Position
Salary

How much does a Behavioral Health Associate make?

The average salary for a Behavioral Health Associate is $42,311 per year in the US.

People in behavioral health positions help those with mental health or substance abuse issues. Behavioral Health Associates, in particular, assist in this important work. Their role often includes providing direct care, monitoring patients, and helping with treatment plans. The salary for this job varies based on experience and location.


For example, a new Behavioral Health Associate might make around $28,500 each year. With a few years of experience, this can grow to about $40,636. More experienced associates can earn up to $68,955 annually. The average yearly salary for these positions is around $42,311. This range shows how much dedication and experience can affect earnings in this field.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Behavioral Health Associate?

Cities like Cincinnati, Houston, and San Jose offer some of the highest salaries for Behavioral Health Associates. Cincinnati tops the list, with an average salary of $60,062. Houston and San Jose follow closely, offering competitive wages as well. These cities provide excellent opportunities for those seeking higher earnings in this rewarding field.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Behavioral Health Associate jobs, highlighting Cincinnati, OH with the highest at $60,062 and Indianapolis, IN with the lowest at $40,609.
  1. Cincinnati, OH
    Average Salary: $60,062
    Cincinnati offers a supportive environment for those in behavioral health. With institutions like Cincinnati Children's Hospital, professionals gain valuable experience. The city's community focus on mental health creates many opportunities.
    Find Behavioral Health Associate jobs in Cincinnati, OH


  2. Houston, TX
    Average Salary: $58,439
    In Houston, behavioral health workers support a diverse population. Working with organizations like Houston Behavioral Healthcare Hospital, you will find a collaborative atmosphere. The city's growth offers many career advancement opportunities.
    Find Behavioral Health Associate jobs in Houston, TX


  3. San Jose, CA
    Average Salary: $48,931
    San Jose provides a dynamic setting for behavioral health associates. With Silicon Valley's influence, there are innovative programs to explore. Working with companies like El Camino Health, you will experience a high demand for your skills.
    Find Behavioral Health Associate jobs in San Jose, CA


  4. Chicago, IL
    Average Salary: $47,370
    Chicago offers a rich environment for behavioral health careers. Institutions like Rush University Medical Center provide extensive resources. The city's cultural diversity allows for a wide range of experiences in the field.
    Find Behavioral Health Associate jobs in Chicago, IL


  5. Sacramento, CA
    Average Salary: $46,156
    Sacramento offers a stable career path in behavioral health. With organizations like the Sacramento County Department of Health Services, professionals find rewarding work. The city's focus on community health creates a supportive professional environment.
    Find Behavioral Health Associate jobs in Sacramento, CA


  6. Riverside, CA
    Average Salary: $44,500
    Riverside provides a peaceful setting for those in behavioral health. Loma Linda University Medical Center offers cutting-edge care. The city's family-friendly atmosphere makes it an ideal place to work and live.
    Find Behavioral Health Associate jobs in Riverside, CA


  7. Philadelphia, PA
    Average Salary: $44,290
    Philadelphia offers a vibrant environment for behavioral health workers. Working with institutions like the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, you will find a strong community focus. The city's historical roots provide a rich cultural backdrop for your career.
    Find Behavioral Health Associate jobs in Philadelphia, PA


  8. Anchorage, AK
    Average Salary: $44,132
    Anchorage provides a unique setting for behavioral health professionals. With organizations like Providence Alaska Medical Center, you will experience a strong community commitment. The city's natural beauty offers a refreshing environment to work in.
    Find Behavioral Health Associate jobs in Anchorage, AK


  9. Baltimore, MD
    Average Salary: $42,167
    Baltimore offers a diverse environment for those in behavioral health. With institutions like the Johns Hopkins Hospital, professionals find ample opportunities. The city's rich history and vibrant culture provide a dynamic work setting.
    Find Behavioral Health Associate jobs in Baltimore, MD


  10. Indianapolis, IN
    Average Salary: $40,609
    Indianapolis offers a balanced environment for behavioral health workers. Working with organizations like Eskenazi Health, you will find a strong support system. The city's growing economy provides many opportunities for career growth.
    Find Behavioral Health Associate jobs in Indianapolis, IN

What are the best companies a Behavioral Health Associate can work for?

