Behavioral Health Specialist – Askia Academy
About Askia Academy
Askia Academy is a structured residential recovery program at The Dimock Center supporting men in early recovery from substance use and co-occurring mental health disorders.
As an ASAM Level 3.1 Residential Rehabilitation Service with Co-Occurring Enhanced (COE) capabilities, Askia provides a highly supportive environment focused on stability, personal growth, and long-term recovery.
Residents participate in counseling, case management, and community reintegration services designed to help them build independence and sustain recovery.
About the Role
Behavioral Health Specialists (BHS) are essential members of the residential team who help maintain a safe, structured, and recovery-focused environment.
This is a hands-on role combining client support, milieu management, and daily program operations. BHS staff work closely with clinical teams to support clients during the critical first year of recovery by reinforcing program structure, promoting accountability, and modeling healthy behaviors.
This position is ideal for individuals who are calm under pressure, consistent, and motivated to support people rebuilding their lives.
Key Responsibilities
Maintain a safe, respectful, and structured residential environment
Support daily program operations, including admissions, orientations, and discharge processes
Monitor client well-being and communicate concerns to clinical staff
De-escalate conflicts and reinforce program expectations using therapeutic communication
Conduct safety checks and property searches according to program guidelines
Assist clients with daily needs and encourage personal responsibility and independence
Maintain accurate documentation and support administrative processes
Help create a welcoming, recovery-oriented community environment
What Success Looks Like
Successful Behavioral Health Specialists:
Maintain professional boundaries while building rapport
Communicate calmly and respectfully in challenging situations
Support structure and accountability without confrontation
Contribute to a stable, healing environment for recovery
Schedule Options
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in a related field or equivalent experience/training
Experience in residential, behavioral health, or human services settings preferred
Strong communication, teamwork, and organizational skills
Compensation
$21–$25 per hour; a differential may be available for hourly roles for overnight and weekend shifts
Work Environment
24-hour residential behavioral health treatment setting.
About Dimock
The Dimock Center is a federally qualified community health center committed to healing and uplifting individuals, families, and communities through equitable access to healthcare, behavioral health services, and education.
Founded in 1862 as the New England Hospital for Women and Children, the Dimock Center heals and uplifts individuals, families, and our community. Operating on a nine-acre campus in Roxbury, The Dimock Center serves communities in Boston and across the state, providing comprehensive, culturally-competent Health and Community Care, Behavioral Health Services, and Child and Family Services to more than 18,000 people annually.
Visit our website to learn more!
www.dimock.org
