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Adoption Counselor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Boys & Girls Aid

Open Adoption Counselor

Seattle, WA · On-site

$100/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

Open Adoption & Family Services, a program of Boys & Girls Aid , is seeking a full - time (32hrs) Counselor to join our team. Are you a skilled professional who is committed to non-directive, all ...

Boys & Girls Aid

Open Adoption Counselor

Portland, OR · On-site

$100/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

Open Adoption & Family Services, a program of Boys & Girls Aid , is seeking a full - time (32hrs) Counselor to join our team. Are you a skilled professional who is committed to non-directive, all ...

Animal Defense League of Texas - San Antonio

Be Seen First

Full-Time Adoption Counselor

San Antonio, TX · On-site

$15 - $16.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Adoption Counselor is a key position within our shelter program. As the first and last contact in a visitor's journey to adoption, they represent our mission and culture by serving our patrons ...

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Adoption Counselor information

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How much do adoption counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for adoption counselor in the United States is $15.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.46 and $18.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an adoption counselor?

An adoption counselor works with people involved in or considering the adoption process, including the adoptees, adoptive families, and birth parents. Their job duties involve preparing people for an adoption, or a child for their transfer from foster care. They provide group and individual counseling sessions, work with children and parents to identify potential issues, and help address issues in a healthy way. An adoption counselor often works with adoption agencies to identify good adoptive families, and may interview them or visit their homes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an adoption counselor?

To thrive as an Adoption Counselor, you need a background in social work, counseling, or psychology, often supported by a relevant degree or certification. Familiarity with case management systems, adoption regulations, and documentation tools is commonly required. Strong interpersonal skills, empathy, cultural sensitivity, and effective communication set outstanding professionals apart in this field. These abilities are crucial for supporting families and children through complex emotional processes and ensuring legal and ethical standards are met.

What are some of the most common challenges faced by adoption counselors in their daily work?

Adoption Counselors often encounter emotionally charged situations, as they support both prospective adoptive families and birth parents through significant life decisions. Balancing empathy with professionalism is crucial, especially when navigating sensitive conversations or managing expectations. Additionally, they must stay informed about evolving legal requirements and documentation processes, which can be complex and time-consuming. Team collaboration with social workers, legal professionals, and support staff is frequent, requiring strong communication and organizational skills.

What is the difference between Adoption Counselor vs Adoption Specialist?

AspectAdoption CounselorAdoption Specialist
CredentialsOften requires a degree in social work, psychology, or related field; counseling certification may be preferredTypically requires a similar degree; may also need certification in adoption or social services
Work EnvironmentCounseling sessions, client meetings, and support groups within adoption agencies or social service organizationsAdministrative and case management tasks, working with families and agencies in adoption settings
Employer & IndustryAdoption agencies, social service organizations, non-profitsAdoption agencies, child welfare organizations, government agencies

Both Adoption Counselors and Adoption Specialists work within adoption services, often requiring similar educational backgrounds and certifications. While Adoption Counselors focus more on providing emotional support and counseling to clients, Adoption Specialists handle case management and administrative tasks. Both roles are essential in facilitating the adoption process and supporting families.

What degree do you need to be an adoption counselor?

Adoption counselors typically need at least a bachelor's degree in social work, psychology, counseling, or a related field. Some positions may require a master's degree or additional certification in counseling or social work, along with relevant experience and strong interpersonal skills.

What does an adoption counselor do?

An adoption counselor assists individuals and families through the adoption process by providing guidance, support, and education. They evaluate prospective adoptive parents, facilitate communication between parties, and ensure compliance with legal and agency requirements, often working in social service or nonprofit settings. Strong communication skills and knowledge of adoption laws are essential for this role.
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Adoption Counselor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Adoption Counselor job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,494 per year, or $15.6 per hour.

Adoption Counselor

Tuscaloosa Metro Animal Shelter

Tuscaloosa, AL • On-site

$11/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

Benefits:
  • bonuses
  • Company parties
  • Employee discounts

 
JOB SUMMARY

Facilitates adoptions of TMAS by evaluating both the potential adopter as well as the animal to find the best possible match. Assists clients with donations, t-shirts, raffles, and collar sales. Participates in off-site adoption events or other TMAS sponsored activities.  
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS (Other duties may be assigned)

  • Interface with clients in a diplomatic and tactful manner to assist with the adoption process.
  • Must be able to remove personal opinions/views/judgements to make the appropriate animal/client match in a professional manner.
  • Reviews adopter and animal profile to determine suitability.
  • Data entry of all items relating to the approval of animal adoptions
  • Identifies animal needs during the adoption process and makes the appropriate arrangements, if needed, prior to completing the adoption (ex. s/n surgery, testing, microchipping).
  • Assists with other front desk duties as needed (ex. Hills Science Diet adoption data).
  • Ability to handle cleaning of adoption areas (ex: urine, fecal matter, bodily fluids, dirt and mud).
  • Be able to handle and work with dogs and cats of all breeds, size, and temperament.
EDUCATION, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES

  • Must support the TMAS mission, policies and practices.
  • Must always be able to provide accurate information to the public.
  • Must adhere to the company’s dress code.
  • Must have the ability to deal tactfully and effectively with the public.
  • Must have good oral and written skills.
  • General knowledge of care, cleaning, and housing of domestic dogs and cats.
  • Ability to multi-task, organize and perform detailed tasks efficiently and with accuracy
  • Ability to be diplomatic and informative.
  • Maturity, good judgment, and a professional disposition.
  • Ability to follow guidance of the behavior team relating to behavioral modification and training.
  • Must be computer literate.
  • Must have excellent phone etiquette.
  • Must be available during office hours.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office applications.
  • Retail sales and/or customer service experience.
· Recognize the need for assistance and ask for help.
· Ability to work independently and work as a team.
· Must have high school diploma or GED.
· Must have working knowledge of Microsoft Word and Excel
· Ability to lift 50 lbs.