Behavioral Health Specialist - Residential

Newport Healthcare; Maple Grove (MN); On-site; USD 27,000 - 32,000; Full time

Job summary

Newport Healthcare seeks a Behavioral Health Specialist to provide hands-on care for adolescents and young adults in our behavioral health programs. You will create a safe, structured and compassionate environment where patients feel supported and empowered on their healing journey.

Responsibilities include supervising patients, guiding daily activities, leading experiential therapies, and collaborating with the care team to maintain a cohesive, high-quality care model.

Qualifications

• CPR certification within 30 days is required.
• Valid driver’s license required.
• High school diploma or GED required to qualify.
• Bachelor’s degree in psychology, counseling or sociology preferred.

Responsibilities

• Create a safe, structured environment prioritizing emotional and physical well‑being of patients.
• Guide patients through daily schedules including therapy, meals, and transitions.
• Lead or support mindfulness, recreation, and group activities to promote healing.
• Model calm, respectful behavior and healthy coping strategies.
• Stay grounded and respond effectively during high-stress situations.
• Collaborate with team members to maintain a connected care environment.

Skills

CPR certification

Driver's license

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Bachelor's Degree in psychology, counseling, or sociology

Job description

What You'll Do

The Behavioral Health Specialist (BHS) plays a vital, hands-on role in shaping the daily experience of adolescent and young adult patients in Newport Healthcare's behavioral health programs. As a frontline team member, you'll create a safe, structured, and compassionate environment where patients feel supported, seen, and empowered throughout their healing journey.

This isn't just important; it's foundational. BHS team members are the heart of our care model, offering meaningful connection and stability that make a lasting difference in young people's lives. Key responsibilities include:

• Creating a safe and supportive space by offering consistent, compassionate care and supervision that ensures patients' emotional and physical well-being


• Guiding and encouraging patients as they move through their daily schedule—including therapy, group activities, meals, and moments of transition in between


• Leading or supporting experiential activities (such as mindfulness practices, recreation, and group experiences) that promote healing and connection


• Modeling calm, respectful behavior and healthy coping strategies in a way that builds trust and emotional safety


• Staying grounded and responsive during high-stress or emotionally charged situations, helping restore calm through established strategies


• Collaborating and communicating with team members to support a connected, unified care environment

What Makes You a Great Fit

Education, Experience, License Requirements:

• High School Diploma or GED required.


• Bachelor's Degree in psychology, counseling, or sociology preferred.


• Prior work experience in other behavioral treatment settings, a plus.


• Must have a valid driver's license and be eligible for insurance coverage for driving the company's vehicles.


• Must be minimum 21 years of age.


• Must become CPR certified within the first 30 days.

Compensation for this role ranges from $19.50- $23 per hour depending on education and experience.