A Mental Health Assistant provides basic care and assistance with daily activities to patients with mental illnesses or cognitive disabilities. Helps patients dress and eat, monitors patients' well-being, and restrains patients if they become physically violent. Works in hospitals or mental health care facilities.
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. At RWJBarnabas Health, Mental Health Associates become part of a purpose-driven environment where compassion, teamwork, and patient-centered behavioral health care create meaningful opportunities to support individuals experiencing psychiatric and behavioral health crises. This Mental Health Associate role within the Emergency Screening Department offers opportunities for professional growth, interdisciplinary collaboration, and a culture committed to safety, dignity, and high-quality patient care. As a Mental Health Associate, you will partner with Registered Nurses and Emergency Screeners to provide therapeutic interventions, support patient care, and help create a safe, recovery-focused environment. Joining RWJBarnabas Health means joining a High Reliability Organization where every Mental Health Associate is empowered to contribute to patient safety and clinical excellence. A typical day for a Mental Health Associate may include: Partnering with Registered Nurses and Emergency Screeners to provide behavioral health care for diagnostically and developmentally diverse patients in the Emergency Screening setting Delivering therapeutic interventions and supportive patient care under the supervision of Screeners and departmental leadership Observing patient behaviors and promptly communicating changes in emotional, behavioral, or physical condition to the clinical care team Supporting a safe, therapeutic, and respectful environment for patients experiencing psychiatric or behavioral health emergencies Assisting with unit support activities and completing clerical and administrative responsibilities as assigned Collaborating with nurses, screeners, physicians, and other interdisciplinary team members to ensure coordinated, patient-centered care Maintaining accurate documentation and assisting with departmental workflows that support efficient patient care Following organizational safety protocols and actively reporting clinical and non-clinical safety concerns while participating in High Reliability Organization practices, including stopping the line when necessary to protect patients, staff, and visitors Successfully completing required clinical orientation and participating in ongoing education and annual certification requirements This role might be for you if: You are passionate about supporting individuals experiencing behavioral health and psychiatric emergencies You remain calm, compassionate, and professional in fast-paced, high-pressure environments You communicate effectively with patients, families, and interdisciplinary healthcare teams You have strong observation skills and recognize changes in patient behavior that require immediate attention You value teamwork and enjoy working closely with nurses, screeners, and other behavioral health professionals You are committed to maintaining a safe environment while delivering respectful, patient-centered care You embrace continuous learning and professional development in behavioral health services
Qualifications:
To be considered for this Mental Health Associate opportunity, you are committed to delivering compassionate behavioral health care while supporting patients, colleagues, and the organization's commitment to safety and quality.
Education:
Bachelor's degree in a helping profession required, or High School diploma/equivalent with five (5) years of related experience in a psychiatric services setting.
Training:
Must successfully complete clinical training orientation.
Certifications:
Annual BEST and American Heart Association BLS certifications required.
License:
Valid New Jersey driver's license required.
Experience:
Previous experience in psychiatric services, behavioral health, emergency behavioral health, or a related healthcare setting is preferred.
Skills:
Strong communication, observation, therapeutic interaction, teamwork, and organizational skills, with the ability to provide compassionate care in a fast-paced emergency setting.
