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Associate Counselor Jobs in Phoenix, AZ (NOW HIRING)

Mental Health Counselor

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$65 - $86/hr

We are seeking a full-time associate-level counselor or social worker who holds an Arizona Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC) or Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) license, including a temporary ...

New

Active and unrestricted AZBBHE licensure as a Licensed Master of Social Work (LMSW), Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC), Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (LAMFT), or Licensed ...

Active and unrestricted AZBBHE licensure as a Licensed Master of Social Work (LMSW), Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC), Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (LAMFT), or Licensed ...

New

Licensed Counselor

Mesa, AZ · On-site

$32K - $38K/yr

LMSW (Licensed Masters Social Worker), LAC (Licensed Associate Counselor). * Documented post-master's experience for two (2) years, including experience within the past 24 months providing Outpatient ...

Active and unrestricted AZBBHE licensure as a Licensed Master of Social Work (LMSW), Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC), Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (LAMFT), or Licensed ...

Active and unrestricted AZBBHE licensure as a Licensed Master of Social Work (LMSW), Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC), Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (LAMFT), or Licensed ...

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Associate Counselor information

See Phoenix, AZ salary details

$9

$30

$63

How much do associate counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for associate counselor in Phoenix, AZ is $30.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.76 and $36.69 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 Phoenix, AZ?

The most popular types of Counselor jobs in Phoenix, AZ are:

What cities near Phoenix, AZ are hiring for Associate Counselor jobs?

Cities near Phoenix, AZ with the most Associate Counselor job openings:

Infographic showing various Associate Counselor job openings in Phoenix, AZ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,912 per year, or $30.2 per hour.

Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC) - Primary Therapist

APN Staffing & Employment Solutions

Mesa, AZ • On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC) - Primary Therapist
$60,000 - $80,000/ year
Monday - Friday, 8am to 5pm
Mesa, AZ

The counselor will work with individuals experiencing substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health conditions. CLINICAL SUPERVISION is provided.


Responsibilities

  • Complete client intakes, assessments, and clinical evaluations.
  • Utilize evidence-based approaches such as CBT, motivational interviewing, and crisis intervention.
  • Develop and update individualized treatment plans.
  • Lead and facilitate family-focused AND individual therapy.
  • Prepare utilization review documentation for insurance authorization while maintaining timely, accurate, and HIPAA-compliant clinical records.

Qualifications

  • Master's degree in Social Work, Psychology, Counseling, or a related discipline.
  • Active LAC or LPC license in Arizona.
  • Experience with therapeutic modalities such as CBT, addiction counseling, grief counseling, psychodynamic therapy, behavioral therapy, or other evidence-based approaches.
  • Telehealth experience preferred
  • Passion for helping individuals and continuing professional growth.

Company Description

APN Staffing and Employment Solutions is a recruiting firm specialized in working with clients and candidates in the healthcare and automotive industry. While hiring employees can be an extremely rewarding experience, it takes time and attention that companies don’t often have.

Since 1991, APN has placed over 15,000 candidates by listening to the needs, personality and style of clients and candidates to find the right fit for the team. Working with companies of all sizes in the private, non-profit and government sectors to provide permanent placements, temporary-to-permanent placements and contract staffing, APN prides itself on our ability to retain client and candidate relationships. What was originally a small business with one employee specializing in the automotive industry is now a profitable company spanning multiple industries, working with clients and candidates across the country.

Nearly 30 years later, our mission still stands strong – “To provide our clients with the best”, and we will do that for you with honesty and integrity.

We are an equal opportunity employer and welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of their race, sex, disability, religion/belief, sexual orientation or age.

Please contact us for more information!