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Associate Counselor Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Orchard Place

Youth Treatment Counselor

Des Moines, IA

$18 - $21/hr

Youth Treatment Counselor Location: Des Moines (South) Pay for this position is posted at: $18.00 ... Associate's degree and 3 years of experience working with youth/families, or * High school diploma ...

Orchard Place

Youth Treatment Counselor

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$18 - $21/hr

Youth Treatment Counselor Location: Des Moines (South) Pay for this position is posted at: $18.00 ... Associate's degree and 3 years of experience working with youth/families, or * High school diploma ...

YSS

Summer Day Camp Counselor (55596)

Ames, IA

$14.40 - $18/hr

The Summer Summer Day Camp Counselor brings the program to life each day--leading planning ... Bachelor's or Associate's degree in child development, education, or related field * Experience as ...

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How much do associate counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of May 28, 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Associate Counselor, and why are they important?

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 are some common challenges 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 associate counselors?

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 are the most commonly searched types of Counselor jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Counselor jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Associate Counselor jobs in Iowa? For Associate Counselor jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Associate Counselor jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Associate Counselor jobs in Iowa are:
Associate Counselor jobs near you
Substance Abuse Counselor - Youth Residential Program (Ottumwa, IA)

Substance Abuse Counselor - Youth Residential Program (Ottumwa, IA)

PsyPhyCare

Ottumwa, IA • On-site

$19 - $25.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Opportunity
PsyPhyCare, a division of Business Staffing of America, Inc., is seeking a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) to provide on-site substance abuse prevention and counseling services within a federally supported residential youth program in Ottumwa, Iowa 52501.
Our client operates a comprehensive residential program serving young adults, ages 16-24. The program's mission is to prepare participants for meaningful employment and independent living.
This role provides direct clinical services to students and collaborates closely with residential and program staff in a structured, community-based environment.
Position Overview
This is a contract position with full-time availability, up to 40 hours per week.
  • Schedule: Monday-Friday
  • Hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
  • No weekends required
  • Location: On-site in Ottumwa, IA (no telehealth or remote option)

Scheduling flexibility is available to support student engagement and program needs, including occasional presence during afternoon or early evening hours.
Key Responsibilities
The clinician will provide comprehensive on-site substance abuse prevention, education, and counseling services to enrolled students and maintain an active presence within the residential environment.
Responsibilities include:
  • Delivering individual and group substance abuse counseling services
  • Developing and facilitating alcohol, drug, and tobacco prevention and education programming
  • Engaging with students in residential and common areas (dormitories, recreation areas, dining facilities, counseling spaces)
  • Collaborating with program leadership and interdisciplinary staff
  • Supporting student development, healthy coping skills, decision-making, and relapse prevention
  • Providing crisis intervention and behavioral support as needed
  • Developing individualized case management plans to improve student retention and promote overall wellness
  • Maintaining accurate, timely clinical documentation
  • Upholding all professional, ethical, and confidentiality standards in compliance with HIPAA and applicable regulations
Qualifications
Licensure
  • Candidates must hold active and valid Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC)certification in the State of Iowa.

Experience
  • Minimum of one (1) year of experience providing substance abuse or behavioral health services to adolescents or young adults.

Education
  • Associate's or Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university preferred.
About PsyPhyCare
PsyPhyCare is committed to delivering professional and passionate practitioners who impact their world, supporting both the individuals we serve and the communities in which they live and grow.

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