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Associate Therapist Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

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Associate Therapist information

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How much do associate therapist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for associate therapist in Oregon is $20.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.01 and $21.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an associate therapist?

Associate therapists are mental health professionals who have completed their graduate education in fields like counseling, social work, or psychology and are working under supervision to gain the clinical experience required for full licensure. They provide therapy services to clients but must do so under the guidance of a licensed supervisor. Associate therapists may be referred to as associates, interns, or provisionally licensed therapists, depending on the state or country. Their role is crucial in supporting clients while they continue to develop their skills and fulfill licensure requirements.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an associate therapist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Associate Therapist, you need a foundational education in mental health counseling, psychology, or social work, typically supported by a relevant master's degree and associate-level licensure. Familiarity with electronic health records, telehealth platforms, and evidence-based therapy modalities such as CBT or DBT is essential. Strong interpersonal skills, empathy, and active listening are vital for building trust with clients and collaborating with clinical teams. These skills and qualifications are crucial for delivering effective care, maintaining professional standards, and supporting clients' mental health progress.

What types of supervision and support can associate therapists expect while working toward full licensure?

Associate Therapists typically work under the supervision of a licensed clinician, receiving regular individual or group supervision sessions to discuss cases and professional development. This support ensures that associates meet state licensing requirements and develop clinical skills in a structured, nurturing environment. Many organizations also offer training workshops, peer consultation groups, and access to experienced mentors, helping associates build confidence and competence as they progress toward independent practice.

What is the difference between Associate Therapist vs Licensed Therapist?

AspectAssociate TherapistLicensed Therapist
CredentialsMaster's degree, supervised clinical hoursMaster's or Doctoral degree, licensure
Work EnvironmentInternship or supervised setting, entry-levelIndependent practice, clinical settings
Employer & Industry UsageHospitals, clinics, community agenciesPrivate practice, healthcare facilities
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

Associate Therapists are typically in training, working under supervision with a master's degree and supervised hours. Licensed Therapists have completed licensure requirements, allowing independent practice. The main difference lies in their level of certification and autonomy, with Associate Therapists gaining experience before becoming fully licensed.

What are the most commonly searched types of Therapist jobs in Oregon?

The most popular types of Therapist jobs in Oregon are:

What are popular job titles related to Associate Therapist jobs in Oregon?

For Associate Therapist jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Associate Therapist jobs in Oregon look for?

The top searched job categories for Associate Therapist jobs in Oregon are:

What cities in Oregon are hiring for Associate Therapist jobs?

Cities in Oregon with the most Associate Therapist job openings:

Infographic showing various Associate Therapist job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,815 per year, or $20.1 per hour.

Associate Mental Health Therapist

Portland, OR โ€ข On-site

Willamette Wellness Center
Offices of Mental Health Practitionersย โ€ขย 1 - 10 employees

$115K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

Associate Clinical Therapist
Position Title: Associate Therapist (CSWA, LPC Associate, LMFT Associate, or Psychology Resident)
Reports To: Clinical Director / Clinical Supervisor
Department: Outpatient Mental Health Services
Location: Willamette Wellness Center - Milwaukie, Oregon
Position Summary
The Associate Therapist at Willamette Wellness Center provides high-quality, evidence-based mental health assessment, diagnosis, and psychotherapy services to individuals, couples, and families while actively pursuing independent clinical licensure in Oregon. This role ensures that care is clinically appropriate, person-centered, trauma-informed, culturally and linguistically responsive, and consistent with Oregon Administrative Rule (OAR) 309-019-0130 and other applicable regulatory standards.
Associate Therapists work under the direct clinical supervision of a qualified supervisor approved by their respective Oregon licensing board. They contribute to a collaborative, compassionate environment that promotes emotional wellness, professional growth, clinical excellence, and respect for diversity in all forms.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Provide diagnostic assessments, individualized treatment planning, and psychotherapy under approved clinical supervision, consistent with current professional standards and OAR 309-019-0130.
  • Develop and maintain individualized service plans that reflect client strengths, needs, and treatment goals.
  • Deliver interventions using evidence-based, trauma-informed, and culturally responsive practices.
  • Attend and actively participate in required individual and group clinical supervision sessions, integrating feedback into clinical practice and documentation.
  • Document all clinical services accurately and timely in accordance with OHA, Oregon licensing board, payer, and agency requirements.
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary staff to ensure continuity, integration, and coordination of care.
  • Provide crisis assessment, intervention, and safety planning as needed, consulting with clinical supervisors when acute risk is identified.
  • Maintain confidentiality, client rights, and professional boundaries in strict compliance with HIPAA, board ethics, and internal policy.
  • Track and maintain accurate records of supervised clinical hours toward independent state licensure.
  • Contribute to a positive, supportive, and inclusive workplace culture at Willamette Wellness Center.

