1

Associate Counselor Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Counsel is responsible for providing in-house legal advice and guidance, with primary focus on the development and filing of retail and institutional annuity products, annuity product distribution ...

Counsel is responsible for providing in-house legal advice and guidance, with primary focus on the development and filing of retail and institutional annuity products, annuity product distribution ...

Overnight Youth Counselor Location: Des Moines, IA (South) Pay for this position is posted at: $18 ... LPN, associate's or bachelor's degree * Ability to remain awake and alert during the overnight ...

Overnight Youth Counselor Location: Des Moines, IA (South) Pay for this position is posted at: $18 ... LPN, associate's or bachelor's degree * Ability to remain awake and alert during the overnight ...

Showing results 21-40

Associate Counselor information

See Iowa salary details

$8

$28

$59

How much do associate counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for associate counselor in Iowa is $28.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.62 and $34.34 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an associate counselor?

Associate counselors are mental health professionals who have completed the necessary education, such as a master's degree in counseling or a related field, and are working under supervision to gain clinical experience required for full licensure. They provide counseling services to clients dealing with a range of emotional, behavioral, or mental health issues. Associate counselors often work in schools, clinics, private practices, or community organizations, and their work is supervised by a licensed counselor. Their primary goal is to help clients develop coping strategies, improve mental well-being, and achieve personal growth while they work toward independent licensure.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be an associate counselor?

To thrive as an Associate Counselor, you typically need a master's degree in counseling or a related field and state licensure or certification. Familiarity with case management systems, counseling software, and evidence-based therapeutic modalities is important. Strong interpersonal skills, empathy, active listening, and cultural sensitivity help you connect with and support clients effectively. These skills and qualifications are crucial for building trust, ensuring ethical practice, and delivering impactful mental health care.

What challenges do associate counselors face when working with clients, and how can they manage them?

Associate Counselors often encounter challenges such as building rapport with clients, managing complex emotional issues, and maintaining professional boundaries. Navigating client resistance or ambivalence can be particularly demanding, especially early in the therapeutic relationship. To manage these challenges, Associate Counselors benefit from regular supervision, ongoing training, and collaborating closely with more experienced colleagues. Additionally, self-care and maintaining a balanced workload are important practices to sustain effectiveness and prevent burnout.

What are the most commonly searched types of Counselor jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Counselor jobs in Iowa are:

Infographic showing various Associate Counselor job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,878 per year, or $28.3 per hour.

Part-Time Youth Treatment Counselor

Orchard Place

Des Moines, IA • On-site

$18/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 24 days ago


Job description

Why Orchard Place?
At Orchard Place, we are dedicated to building a brighter future for children and families through compassionate care, early intervention, and community integration. Join our team and be part of a mission-driven organization that values diversity, inclusion, and continuous improvement.
As a part time Milieu Treatment Counselor, you will have the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of Iowa kids and their families. Our employees are valued, and we are committed to providing you with a culture of open communication, collaborative work environment and opportunities for professional growth and development. Milieu Treatment Counselors supervise children and youth ages 10-17 years within an inpatient mental health treatment center.
Job Title: Part Time Youth Treatment Counselor
Location: Des Moines (South)
Pay for this position is posted at: $18.00
Position Overview: Works under the direct supervision of the Milieu Treatment Coordinator for assigned building. Is responsible for supervision of youth and operation of the assigned residential program. Supports the overall vision of reducing physical restraints and lock seclusions by creating a sanctuary of safety that eliminates barriers to healing.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Improve each child’s mental health and emotional well-being by providing a safe and therapeutic environment
  • Participate as an active member of the treatment plan; assisting in the development and implementation of Individual Care Plans
  • Plan and facilitate social skills groups
  • Act as an advocate for the residents and families, developing a meaningful relationship with the residents and families
  • Assist in managing challenging behaviors
  • Learn, develop and implement intervention techniques consistent with Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI), The Sanctuary Model, and Therapeutic Aggression Control Techniques (TACT2) models
Required Qualifications:
  • Exceptional leadership and problem-solving skills.
  • Passion for mental health and human services.
  • Experience working directly with children, youth and families.
  • Valid driver’s license and driving record that meets agency guidelines.
Educational Qualifications:
  • Bachelor’s degree in human services field, or
  • Associate’s degree and 3 years of experience working with youth/families, or
  • High school diploma or equivalency with 5 years of experience working with youth/families
What are some of the things our current staff enjoy while working here?
  • Make a significant impact on and provide valuable input in the overall care and treatment for the children and families that we serve.
  • Work with a supportive and diverse team to provide the best care to our clients.
  • Receive professional development and training opportunities.
Criminal and abuse registry checks completed as required by Orchard Place's licensing and accreditation standards.