Behavioral Health Specialist-Safety & Security (Pool/PRN)

About the role

We're not just behavioral health people-we're crisis people.

Connections Health Solutions is a leading provider of immediate-access behavioral health crisis care. Our team combines medical and recovery-oriented treatment to stabilize individuals in crisis and connect them to community-based resources for ongoing recovery.

Founded by emergency room psychiatrists Dr. Chris Carson and Dr. Robert Williamson, our model is physician-led and data-driven, drawing upon more than 15 years of crisis care expertise. Recognized by SAMHSA and the National Council for Mental Wellbeing as a national best practice, we've delivered invaluable treatment to hundreds of thousands of individuals facing crises. Our commitment remains consistent, to improve access, inspire hope, and provide the right support.

Our values shape our decisions, define our culture, and foster continuous learning and growth.

We accept people as they are, creating safe spaces where they feel valued and respected. We inspire hope by walking with people side-by-side, showing them grace and compassion. We act with intention, holding ourselves and each other accountable, and doing the right thing. We work as one team, trusting and supporting each other. We embrace change and innovation, striving to find better ways to fulfill our mission.

We are on a mission to change the face of behavioral health. Help us save lives and make a difference.

Maximize your earnings with additional hourly pay

• +$2/hr -> Monday-Thursday Nights
• +$3/hr -> Friday-Sunday Nights
• +$2/hr -> Saturday-Sunday Days

What You'll Do

The Behavioral Health Specialist-Safety & Security is a dual-function role responsible for both front entrance security and direct care support within the units. During the first portion of the shift, the specialist manages front entrance safety by greeting and screening all visitors, ensuring compliance with facility safety protocols, and supporting a welcoming environment.

After completing entrance security responsibilities, the specialist transitions to providing direct Behavioral Health Specialist support on the unit-assisting with daily living activities, monitoring safety, conducting vital signs, and documenting services in the Electronic Health Record (EHR). This role ensures both a secure facility environment and high-quality care for individuals served.

Safety & Security Responsibilities (First portion of shift)

• Provide safety and security at the facility's front entrance.
• Greet and welcome patients, families, and visitors in a professional and supportive manner.
• Ensure all visitors are screened through the metal detector or handheld wand.
• Monitor that all personal belongings are placed in lockers prior to entry.
• Conduct security screening and inventory property of individuals upon admission to the facility.
• Provide orientation to the Observation Unit and Residential Crisis Stabilization Unit.
• Educate individuals on their rights under DBHDS and DMAS regulations, grievance processes, expectations, and facility rules.

Behavioral Health Specialist Responsibilities

• Maintain safety of the unit; monitor and document individuals every 15 minutes.
• Intervene with escalated individuals using therapeutic de-escalation techniques; perform restraints or seclusion (if applicable) to ensure safety.
• Complete 1:1 observation for individuals in seclusion or mechanical restraints every 15 minutes during the event.
• Lift, move, and transport individuals using proper body mechanics and accident-prevention practices.
• Assist individuals with activities of daily living, including eating, bathing, and dressing.
• Conduct and document vital signs; report questionable results to RN/Physician.
• Conduct and document BAL, urine drug screens, and urine pregnancy tests.
• Attend court-ordered hearings when subpoenaed, provide testimony, and serve as a witness as required.
• Document all services and significant individual interactions in the Electronic Health Record (EHR).
• Maintain cleanliness of the facility and assigned unit, including light cleaning, collecting soiled linens, and laundering individuals' clothing when needed.
• Complete all required training, attend monthly meetings, and maintain required competencies.
• Perform all other duties as assigned.

What You'll Bring

• High school diploma or equivalent
• 1 year of behavioral health experience
• Must be able to perform Safe Clinch patient restraint techniques
• The Company has a mandatory vaccination policy. All successful applicants must be fully vaccinated, including showing proper documentation, or otherwise be exempt pursuant to the Company's exemption process prior to their start date as a condition of employment
• State of Virginia Fingerprint Clearance
• Must be able to pass Virginia Department of Behavioral Health & Developmental Services (VA DBHDS) background check
• Must be able to pass Virginia Department of Social Services (VA DSS) Office of Background Investigations - Central Registry Search
• Must be able to obtain a Food Handlers Card for the State of Virginia (BHS/RSS positions)
• Physical Requirements
• Safely perform physical interventions (e.g., standing, pivoting, reaching, kneeling, lowering to the floor, and supporting another person's weight)
• Lift, push, pull, or carry up to 50 lbs. occasionally
• Tolerate prolonged walking, standing, and observation in a fast-paced environment
• Work with individuals who may exhibit agitation, aggression, or unpredictable behavior

It Would Be Great if You Had

• Certified training (Safe Clinch, CPR First Aid, therapeutic options, etc.)
• Completion of CNA or Patient Care Tech program
• Completion of BHT certification

What We Offer

Full-time only

• Employees (and their families) are offered comprehensive health insurance, including Medical, Dental, Vision, Accident, Critical Illness, and Hospital Indemnity
• CHS pays for Basic Life, AD&D, Short and Long-Term Disability
• Voluntary Life insurance option for employees and their families
• Health Savings Accounts (with $1,000 to $2,000 employer contribution depending on plan)
• Flexible Spending Accounts (health care and dependent care)
• 401k company match after 6 months (50% of deferrals up to 6% of compensation)
• Generous PTO starting at 160 hours accrued annually and 12 recognized company holidays
• Company-paid parental leave available to eligible employees

All employees (Pool, Part-time and Full-time)

• Employee Assistance Program to help with confidential emotional support, work life solutions, financial solutions, legal assistance, or online support
• After 90 days, you are auto enrolled in the 401k Plan

• Connections Health Solutions is proud to be a Second Chance employer.
• Actual compensation is based on relevant experience, education, internal equity, and budget.
• Virginia pay range $23—$25.46 USD