Mental Health Associate

RWJBarnabas Health; Somerville (NJ); On-site; USD 30,000 - 38,000; Full time

Job summary

RWJBarnabas Health is seeking a Mental Health Associate to support patients in a Behavioral Health Unit. The role focuses on providing direct patient care, safety, and collaboration with an interdisciplinary team to promote recovery and wellbeing.

A typical day includes supporting daily living activities, documenting observations, and participating in therapeutic groups and activities within a structured program.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Psychology or related field; minimum 5 years of related experience preferred.
• Current American Heart Association BLS certification required.
• Previous experience in behavioral health, psychiatric care, healthcare, or human services preferred; strong communication and teamwork skills.

Responsibilities

• Provide direct support to patients in a behavioral health setting, fostering a safe, therapeutic environment.
• Observe patient behaviors, report changes to care team.
• Assist with activities of daily living, promote independence.
• Facilitate participation in therapeutic groups and activities.
• Use de-escalation and therapeutic communication to manage challenging behaviors.
• Document patient observations and interventions accurately.
• Collaborate with nurses, physicians, therapists for coordinated care.
• Maintain safe, clean treatment environment following safety policies.

Education

Bachelor's degree in Psychology or related field

Minimum 5 years of related experience

Job description

Job Title: Mental Health Associate

Location: RWJUH Somerset

Department Name: Mental Health Unit

Req #: 0000264327

Status: Hourly

Shift: Day

Pay Range: $21.96 - $27.28 per hour

Pay Transparency:

The above reflects the anticipated hourly wage range for this position if hired to work in New Jersey.

The compensation offered to the candidate selected for the position will depend on several factors, including the candidate's educational background, skills and professional experience.

Mental Health Associate - RWJBarnabas Health

At RWJBarnabas Health, Mental Health Associates become part of a purpose-driven environment where compassion, teamwork, and patient-centered care create meaningful opportunities to support individuals on their mental health journey. This Mental Health Associate role offers opportunities for professional growth, supportive collaboration, and a culture committed to safety, dignity, and continuous improvement. As a Mental Health Associate, you will play an essential role in creating a therapeutic environment, supporting patients through their daily care, and partnering with an interdisciplinary team dedicated to promoting recovery and well-being. Joining RWJBarnabas Health means joining a community where every Mental Health Associate is encouraged to grow, contribute, and make a lasting impact.

A typical day for a Mental Health Associate may include:

• Providing direct support to patients in a behavioral health setting, fostering a safe, therapeutic, and respectful environment
• Observing patient behaviors, recognizing changes in emotional or physical condition, and promptly communicating concerns to the clinical care team
• Supporting patients with activities of daily living while encouraging independence, dignity, and participation in their treatment plan
• Facilitating and encouraging participation in therapeutic groups, recreational activities, and structured daily programming
• Using verbal de-escalation techniques and therapeutic communication to help manage challenging behaviors and promote a calm, supportive environment
• Maintaining accurate and timely documentation of patient observations, behaviors, and interventions to support continuity of care
• Collaborating closely with nurses, physicians, therapists, and other members of the interdisciplinary team to provide coordinated, patient-centered care
• Maintaining a safe, clean, and secure treatment environment by following safety protocols, infection prevention practices, and organizational policies
• Pursuing continued professional development through training, education, and organizational resources that support long-term career growth

This role might be for you if:

• Compassion and empathy define how you interact with patients, families, and colleagues
• You remain calm, patient, and professional in challenging or emotionally charged situations
• Strong observation skills help you recognize changes in patient behavior and communicate them effectively
• You value teamwork and enjoy collaborating with interdisciplinary care teams
• Supporting patient dignity, recovery, and emotional well-being is central to your approach
• Adaptability allows you to respond confidently as patient needs and priorities change
• Continuous learning and professional growth are important to you

To be considered for this Mental Health Associate opportunity:

• You have a bachelor's degree in Psychology or related field; additional education in psychology, behavioral health, or a related field is preferred or minimum 5 years of related experience.
• Current American Heart Association BLS certification is required. Previous experience in behavioral health, psychiatric care, healthcare, or human services is preferred, along with strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively as part of a collaborative care team.