Mental Health Specialist Jobs in Texas
Mental Health Specialist jobs in Texas are in strong and sustained demand, concentrated in community mental health centers, school districts, hospital systems, and state-operated psychiatric facilities, with openings at every level from entry-level case aide through licensed clinical supervisor. Houston, Dallas-Fort Worth, and San Antonio anchor the largest share of postings, where employers like the Texas Health and Human Services Commission, Metrocare Services, and CHRISTUS Health maintain ongoing hiring pipelines. The most consistently sought specialties are substance use and co-occurring disorders, trauma-informed care, and child and adolescent mental health. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.
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Showing 5 of 43+ Mental Health Specialist jobs
INTRODUCTION
Join the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) and be part of a team committed to creating a positive impact in the lives of fellow Texans. At HHSC, your contributions matter, and we support you at each stage of your life and work journey. Our comprehensive benefits package includes 100% paid employee health insurance for full-time eligible employees, a defined benefit pension plan, generous time off benefits, numerous opportunities for career advancement and more. Explore more details on the Benefits of Working at HHS webpage.
Job Title: Mental Health Specialist V
Agency: Health & Human Services Comm
Department: Adm AcuteCarePsych Direct Car
Posting Number: 17804
Closing Date: 06/23/2026
Posting Audience: Internal and External
Occupational Category: Community and Social Services
Salary Range: $6,149.00 - $7,253.83
Pay Frequency: Monthly
Salary Group: TEXAS-B-21
Shift: Day
Telework: Not Eligible for Telework
Travel: Up to 10%
Regular/Temporary: Regular
Full Time/Part Time: Full time
FLSA Exempt/Non-Exempt: Exempt
Facility Location: San Antonio State Hospital
Job Location City: SAN ANTONIO
Job Location Address: 6711 S NEW BRAUNFELS
Other Locations: San Antonio
MOS Codes: 230X, 43HX, 4C0X1, 4E0X1, 71F, 73A, 73B, HM, HN, HS, MED, SEI12
BRIEF JOB DESCRIPTION
Would you thrive in an environment where you learn and grow personally and professionally all while helping make a positive impact on people’s lives? Do you appreciate being around others like yourself who are dependable, trustworthy, hard workers who believe in the value of teamwork? HSCS is dedicated to building an atmosphere where employees feel valued and supported while providing specialized care for Texans in need. HSCS is comprised of ten psychiatric hospitals, two youth residential treatment facilities, and thirteen state supported living centers. The psychiatric hospitals are a hub of excellence for forensic mental health and complex psychiatric care, with all facilities accredited by The Joint Commission. They provide state-of-the-art treatment that is recovery-oriented and science-based. If providing hope and healing through compassionate, innovative, and individualized care interests you, we welcome your application for the position below.
The Health Specialist V (Mental Health Specialist V) performs highly advanced psychological/therapeutic work under the supervision of a licensed Psychologist, a licensed social worker, or therapist. The Mental Health Specialist V provides consultation regarding behavioral interventions for patients across the hospital. Work involves recovery planning, counseling/therapy, conducting support groups, communicating with families, Legally Authorized Representatives (LARs), courts, and Local Mental Health Authorities (LMHAs) or Local Behavioral Health Authorities (LBHAs), reporting, developing behavior plans, and documentation. The Mental Health Specialist V must document all these efforts in the electronic medical record. Requires the ability to work independently and with a high degree of accuracy. May plan, assign, and/or supervise the work of others. Works under minimal supervision, with extensive latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.
Performs other duties as assigned. Other duties as assigned include but are not limited to actively participating and/or serving in a supporting role to meet the agency’s obligations for disaster response and/or recovery or Continuity of Operations (COOP) activation. Such participation may require an alternate shift pattern assignment and/or location.
Essential Job Functions (EJFs):
Attends work on a regular basis and may be asked to work a specific shift schedule or, at times, even a rotating schedule, extended shift and/or overtime in accordance with agency leave policy and performs other duties as assigned.
