Mental Health Jobs in USA with Visa Sponsorship
Mental health professionals, including counselors, therapists, and social workers, can pursue H-1B visa sponsorship if they hold at least a master's degree in their field. Hospitals, community health centers, and large behavioral health organizations are the most likely sponsors, especially in underserved areas. Licensure requirements vary by state and can be a hurdle, so make sure your credentials are transferable before applying. EB-2 and EB-3 green card pathways are also realistic given the nationwide shortage of mental health providers. For detailed occupation requirements, see the O*NET profile.
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Get Access To All JobsINTRODUCTION
Please note: Effective October 1, 2025, the Ohio Department of Mental Health & Addiction Services has transitioned to its new name—the Ohio Department of Behavioral Health. This change reflects our continued commitment to providing comprehensive, person-centered care that addresses the full range of behavioral health needs for Ohioans. All positions and services now fall under the Ohio Department of Behavioral Health as we move forward in serving individuals, families, and communities across the state.
ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES
What you’ll do at DBH:
- Provide medication, education, and empowerment to individuals
- Observe, evaluate, and record patient behavior, condition, and response to medication
- Monitor patient health including vital signs, treatment plan progress, and activity participation
- Serve in a fundamental role as a multi-disciplinary team member that creates a safe and positive environment through safety and observation rounds and group facilitation
This is an hourly position covered by the Ohio Health Care SEIU/1199 bargaining unit (union), with a pay range of #13 on the Ohio Health Care SEIU/1199 Pay Range Schedule. See supplemental information for available shifts. This position is located within our Heartland Behavioral Healthcare campus at 3000 Erie Street S., Massillon, OH 44646.
Unless required by any applicable union contract and/or requirements of the Ohio Revised Code, the selected candidate will begin at Step 1 of the pay range schedule listed above, with an opportunity for pay increase after six months of satisfactory performance and then a yearly raise thereafter.
ADDITIONAL SALARY / APPOINTMENT INFORMATION
- Additional $1.50 per hour shift differential for 2nd and 3rd shift
- Additional 10% pay Supplement ($3.60 per hour) for hours worked 2:30 pm – 7:00 am
- Additional hourly retention supplements available for education and certifications up to 15%
- Annual increases each year with an additional longevity supplement after 5 years of service
WHY WORK FOR THE STATE OF OHIO
At the State of Ohio, we take care of the team that cares for Ohioans. We provide a variety of quality, competitive benefits to eligible full-time and part-time employees*. For a list of all the State of Ohio Benefits, visit our Total Rewards website! Our benefits package includes:
- Medical Coverage
- Free Dental, Vision and Basic Life Insurance premiums after completion of eligibility period
- Paid time off, including vacation, personal, sick leave and 11 paid holidays per year
- Childbirth, Adoption, and Foster Care leave
- Education and Development Opportunities (Employee Development Funds, Public Service Loan Forgiveness, and more)
- Public Retirement Systems (such as OPERS, STRS, SERS, and HPRS) & Optional Deferred Compensation (Ohio Deferred Compensation)
Benefits eligibility is dependent on a number of factors. The Agency Contact listed above will be able to provide specific benefits information for this position.
QUALIFICATIONS
Position Qualifications:
Requires current license as registered professional nurse in state of Ohio as issued by Board of Nursing per Section 4723.03 of Revised Code.
All eligible applications shall be reviewed considering the following criteria: qualifications, experience, education, active disciplinary record, and work record.
Primary Job Skill: Nursing
Technical Skills: Behavioral Health, Mental Health
Professional Skills: Attention to Detail, Building Trust, Collaboration, Conflict Management, Delegation, Leading Others, Situational Awareness, Teamwork, Emotional Intelligence
Required Educational Transcripts
Official transcripts are required for all post-secondary education, coursework, or degrees listed on the application. Applicants must submit an official transcript before receiving a formal employment offer. Failure to provide transcripts within five (5) business days of the request will result in disqualification from further consideration. Transcripts printed from the institution’s website will not be accepted. DBH reserves the right to evaluate the academic validity of the degree-granting institution.
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION
This RN position is for unit C1, shift hours are 7:00pm-7:30am, 3:00pm - 11:30pm.
APPLICATION PROCEDURES
To be considered for this position, you must apply online through this posting website (careers.ohio.gov). We no longer accept paper applications. When completing your online Ohio Civil Service Application, be sure to clearly describe how you meet the minimum qualifications outlined on this job posting. We will not give credit for your qualifications, experience, education, and training in the job selection process if there is no evidence provided on your application. In addition, “see resume” is not a substitution for completing supplemental questions. Answers to the supplemental questions must be fully supported by the work experience/education sections of your application. You may check the status of your application by signing into your profile on this website (careers.ohio.gov).
BACKGROUND CHECK NOTICE
The final candidate selected for this position will be required to undergo a criminal background check. Criminal convictions do not necessarily preclude an applicant from consideration for a position. An individual assessment of an applicant’s prior criminal convictions will be made before excluding an applicant from consideration.
Rule 5122-7-21, “Background check on applicants,” outlines disqualifying offenses that will preclude an applicant from being employed by the Department of Behavioral Health.
