Behavioral Health Specialist I (BHS 1) (Pool/PRN)
Connections Health Solutions is a leading provider of immediate-access behavioral health crisis care. Our team combines medical and recovery-oriented treatment to stabilize individuals in crisis and connect them to community-based resources for ongoing recovery.
Founded by emergency room psychiatrists Dr. Chris Carson and Dr. Robert Williamson, our model is physician-led and data-driven, drawing upon more than 15 years of crisis care expertise. Recognized by SAMHSA and the National Council for Mental Wellbeing as a national best practice, we’ve delivered invaluable treatment to hundreds of thousands of individuals facing crises. Our commitment remains consistent, to improve access, inspire hope, and provide the right support.
Our values shape our decisions, define our culture, and foster continuous learning and growth. We accept people as they are, creating safe spaces where they feel valued and respected. We inspire hope by walking with people side‑by‑side, showing them grace and compassion. We act with intention, holding ourselves and each other accountable, and doing the right thing. We work as one team, trusting and supporting each other. We embrace change and innovation, striving to find better ways to fulfill our mission.
We are on a mission to change the face of behavioral health. Help us save lives and make a difference.
Earn More with Shift Differentials
- +$2/hr -> Monday-Thursday Nights
- +$3/hr -> Friday-Sunday Nights
- +$2/hr -> Saturday-Sunday Days
What You’ll Do:
- Manage and maintain the safety and well‑being of individuals and staff within the unit, ensuring high standards of care and support for both adults and youth.
- Conduct vital signs assessments, assist individuals with daily needs, and provide exceptional customer service.
- Accurately document services provided and significant interactions in the Electronic Health Record (EHR).
- Conduct security screening and inventory property of individuals upon admission.
- Provide orientation to the Observation Unit and Residential Crisis Stabilization Unit.
- Educate individuals on their rights under DBHDS and DMAS regulations, grievance process, expectations, and rules and regulations.
- Maintain safety of the unit and monitor and document individuals every 15 minutes.
- Intervene with escalated individuals using therapeutic techniques for de‑escalation and perform restraints or seclusions when needed, completing 1‑to‑1 on an individual in seclusion or mechanical restraints every 15 minutes.
- Lift, move, and transport individuals using proper body mechanics or accident prevention.
- Assist individuals with activities of daily living (eating, bathing, dressing).
- Conduct and document vitals, BAL, urine drug screens, and urine pregnancy tests, and report all results to the RN/Physician attending.
- Attend court‑ordered hearings when subpoenaed and serve as witness, providing testimony at court‑ordered hearings.
- Maintain cleanliness of the facility and designated unit, perform light cleaning, collect soiled linen, and launder individuals’ clothing when needed.
- Complete required training, attend monthly meetings, and maintain required competencies.
- Perform Safe Clinch restraint techniques and CPR, including ability to move quickly in response to emergent situations.
- Perform all other duties as assigned.
What You’ll Bring:
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- 1 year of behavioral health experience.
- Ability to perform Safe Clinch patient restraint techniques.
- Must be fully vaccinated (or exempt via company process) before start date.
- State of Virginia Fingerprint Clearance.
- Must pass VA DBHDS background check.
- Must pass VA DSS central registry search.
Physical Requirements
- Safely perform physical interventions (standing, pivoting, reaching, kneeling, lowering to the floor, supporting another person’s weight).
- Lift, push, pull, or carry up to 50 lbs. occasionally.
- Tolerate prolonged walking, standing, and observation in a fast‑paced environment.
- Work with individuals who may exhibit agitation, aggression, or unpredictable behavior.
It Would Be Great if You Had:
- Certified training (Safe Clinch, CPR, First Aid, therapeutic options, etc.).
- Completion of CNA or Patient Care Tech program.
- Completion of BHT certification.
What We Offer:
- Comprehensive health insurance (Medical, Dental, Vision, Accident, Critical Illness, Hospital Indemnity).
- CHS pays for Basic Life, AD&D, Short and Long‑Term Disability.
- Voluntary Life insurance option for employees and their families.
- Health Savings Accounts (with $1,000 to $2,000 employer contribution depending on plan).
- Flexible Spending Accounts (health care and dependent care).
- 401(k) company match after 6 months (50% of deferrals up to 6% of compensation).
- Generous PTO starting at 160 hours accrued annually and 12 recognized company holidays.
- Company‑paid parental leave available to eligible employees.
- Employee Assistance Program to help with confidential emotional support, work‑life solutions, financial solutions, legal assistance, or online support.
- After 90 days, auto enrollment in the 401(k) Plan.
Connections Health Solutions is proud to be a Second Chance employer.
Actual compensation is based on relevant experience, education, internal equity, and budget.
$23 - $25.46 USD
EEO Statement
Connections Health Solutions is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We are committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for all employees and applicants.