Qualifications and Requirements
In accordance with OAR 309-019-0130 (Competency and Qualifications of Program Staff):
Education and Pre-Licensure Status
  • Graduation from an accredited graduate program with a Master's or Doctoral degree in counseling, clinical social work, marriage and family therapy, or psychology (e.g., MSW, MFT, MA/MS Counseling, PsyD/PhD).
  • Active associate-level registration or pre-licensed status in good standing with the applicable Oregon licensing board (CSWA, LPC Associate, LMFT Associate, or Psychology Resident).
  • Must live in Oregon or Southwest Washington with the ability to commute to the Milwaukie office as required.

Professional Competencies
  • Detail-oriented with the ability to submit clinical documentation (intakes, treatment plans, progress notes) within required weekly timelines.
  • Demonstrated ability or foundational training in conducting diagnostic intakes, treatment planning, progress notes, and mental status examinations.
  • Working knowledge of (or willingness to learn) administering and scoring standardized clinical tools such as the PHQ-9, GAD-7, PCL-5, and related measures.
  • Commitment to completing advanced evidence-based trauma training while employed at Willamette Wellness Center to build advanced clinical skills.
  • Openness to clinical direction, reflective self-practice, and constructive feedback from clinical supervisors.
  • Proficiency with electronic health records (EHR) and digital practice platforms.
  • Commitment to Culturally and Linguistically Specific Services (CLSS) and equitable care practices.
  • Strong interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills.

Additional Requirements
  • Ability to pass a criminal background check and provide at least two professional references.
  • Must own a computer, have a secure high-speed internet connection, and maintain a confidential space for client sessions and clinical documentation.
  • Willingness to start as a part-time employee during the training and credentialing phase, with the goal of converting to full-time status by the third month of employment.
  • Full-time Associate Therapists are expected to build toward a minimum target of 24 client sessions per week.

Work Environment and Schedule
  • Hybrid or in-person outpatient setting located in Milwaukie, OR.
  • Flexible schedule options may be available, including evenings or weekends as agreed upon with administration and supervision.

Physical Requirements
  • Ability to remain in a stationary position (sitting or standing) for extended periods while conducting sessions or completing clinical documentation.
  • Ability to move about the workspace to access files, office equipment, or private meeting spaces.
  • Ability to communicate effectively through spoken, written, and electronic means.
  • Ability to operate a computer, including typing, viewing screens, and using telehealth platforms for prolonged periods.
  • Occasional lifting or carrying up to 10-15 pounds, such as office supplies or client materials.
  • Adequate vision and hearing, with or without corrective devices, to engage in clinical work, observe client non-verbal cues, and complete documentation.

Compensation and Benefits
  • Competitive compensation commensurate with experience and pre-licensure status.
  • Board-compliant clinical supervision provided internally (or supervision stipend options, as applicable).
  • Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, vision, and retirement plan.
  • Paid time off, front-loaded sick leave, paid holidays, and professional development support.
  • Complete administrative, credentialing, billing, and referral intake support.

Willamette Wellness Center Commitment
Willamette Wellness Center is dedicated to fostering a compassionate, inclusive, and growth-oriented environment for both clients and staff. We are committed to clinical equity, collaboration, professional mentorship, and integrity in everything we do.
  • Must have the ability to pass background check.