If you require a reasonable accommodation for the application process, assessment &/or interview, please contact Andrew Seifert, EEO/ADA Administrator at andrew.seifert@dbh.ohio.gov or 614-466-8884.
All final applicants tentatively selected for this class will be required to submit to urinalysis to test for illegal drug use prior to appointments. An applicant with a positive test shall not be offered employment.
ADA STATEMENT
Ohio is a Disability Inclusion State and strives to be a model employer of individuals with disabilities. The State of Ohio is committed to providing access and inclusion and reasonable accommodation in its services, activities, programs and employment opportunities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and other applicable laws.
DRUG-FREE WORKPLACE
The State of Ohio is a drug-free workplace which prohibits the use of marijuana (recreational marijuana/non-medical cannabis). Please note, this position may be subject to additional restrictions pursuant to the State of Ohio Drug-Free Workplace Policy (HR-39), and as outlined in the posting.
INTRODUCTION
Please note: Effective October 1, 2025, the Ohio Department of Mental Health & Addiction Services has transitioned to its new name—the Ohio Department of Behavioral Health. This change reflects our continued commitment to providing comprehensive, person-centered care that addresses the full range of behavioral health needs for Ohioans. All positions and services now fall under the Ohio Department of Behavioral Health as we move forward in serving individuals, families, and communities across the state.
ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES
What you’ll do at DBH:
- Provide medication, education, and empowerment to individuals
- Observe, evaluate, and record patient behavior, condition, and response to medication
- Monitor patient health including vital signs, treatment plan progress, and activity participation
- Serve in a fundamental role as a multi-disciplinary team member that creates a safe and positive environment through safety and observation rounds and group facilitation
This is an hourly position covered by the Ohio Health Care SEIU/1199 bargaining unit (union), with a pay range of #13 on the Ohio Health Care SEIU/1199 Pay Range Schedule. See supplemental information for available shifts. This position is located within our Heartland Behavioral Healthcare campus at 3000 Erie Street S., Massillon, OH 44646.
Unless required by any applicable union contract and/or requirements of the Ohio Revised Code, the selected candidate will begin at Step 1 of the pay range schedule listed above, with an opportunity for pay increase after six months of satisfactory performance and then a yearly raise thereafter.
ADDITIONAL SALARY / APPOINTMENT INFORMATION
- Additional $1.50 per hour shift differential for 2nd and 3rd shift
- Additional 10% pay Supplement ($3.60 per hour) for hours worked 2:30 pm – 7:00 am
- Additional hourly retention supplements available for education and certifications up to 15%
- Annual increases each year with an additional longevity supplement after 5 years of service
WHY WORK FOR THE STATE OF OHIO
At the State of Ohio, we take care of the team that cares for Ohioans. We provide a variety of quality, competitive benefits to eligible full-time and part-time employees*. For a list of all the State of Ohio Benefits, visit our Total Rewards website! Our benefits package includes:
- Medical Coverage
- Free Dental, Vision and Basic Life Insurance premiums after completion of eligibility period
- Paid time off, including vacation, personal, sick leave and 11 paid holidays per year
- Childbirth, Adoption, and Foster Care leave
- Education and Development Opportunities (Employee Development Funds, Public Service Loan Forgiveness, and more)
- Public Retirement Systems (such as OPERS, STRS, SERS, and HPRS) & Optional Deferred Compensation (Ohio Deferred Compensation)
Benefits eligibility is dependent on a number of factors. The Agency Contact listed above will be able to provide specific benefits information for this position.
QUALIFICATIONS
Position Qualifications:
Requires current license as registered professional nurse in state of Ohio as issued by Board of Nursing per Section 4723.03 of Revised Code.
All eligible applications shall be reviewed considering the following criteria: qualifications, experience, education, active disciplinary record, and work record.
Primary Job Skill: Nursing
Technical Skills: Behavioral Health, Mental Health
Professional Skills: Attention to Detail, Building Trust, Collaboration, Conflict Management, Delegation, Leading Others, Situational Awareness, Teamwork, Emotional Intelligence
Required Educational Transcripts
Official transcripts are required for all post-secondary education, coursework, or degrees listed on the application. Applicants must submit an official transcript before receiving a formal employment offer. Failure to provide transcripts within five (5) business days of the request will result in disqualification from further consideration. Transcripts printed from the institution’s website will not be accepted. DBH reserves the right to evaluate the academic validity of the degree-granting institution.
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION
This RN position is for unit C1, shift hours are 7:00pm-7:30am, 3:00pm - 11:30pm.
APPLICATION PROCEDURES
To be considered for this position, you must apply online through this posting website (careers.ohio.gov). We no longer accept paper applications. When completing your online Ohio Civil Service Application, be sure to clearly describe how you meet the minimum qualifications outlined on this job posting. We will not give credit for your qualifications, experience, education, and training in the job selection process if there is no evidence provided on your application. In addition, “see resume” is not a substitution for completing supplemental questions. Answers to the supplemental questions must be fully supported by the work experience/education sections of your application. You may check the status of your application by signing into your profile on this website (careers.ohio.gov).
