Mental Health Associate (MHA)

Job Description

Job Description

Job Title: Mental Health Associate (MHA)
Location: Roanoke, VA 24015
Employment Type: Full-Time (Monday to Friday)
Salary: Based on education and experience

For over 35 years, Rivermont Schools has provided therapeutic education to students ages 5-22 in grades K-12 who have autism spectrum disorder (ASD), behavioral challenges, or learning difficulties in traditional school settings. Our team of educators, behavior specialists, and therapists work together to provide individualized support that helps students achieve their milestones and transition back to their home schools.

Why Join Us?

• Weekday Schedule – Work Monday through Friday with a consistent school-based schedule, no nights or weekends required.
• Paid School Breaks & Time Off – Enjoy paid school breaks, holidays, and personal time off, ensuring time to recharge and reset.
• Comprehensive Benefits – Access health, dental, and vision insurance, plus employer-paid short-term disability, life insurance, and flexible spending accounts (FSA/HSA).
• Financial Perks – Benefit from a 401(k) retirement plan with up to 4% company match, plus employer-paid HSA contributions and life & disability insurance.
• Professional Development – Advance your career with tuition reimbursement, mentorship programs, leadership training, and pathways to grow into teaching or behavioral health roles.
• Supportive Team – Collaborate with educators, specialists, and therapists in a positive, inclusive environment with annual awards, Teammate Appreciation Week, and team-building events.
• Make an Impact – Help students with special needs build life skills, confidence, and independence in a supportive school environment.

Your Role as a Mental Health Associate

• Provide Classroom Support – Assist students with academic tasks, social interactions, adaption daily living skills, and emotional regulation to create a structured, supportive learning environment.
• Monitor & Track Student Progress – Observe student behavior, document notes, and collaborate with the team to adjust support strategies to help students meet their goals.
• Implement Behavior Support Plans – Help develop and apply positive behavior interventions and ABA techniques to encourage student success.
• Ensure a Safe Learning Environment – Intervene when necessary, using de-escalation techniques, calming strategies, and ABA techniques.
• Collaborate with Teachers & Families – Work closely with educators, therapists, BCBAs, and parents to provide consistent, individualized support.

Required Qualifications:

• High School Diploma or GED.
• Effective communication and collaboration skills with students, families, and staff.
• Active listening and emotional intelligence to support students’ needs.
• Ability to foster a positive, professional school environment with patience and adaptability.
• Basic computer skills (Microsoft Office: Word, Excel, Outlook) for documentation and communication.

Preferred (Nice to Have) Qualifications:

• Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) or Qualified Mental Health Professional (QMHP) certification.
• Experience working in special education, mental health, or behavioral support such as an ABA Therapist, Direct Support, Registered Behavior Technician (RBT), Behavioral Health Technician, Paraprofessional, or Teacher Assistant.
• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Sociology, Psychology, Special Education, Behavioral Science, or a related field (all degree types considered).

Ready to Make an Impact? Apply Today!

At Rivermont Schools, we are committed to diversity, inclusion, and creating a supportive, drug-free workplace. We welcome candidates from all backgrounds to apply. Join our team and help shape a brighter future for students with special needs!