OPT Mental Health Specialist Jobs
Mental Health Specialist roles on OPT typically fall under specialty occupation status, supporting H-1B visa sponsorship later. Many positions in community health centers, hospital systems, and private practices actively hire OPT candidates. A relevant degree in psychology, counseling, or social work is essential, and STEM OPT extensions do not apply to this field.
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Position Information
Recruitment/Posting Title Mental Health Specialist II / 988 BUC / Part Time 4p - 12:30a
Job Category Staff & Executive - Healthcare
Department UBHC - Lifeline National Backup
Overview
Rutgers University Behavioral Health Care (UBHC), established in 1971, offers a full continuum of evidence based behavioral health and addiction services for children, adolescents, adults, and seniors throughout New Jersey. UBHC’s 1,060 experienced behavioral health professionals and support staff are dedicated to treatment, prevention, and education.
UBHC, one of the largest providers of behavioral health care in the country, has a budget of $260 million and has 15 sites throughout New Jersey. Services are readily accessible and include: inpatient, outpatient, partial hospitalization, screening, crisis stabilization, family/caregiver support, community outreach and case management, supportive housing, supported employment, prevention and consultation, employee assistance programs, and a licensed therapeutic school from preschool through high school. Specialty services include the New Jersey suicide prevention helpline and peer help lines for police, veterans, active military, teachers, mothers of special needs children and child protective service workers.
In FY2016, UBHC treated 16,199 consumers, had 24,502 admissions, and touched the lives of 19,441 individual callers through peer support. In addition, UBHC is the primary mental health training resource for the New Jersey departments of Human Services, Children and Families, and Corrections, delivering 16,000 trainings each year.
Posting Summary
Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, is seeking a Mental Health Specialist II (Part Time) for the 988 Lifeline Services within Rutgers University Behavioral Health Care.
Performs functions in support of the Unit’s mission providing streamlined, prompt, and “customer friendly” services to clients of the 988 Lifeline Services. Receives telephone, chat and/or text requests for service, undertakes assessment of the service need of the client and responds by offering support and appropriate referrals or disposition. Demonstrates competency in recognizing the unique needs of clients and applying relevant assessment and support skills with regard to a wide range of issues.
Among the key duties of this position are the following:
- Models for clients’ good communication skills, recovery-oriented living skills, effective coping skills, and self help strategies as observed by supervisor and as indicated by feedback from clients and team members.
- Accepts service requests, responds to incoming calls, chats and/or texts within prescribed timeframe, as observed by supervisor.
- Maintains comprehensive and up-to-date knowledge of resources and programs used by the Center and Unit in order to provide guidance to clients and make appropriate referrals, as observed by supervisor.
- Performs assessment and makes appropriate disposition as indicated by feedback from receiving program/referral; client satisfaction supervised observations, or other provider.
- Collaborates effectively with other staff members and referral sources for disposition, as indicated by supervisory observation.
- Documents all client contact information in accordance with departmental protocols and accurately and appropriately inputs data in unit’s informational system, as observed by supervisor.
FLSA Nonexempt
Grade 187
Salary Details
Minimum Salary 28.300
Mid Range Salary 28.800
Maximum Salary 29.660
Offer Information
The final salary offer may be determined by several factors, including, but not limited to, the candidate’s qualifications, experience, and expertise, and availability of department or grant funds to support the position. We also take into consideration market benchmarks, if and when appropriate, and internal equity to ensure fair compensation relative to the university’s broader compensation structure. We are committed to offering competitive and flexible compensation packages to attract and retain top talent.
Benefits
Rutgers provides a comprehensive benefits package to eligible employees. The specific benefits vary based on the position and may include:
- Medical, prescription drug, and dental coverage
- Paid vacation, holidays, and various leave programs
- Competitive retirement benefits, including defined contribution plans and voluntary tax-deferred savings options
- Employee and dependent educational benefits (when applicable)
- Life insurance coverage
- Employee discount programs
Position Status Part Time
Working Hours 16
Standard Hours 40.00
Daily Work Shift Evening
Work Arrangement
This position may be eligible for a fully remote work arrangement.
