Behavioral Health Specialist - Mercy STL - Part time (24 hr weekly)

Find your calling at Mercy!

Under the supervision of the registered nurse, assist in the individualized care of the patient directed toward achieving the patients highest level of physical and mental wellness. Performs designated clinical procedures and non-clinical support tasks essential to nursing care. Assists in unit operational support tasks or duties. Performs duties and responsibilities in manner consistent with our mission, values, and Mercy Service Standards.

Position Details:

Behavioral Health Specialist (Part-Time)

Location: Mercy Hospital St. Louis

Schedule: Part-Time (24 hours/week)

Overview

The Behavioral Health Specialist supports the delivery of high-quality, individualized patient care under the supervision of a Registered Nurse. This role focuses on promoting patients' physical and mental wellness through therapeutic engagement, clinical support, and maintaining a safe, structured care environment.

At Mercy, you'll join a compassionate team dedicated to delivering care aligned with our mission, values, and service standards.

Key Responsibilities

Patient Care & Therapeutic Support

• Provide direct patient care, including assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs), nutrition, mobility, and hygiene
• Monitor and document vital signs, intake/output, patient participation, and overall condition
• Observe and promptly report changes in patient behavior, mood, or condition
• Build therapeutic relationships using effective communication and appropriate boundary setting
• Lead or co-lead group activities and support behavioral interventions and safety plans
• Assist with patient admissions, transfers, discharges, and orientation to the unit

Safety & Crisis Management

• Maintain a safe, therapeutic environment by following all safety, infection control, and patient rights policies
• Conduct safety rounds and ensure adherence to fall precautions and restraint protocols
• Respond to behavioral escalations using de-escalation techniques; assist with crisis interventions alongside licensed staff
• Properly manage patient belongings and maintain environmental safety standards
• Complete incident reporting in accordance with hospital policy

Coordination of Care

• Collaborate with the multidisciplinary care team to support treatment planning and patient outcomes
• Assist in developing and implementing behavioral modification and care plans
• Participate in shift handoffs to ensure continuity of care
• Document patient status and care activities accurately and in compliance with policy
• Support quality improvement initiatives and participate in team-based decision-making

Communication & Teamwork

• Communicate critical patient information, including safety concerns, to appropriate team members
• Maintain professional, respectful interactions with patients, families, and coworkers
• Provide clear and accurate reports during shift transitions
• Demonstrate strong teamwork and adaptability in a dynamic care environment

Clinical & Technical Support

• Assist with clinical procedures and operate equipment such as vital signs monitors, EKG machines, bladder scanners, and glucose monitoring devices
• Document patient care in the electronic medical record (EMR)
• Support unit operations, including inventory management and maintaining necessary supplies

Leadership & Development

• Serve as a resource to team members and assist with onboarding and training new staff
• Support ongoing staff education and unit improvement initiatives
• Ensure tasks and workflows are completed efficiently and according to standards

Qualifications

Required Education & Experience (one of the following):

• Bachelor's degree in Psychology or a related behavioral health field
• Associate degree plus relevant behavioral health experience
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in a behavioral health or related field

Preferred Experience:

• Behavioral Health, Psychiatric Care, or Direct Support Professional experience

Skills & Competencies

• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to use therapeutic communication techniques consistently
• Excellent critical thinking and prioritization skills
• Ability to remain calm and effective in high-stress situations
• Commitment to teamwork and patient-centered care

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift, reposition, and support patients as needed
• Frequent standing, walking, and hands-on patient care activities

Why Join Mercy?

• Mission-driven, patient-centered culture
• Supportive team environment
• Opportunities for professional growth in behavioral health
• Meaningful work that makes a difference in patients' lives

Why Mercy?

From day one, Mercy offers outstanding benefits - including medical, dental, and vision coverage, paid time off, tuition support, and matched retirement plans for team members working 32+ hours per pay period.

Join a caring, collaborative team where your voice matters. At Mercy, you'll help shape the future of healthcare through innovation, technology, and compassion. As we grow, you'll grow with us.