Arnot Health System·City of Elmira, New York
Provide direct and indirect patient care within the Behavioral Science Unit, focusing on safety, emotional support, and the maintenance of a therapeutic environment. Responsibilities include monitoring patient behavior, assisting with daily living activities, and collaborating with a multidisciplinary team to implement care plans.
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 team Assisting in the development and implementation of individualized care plans and treatment strategies Supporting patients with activities of daily living including hygiene, meals, and medication reminders Performing vital signs, weight checks, intake/output measurements, and specimen collection Interacting therapeutically with patients to support emotional regulation and coping strategies Participating in multidisciplinary meetings, admissions orientation, and patient education Escorting patients to appointments or diagnostic tests and transporting labeled specimens to the lab Facilitating group or individual therapeutic activities and encouraging participation in unit programming Monitoring unit safety through environmental checks, visitor supervision, and patient observation Assisting with crisis de-escalation and behavioral management, including restraint application when necessary Ensuring documentation is timely, accurate, and reflects patient progress and safety Collaborating with physicians and team members to support individualized treatment planning Acting as a role model and preceptor for new staff as directed Maintaining confidentiality and professionalism in all interactions with patients, families, and staff Performing basic housekeeping duties and ensuring cleanliness and order in patient areas Adhering to all hospital safety protocols including infection control and emergency procedures
What We're Looking For Associate's degree in psychology, sociology, human services, or a related health field Consideration will be given to candidates with relevant experience in lieu of formal education Prior psychiatric or behavioral health experience strongly preferred Training in crisis intervention and behavioral restraint application is a plus Basic Life Support (BLS) certification required within 90 days of hire Strong observational, communication, and documentation skills Ability to maintain composure and adapt in high-stress and emergency situations Physically able to perform job duties, including managing agitated patients and handling moderate lifting Professional, empathetic, and sensitive to the unique needs of psychiatric patients Strong teamwork ethic with the ability to collaborate across disciplines
If 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.
Candidates should possess an associate's degree in psychology, sociology, or a related field, though relevant experience may be considered. BLS certification is required within 90 days of hire, and prior psychiatric or behavioral health experience is strongly preferred.
Market context
Behavioral health roles in New York are often in steady demand, especially for clinicians who can support diverse age groups and handle assessments or admissions. These positions can be competitive because employers commonly look for independent licensure, while also considering associate-level candidates with clear growth toward full licensure. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save time, then confirm your licensure status and assessment experience before applying.
