Behavioral Health Specialist Interview Questions

Have you had any internships or volunteer experience in behavioral health settings?

JUNIOR LEVEL

Sample answer to the question:

Yes, I have had internships and volunteer experience in behavioral health settings. During my junior year of college, I interned at a local community mental health center where I worked directly with individuals dealing with mental health issues. I assisted in conducting assessments, developing treatment plans, and providing counseling services to clients. Additionally, I volunteered at a crisis hotline, where I provided emotional support and resources to individuals in crisis. These experiences have allowed me to develop strong interpersonal and communication skills, as well as a deep understanding of mental health issues and treatment techniques.

Here is a more solid answer:

Yes, I have had internships and volunteer experience in behavioral health settings. One of the internships I had was at XYZ Community Mental Health Center during my junior year of college. During this internship, I worked closely with licensed behavioral health specialists to provide support and counseling services to individuals dealing with various mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and substance abuse. I was actively involved in conducting assessments, developing treatment plans, and facilitating group therapy sessions. This experience allowed me to strengthen my interpersonal and communication skills, as I had the opportunity to interact with diverse clients and collaborate with a multidisciplinary team. In addition, I volunteered at ABC Crisis Hotline, where I provided empathetic and nonjudgmental support to individuals in crisis situations. These experiences have taught me the importance of maintaining confidentiality and acting with discretion, while also being compassionate and supportive to those in need.

Why is this a more solid answer?

The solid answer expands on the basic answer by providing specific details about the candidate's internships and volunteer experience in behavioral health settings. It highlights the tasks and responsibilities performed, as well as the skills and abilities developed during these experiences. The answer also mentions the candidate's understanding of the importance of maintaining confidentiality and acting with discretion, which aligns with the job description. However, it could be further improved by providing concrete examples of how the candidate demonstrated their organizational skills and ability to multitask.

An example of a exceptional answer:

Yes, I have had internships and volunteer experience in behavioral health settings, which have greatly shaped my understanding and passion for mental health care. One internship I had was at XYZ Community Mental Health Center, where I worked directly with licensed behavioral health specialists to deliver comprehensive support and counseling services to individuals with a wide range of mental health issues, such as bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and PTSD. I conducted thorough assessments, collaborated with clients to develop individualized treatment plans, and facilitated both individual and group counseling sessions. One notable accomplishment was when I successfully assisted in managing a support group for individuals dealing with substance abuse, where I helped clients develop coping strategies and life skills to overcome their addiction. Additionally, I volunteered at ABC Crisis Hotline, where I handled crisis calls, providing immediate emotional support and connecting callers with necessary resources. These experiences have not only enhanced my interpersonal and communication skills, but also strengthened my ability to maintain confidentiality, act with discretion, and show empathy towards others. I have consistently demonstrated a willingness to work under supervision and as part of a team, always eager to learn and contribute to the best of my abilities.

Why is this an exceptional answer?

The exceptional answer goes above and beyond by providing detailed examples of the candidate's internships and volunteer experience in behavioral health settings. It showcases their understanding of various mental health issues and their ability to provide comprehensive support and counseling services. The answer also highlights specific achievements, such as managing a support group for individuals with substance abuse, demonstrating the candidate's skills in developing coping strategies and life skills. Furthermore, the answer emphasizes the candidate's willingness to work under supervision and as part of a team, which aligns with the job description. Overall, the exceptional answer provides a more comprehensive and convincing response by presenting a clear and compelling narrative of the candidate's experiences, skills, and passion for mental health care.

How to prepare for this question:

Reflect on your past internships, volunteer experiences, or any relevant work experiences in behavioral health settings. Identify specific tasks, responsibilities, and accomplishments that align with the job description.

Consider the interpersonal and communication skills you have developed through these experiences. Think about how you have effectively interacted with diverse clients and collaborated with multidisciplinary teams.

Think about instances where you have demonstrated confidentiality, discretion, empathy, and nonjudgmental attitudes while working with individuals dealing with mental health issues.

Reflect on your organizational skills and ability to multitask in behavioral health settings. Provide examples of how you managed your time efficiently and effectively handled multiple responsibilities.

Revisit your knowledge of mental health issues and treatment techniques. Stay updated on current principles, methods, and procedures for the delivery of medical evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment.

Highlight your willingness to work under supervision and as part of a team. Describe instances where you have actively sought feedback, collaborated with others, and contributed to a positive team dynamic.

What are interviewers evaluating with this question?