Behavioral Health Specialist

Total Rewards

OSF HealthCare is dedicated to provide Mission Partners with a comprehensive and market-competitive total rewards package that includes benefits, compensation, recognition and well-being offerings that focus on the whole person and engage with their current stage of life and career. Click here to learn more about benefits and the total rewards at OSF.

Expected pay for this position is $25.98 - $30.57/hour. Actual pay will be determined by experience, skills and internal equity. This is an Hourly position.

Overview

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Behavioral Health Specialist provides direct patient support and behavioral health services within a hospital-based setting, including the Emergency Department and inpatient psychiatric units. This position is responsible for conducting behavioral health screenings and psychosocial assessments, facilitating therapeutic and psychoeducational groups, supporting patient safety, and assisting with crisis intervention and stabilization. The role works collaboratively with nurses, physicians, psychiatrists, social workers, therapists, and other members of the interdisciplinary treatment team to identify patient needs, support treatment goals, and promote a safe, therapeutic environment. The position requires strong communication skills, sound judgment, the ability to respond effectively to behavioral health crises, and a commitment to compassionate, patient-centered care.

Qualifications

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

Education:

Bachelor’s degree social work, human services, psychology, sociology, or a closely related social service field.

Experience:

Minimum of two (2) years’ experience in a behavioral health or psychiatric related field required in order to gain an understanding of behavioral health disorders and with an emphasis on assessment, counseling and crisis intervention.

Licensure/ Certification:

BLS through the American Heart Association or obtain within 6 months of hire.

Other Skills/ Knowledge:

Excellent interpersonal and communication skills. Solid computer skills, including proficiency with Microsoft software. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to be detail oriented. Basic understanding of mental health conditions, behavioral health crises, and psychosocial assessment principles. Knowledge of therapeutic communication, crisis intervention, and verbal de-escalation techniques. Ability to facilitate structured groups and encourage meaningful patient participation. Ability to observe, identify, and report changes in patient behavior and safety status. Strong organizational, documentation, and time-management skills. Ability to interact professionally with patients, families, medical personnel, and community service providers. Commitment to patient dignity, safety, confidentiality, and ethical service delivery.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

Education:

Master's degree in counseling, psychiatric nursing, social work or other behavioral health related field.

Experience:

Experience working with individuals experiencing mental health concerns, behavioral crises, psychosocial challenges, or substance use concerns preferred. Experience facilitating groups, conducting behavioral health screenings, providing direct patient support, or working in a hospital or psychiatric setting preferred.

OSF HealthCare is an Equal Opportunity Employer.