1

Correctional Counselor Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Financial Aid Advisor

Claremont, CA

$20 - $25.75/hr

Provides in-person, online, and phone counseling to prospective students, current students, and ... Responsible for performing online queries, corrections, and updates to Department of Education ...

Provides in-person, online, and phone counseling to prospective students, current students, and ... Responsible for performing online queries, corrections, and updates to Department of Education ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Correctional Counselor information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$34.9K

$65.7K

$86.6K

How much do correctional counselor jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for correctional counselor in Riverside, CA is $65,650.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,900.00 and $74,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Correctional Counselor, you need a background in psychology, social work, or criminal justice, typically supported by a relevant degree and sometimes state certification. Familiarity with case management software, behavioral assessment tools, and documentation systems is often required. Strong interpersonal skills, empathy, and conflict resolution abilities help build trust and effectively guide inmate rehabilitation. These skills are essential for promoting successful reintegration, reducing recidivism, and maintaining safety within correctional facilities.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Correctional counselors typically do not earn $2,000 a day; their salaries are usually much lower, often ranging from $40,000 to $80,000 annually. High-paying jobs that can reach $2,000 a day generally include specialized roles such as senior corporate executives, certain medical specialists, or successful entrepreneurs, often requiring advanced skills, certifications, or significant experience.

What are some common challenges faced by Correctional Counselors when working with incarcerated individuals?

Correctional Counselors often encounter challenges such as building trust with inmates, addressing complex behavioral and emotional issues, and managing heavy caseloads. Establishing rapport can be difficult given the institutional environment and the diverse backgrounds of incarcerated individuals. Additionally, counselors must balance the needs of the individuals they support with institutional safety protocols, requiring strong interpersonal skills and resilience. Successful counselors use evidence-based techniques and collaborate closely with correctional staff and outside agencies to help inmates successfully rehabilitate and prepare for reentry.

What type of counseling gets paid the most?

In the counseling field, clinical or mental health counselors with advanced licenses, such as Licensed Professional Counselors (LPC) or Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSW), tend to earn higher salaries. Specialized counseling areas like substance abuse, marriage and family therapy, or trauma counseling often offer higher pay, especially with additional certifications and experience.

What are Correctional Counselors?

Correctional Counselors are professionals who work within correctional facilities to help inmates address personal, behavioral, and emotional issues. They assess inmates' needs, develop rehabilitation plans, provide counseling, and facilitate programs aimed at reducing recidivism. Their role often includes helping inmates prepare for reintegration into society by teaching skills, offering support, and coordinating with external agencies. Correctional Counselors play a key part in promoting safety and rehabilitation within the correctional system.

Is being a correctional counselor hard?

Correctional counselors often face challenging environments, working with offenders in secure facilities and managing complex behavioral issues. The job requires strong communication skills, emotional resilience, and adherence to safety protocols, which can make it demanding but also rewarding for those committed to rehabilitation efforts.

What is the difference between Correctional Counselor vs Probation Officer?

AspectCorrectional CounselorProbation Officer
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in criminal justice, psychology, or social work; licensure may be preferredRequires a bachelor's degree in criminal justice, social work, or related field; some positions may require certification
Work EnvironmentWorks within correctional facilities, prisons, or detention centersWorks in community settings, courts, or probation offices
Employer & IndustryEmployers include correctional institutions, detention centers, and prisonsEmployers include courts, probation departments, and community agencies

Correctional Counselors and Probation Officers both work within the criminal justice system and require similar educational backgrounds. Correctional Counselors focus on inmates within correctional facilities, providing counseling and rehabilitation services. Probation Officers supervise offenders in the community, ensuring compliance with court orders. While their roles differ in setting and specific duties, both professions aim to reduce recidivism and support offender rehabilitation.

How do you become a correctional counselor?

To become a correctional counselor, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in criminal justice, psychology, social work, or a related field. Relevant experience, such as internships or work in social services, and strong communication and interpersonal skills are also important; some positions may require certification or licensing depending on the jurisdiction.
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Correctional Counselor jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Correctional Counselor job openings:
Psychiatric Technician (per diem)

$30 - $36/hr

Other

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Psychiatric Technicians are encouraged to consider per diem work with Liberty Healthcare’s forensic mental health program in Riverside County.

This program provides high quality psychiatric services to adults who are justice-involved and experiencing mental illness.

Services are provided onsite at the Robert Presley Detention Center in Riverside and the Larry D. Smith Correctional Facility in Banning, CA.

As a Psych Tech with Liberty, your responsibilities will include:

  • Providing care to patients in-person within the jail
  • Providing health education and basic counseling services
  • Documenting health status and treatment progress
  • Participating in clinical team meetings
  • Collaborating with psychiatrists, licensed clinicians, and security staff
  • Helping to ensure program clients receive high quality mental health services

You can expect starting pay between $30.00 and $36.00 per hour, depending on qualifications.