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Mental Health Counselor (MHC) - Adult Psych - Day Shift

Universal Health Services, Virginia Beach, VA, United States


Responsibilities
Mental Health Counselor (MHC) Opportunity

Virginia Beach Psychiatric Center is a 100-bed acute care, inpatient behavioral health facility dedicated to serving adults with diverse and complex mental health needs. Our programs provide specialized care for older adults, individuals living with chronic mental illness, and those in need of substance abuse treatment and medical detoxification. Through a combination of evidence-based practices and compassionate, patient-centered care, we support individuals on their path to stabilization, recovery, and long-term wellness.

House in a modern, state-of-the-art facility,Virginia Beach Psychiatric Center offers an exceptional work environment in the heart of the vibrant Virginia Beach community—just minutes from the ocean. Our location not only enhances the healing experience for patients but also provides staff with the unique opportunity to build a meaningful career in a setting that balances professional growth with coastal living.

Visit the site virtually and much more online at: vbpcweb.com

As a Mental Health Counselor, you'll play a hands‑on role in supporting patients through critical moments. You'll provide attentive care and supervision, build meaningful, trust‑based relationships, and actively contribute to each patient's treatment journey. From observing and documenting behaviors to stepping in with compassionate crisis intervention when needed, you'll be a vital part of a collaborative team dedicated to safety, healing, and positive outcomes.

Job Duties/Responsibilities

Be a steady, supportive presence in patients' daily lives—guiding them through meals, activities, and programming while helping create a structured, engaging environment where they can thrive.

Stay one step ahead to keep everyone safe—using awareness, quick thinking, and sound judgement to anticipate challenges and calmly de‑escalate situations.

Build genuine, trust‑based relationships through positive communication, active listening, and consistent encouragement of healthy behaviors and boundaries.

Partner with Clinical and Admissions teams to support screenings and assessments, playing an important role in each patient's care journey from the very start.

Champion patient dignity and independence by supporting daily living needs, empowering individuals to build confidence and take meaningful steps forward.

Benefit & Rewards Highlights

Challenging and rewarding work environment

Competitive compensation & generous paid time off

Excellent medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug plans

401(k) with company match and discounted stock plan

SoFi student loan refinancing program

Tuition saving to continue your nursing education with Chamberlain University

Career development opportunities within UHS and its 300+ subsidiaries

Pet insurance

More information is available on our Benefits Guest Website: uhsguest.com

Qualifications

Undergraduate degree in Psychology, Human Services, Sociology, Counseling or in a related behavioral science field

OR Associate's degree in Psychology, Human Services, Sociology, Counseling or in a related behavioral science field; one year of direct care experience working with adult psychiatric or chemical dependency clients

OR High School/GED Diploma; three years of direct care experience working with adult psychiatric or chemical dependency clients

Must be 21+ years of age

Valid driver's license required

Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Proven ability to successfully perform in a fast‑paced work environment

EEO Statement
All UHS subsidiaries are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and teammates. UHS subsidiaries are equal opportunity employers and as such, openly support and fully commit to recruitment, selection, placement, promotion and compensation of individuals without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), genetic information, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

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