Mental Health Associate (Co-Op)

Position Summary The Mental Health Associate (MHA) is responsible for maintaining the overall milieu management and safety of patients and staff in the unit. The role collaborates effectively with Unit Nurse Managers (UNMs), Registered Nurses (RNs), and other Mental Health Associates (MHAs). The position is located at Arbour Hospital, 49 Robinwood Avenue, Jamaica Plain, Boston, MA. Hours and Days This co‑op is scheduled from January20th through June21. Typical shifts are 7:00 am–3:30 pm or 3:30 pm–11:30 pm. Co‑op students are required to work every other weekend. Main Responsibilities Assist in the admission process under the direct supervision of the RN. Complete non‑clinical assignment tasks related to admission, transfer, and discharge processes. Help patients aged 12 and up with psychiatric or substance abuse diagnoses meet immediate needs under the direction of an RN, ultimately supporting self‑maintenance. Collaborate with team members and participate in multidisciplinary team meetings to discuss patient progress. Document and report patient progress or regression. Follow procedures that adhere to hospital policies and practices prescribed by Inpatient Services and Nursing Services. Engage in opportunities for continuing education that enhance patient care or professional growth. Maintain attendance in accordance with the hospital’s personnel policy. Hold groups or activities as assigned; perform other duties as instructed. Physical and Safety Requirements Assist with patient mobility and positioning as needed. Apply approved restraint techniques in accordance with safety protocols and training when required. Stand, walk, bend, and lift up to 50 lbs during routine duties. Work comfortably in situations that may involve behavioral challenges or require de‑escalation. 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 risks: Chemical and biological exposure to cleaning agents, medications, and potential infectious diseases. Environmental factors such as noise, temperature fluctuations, and other hospital‑related hazards, including clinically difficult patients. Protective Measures The organization provides comprehensive safety training, including crisis intervention, de‑escalation techniques, infection control protocols, and proper patient handling procedures. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as gloves, masks, gowns, and eye protection are supplied and required as appropriate. We Are Looking For Applicants With the Following Skills Good communication skills Strong team‑player Excellent time‑management skills EEO Statement All UHS subsidiaries are committed to an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and teammates. UHS subsidiaries are equal‑opportunity employers and support 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. We believe that diversity and inclusion among our teammates is critical to our success. Qualifications High school diploma or equivalent required; bachelor’s degree preferred. College students pursuing a degree in behavioral health, psychology, or human services are preferred. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Impeccable judgment and professionalism. Ability to maintain composure in a crisis situation. Previous co‑op experience very strongly preferred. Pay Transparency UHS and its subsidiaries will comply with all applicable state or local laws requiring employers to provide wage or salary range information to job applicants and employees. Salary offers may be based on key factors such as education and related experience. #J-18808-Ljbffr