BACKGROUND CHECK NOTICE
The final candidate selected for this position will be required to undergo a criminal background check. Criminal convictions do not necessarily preclude an applicant from consideration for a position. An individual assessment of an applicant’s prior criminal convictions will be made before excluding an applicant from consideration.
Rule 5122-7-21, “Background check on applicants,” outlines disqualifying offenses that will preclude an applicant from being employed by the Department of Behavioral Health.
If you require a reasonable accommodation for the application process, assessment &/or interview, please contact Andrew Seifert, EEO/ADA Administrator at andrew.seifert@dbh.ohio.gov or 614-466-8884.
All final applicants tentatively selected for this class will be required to submit to urinalysis to test for illegal drug use prior to appointments. An applicant with a positive test shall not be offered employment.
ADA STATEMENT
Ohio is a Disability Inclusion State and strives to be a model employer of individuals with disabilities. The State of Ohio is committed to providing access and inclusion and reasonable accommodation in its services, activities, programs and employment opportunities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and other applicable laws.
DRUG-FREE WORKPLACE
The State of Ohio is a drug-free workplace which prohibits the use of marijuana (recreational marijuana/non-medical cannabis). Please note, this position may be subject to additional restrictions pursuant to the State of Ohio Drug-Free Workplace Policy (HR-39), and as outlined in the posting.
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Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding Mental Health Jobs
Target community mental health centers in shortage areas
Community mental health centers (CMHCs) in designated HPSAs face persistent provider shortages and are often experienced in sponsoring international clinicians. Many of these centers receive federal funding that supports their hiring of visa-holding providers. Check HRSA's shortage area finder to identify centers in areas with the greatest need.
Complete a CACREP-accredited program for the strongest credentials
The Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) is the gold standard for counseling programs in the U.S. Graduating from a CACREP-accredited program streamlines licensure in most states and strengthens the specialty occupation argument in H-1B petitions. Many states are moving toward requiring CACREP-accredited degrees for LPC licensure.
Build telehealth competency to expand your employer options
Telehealth has dramatically expanded access to mental health services, and many employers now hire remote counselors to serve clients across multiple locations. Demonstrating proficiency with telehealth platforms and understanding of interstate practice regulations makes you more versatile. Telehealth roles may also connect you with employers in shortage areas without requiring relocation.
Accumulate supervised hours strategically during OPT
Most mental health licensure paths require thousands of supervised clinical hours after your master's degree. Use your OPT period to begin accruing these hours at a site that may eventually sponsor your H-1B. Aligning your supervision timeline with the H-1B filing cycle means you can be approaching licensure eligibility when your petition is submitted.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can mental health counselors get visa sponsorship in the U.S.?
Mental health counselors with a master's degree or higher can qualify for H-1B visa sponsorship, as the role meets the specialty occupation requirement when it demands graduate-level education. Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs), Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs) are all eligible in principle. The growing demand for mental health services in the U.S. has increased employer willingness to sponsor qualified candidates.
Do mental health shortage areas affect sponsorship opportunities?
Yes, significantly. HRSA designates Mental Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSAs) across the country, and employers in these areas face severe staffing challenges. Community mental health centers and rural clinics in shortage areas are often more willing to sponsor international providers because they cannot fill positions locally. Working in a mental health HPSA may also open additional visa pathways for psychiatrists through J-1 visa waiver programs.
What licensure is required for mental health professionals in the U.S.?
Licensure requirements vary by state and credential type. LPC licensure typically requires a master's in counseling from a CACREP-accredited program, 2,000-4,000 supervised clinical hours, and passing the National Counselor Examination (NCE) or National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE). LCSW licensure requires a master's in social work (MSW) and passing the ASWB clinical exam. Requirements for supervised hours and specific coursework vary significantly between states.
Can psychiatrists use J-1 waiver programs for mental health positions?
Yes. Psychiatrists who completed U.S. residency training on J-1 visas can apply for a waiver of the two-year home residency requirement by committing to work in an underserved area. The Conrad 30 program allows each state to recommend up to 30 J-1 physician waivers per year, and mental health is a qualifying shortage area in many states. Federal agencies like the VA and HHS also sponsor J-1 waivers for psychiatrists.
What is the prevailing wage requirement for sponsored Mental Health jobs?
When a U.S. employer sponsors a foreign worker for a work visa, they are legally required to pay at least the "prevailing wage" — the average wage paid to workers in the same occupation, in the same geographic area, with similar experience. This is set by the Department of Labor to prevent employers from hiring foreign workers at below-market rates. The prevailing wage varies significantly by role, location, and experience level — for example, a mental health in New York will have a different prevailing wage than the same role in a smaller state. You can look up current prevailing wage rates for any occupation and location using the OFLC Wage Search.
How to find Mental Health jobs with visa sponsorship?
To find Mental Health jobs with visa sponsorship, use Migrate Mate, which specializes in connecting international candidates with sponsoring employers. Focus on healthcare systems, private psychiatric facilities, community mental health centers, and telehealth companies that commonly sponsor H-1B, O-1 visa, and other work visas for licensed therapists, psychologists, and psychiatric professionals seeking opportunities in the United States.