Union Description Teamsters 97/Ineligible
Payroll Designation PeopleSoft
Seniority Unit
Terms of Appointment Staff - 12 month
Position Pension Eligibility None
Qualifications
Minimum Education and Experience
- Four (4) years of relevant full-time paid experience (part time and/or per diem experience may be substituted for the fulltime equivalent) or a bachelor’s degree in a relevant mental health, social, or human services field.
Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Preferred Qualifications
Equipment Utilized
Physical Demands and Work Environment
Special Conditions
- This position demands standing, walking throughout the program space.
- Lifting up to 20 lbs.
- Handles phone requests under time and decision-making pressure.
- Generally pleasant working conditions in a clean, well-lighted, and quiet to moderately loud setting.
- Crisis intervention is a common occurrence.
Posting Details
Posting Number 26ST0960
Posting Open Date
Special Instructions to Applicants
Regional Campus Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences (RBHS)
Home Location Campus Off Campus
City Remote
State NJ
Location Details
Pre-employment Screenings
All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of all pre-employment screenings.
Immunization Requirements
Under Policy 100.3.1 Immunization Policy for Covered Individuals, if employment will commence during Flu Season, Rutgers University may require certain prospective employees to provide proof that they are vaccinated against Seasonal Influenza for the current Flu Season, unless the University has granted the individual a medical or religious exemption. Additional infection control and safety policies may apply. Prospective employees should speak with their hiring manager to determine which policies apply to the role or position for which they are applying. Failure to provide proof of vaccination for any required vaccines or obtain a medical or religious exemption from the University will result in rescission of a candidate’s offer of employment or disciplinary action up to and including termination.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
It is university policy to provide equal employment opportunity to all its employees and applicants for employment regardless of their race, creed, color, national origin, age, ancestry, nationality, marital or domestic partnership or civil union status, sex, pregnancy, gender identity or expression, disability status, liability for military service, protected veteran status, affectional or sexual orientation, atypical cellular or blood trait, genetic information (including the refusal to submit to genetic testing), or any other category protected by law. As an institution, we encourage all qualified applicants to apply. For additional information please see the Non-Discrimination Statement at the following web address: http://uhr.rutgers.edu/non-discrimination-statement
Supplemental Questions
Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).
-
- Do you have four (4) years of relevant full-time paid experience (part time and/or per diem experience may be substituted for the full-time equivalent) or a bachelor’s degree in a relevant mental health, social, or human services field?
- Yes
- No
-
- Are you able to work 4pm to 12:30am every Saturdays, Sundays and holidays?
- Yes
- No
Applicant Documents
Required Documents
- Resume/CV
Optional Documents
- Cover Letter/Letter of Application
Position Details
Position Information
Recruitment/Posting Title Mental Health Specialist II / 988 BUC / Part Time 4p - 12:30a
Job Category Staff & Executive - Healthcare
Department UBHC - Lifeline National Backup
Overview
Rutgers University Behavioral Health Care (UBHC), established in 1971, offers a full continuum of evidence based behavioral health and addiction services for children, adolescents, adults, and seniors throughout New Jersey. UBHC’s 1,060 experienced behavioral health professionals and support staff are dedicated to treatment, prevention, and education.
UBHC, one of the largest providers of behavioral health care in the country, has a budget of $260 million and has 15 sites throughout New Jersey. Services are readily accessible and include: inpatient, outpatient, partial hospitalization, screening, crisis stabilization, family/caregiver support, community outreach and case management, supportive housing, supported employment, prevention and consultation, employee assistance programs, and a licensed therapeutic school from preschool through high school. Specialty services include the New Jersey suicide prevention helpline and peer help lines for police, veterans, active military, teachers, mothers of special needs children and child protective service workers.
In FY2016, UBHC treated 16,199 consumers, had 24,502 admissions, and touched the lives of 19,441 individual callers through peer support. In addition, UBHC is the primary mental health training resource for the New Jersey departments of Human Services, Children and Families, and Corrections, delivering 16,000 trainings each year.
Posting Summary
Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, is seeking a Mental Health Specialist II (Part Time) for the 988 Lifeline Services within Rutgers University Behavioral Health Care.
