Behavioral Health Associate 1

Acadia Healthcare; Alexandria (LA); On-site; USD 30,000 - 48,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Company paid short term disability

Earned wage access

401(k) plan with company match

Paid time off and holidays

Employee assistance program

Ongoing training and career growth

Job summary

Acadia Healthcare is seeking a Behavioral Health Associate (BHA) to join our team in Alexandria, LA, providing hands-on care and compassionate support within a structured, team-driven environment. You will help keep patients safe while supporting their recovery and daily needs.

Responsibilities include direct patient care under clinical leadership, maintaining a safe environment, and addressing concerns to ensure patient satisfaction and safety.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Six months of experience with a similar patient population preferred.
• CPR, de-escalation and restraint certification required; training provided upon hire.
• First aid may be required based on state or facility requirements.

Responsibilities

• Provide direct patient care under the direction of clinical or nursing leadership.
• Maintain a safe, structured, and therapeutic environment.
• Demonstrate a positive, empathetic, and professional approach with patients and team members.
• Address patient concerns promptly and respectfully to support satisfaction and safety.
• Recognize and respond to patient needs with safety as a top priority.

Skills

Six months of experience

CPR certification

De-escalation training

Restraint certification

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Job description

Overview

We are seeking a Behavioral Health Associate (BHA) to join our team.

Summary

As a Behavioral Health Associate, you play a vital role in keeping our patients safe while supporting their recovery every day. You will provide hands on care and compassionate support in a structured, team focused environment where your work truly matters. If you are looking for meaningful work, consistent hours, and a place where you can grow, this is an opportunity to build a career while making a real difference.

Why You Will Thrive Here

• Purpose driven work: Help ensure patient safety and support healing in an environment grounded in empathy, teamwork, and accountability. We Lead Care with Light in everything we do.
• Growth and stability: Join one of the nation’s largest behavioral health networks with clear paths for advancement and skill development.
• Supportive team culture: Work alongside experienced clinical and nursing leaders who invest in your success and well being.
• Structured environment: Predictable schedules and a professional setting designed to help you succeed and build long term skills.

Benefits That Support You

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Company paid short term disability
• Earned wage access
• 401(k) plan, with a company match
• Paid time off and holidays
• Employee assistance program
• Ongoing training and career growth opportunities

What You Will Do

• Provide direct patient care under the direction of clinical or nursing leadership
• Maintain a safe, structured, and therapeutic environment
• Demonstrate a positive, empathetic, and professional approach with patients and team members
• Address patient concerns promptly and respectfully to support satisfaction and safety
• Recognize and respond to patient needs with safety as a top priority

What You Bring

• High School Diploma or equivalent
• Six months of experience working with a similar patient population preferred
• CPR and de escalation and restraint certification required. Training provided upon hire
• First aid may be required based on state or facility requirements

While this job description reflects the typical requirements of the role, responsibilities may evolve based on business needs.

We are committed to equal employment opportunities for all applicants regardless of any characteristic protected by applicable laws.