• Make a Difference: Help individuals improve their mental health and daily living skills.

• Build Relationships: Form meaningful connections with clients and support their progress.

• Team Environment: Work alongside healthcare professionals in a collaborative setting.

• Personal Growth: Develop valuable skills in communication, problem-solving, and empathy.

• Job Stability: Enjoy a steady career with opportunities in various settings across Ohio.

• Gain Experience: Direct client care offers an opportunity to learn about behavioral health, gain knowledge and skills, and decide where to go next in your career journey.

With a high school diploma/GED or higher:

• Behavioral Health Technician

Behavioral Health Technicians help people with mental health challenges. They follow treatment plans created by doctors or therapists, assist with daily activities, and monitor patients' progress. They often work in hospitals, clinics, or treatment centers.

• Residential Support Specialist

These specialists support individuals in residential facilities. They help residents with daily tasks like cooking, cleaning, and personal care, while encouraging them to be more independent. They also ensure the home is safe and comfortable for everyone.

• Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Treatment Support Worker

SUD Treatment Support Workers assist people recovering from drug or alcohol addiction. They provide emotional support, help with treatment plans, and connect clients to resources like counseling or job training. Their goal is to support clients on their path to recovery.  [Learn more about Substance Use Disorder Treatment Careers→]

• Therapeutic Program Worker

These workers are part of the team at Ohio's state psychiatric hospitals. Building strong relationships with patients, they help those with mental health conditions learn daily living skills, such as dressing, eating, and socializing. They also assist in therapy sessions and monitor patients' progress. 

• Mental Health Treatment Support Staff

Mental Health Treatment Support Staff provide care in clinics or community settings. They support individuals with mental health needs by helping them attend appointments, manage medications, and develop coping skills. They play a key role in helping clients lead healthier lives.

With a bachelor's degree or higher:

• Behavioral Health Specialist

Behavioral Health Specialists work with people facing emotional or behavioral issues. They assess clients' needs, develop treatment plans, and provide counseling or therapy. They may work in home-based services, schools, hospitals, or community centers to support mental well-being.

• Job Coach/ Employment Support

Job Coaches assist individuals with disabilities or mental health challenges in finding and keeping jobs. They help clients learn job skills, prepare for interviews, practice social-emotional skills and self-regulation, and adjust to the workplace. Their support helps clients achieve independence through employment.

Other job titles you may see:

• Mental Health Recovery Coach

• Community Psychiatric Support and Treatment (CPST) Provider 

• Qualified Mental Health Specialist

• Qualified Behavioral Health Specialist

These jobs provide a great entry point into behavioral health careers!

• Help with Daily Tasks: Support clients with things like eating, bathing, dressing, and staying clean and comfortable.

• Follow Treatment Plans: Use routines and activities created by doctors or therapists to help clients reach their goals.

• Teach Life Skills: Show clients how to do things on their own, like cooking, cleaning, taking medicine, or using public transportation.

• Build Skills at Home: Work with clients and their families in their homes to build routines and teach skills in a familiar setting.

• Coach for Work: Help clients get ready for jobs—practice interviews, learn work habits, and provide support at the workplace.

• Keep Track of Progress: Watch for changes in mood, behavior, or health—and share what you see with the treatment team.

• Motivate and Encourage: Help clients join in group activities, therapy, or healthy routines that support recovery.

• Create a Safe Space: Make sure the environment is calm, clean, and safe for everyone—both physically and emotionally.

Direct care staff provide hands-on support to individuals, helping them navigate daily life and treatment.

• Mental Health Facilities

• Residential Homes

• Community Mental Health Centers

• Rehabilitation Centers

• Schools and Educational Programs

• Home-Based Services

Direct care staff work in diverse environments to support individuals' mental health and well-being.

• Adults with Mental Illness: Individuals managing conditions like depression or schizophrenia.

• Children and Adolescents: Young people facing behavioral or emotional challenges.

• Individuals with Developmental Disabilities: Clients needing support with daily living skills.

• People Recovering from Substance Use: Those working towards sobriety and stability.

• Older Adults: Aging adults with mental health issues or cognitive decline.

Direct Care staff assist a wide range of clients, each with unique needs and goals.

Most direct care jobs in Ohio need a high school diploma or GED.

• Some roles may ask for extra training or certification in behavioral health. Many employers offer on-the-job training or assist you in getting the education you need.

Going to college can help you move into higher-level roles. Depending on the employer and job duties, a bachelor’s degree in a human service field may be needed for jobs like:

• Behavioral Health Specialist

• Job Coach/ Employment Support

While a specific license may not be required to start as a Direct Care Provider, obtaining certifications can enhance your qualifications:

• Certified Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistant (CDCA): For those working with individuals facing substance use issues.

• Registered Behavioral Technician (RBT): For those assisting with behavioral analysis programs.

• First Aid and CPR Certification: Often required for direct care roles.

Note: Requirements may vary by employer and specific job duties.

Click here to learn more about licenses, credentials, and certifications.