Performs psychological activities under the supervision of a licensed Psychologist, licensed social worker or therapist including individual, group, and/or family therapy with patients referred. In addition, may also meet with families of patients with other recovery team members to provide information and help with discharge planning.
Develops individualized Person-Centered Recovery Plans as assigned on a rotating basis incorporating the patient's goals, noting barriers to achieving these goals, and including appropriate objectives and interventions.
Interviews referred patients and makes recommendations to the patient's recovery team the treatment(s) which will help the patient achieve stability, achieve his/her goals, and maintain recovery after discharge from the hospital.
Develops and/or conducts specialized psychoeducational groups to help patients gain knowledge and develop skills to aid in their recovery.
Interviews patients and reviews records to help with diagnostic clarification recovery planning. This may occur in regular recovery team meetings and in difficult case conferences.
Conducts individual and group sessions that help patients gain knowledge and develop skills to aid in their recovery or efforts to regain competency. All efforts must be documented in the medical record.
Develops individual behavior plans to address problematic behaviors such as aggression, self-harm, intrusiveness, etc. Works with staff to successfully implement these plans. Monitors effectiveness and modifies plans as needed. As needed, conducts psychological test administration, scoring, and interpretation under the supervision of a licensed Psychologist.
Participates in quality assurance and quality enhancement activities related to service provision and treatment across the hospital. This may include completing chart audits, participating in tracer activities, and reporting on services he/she has provided.
Performs other duties as assigned. Other duties as assigned include but are not limited to actively participating and/or serving in a supporting role to meet the agency’s obligations for disaster response and/or recovery or Continuity of Operations (COOP) activation. Such participation may require an alternate shift pattern assignment and/or location.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs):
- Knowledge of psychology, counseling, social work and related disciplines
- Knowledge of treatment techniques and practices
- Skill in interviewing patients
- Ability to assist with conducting diagnostic interviews
- Ability to conduct individual, group, and family psychotherapy
- Ability to develop plans for implementing and monitoring rehabilitation activities in skill acquisition and behavior management
- Ability to plan, assign, and/or supervise the work of others
Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications:
Must have one of the following: Licensed Psychological Associate (LPA), Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Clinical or Master Social Worker (LCSW or LMSW), or Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) or a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA).
Initial Screening Criteria:
Graduation from an accredited college or university with a master's or doctorate degree in psychology, counseling, social work or a related field.
Three years of experience in psychological/therapeutic work.
Two (2) or more years with assessment and treatment including work with populations evidencing severe psychopathology preferred.
Additional Information:
Applicants must pass a fingerprint criminal background check, pre-employment drug screen, and registry checks including the Client Abuse/Neglect Reporting System (CANRS), Nurse Aid, Medication Aide and Employee Misconduct, List of Excluded Individuals/Entities (LEIE). Males between the ages of 18-25 must be registered with the Selective Service.
All applicants must be at least 18 years of age to be considered for employment at a state-operated facility. Waco Center for Youth applicants must be 21 years of age.
Flexibility in work hours may be required for this position. The position may be required to work overtime and/or extended hours.
Compliance with HHSC immunization policy and state hospital operating procedures related to immunizations is required. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, healthcare workers are considered to be at significant risk for acquiring or transmitting hepatitis B, measles, mumps, rubella, varicella (chicken pox), tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis (whooping cough), and influenza. All these diseases are vaccine preventable. As a result, state hospital policy requires employees be vaccinated according to their level of contact with individuals. In the event you choose to not be immunized for the influenza virus, you may be required to wear a mask and take other protective measures.
Review our Tips for Success when applying for jobs at DFPS, DSHS and HHSC.
Active Duty, Military, Reservists, Guardsmen, and Veterans:
Military occupation(s) that relate to the initial selection criteria and registration or licensure requirements for this position may include, but not limited to those listed in this posting. All active-duty military, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply if qualified to fill this position. For more information please see the Texas State Auditor’s Job Descriptions, Military Crosswalk and Military Crosswalk Guide at Texas State Auditor's Office - Job Descriptions.
