Behavioral Health Support Staff Careers at Sanford Health - Bemidji, Minnesota

Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of individuals struggling with mental health challenges? Do you thrive in a collaborative and supportive environment where your contributions are valued? If so, a career as Behavioral Health Support Staff at Sanford Health in Bemidji, Minnesota, may be the perfect fit for you.

Sanford Health is a leading integrated health system with a strong commitment to providing compassionate, high-quality care to patients and communities across the Upper Midwest. With nearly 50,000 employees, Sanford Health offers a wide range of career opportunities in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and residential treatment facilities. The Primewest Crisis Residential Team in Bemidji is a vital part of Sanford Health's behavioral health services, providing short-term, intensive support to adults experiencing mental health crises.

Role Overview

As a Behavioral Health Support Staff member, you will play a crucial role in the care and safety of psychiatric patients under the direction and control of psychiatric staff and patient orders. Your primary responsibilities will include monitoring patient behavior, providing direct support, implementing rehabilitation interventions, and ensuring a safe and therapeutic environment.

This position offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the behavioral health field, develop essential skills, and contribute to the well-being of individuals in crisis. Whether you are just starting your career or have previous experience in behavioral health, this role provides opportunities for growth and professional development.

A Day in the Life

Here's a glimpse into what a typical day might look like as Behavioral Health Support Staff at Sanford Health:

• Monitoring Patient Safety: You will continuously observe patients to ensure their safety and well-being, intervening as needed to prevent harm to themselves or others.
• Providing Direct Support: You will interact with patients on a one-on-one basis, offering emotional support, encouragement, and assistance with daily living activities.
• Implementing Rehabilitation Interventions: Under the guidance of licensed clinical staff, you will implement rehabilitation interventions aimed at helping patients develop coping skills, improve their social functioning, and achieve their treatment goals.
• Facilitating Group Activities: You may lead or co-facilitate group activities, such as art therapy, music therapy, or recreational outings, to promote socialization and engagement.
• Ensuring a Therapeutic Environment: You will contribute to maintaining a clean, safe, and therapeutic environment by ensuring that patient chores are completed, the facility is well-maintained, and safety protocols are followed.
• Documenting Patient Progress: You will accurately document patient behavior, interventions, and progress in patient records, ensuring that clinical staff have the information they need to provide effective care.

Why Bemidji, Minnesota?

Bemidji, Minnesota, is a vibrant community located in the heart of Minnesota's northwoods. Known as the "First City on the Mississippi," Bemidji offers a unique blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities. With a population of around 15,000, Bemidji provides a welcoming and close-knit community atmosphere.

Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to love in Bemidji. The city is surrounded by pristine lakes and forests, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, hiking, camping, and snowmobiling. Bemidji State Park, located just north of the city, is a popular destination for outdoor recreation.

Bemidji also boasts a thriving arts and culture scene. The city is home to several art galleries, museums, and theaters, showcasing the talents of local and regional artists. The Paul Bunyan Playhouse, a professional summer theater, attracts visitors from all over the region.

Living in Bemidji offers a high quality of life at an affordable cost. The city has a low crime rate, good schools, and a variety of housing options. Bemidji is also home to Bemidji State University, providing access to higher education and cultural events.

Career Path

Sanford Health is committed to providing employees with opportunities for growth and advancement. As Behavioral Health Support Staff, you can advance your career by pursuing further education, obtaining certifications, and taking on leadership roles.

Possible career paths for Behavioral Health Support Staff include:

• Associate Behavioral Health Counselor: With a bachelor's degree in a related field, you can advance to the role of Associate Behavioral Health Counselor, providing more intensive counseling and therapy services to patients.
• Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC): By obtaining a master's degree in counseling or a related field and completing supervised clinical hours, you can become a Licensed Professional Counselor and provide independent therapy services.
• Social Worker: With a master's degree in social work, you can become a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) and provide a wide range of social services to patients and their families.
• Program Manager: With experience and leadership skills, you can advance to a program management role, overseeing the operations of a behavioral health program or service.

Salary and Benefits

The salary range for Behavioral Health Support Staff at Sanford Health in Bemidji, Minnesota, typically falls between $35,000 and $55,000 per year, depending on experience and qualifications. Sanford Health also offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Health insurance (medical, dental, vision)
• Paid time off (PTO)
• Paid holidays
• 401(k) retirement plan with employer match
• Life insurance
• Disability insurance
• Employee assistance program (EAP)
• Tuition reimbursement
• Professional development opportunities
• Employee discounts

Sanford Culture

Sanford Health is known for its positive and supportive work environment. The organization is committed to creating a culture of teamwork, respect, and innovation. Sanford Health values its employees and provides them with opportunities to grow, develop, and make a difference in the lives of others.

Sanford Health is also committed to diversity and inclusion. The organization believes that a diverse workforce is essential to providing high-quality care to patients from all backgrounds.

How to Apply

To apply for Behavioral Health Support Staff positions at Sanford Health in Bemidji, Minnesota, please visit the Sanford Health Careers website. You can search for open positions by location and job title. Be sure to submit your resume and cover letter, highlighting your qualifications and experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What are the qualifications for Behavioral Health Support Staff?

   A high school diploma or equivalent is required. A bachelor's degree in Psychology, Social Work, or a related field is preferred. Experience in a behavioral health setting is also preferred.

2. What are the key responsibilities of Behavioral Health Support Staff?

   Key responsibilities include monitoring patient safety, providing direct support, implementing rehabilitation interventions, and ensuring a safe and therapeutic environment.

3. What is the salary range for Behavioral Health Support Staff?

   The salary range typically falls between $35,000 and $55,000 per year, depending on experience and qualifications.

4. What benefits does Sanford Health offer?

   Sanford Health offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, paid time off, a 401(k) retirement plan, and tuition reimbursement.

5. What is the work environment like at Sanford Health?

   Sanford Health is known for its positive and supportive work environment, with a culture of teamwork, respect, and innovation.

6. What opportunities are there for career advancement?

   Sanford Health provides employees with opportunities for growth and advancement through further education, certifications, and leadership roles.

7. Is experience in behavioral health required?

   While experience is preferred, it is not always required. Sanford Health provides comprehensive training to new employees.

8. What skills are important for this role?

   Important skills include communication, empathy, problem-solving, and the ability to work effectively as part of a team.

9. What is the dress code for Behavioral Health Support Staff?

   The dress code is typically business casual, but may vary depending on the specific department or setting.

10. How can I learn more about Sanford Health?

    You can visit the Sanford Health website to learn more about the organization's mission, values, and services.