Performs functions in support of the Unit’s mission providing streamlined, prompt, and “customer friendly” services to clients of the 988 Lifeline Services. Receives telephone, chat and/or text requests for service, undertakes assessment of the service need of the client and responds by offering support and appropriate referrals or disposition. Demonstrates competency in recognizing the unique needs of clients and applying relevant assessment and support skills with regard to a wide range of issues.
Among the key duties of this position are the following:
- Models for clients’ good communication skills, recovery-oriented living skills, effective coping skills, and self help strategies as observed by supervisor and as indicated by feedback from clients and team members.
- Accepts service requests, responds to incoming calls, chats and/or texts within prescribed timeframe, as observed by supervisor.
- Maintains comprehensive and up-to-date knowledge of resources and programs used by the Center and Unit in order to provide guidance to clients and make appropriate referrals, as observed by supervisor.
- Performs assessment and makes appropriate disposition as indicated by feedback from receiving program/referral; client satisfaction supervised observations, or other provider.
- Collaborates effectively with other staff members and referral sources for disposition, as indicated by supervisory observation.
- Documents all client contact information in accordance with departmental protocols and accurately and appropriately inputs data in unit’s informational system, as observed by supervisor.
FLSA Nonexempt
Grade 187
Salary Details
Minimum Salary 28.300
Mid Range Salary 28.800
Maximum Salary 29.660
Offer Information
The final salary offer may be determined by several factors, including, but not limited to, the candidate’s qualifications, experience, and expertise, and availability of department or grant funds to support the position. We also take into consideration market benchmarks, if and when appropriate, and internal equity to ensure fair compensation relative to the university’s broader compensation structure. We are committed to offering competitive and flexible compensation packages to attract and retain top talent.
Benefits
Rutgers provides a comprehensive benefits package to eligible employees. The specific benefits vary based on the position and may include:
- Medical, prescription drug, and dental coverage
- Paid vacation, holidays, and various leave programs
- Competitive retirement benefits, including defined contribution plans and voluntary tax-deferred savings options
- Employee and dependent educational benefits (when applicable)
- Life insurance coverage
- Employee discount programs
Position Status Part Time
Working Hours 16
Standard Hours 40.00
Daily Work Shift Evening
Work Arrangement
This position may be eligible for a fully remote work arrangement.
Union Description Teamsters 97/Ineligible
Payroll Designation PeopleSoft
Seniority Unit
Terms of Appointment Staff - 12 month
Position Pension Eligibility None
Qualifications
Minimum Education and Experience
- Four (4) years of relevant full-time paid experience (part time and/or per diem experience may be substituted for the fulltime equivalent) or a bachelor’s degree in a relevant mental health, social, or human services field.
Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Preferred Qualifications
Equipment Utilized
Physical Demands and Work Environment
Special Conditions
- This position demands standing, walking throughout the program space.
- Lifting up to 20 lbs.
- Handles phone requests under time and decision-making pressure.
- Generally pleasant working conditions in a clean, well-lighted, and quiet to moderately loud setting.
- Crisis intervention is a common occurrence.
Posting Details
Posting Number 26ST0960
Posting Open Date
Special Instructions to Applicants
Regional Campus Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences (RBHS)
Home Location Campus Off Campus
City Remote
State NJ
Location Details
Pre-employment Screenings
All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of all pre-employment screenings.
Immunization Requirements
Under Policy 100.3.1 Immunization Policy for Covered Individuals, if employment will commence during Flu Season, Rutgers University may require certain prospective employees to provide proof that they are vaccinated against Seasonal Influenza for the current Flu Season, unless the University has granted the individual a medical or religious exemption. Additional infection control and safety policies may apply. Prospective employees should speak with their hiring manager to determine which policies apply to the role or position for which they are applying. Failure to provide proof of vaccination for any required vaccines or obtain a medical or religious exemption from the University will result in rescission of a candidate’s offer of employment or disciplinary action up to and including termination.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
It is university policy to provide equal employment opportunity to all its employees and applicants for employment regardless of their race, creed, color, national origin, age, ancestry, nationality, marital or domestic partnership or civil union status, sex, pregnancy, gender identity or expression, disability status, liability for military service, protected veteran status, affectional or sexual orientation, atypical cellular or blood trait, genetic information (including the refusal to submit to genetic testing), or any other category protected by law. As an institution, we encourage all qualified applicants to apply. For additional information please see the Non-Discrimination Statement at the following web address: http://uhr.rutgers.edu/non-discrimination-statement
Supplemental Questions
Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).