ADA Accommodations:
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), HHSC and DSHS agencies will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring and selection process for qualified individuals with a disability. If you need assistance completing the online application, contact the HHS Employee Service Center at 1-888-894-4747. If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodation to participate in the interview process, please notify the person scheduling the interview.
Pre-Employment Checks and Work Eligibility:
Depending on the program area and position requirements, applicants selected for hire may be required to pass background and other due diligence checks.
HHSC uses E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work. Download the I-9 Form
Telework Disclaimer:
This position may be eligible for telework. Please note, all HHS positions are subject to state and agency telework policies in addition to the discretion of the direct supervisor and business needs.
INTRODUCTION
Join the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) and be part of a team committed to creating a positive impact in the lives of fellow Texans. At HHSC, your contributions matter, and we support you at each stage of your life and work journey. Our comprehensive benefits package includes 100% paid employee health insurance for full-time eligible employees, a defined benefit pension plan, generous time off benefits, numerous opportunities for career advancement and more. Explore more details on the Benefits of Working at HHS webpage.
Job Title: Mental Health Specialist V
Agency: Health & Human Services Comm
Department: Adm AcuteCarePsych Direct Car
Posting Number: 17804
Closing Date: 06/23/2026
Posting Audience: Internal and External
Occupational Category: Community and Social Services
Salary Range: $6,149.00 - $7,253.83
Pay Frequency: Monthly
Salary Group: TEXAS-B-21
Shift: Day
Telework: Not Eligible for Telework
Travel: Up to 10%
Regular/Temporary: Regular
Full Time/Part Time: Full time
FLSA Exempt/Non-Exempt: Exempt
Facility Location: San Antonio State Hospital
Job Location City: SAN ANTONIO
Job Location Address: 6711 S NEW BRAUNFELS
Other Locations: San Antonio
MOS Codes: 230X, 43HX, 4C0X1, 4E0X1, 71F, 73A, 73B, HM, HN, HS, MED, SEI12
BRIEF JOB DESCRIPTION
Would you thrive in an environment where you learn and grow personally and professionally all while helping make a positive impact on people’s lives? Do you appreciate being around others like yourself who are dependable, trustworthy, hard workers who believe in the value of teamwork? HSCS is dedicated to building an atmosphere where employees feel valued and supported while providing specialized care for Texans in need. HSCS is comprised of ten psychiatric hospitals, two youth residential treatment facilities, and thirteen state supported living centers. The psychiatric hospitals are a hub of excellence for forensic mental health and complex psychiatric care, with all facilities accredited by The Joint Commission. They provide state-of-the-art treatment that is recovery-oriented and science-based. If providing hope and healing through compassionate, innovative, and individualized care interests you, we welcome your application for the position below.
The Health Specialist V (Mental Health Specialist V) performs highly advanced psychological/therapeutic work under the supervision of a licensed Psychologist, a licensed social worker, or therapist. The Mental Health Specialist V provides consultation regarding behavioral interventions for patients across the hospital. Work involves recovery planning, counseling/therapy, conducting support groups, communicating with families, Legally Authorized Representatives (LARs), courts, and Local Mental Health Authorities (LMHAs) or Local Behavioral Health Authorities (LBHAs), reporting, developing behavior plans, and documentation. The Mental Health Specialist V must document all these efforts in the electronic medical record. Requires the ability to work independently and with a high degree of accuracy. May plan, assign, and/or supervise the work of others. Works under minimal supervision, with extensive latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.
Performs other duties as assigned. Other duties as assigned include but are not limited to actively participating and/or serving in a supporting role to meet the agency’s obligations for disaster response and/or recovery or Continuity of Operations (COOP) activation. Such participation may require an alternate shift pattern assignment and/or location.
Essential Job Functions (EJFs):
Attends work on a regular basis and may be asked to work a specific shift schedule or, at times, even a rotating schedule, extended shift and/or overtime in accordance with agency leave policy and performs other duties as assigned.
