This job is closed
Applications are no longer available for this announcement. Explore current related opportunities below.
Job description
Behavioral Health Specialist
Heritage Behavioral Health Center is hiring passionate professionals! We are a mission-driven Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic located in Decatur, Illinois, dedicated to improving mental health and substance use care for individuals in a multi-county area.
We recognize that all individuals at our organization have an impact on client care – regardless of the position they hold.
Looking for a career where your work truly matters?
Heritage Behavioral Health Center is hiring passionate professionals!
At Heritage, we believe in taking care of our staff's needs so that they can concentrate on taking care of the needs of the individuals we serve. Our staff are our greatest asset, and we treat them as such!
Behavioral Health Specialists provide compassionate, paraprofessional support to individuals experiencing mental health and/or substance use challenges in a recovery-oriented, person-centered environment. This role delivers direct care, skills coaching, safety monitoring, and daily living support that help individuals stabilize, build independence, and thrive in the community.
This role is ideal for candidates who are reliable, teachable, and committed to trauma-informed care — even in fast-paced or crisis settings.
Support Daily Living & Recovery
Coach residents in activities of daily living (meal prep, hygiene, housekeeping, laundry) and independent living skills (medication routines, budgeting, time management).
Promote healthy routines including sleep hygiene, nutrition, movement, and community participation.
Client Engagement & Skills Coaching
Use motivational, strength-based approaches to build rapport and engagement.
Facilitate or co-facilitate psychoeducational groups covering coping skills, wellness, relapse prevention, and community integration.
Crisis & Safety Support
Maintain therapeutic milieu and conduct scheduled safety checks.
Apply de-escalation techniques and follow crisis protocols; promptly seek clinical support when risk increases.
Support transitions between the CSU, RRU, Group Homes, and community settings.
Medication & Health Support (Non-Clinical)
Support medication routines per program protocol (e.g., reminders, observation, and documentation when applicable).
Encourage adherence to medical and behavioral health appointments and care plans; assist with transportation as needed.
Documentation & Communication
Complete timely, accurate progress notes, checklists, incident reports, and shift handoffs in accordance with policy.
Communicate effectively with clinical team members including nurses, therapists, prescribers, and case managers.
Environment, Safety, & Compliance
Uphold trauma-informed, culturally responsive, recovery-oriented care principles.
Maintain clean, organized, and safe environments; follow infection control and HIPAA confidentiality standards.
Participate in required trainings, drills, and quality improvement activities.
Knowledge
Understanding of mental health and substance use conditions, recovery principles, and social determinants of health.
Awareness of trauma-informed care, harm reduction, and person-centered practices.
Skills
Communication: Clear, compassionate verbal and written communication; active listening; professional boundaries.
De-Escalation: Calm presence under pressure; ability to use verbal intervention and follow safety protocols.
Engagement & Coaching: Motivational approaches to build skills and confidence; group facilitation basics.
Organization & Documentation: Reliable follow-through, attention to detail, accurate records and shift handoffs.
Teamwork: Collaborative, respectful, and responsive across multidisciplinary teams and shifts.
Abilities
Work in 24/7 settings including nights, weekends, and holidays; adapt to changing priorities and client needs.
Assist with physical tasks such as standing, walking, and light cleaning; help with safe transportation.
Maintain confidentiality and professional boundaries; use sound judgment to escalate concerns to clinical staff.
Build trust with diverse populations; demonstrate empathy, cultural humility, and non-judgment.
Qualifications
High School Diploma or equivalent
Minimum of 21 years of age
A valid driver's license, reliable means of transportation, and proof of automobile insurance
Heritage Also Offers
Generous Time Off: Vacation, sick, personal, and holiday leave
Wellness Benefits: Every other Friday off (paid), Employee Assistance Program (EAP), and fitness reimbursement
Insurance: Health, dental, vision, flex spending accounts (healthcare and dependent care), and additional life insurance. Health insurance includes substantial agency contributions toward the cost.
Retirement: 401(k) and Roth retirement plans
Professional Growth: Tuition assistance and continuing education opportunities
Loan Forgiveness: Eligible through the National Health Service Corps (NHSC)
Ready to make a difference?
Apply today and join a team that cares about your well-being as much as the individuals we serve!
Worksite address
decatur, IL, 62523, US
Who can apply
Review the original listing for work authorization, qualifications and employer requirements.