Qualified Behavioral Health Paraprofessional

Do you have a passion for making a difference? We are seeking an exceptional Qualified Behavioral Health Paraprofessional (QBHP) to join our 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to transforming lives and creating positive change in our community.

The OBHAW Wellness Day Program provides an array of services to assist adults with maintaining the ability to live independently. The program provides training in activities of daily living and helps coordinate with other agencies and providers to ensure whole health and wellness. The therapeutic curriculum and activities emphasize improved social, language, speech, behavioral, and communication skills, coping techniques and activities of daily living that increase each person's ability to live independently. Clients learn self-help skills and receive other services prescribed on their individual client-centered treatment plan. The Wellness Day Program has a primary focus on treating mental illness and disorders that affect adults' ability to live safely and independently in the community. It is designed to help respond to significant symptoms experienced by individuals with severe mental illness.

Ouachita Behavioral Health and Wellness (OBHAW) is the oldest nonprofit mental health organization in the area, and we are dedicated to transforming lives and creating positive change in our community. Our team members work together to create a collaborative, empowering environment where individuals are able to heal. We are a values-driven organization and believe that these values should guide us: Openness - Balance - Honesty & Integrity - Accountability - Work Together.

What We Offer:

  • Competitive salary and benefits package.
  • Paid holidays and a generous PTO (Paid Time Off) plan.
  • 401k retirement plan with 4% employer match.
  • NHSC student loan reimbursement.
  • Opportunities for professional development and career advancement within a mission-driven organization.
  • A collaborative and inclusive work culture that values innovation, creativity, and a shared commitment to making a difference.

Join us today in our mission to create lasting change!

OBHAW is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity in the workplace. If you require accommodation, please contact Human Resources at 501.620.5126.

Job Title: Qualified Behavioral Health Professional 

Department:  Wellness Day Program

Location:  Hot Springs

Hours of Work: 40 hours per week 

FLSA Classification: Non-Exempt

Job Summary:

The Qualified Behavioral Health Professional is responsible for providing supplemental mental health services, case coordination, and providing medically necessary counseling services to individuals and families under the direction of a Mental Health Professional in accordance with OBHAW's Mission, Vision, and Values.


Essential Duties:

Demonstrate understanding and adherence to OBHAW's Employee Manual with specific focus on:

  • Follow appropriate lines of communication to report and resolve problem situations according to established guidelines, chain of command, and approved committee actions.
  • Accept constructive criticism related to performance and demonstrate acceptance by taking personal responsibility for appropriate change.
  • Adhere to work schedule and submit requests for leave according to OBHAW procedures. Unscheduled PTO/Absences (leave taken that is not scheduled and approved in advance) should not exceed 3 in 12 months.
  • Perform other work-related tasks as requested by an authorized supervisor
  • Complete required annual online training (Relias) and any other training according to OBHAW

Required Skills / Abilities /Education and Experience

  • Education requirements are based on the specific program and its inherent level of client severity.
    • CLIMB Program: Bachelor's degree required.
    • All Other Programs: Bachelor's degree preferred. High school diploma or GED required.
    • Employees hired before May 2025 are grandfathered in with a required high school diploma or GED for all programs.
  • Experience in the field of working with children and adults who may be in crisis is preferred
  • Obtain and maintain certification as a Qualified Behavioral Health Professional.
  • Capacity to function effectively within the context of the cultural beliefs, behaviors, and needs of clients and the community
  • Obtain and maintain training in CPR, Handle with Care, and Verbal De-escalation as listed in the Position Component section
  • Clean driving record and clean background check
  • Working knowledge of and ability to use a personal computer for email and electronic medical records.
  • Child abuse statutes and mandated reporting
  • Excellent organization, telephone, and communication skills
  • Valid Driver's license
  • Ability to work with individuals who may be emotional or upset and, at times, hostile people within the facility.
  • Capacity to function effectively within the context of the cultural beliefs, behaviors, and needs of clients and the community.

Physical Requirements

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. The employee must have the ability to use a computer as required. The employee must be able to communicate with others in an understandable manner. The employee must be able to operate standard office equipment. There is a moderate level of activity, including moving throughout the building and occasional moving of light equipment involved in the position. Regular attendance at work is a requirement of this position.

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.