-
- Do you have four (4) years of relevant full-time paid experience (part time and/or per diem experience may be substituted for the full-time equivalent) or a bachelor’s degree in a relevant mental health, social, or human services field?
- Yes
- No
-
- Are you able to work 4pm to 12:30am every Saturdays, Sundays and holidays?
- Yes
- No
Applicant Documents
Required Documents
- Resume/CV
Optional Documents
- Cover Letter/Letter of Application
See all 419+ OPT Mental Health Specialist Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new OPT Mental Health Specialist Jobs.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship as a Mental Health Specialist
Target employers with established visa sponsorship history
Large hospital systems, federally qualified health centers, and university counseling departments are more likely to have sponsored work visas before. Smaller private practices rarely have the administrative infrastructure to support sponsorship, so prioritize organizations with HR teams.
Confirm your degree aligns with the specific role
Mental Health Specialist positions require a degree in psychology, counseling, clinical social work, or a directly related field. A general business or unrelated science degree will not support specialty occupation status, even if you have relevant clinical experience.
Understand your OPT end date before accepting offers
Standard OPT gives you 12 months of work authorization. Mental Health Specialist roles do not qualify for STEM OPT extension. Know your exact expiration date and factor in H-1B visa cap timelines when evaluating whether an employer can bridge your status.
Ask about H-1B sponsorship early in the interview process
Raise the sponsorship question before a formal offer, not after. Frame it factually: your OPT expires on a specific date and you want to confirm the employer has sponsored H-1B visas before. Most healthcare employers expect this conversation.
Pursue licensure as early as your state allows
Many Mental Health Specialist roles require or prefer Licensed Professional Counselor or Licensed Clinical Social Worker credentials. Employers sponsoring H-1B visas are more willing to invest in candidates who are actively working toward or already hold state licensure.
Keep documentation of your supervised clinical hours
USCIS may request evidence that your role constitutes a specialty occupation. Detailed records of supervised hours, clinical responsibilities, and required credentials strengthen your employer's H-1B petition and demonstrate the professional complexity of your work.
Mental Health Specialist OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work as a Mental Health Specialist on OPT?
Yes, Mental Health Specialist roles qualify for OPT work authorization provided your degree is in a directly related field such as psychology, counseling, or clinical social work. The position must be directly related to your major area of study. Standard OPT provides 12 months of authorization, and this field does not qualify for the 24-month STEM OPT extension.
Do Mental Health Specialist jobs qualify for H-1B sponsorship?
Most Mental Health Specialist positions qualify as specialty occupations under H-1B requirements because they typically require at minimum a bachelor's degree in a specific field such as psychology or counseling. Hospital systems, community mental health centers, and academic medical centers are the most common H-1B sponsors in this field. Smaller clinics and solo practices are less likely to sponsor.
Where can I find Mental Health Specialist jobs that sponsor OPT students?
Migrate Mate is specifically built for F-1 OPT students and lists Mental Health Specialist roles from employers open to sponsoring international candidates. Rather than filtering through general job boards where sponsorship status is unclear, Migrate Mate surfaces positions where visa sponsorship is already part of the hiring conversation, saving you significant time during your OPT window.
Does my mental health degree from a foreign university qualify me for OPT in this role?
It depends on how your degree is evaluated. Foreign psychology and counseling degrees are generally accepted for OPT purposes if they were earned at an accredited institution while you held F-1 status. However, state licensure boards independently evaluate foreign credentials for clinical licensure, and requirements vary significantly by state. Confirm your degree equivalency with your DSO and review your target state's licensure requirements separately.
What happens if my OPT expires before I secure H-1B sponsorship?
If your OPT expires before an H-1B petition is approved, you cannot continue working. Planning is critical: H-1B cap petitions are filed in April for an October 1 start date, and selection is not guaranteed. Some Mental Health Specialist employers can sponsor cap-exempt H-1B petitions if they are affiliated with a nonprofit research organization or university, which allows year-round filing and avoids the lottery entirely.