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Church Counseling Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Children's Pastor

Dundee, IL · On-site

$52K - $72K/yr

Description At Willow Creek, we don't believe kids are the "future" of the church-we believe they ... Mental health counseling reimbursement and tuition assistance. We care about the whole you. Success ...

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Church Counseling information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$37.1K

$61.5K

$81.9K

How much do church counseling jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for church counseling in Chicago, IL is $61,487.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,600.00 and $67,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Church Counseling job?

A Church Counseling job involves providing emotional and spiritual guidance to individuals, couples, and families within a faith-based community. Church counselors help people navigate personal struggles, relationship issues, grief, and other life challenges using biblical principles and counseling techniques. They may work alongside pastors, offer support groups, and provide confidential one-on-one counseling sessions. Training requirements vary, but many church counselors have backgrounds in theology, psychology, or pastoral care.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Church Counseling position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Church Counseling, you need a solid background in counseling, psychology, or pastoral care, often supported by a related degree and appropriate state or denominational certification. Familiarity with client management systems, counseling assessment tools, and continuing education resources is typically important. Compassion, active listening, and strong ethical boundaries help counselors connect with individuals and maintain trust within the faith community. These skills ensure sensitive, confidential, and effective support that fosters spiritual and emotional well-being for congregants.

What does a typical week look like for someone working in church counseling?

A typical week for a church counselor involves meeting individually or in small groups with members of the congregation to address personal, family, or spiritual concerns. You may also collaborate closely with church leadership, participate in community outreach initiatives, and offer crisis intervention support when needed. Many church counselors facilitate workshops, lead support groups, and contribute to planning related church programs. The work usually balances scheduled sessions with some after-hours availability for urgent needs, providing both structure and variety. This role is highly collaborative, often requiring strong communication with both staff and volunteers to serve the holistic needs of the church community.

How much money can I make as a biblical counselor?

Biblical counselors typically earn between $30,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on experience, certification, location, and whether they work independently or for an organization. Many also supplement income through private practice or church-based roles, with some experienced counselors earning higher salaries.
What are the most commonly searched types of Church Counseling jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Church Counseling jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Church Counseling jobs in Chicago, IL? For Church Counseling jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Church Counseling jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Church Counseling jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Infographic showing various Church Counseling job openings in Chicago, IL as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 66% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,487 per year, or $29.6 per hour.

Associate Pastor - Judson Church

Christian Career

Joliet, IL

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Associate Pastor - Judson Church
Overview

Judson Church is seeking a full-time Associate Pastor to assist and support the Lead Pastor in leading the congregation of Judson Church, with an emphasis on junior high, high school, and young adult ministries. The Pastor will also perform various pastoral responsibilities while seeking to fulfill Judson’s mission to see “lives and communities being transformed through the gospel.”

Judson Church is a non-denominational congregation serving Joliet and the surrounding communities. Committed to the Scriptures as our highest authority (Sola Scriptura), we teach a person is saved by God’s grace alone (Sola Gratia), through faith alone (Sola Fide) in Jesus Christ alone (Sola Cristo), to the glory of God alone (Soli Deo Gloria). Intentionally a church for our communities, Judson Church equips its members to love and serve their neighbors and partner with organizations to seek the good of our communities.

Responsibilities

Implementation of Church Vision

  • Develop and implement a comprehensive junior high, high school, and young adult ministry that aligns with the overall mission and vision of the church.
  • Collaborate with other church staff members and ministries to integrate youth into the broader life of the church.
  • Guide youth as they transition from youth programs into active participation in adult congregational life.
  • Shepherd youth and young adults through biblically sound teaching and discipleship.
  • Provide assistance to families and volunteers in their efforts to nurture and support youth and young adults.

Leadership/Volunteer Development

  • Identify, recruit, equip, and support adult volunteers within ministry programs and events as assigned.
  • Collaborate with ministry staff and church leadership to develop and implement processes that help volunteers grow into leadership roles within the church.

Teaching

  • Teach junior high and high school ministry gatherings and young adult small groups.
  • Preach Sunday morning sermons as needed.
  • Teach other classes as needed.

Pastoral Care/Discipleship

  • Provide pastoral care for congregation members, especially junior high, high school-aged, young adults, and their families.
  • Collaborate with the Lead Pastor and Shepherd Leadership Team to build and implement discipleship programs and relationships throughout the church.
  • Build relationships with church members and the community to offer spiritual care, counseling, and prayer.

Evangelism

  • Develop an understanding of the gospel in the lives of the congregation.
  • Develop the congregation’s ability to clearly and effectively communicate the gospel and its implications to others.
  • Develop a culture of evangelism within the congregation.
Personal Requirements
  • Personal trust in the Lord Jesus Christ and an ongoing practice of repentance.
  • A man who meets the character and competencies required of elders as outlined in 1 Timothy 3:1-7 and Titus 1:5-9.
  • Alignment with the Judson Church Statement of Faith and Membership Covenant.
  • A bachelor’s degree in a ministry-related field and an interest in pursuing master-level education.
  • At least two years of vocational pastoral ministry experience in a local church.
  • Demonstrated leadership and organizational abilities, with the capacity to plan and execute ministry programs effectively.
  • High relational intelligence, particularly toward young adults.
  • A deep passion for working with people and guiding them in their spiritual journey.
  • Knowledge of social media and the internet and the ability to utilize these for the advancement of the gospel and the kingdom of God.
  • Must relocate to and reside in the Joliet community
HOW TO APPLY:

Applicants should submit the following items:

  1. A résumé in PDF format.
  2. A cover letter including a list of no less than 3 [non-family] references and salary/compensation expectations.