families
  • Team collaboration
  • Active listening
  • Monitoring patient conditions
  • Effective communication with nursing staff and physicians regarding patient changes or concerns
  • Timely and accurate patient documentation
  • Maintaining patient confidentiality
  • Attention to detail
  • De-escalation techniques for patients
  • Understanding patient event codes and appropriate responses during emergencies
  • Physical restraint and de-escalation skills
  • Crisis intervention capabilities
  • Facilitating group training and treatment team meetings
  • Supporting family meetings
Compensation Range:

Minimum: $18.11
Maximum: $27.17

Equal Opportunity Employment

We are an equal opportunity employer. As part of our mission, we prioritize your well-being both personally and professionally. Our benefits are designed to evolve with you and cater to your unique needs at every stage of your career.

What We Offer:
  • Competitive salary, incentives, referral bonuses, and a 403(b) plan with employer contributions (when eligible)
  • Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, and prescription coverage, along with HSA/FSA options, life insurance, mental health resources, and discounts
  • Paid time off, parental leave, FMLA leave, short- and long-term disability, and backup care for children and elders
  • Tuition assistance, professional development, and support for continuing education

Benefits may vary based on market conditions and employment status.

Department:

Adult Psychiatric Unit - Maryview

We adhere to all federal and state laws, including the requirements of 41 CFR 60-1.4(a), 60-300.5(a), and 60-741.5(a). All applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, genetic information, or protected veteran status, and will not face discrimination based on disability. If you require a reasonable accommodation during the employment selection process, please reach out to our Talent Acquisition Team.