CVS Health leads the pack in paying Behavioral Health Associates, offering an average salary of $68,281. VNS Health and Baylor College of Medicine also provide competitive salaries, averaging $60,870 and $58,295 respectively. For those considering NYC Health + Hospitals, the average salary stands at $56,640.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Behavioral Health Associate jobs, highlighting CVS Health with the highest at $68,281 and Embark Behavioral Health with the lowest at $42,109.
  1. CVS Health
    Average Salary: $68,281
    CVS Health offers a rewarding role for Behavioral Health Associates in many locations. They focus on patient care and support. Locations include major cities across the U.S.


  2. VNS Health
    Average Salary: $60,870
    VNS Health provides excellent opportunities for Behavioral Health Associates. They offer comprehensive care at home and in communities. They operate in New York City and nearby areas.


  3. Baylor College of Medicine
    Average Salary: $58,295
    Baylor College of Medicine is a leader in healthcare and education. Behavioral Health Associates work in academic settings and hospitals. They are located in Houston, Texas.


  4. NYC Health + Hospitals
    Average Salary: $56,640
    NYC Health + Hospitals offers diverse roles for Behavioral Health Associates. They focus on public health and community care. Locations are throughout New York City.


  5. BAYSIDE MARIN
    Average Salary: $49,118
    BAYSIDE MARIN provides quality care in Marin County, California. Behavioral Health Associates work in supportive environments. They are located in Marin County.


  6. Comprehensive Healthcare
    Average Salary: $48,055
    Comprehensive Healthcare offers various roles for Behavioral Health Associates. They focus on providing mental health services. Locations include Yakima, Washington.


  7. Turning Point Community Programs
    Average Salary: $44,969
    Turning Point Community Programs offer supportive roles for Behavioral Health Associates. They focus on community mental health. Locations include Northern California.


  8. Volunteers of America
    Average Salary: $44,874
    Volunteers of America provides rewarding roles for Behavioral Health Associates. They focus on social services and healthcare. Locations include across the U.S.


  9. AdventHealth Shawnee Mission
    Average Salary: $42,693
    AdventHealth Shawnee Mission offers quality care for Behavioral Health Associates. They focus on patient wellness. Located in Shawnee Mission, Kansas.


  10. Embark Behavioral Health
    Average Salary: $42,109
    Embark Behavioral Health provides a supportive environment for Behavioral Health Associates. They focus on adolescent mental health. Locations include Utah and Arizona.

How to earn more as a Behavioral Health Associate?

Increasing earnings as a Behavioral Health Associate can lead to greater job satisfaction and improved career opportunities. Behavioral Health Associates play a crucial role in patient care, and there are several effective ways to enhance earning potential in this field. By focusing on key factors, a professional can achieve higher compensation and professional growth.

One of the most impactful steps is to gain additional certifications. Specialized training in areas such as de-escalation techniques, crisis intervention, or substance abuse counseling can lead to higher-paying positions. Another factor is pursuing advanced degrees. Earning a master’s degree in social work or a related field can significantly increase salary prospects. Experience also matters. Those with more years in the field and a strong track record of successful patient interactions often command higher salaries. Networking within the industry helps uncover better job opportunities. Attending conferences and joining professional organizations can lead to higher-paying positions. Lastly, seeking roles in higher-demand areas such as urban settings or specialized care facilities can lead to increased earnings.

Consider the following list for practical steps toward higher earnings:

  1. Obtain relevant certifications.
  2. Pursue advanced degrees.
  3. Gain more years of experience.
  4. Network within the industry.
  5. Seek jobs in high-demand areas.

Currently 188 Behavioral Health Associate job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Behavioral Health Associate in the US?

Learn what a Behavioral Health Associate does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Behavioral Health Associate today.
Position
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Behavioral Health Associate
188 Job Openings