Performs psychological activities under the supervision of a licensed Psychologist, licensed social worker or therapist including individual, group, and/or family therapy with patients referred. In addition, may also meet with families of patients with other recovery team members to provide information and help with discharge planning.
Develops individualized Person-Centered Recovery Plans as assigned on a rotating basis incorporating the patient's goals, noting barriers to achieving these goals, and including appropriate objectives and interventions.
Interviews referred patients and makes recommendations to the patient's recovery team the treatment(s) which will help the patient achieve stability, achieve his/her goals, and maintain recovery after discharge from the hospital.
Develops and/or conducts specialized psychoeducational groups to help patients gain knowledge and develop skills to aid in their recovery.
Interviews patients and reviews records to help with diagnostic clarification recovery planning. This may occur in regular recovery team meetings and in difficult case conferences.
Conducts individual and group sessions that help patients gain knowledge and develop skills to aid in their recovery or efforts to regain competency. All efforts must be documented in the medical record.
Develops individual behavior plans to address problematic behaviors such as aggression, self-harm, intrusiveness, etc. Works with staff to successfully implement these plans. Monitors effectiveness and modifies plans as needed. As needed, conducts psychological test administration, scoring, and interpretation under the supervision of a licensed Psychologist.
Participates in quality assurance and quality enhancement activities related to service provision and treatment across the hospital. This may include completing chart audits, participating in tracer activities, and reporting on services he/she has provided.
Performs other duties as assigned. Other duties as assigned include but are not limited to actively participating and/or serving in a supporting role to meet the agency’s obligations for disaster response and/or recovery or Continuity of Operations (COOP) activation. Such participation may require an alternate shift pattern assignment and/or location.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs):
- Knowledge of psychology, counseling, social work and related disciplines
- Knowledge of treatment techniques and practices
- Skill in interviewing patients
- Ability to assist with conducting diagnostic interviews
- Ability to conduct individual, group, and family psychotherapy
- Ability to develop plans for implementing and monitoring rehabilitation activities in skill acquisition and behavior management
- Ability to plan, assign, and/or supervise the work of others
Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications:
Must have one of the following: Licensed Psychological Associate (LPA), Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Clinical or Master Social Worker (LCSW or LMSW), or Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) or a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA).
Initial Screening Criteria:
Graduation from an accredited college or university with a master's or doctorate degree in psychology, counseling, social work or a related field.
Three years of experience in psychological/therapeutic work.
Two (2) or more years with assessment and treatment including work with populations evidencing severe psychopathology preferred.
Additional Information:
Applicants must pass a fingerprint criminal background check, pre-employment drug screen, and registry checks including the Client Abuse/Neglect Reporting System (CANRS), Nurse Aid, Medication Aide and Employee Misconduct, List of Excluded Individuals/Entities (LEIE). Males between the ages of 18-25 must be registered with the Selective Service.
All applicants must be at least 18 years of age to be considered for employment at a state-operated facility. Waco Center for Youth applicants must be 21 years of age.
Flexibility in work hours may be required for this position. The position may be required to work overtime and/or extended hours.
Compliance with HHSC immunization policy and state hospital operating procedures related to immunizations is required. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, healthcare workers are considered to be at significant risk for acquiring or transmitting hepatitis B, measles, mumps, rubella, varicella (chicken pox), tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis (whooping cough), and influenza. All these diseases are vaccine preventable. As a result, state hospital policy requires employees be vaccinated according to their level of contact with individuals. In the event you choose to not be immunized for the influenza virus, you may be required to wear a mask and take other protective measures.
Review our Tips for Success when applying for jobs at DFPS, DSHS and HHSC.
Active Duty, Military, Reservists, Guardsmen, and Veterans:
Military occupation(s) that relate to the initial selection criteria and registration or licensure requirements for this position may include, but not limited to those listed in this posting. All active-duty military, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply if qualified to fill this position. For more information please see the Texas State Auditor’s Job Descriptions, Military Crosswalk and Military Crosswalk Guide at Texas State Auditor's Office - Job Descriptions.
