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988 Chat & Text Counselor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Manager, 988 Lifeline

Fargo, ND ยท On-site

$26/hr

You will rely on data to strengthen answering capacity, monitor service quality across voice, chat, and text, and ensure compliance with national 988 Lifeline standards and accreditation requirements.

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988 Chat Text Counselor information

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$6

$14

$22

How much do 988 chat & text counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for 988 chat & text counselor in the United States is $14.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.02 and $16.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a 988 chat & text counselor?

To thrive as a 988 Chat & Text Counselor, you need a background in mental health, counseling, or social services, with strong crisis intervention and active listening skills. Familiarity with chat and texting platforms, confidential record-keeping software, and certifications like Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST) or equivalent are often desired. Compassion, resilience, and excellent written communication are standout qualities for this position. These skills are vital to effectively support individuals in crisis, maintain a calm and nonjudgmental presence, and ensure accurate documentation of sensitive interactions.

What is a 988 chat & text counselor?

A 988 Chat & Text Counselor provides crisis support through text and online chat for individuals experiencing emotional distress, suicidal thoughts, or mental health challenges. They assess risk, provide emotional support, and offer resources to help individuals in crisis. Counselors use active listening, de-escalation techniques, and crisis intervention skills to guide texters and chatters toward safety and support. This role is part of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, a national service aimed at providing immediate, confidential help.

What does a 988 chat & text counselor do?

As a 988 Chat & Text Counselor, you will typically work assigned shifts that may include evenings, nights, weekends, or holidays to ensure 24/7 coverage for those in need. During each shift, you will handle multiple real-time chat or text conversations, provide emotional support, and assess the safety and needs of individuals in crisis. Counselors generally work independently but have access to on-call supervisors and collaborate with a team for complex cases or when arranging emergency interventions. This role demands focused, compassionate engagement, with opportunities for debriefing and ongoing training to support your well-being and professional growth.

More about 988 Chat Text Counselor jobs
What cities are hiring for 988 Chat & Text Counselor jobs? Cities with the most 988 Chat & Text Counselor job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of 988 Chat & Text Counselor jobs? The most popular types of 988 Chat & Text Counselor jobs are:
What states have the most 988 Chat & Text Counselor jobs? States with the most job openings for 988 Chat & Text Counselor jobs include:
Infographic showing various 988 Chat & Text Counselor job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 26% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,158 per year, or $15 per hour.

988 Mental Health Counselor (Part-time)

Helpline Center

Sioux Falls, SD โ€ข On-site

$23 - $26/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

Job Type
Part-time
Description
This is an ideal position for individuals who are interested in helping others and making a contribution to their community. Mental Health Counselors provide evidence-informed crisis intervention, brief supportive counseling, suicide prevention, information & referral and follow-up services to individuals who contact the Helpline Center through 988 in emotional distress, with substance use issues or with suicidal ideation. Counselors interact with clients by telephone, SMS text messaging, and/or web chat. The position provides an opportunity to practice a wide range of clinical skills, and knowledge of the expanding field of behavioral health.
Schedule: Primarily evenings (weekday and weekend). Ideally a Saturday and/or Sunday evening along with one to two nights a week.
Requirements
  • Master's Degree in counseling, social work, psychology, or related field required.
  • Additional experience working in mental health counseling or mental health crisis strongly preferred.
  • Applicants must be comfortable working independently and as part of a team in a collegial group environment.
  • Strong oral and written language skills.
  • Working knowledge of computers and software programs, proficient keyboarding skill
  • Offers of employment contingent upon acceptable background check

Salary Description
$23-26/hour-pay differential for overnight hours