Behavioral Health Specialist I (BHS 1) (Pool/PRN)

We're not just behavioral health people-we're crisis people.

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

Maximize your earnings with additional hourly pay:

• +$2/hr -> Monday-Thursday Nights
• +$3/hr -> Friday-Sunday Nights
• +$2/hr -> Saturday-Sunday Days

What You'll Do:

The Behavioral Health Specialist I (BHS I) is responsible for managing and maintaining the safety and well-being of individuals and staff within the unit, ensuring high standards of care and support for both adults and youth. This role involves conducting vital signs assessments, assisting individuals with daily needs, and providing exceptional customer service. The specialist will also accurately document services provided and significant interactions in the Electronic Health Record (EHR).

• Conducts security screening and inventories property of individuals upon admission to the facility.
• Provides orientation to the Observation Unit and Residential Crisis Stabilization Unit.
• Educates individuals on their rights under DBHDS and DMAS regulations, grievance process, provides expectations, and explains rules and regulations.
• Maintains safety of the unit and monitors and documents individuals every 15 minutes.
• Intervenes with escalated individuals using therapeutic techniques for de-escalation and performs restraints or seclusions (if applicable) when needed to ensure the individual's safety and the safety of others. Completes 1-to-1 on an individual in seclusion or mechanical restraints every 15 minutes for the duration of the event.
• Lifts, moves, and transports individuals, using proper body mechanics or accident prevention.
• Assists individuals with activities of daily living to include eating, bathing, and dressing.
• Conducts and documents individual's vitals and reports all questionable results to the RN/Physician attending the individual. Conducts and documents all BAL, urine drug screens and urine pregnancy tests.
• Attends court ordered hearings when subpoenaed and be a witness on a petition and provide testimony at court ordered hearing.
• Documents all services and significant individual interactions in the Electronic Health Record (EHR).
• Responsible for maintaining and ensuring the cleanliness of the facility and designated assigned unit.
• Performs light cleaning of interior center, collects soiled linen, and launders individuals clothing when needed.
• Complete all required training, attend monthly meetings, and maintain required competencies.
• Must be physically able to perform Safe Clinch restraint techniques and CPR, including the ability to move quickly in response to emergent situations.
• Performs all other duties as assigned.

What You'll Bring:

• High school diploma or equivalent
• 1 year of behavioral health experience
• Must be able to perform Safe Clinch patient restraint techniques
• The Company has a mandatory vaccination policy. All successful applicants must be fully vaccinated, including showing proper documentation, or otherwise be exempt pursuant to the Company's exemption process prior to their start date as a condition of employment
• State of Virginia Fingerprint Clearance
• Must be able to pass Virginia Department of Behavioral Health & Developmental Services (VA DBHDS) background check
• Must be able to pass Virginia Department of Social Services (VA DSS) Office of Background Investigations - Central Registry Search
• Must be able to obtain a Food Handlers Card for the State of Virginia (BHS/RSS positions)
• Physical Requirements
  • Safely perform physical interventions (e.g., standing, pivoting, reaching, kneeling, lowering to the floor, and 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:

Full-time only:

• Employees (and their families) are offered comprehensive health insurance, including Medical, Dental, Vision, Accident, Critical Illness, and 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)
• 401k 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

All employees (Pool, Part-time and Full-time):

• Employee Assistance Program to help with confidential emotional support, work life solutions, financial solutions, legal assistance, or online support
• After 90 days, you are auto enrolled in the 401k Plan

Connections Health Solutions is proud to be a Second Chance employer.

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.