ADA Accommodations:
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), HHSC and DSHS agencies will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring and selection process for qualified individuals with a disability. If you need assistance completing the online application, contact the HHS Employee Service Center at 1-888-894-4747. If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodation to participate in the interview process, please notify the person scheduling the interview.
Pre-Employment Checks and Work Eligibility:
Depending on the program area and position requirements, applicants selected for hire may be required to pass background and other due diligence checks.
HHSC uses E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work. Download the I-9 Form
Telework Disclaimer:
This position may be eligible for telework. Please note, all HHS positions are subject to state and agency telework policies in addition to the discretion of the direct supervisor and business needs.
See All 43 Mental Health Specialist Jobs in Texas
Find roles in Texas that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Mental Health Specialist JobsMental Health Specialist Jobs by City in Texas
Where Texas roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Mental Health Specialist Job Market in Texas
A snapshot from current Texas openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
- Texas Health and Human Services Commission8
- LifeStance Health6
- SJRC Texas5
- Cook Incorporated4
- University Health3
Top Industries Hiring
- Healthcare & Medical Services22
- Government & Public Sector7
- Education5
- Biotechnology & Pharmaceuticals4
- Non-Profit & Social Services4
What Texas Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in mental health specialist jobs across Texas.
- Active Texas license such as LPC, LCSW, LMFT, or LCDC from the appropriate Texas state board
- Master's degree in counseling, social work, psychology, or a related behavioral health field
- Experience conducting individual and group therapy or psychosocial assessments with diverse populations
- Familiarity with evidence-based modalities such as CBT, DBT, or motivational interviewing
- Ability to maintain accurate clinical documentation in electronic health record systems
- Valid Texas driver's license and reliable transportation for community or school-based positions
Mental Health Specialist Jobs in Texas: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a mental health specialist in Texas?
The path in Texas depends on the level you are targeting. Most clinical roles require a master's degree in counseling, social work, or psychology, followed by supervised hours and a state-issued license through the Texas State Board of Examiners of Professional Counselors, the Texas State Board of Social Worker Examiners, or the Texas State Board of Examiners of Marriage and Family Therapists. Substance use roles often require the Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor credential through the Texas Department of State Health Services.
Which companies hire mental health specialists in Texas?
Employers hiring mental health specialists in Texas right now include Texas Health and Human Services Commission, LifeStance Health, and SJRC Texas, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of June 2026. Texas also sees consistent hiring from state-funded community mental health centers and school districts operating under the Texas Education Agency's guidance.
Which Texas cities have the most mental health specialist jobs?
Fort Worth, San Antonio, and Houston have the most mental health specialist openings in Texas. Houston and Dallas-Fort Worth dominate because of their large hospital systems, county behavioral health authorities, and dense school district networks, while San Antonio's concentration of military installations and VA-affiliated programs drives steady demand for trauma and co-occurring disorder specialists.
Are there remote mental health specialist jobs in Texas?
Yes, and more than most clinical fields, because telehealth expanded significantly for outpatient counseling. About 26% of mental health specialist openings tied to Texas are remote or hybrid as of June 2026, reflecting how many Texas providers now offer therapy and case management services via secure video platforms. Roles involving direct crisis intervention, residential care, or school-based support remain predominantly on-site.
How can I get hired as a mental health specialist in Texas with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry point is a mental health technician or behavioral health associate role, which most Texas hospital systems and state-operated facilities fill without requiring licensure. Large employers like the Texas Health and Human Services Commission and county-level mental health authorities regularly hire unlicensed staff who work under licensed supervision while accumulating the hours needed for their own credentials. Completing a practicum or internship at a Texas community mental health center during graduate school, or transitioning from a peer support specialist or case manager role, also opens the door effectively.
Where can I find and apply to mental health specialist jobs in Texas?
You can find and apply to mental health specialist jobs in Texas on Migrate Mate, which lists current Texas openings from employers across the state. Search the listings, find roles that match your credentials and preferred location, and apply directly.
See All 43 Mental Health Specialist Jobs in Texas
Find roles in Texas that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
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