Job Description
Brief Description
We’re seeking a compassionate, team-oriented Mental Health Assistant to join our Behavioral Science Unit (BSU). In this role, you’ll be a key part of our multidisciplinary team, helping create and maintain a therapeutic environment for patients with psychiatric and behavioral health needs. You’ll provide direct and indirect patient care under the supervision of a Registered Nurse, ensuring physical and emotional support, safety, and respectful communication at every step. Your work will have a lasting impact on the health and recovery of our patients.
Your Schedule
- Full-time position located in the Behavioral Science Unit.
- Shifts may include days, evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed to support 24 / 7 patient care operations. Flexibility is required.
What You’ll Be Doing
Monitoring patient behavior and symptoms, accurately documenting and reporting observations to the care teamAssisting in the development and implementation of individualized care plans and treatment strategiesSupporting patients with activities of daily living including hygiene, meals, and medication remindersPerforming vital signs, weight checks, intake / output measurements, and specimen collectionInteracting therapeutically with patients to support emotional regulation and coping strategiesParticipating in multidisciplinary meetings, admissions orientation, and patient educationEscorting patients to appointments or diagnostic tests and transporting labeled specimens to the labFacilitating group or individual therapeutic activities and encouraging participation in unit programmingMonitoring unit safety through environmental checks, visitor supervision, and patient observationAssisting with crisis de-escalation and behavioral management, including restraint application when necessaryEnsuring documentation is timely, accurate, and reflects patient progress and safetyCollaborating with physicians and team members to support individualized treatment planningActing as a role model and preceptor for new staff as directedMaintaining confidentiality and professionalism in all interactions with patients, families, and staffPerforming basic housekeeping duties and ensuring cleanliness and order in patient areasAdhering to all hospital safety protocols including infection control and emergency proceduresWhat We’re Looking For
Associate’s degree in psychology, sociology, human services, or a related health fieldConsideration will be given to candidates with relevant experience in lieu of formal educationPrior psychiatric or behavioral health experience strongly preferredTraining in crisis intervention and behavioral restraint application is a plusBasic Life Support (BLS) certification required within 90 days of hireStrong observational, communication, and documentation skillsAbility to maintain composure and adapt in high-stress and emergency situationsPhysically able to perform job duties, including managing agitated patients and handling moderate liftingProfessional, empathetic, and sensitive to the unique needs of psychiatric patientsStrong teamwork ethic with the ability to collaborate across disciplinesIf you're passionate about mental health care and want to make a difference in a collaborative and supportive environment, we’d love for you to join our team. Apply today to take the next step in your healthcare career.
Summary
About Us :
Arnot Health offers patient-centered, comprehensive health services to the Southern Tier of New York. Campuses include Arnot Ogden Medical Center and St. Joseph's Hospital in Elmira; Ira Davenport Memorial Hospital in Bath, NY; and over 40 medical offices in the Southern Tier. Arnot Health is currently affiliated with more than 300 physicians from 50+ specialties.
Arnot Health is a member of Centralus Health, a community-based integrated delivery system. Our mission is to deliver high-quality care, empower our teams to succeed, and improve the wellbeing of the communities we serve.
Our commitment to quality personalized care begins with our exceptional team—over 6500 employees strong. At Arnot Health, you will work in a collaborative environment that values excellence, integrity, compassion, and stewardship. Together, we create an environment where empathy, honesty and a dedication to quality thrive, empowering us to make a positive impact on the lives we touch.
We offer competitive wages, comprehensive benefits, and professional development opportunities to help our employees grow and thrive. Whether you are just starting your career or taking the next step in healthcare, we invite you to join us in shaping the future of care in our communities.
Learn more at www.arnothealth.org.