Mental Health Associate (Co-Op)

Mental Health Associate

Position Summary: The Mental Health Associate (MHA) is responsible for maintaining the overall milieu management and safety of patient and staff in the unit and collaborating effectively with Unit Nurse Managers (UNMs), Registered Nurse (RNs) and Mental Health Associates (MHAs).

Hours and days: This co-op goes from January 20th through the June 21 (roughly). Hours are typically 7am-3:30pm or 3:30pm-11:30pm - co-op students are required to work every other weekend.

Location: Arbour Hospital, 49 Robinwood Avenue, Jamacia Plain, Boston MA.

Main responsibilities: Assists in the admission process under the direct supervision of the RN. Completes non-clinical assignment tasks related to the Admission, transfer and discharge process. Ascertains the need for and assists patients aged 12 and up with a variety of psychiatric and substance abuse diagnoses in meeting immediate needs with the ultimate goal of self-maintenance under the direction of a RN. Assists patients in carrying out their established treatment programs by collaborating with other team members and by participating in ongoing multidisciplinary team meetings with RN to assist in reporting of patients' progress. Documents and reports patient progress/regression. Follows procedures which adhere to policies and practices prescribed by the hospital, Inpatient Services Program, and Nursing Services. Utilizes opportunities for continuing education within or outside the hospital, which have implications for the care of patients, or which otherwise foster professional growth and development. Meets hospital attendance policy as described in Personnel Policy manual. Holds groups/activities as assigned. Performs other duties as assigned/required.

Physical and Safety Requirements Ability to assist with patient mobility and positioning as needed. May be required to apply approved restraint techniques in accordance with safety protocols and training. Must be able to stand, walk, bend, and lift up to 50lbs during routine duties. Comfortable working in situations that may involve behavioral challenges or require de-escalation. Will complete mandatory training in crisis intervention and safe restraint procedures.

Working Conditions & Risk Factors Employees in this role provide direct patient care in a psychiatric hospital setting and may encounter the following: Chemical & Biological Exposure: Contact with cleaning agents, medications, and potential exposure to infectious diseases. Environmental Factors: Noise, temperature fluctuations, and other hospital-related hazards, clinically difficult patients. Protective Measures: The organization provides comprehensive safety training, including crisis intervention and de-escalation techniques, infection control protocols, and proper patient handling procedures. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as gloves, masks, gowns, and eye protection is supplied and required as appropriate to minimize risk.

We are looking for applicants with the following skills: Good communication skills Strong team-player strong time management skills EEO Statement All UHS subsidiaries are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and teammates. UHS subsidiaries are equal opportunity employers and as such, openly support and fully commit to recruitment, selection, placement, promotion and compensation of individuals without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), genetic information, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

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