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Autism Counselor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

BK Behavior

Teacher for Autism

Zenda, KS · On-site

After-school programs or camp counseling * Behavioral health, mental health, or social services * ABA therapy or working with individuals with Autism * Healthcare support (DSP, CNA, HHA, PCA ...

BK Behavior

Autism Care Specialist

Overland Park, KS

$21.25 - $28.25/hr

After-school programs or camp counseling * Behavioral health, mental health, or social services * ABA therapy or working with individuals with Autism * Healthcare support (DSP, CNA, HHA, PCA ...

BK Behavior

Autism Care Specialist

Kansas City, KS · On-site

$21 - $27.75/hr

After-school programs or camp counseling * Behavioral health, mental health, or social services * ABA therapy or working with individuals with Autism * Healthcare support (DSP, CNA, HHA, PCA ...

BK Behavior

Teacher for Autism

Zenda, KS

After-school programs or camp counseling * Behavioral health, mental health, or social services * ABA therapy or working with individuals with Autism * Healthcare support (DSP, CNA, HHA, PCA ...

Gersh Autism

Mental Health Counselor (Bronx)

New York, NY · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

For over 30 years, Gersh Autism has empowered students on the autism spectrum to reach their full ... Counsel students to understand and articulate their feelings clearly and accurately * Guide ...

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$6

$14

$22

How much do autism counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for autism counselor in the United States is $14.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.02 and $16.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Autism Counselors face when supporting clients, and how are these typically addressed?

Autism Counselors often encounter challenges such as communication barriers, sensory sensitivities, and varying behavioral needs among clients. To address these, counselors employ individualized strategies tailored to each client, use visual aids or alternative communication methods, and collaborate closely with families, educators, and other professionals. Regular training and supervision also help counselors stay current with best practices and adapt their approaches, ensuring effective support and progress for each individual.

What is the difference between Autism Counselor vs Behavior Therapist?

AspectAutism CounselorBehavior Therapist
CredentialsOften requires a master's degree in counseling, psychology, or related field; certifications like BCBA or BCaBA are commonTypically requires a bachelor's or master's degree; certification as a BCBA or BCaBA is often preferred
Work EnvironmentSchools, clinics, private practice, community agenciesHome-based, clinics, schools, community settings
Employer & Industry UsageEducational and mental health organizations, private practicesBehavioral health agencies, schools, autism centers

While both Autism Counselors and Behavior Therapists work with individuals on the autism spectrum, Autism Counselors often focus on emotional support, counseling, and social skills development, whereas Behavior Therapists primarily implement behavioral interventions based on Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). Both roles require relevant certifications and work in similar settings, but their approaches and primary focus areas differ.

What is the 6 second rule for autism?

The 6 second rule in autism intervention refers to the idea that caregivers or professionals should wait approximately six seconds before responding to a child's behavior to encourage self-regulation and communication. Autism counselors often use this pause to promote patience and to give the child time to process or respond appropriately, supporting social and emotional development.

What degree do I need to work with autistic people?

Autism counselors typically need at least a bachelor's degree in psychology, social work, education, or a related field. Some positions may require a master's degree or additional certification in applied behavior analysis (ABA) or counseling. Relevant skills include communication, patience, and understanding of autism spectrum disorders.

What is an Autism Counselor?

An Autism Counselor is a trained professional who provides support, guidance, and therapeutic interventions to individuals on the autism spectrum and their families. They help clients develop social, communication, and coping skills tailored to their unique needs. Autism Counselors may work in schools, clinics, or private practice, collaborating with other specialists to ensure comprehensive care. Their role often includes creating individualized plans, advocating for clients, and providing education to families and communities.

Can you be a counselor with autism?

Autism counselors, or mental health professionals working with individuals on the autism spectrum, can have autism themselves. Having autism does not disqualify someone from becoming a counselor; in fact, lived experience can enhance understanding and empathy. Certification, relevant education, and communication skills are typically required for the role.

How to become an autism counselor?

To become an autism counselor, individuals typically need a bachelor's degree in psychology, social work, or a related field, followed by specialized training or certification in autism spectrum disorders. Many roles also require relevant experience working with individuals with autism and may benefit from obtaining certifications such as the Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) or Board Certified Autism Technician (BCAT).

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

To thrive as an Autism Counselor, you need a background in psychology, social work, or counseling, often supported by relevant degrees and licensure. Familiarity with behavioral analysis tools, intervention programs like Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), and case management software is typically required. Patience, strong communication, and empathy are vital soft skills for effectively supporting individuals with autism and their families. These skills and qualifications are crucial for delivering personalized interventions and fostering positive outcomes for clients on the autism spectrum.
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Autism Counselor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Autism Counselor job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 28% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,158 per year, or $15 per hour.
Child Autism Specialist - Entry Level

Child Autism Specialist - Entry Level

Centria Autism

Portland, OR • On-site

$19 - $20/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired 3 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

We are looking for enthusiastic individuals to join our team as Behavior Technicians. As a Behavior Technician, you will have the opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of children with autism.

In this role, you will work one-on-one with children, implementing individualized behavior intervention plans under the guidance of a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). You will use evidence-based techniques to teach communication, social, and daily living skills while reducing interfering behaviors.

We are looking for candidates who are passionate about helping children with autism reach their full potential. You will need to be patient, compassionate, and able to work well in a team environment. We will provide comprehensive training so that you are equipped and empowered to help each child, even if you don’t currently have experience. Children can be unpredictable and potentially confrontational, so this role is not for the weak of spirit, mind, or body. Part of the joy of working with kids is exercise! Our clients move, so you need to be comfortable standing, walking, sitting, grasping, reaching, bending, kneeling, crouching, squatting, lifting, and at times carrying children or objects that weigh up to 50 pounds

At the end of each day, you will go home knowing that you have made a meaningful impact on the life of a child and their family. Join us and become a part of a dedicated team that is changing lives for the better. Apply now to start your journey as a Behavior Technician with us!

Pay Range: $19 - $20

Requirements:

  • Passionate about helping children with autism.
  • Patient, compassionate, and able to work well in a team.
  • 18+ years of age
  •  High school diploma or GED
  •  Ability to obtain a CPR, First Aid Certification and Tuberculosis test (if you haven’t had one in the last year)
  •  Ability to pass a pre employment background check 
  • Ability to move in various positions (sit, squat, bend, etc.)
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.

Perks of Working at Centria:

  • Structured career path in the field of Behavioral Analysis
  • Discounts to hundreds of retail partners via our Benefit Hub
  • Access to Centria’s Employee Assistance Plan with benefits around mental health and counseling
  • Early wage access to employees through Rain - Work today, get paid tomorrow!
  • Unlimited opportunities to make an impact in the life of a special needs child

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, Veteran status, or disability status. This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of qualifications, skills, efforts, duties, responsibilities, or working conditions associated with the position. This pay scale range is the full range of potential wages Centria Autism reasonably expects to pay for employees with this job title and this pay scale range varies dependent on job qualifications, performance, experience, and/or seniority. This range should not be interrupted to mean that Centria Autism currently employs any employees with this job title at the bottom or top of the pay scale range. Centria reserves the right to amend this job description at any time, with or without written notice.