Behavioral Health Associate - Psychiatric Emergency Department

Behavioral Health Associate – Psychiatric Emergency Department

When a Patient Is in Crisis, Your Presence Matters. It takes someone who can remain calm under pressure, recognize escalating behavior, communicate effectively, and help maintain a safe and dignified environment.

Jamaica Hospital Medical Center is seeking Behavioral Health Associates (BHAs) to work alongside our clinical team caring for patients experiencing behavioral and psychological crises in our Psychiatric Emergency Department.

What You'll Do

• Use crisis intervention and de-escalation techniques
• Observe patients and recognize changes in behavior or potential triggers
• Communicate safety concerns and behavioral changes to the clinical team
• Assist with approved safety interventions, including restraints and seclusion when necessary
• Escort patients and help maintain a safe, structured environment
• Complete required patient checks and documentation

Requirements

What You'll Need High School Diploma or GED, required At least 2 years of experience in behavioral health, nursing, or law enforcement Associate degree in Criminal Justice, Social Services, healthcare, or related field preferred Strong communication, critical-thinking, and crisis-management skills Ability to remain composed in high-pressure situations Ability to assist with physical patient interventions when required

Is This the Right Opportunity for You? If you have at least 2 years of relevant behavioral health, nursing, or law-enforcement experience and are confident in your ability to remain calm, recognize escalating behavior, and respond appropriately when someone is experiencing a crisis, we'd like to hear from you. Why JHMC? $33.18/hour + Full 1199 Union Benefits, along with the opportunity to gain valuable experience in a high-acuity psychiatric emergency setting while making a direct difference for patients during some of their most difficult moments.

Ready to Make a Difference? If you have the experience, judgment, and composure to support patients through a behavioral health crisis, we encourage you to apply.