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Counseling Assistant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Trinityhealth

Assistant Counsel

Des Moines, IA · On-site

Provides legal counsel to System Office and/or assigned Ministries and their operating entities or Service Area with respect to matters either in the particular field of law where the attorney has ...

Trinity Health

Assistant Counsel

Des Moines, IA · On-site

Provides legal counsel to System Office and/or assigned Ministries and their operating entities or Service Area with respect to matters either in the particular field of law where the attorney has ...

Trinity Health

Assistant Counsel

Des Moines, IA

Provides legal counsel to System Office and/or assigned Ministries and their operating entities or Service Area with respect to matters either in the particular field of law where the attorney has ...

Lynn University

$37K - $48K/yr

... * Assist in ensuring completion of loan entrance and exit counseling requirements * Attend/present at Preview Days, Admitted Student Experience (ASE) and other on-campus activities * Participate in ...

Central College

Counselor (Part-Time)

Pella, IA · On-site

Participate in Counseling Center meetings and case consultation. Other Responsibilities Participate in required trainings and professional development. Assist with Counseling Center operations as ...

Central College

Counselor (Part-Time)

Pella, IA · On-site

Other Responsibilities · Participate in required trainings and professional development. · Assist with Counseling Center operations as assigned. · Perform other duties as assigned. Central College ...

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Counseling Assistant information

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How much do counseling assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for counseling assistant in Iowa is $20.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.00 and $23.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a counseling assistant?

Counseling Assistants are professionals who support licensed counselors, therapists, or psychologists by performing administrative tasks, assisting with client intake, and maintaining records. They may also help facilitate communication between clients and counselors, schedule appointments, and provide basic information about counseling services. While they do not typically provide therapy themselves, their role is crucial in ensuring the smooth operation of counseling offices and supporting client needs. Counseling Assistants often work in schools, mental health clinics, hospitals, or private practices. Their responsibilities may also include handling confidential information and ensuring a welcoming environment for clients.

What does a counseling assistant do?

Counseling Assistants play a crucial role in supporting licensed counselors by handling administrative tasks such as scheduling appointments, maintaining confidential records, and preparing materials for sessions. They may also assist in gathering client information, monitoring session progress, and following up with clients to ensure continuity of care. While they do not provide direct counseling, their organizational support helps counselors focus on client needs. Effective communication and collaboration with the counseling team are essential for ensuring clients receive timely and coordinated support.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a counseling assistant?

To thrive as a Counseling Assistant, you generally need a background in psychology or social work, strong interpersonal skills, and at least an associate degree or relevant certification. Familiarity with client management software, scheduling tools, and basic office systems is typically required. Active listening, empathy, and strong organizational skills help Counseling Assistants build rapport with clients and support counselors effectively. These abilities are crucial for maintaining a supportive environment, managing sensitive information, and ensuring smooth counseling operations.

What is the difference between Counseling Assistant vs Mental Health Technician?

AspectCounseling AssistantMental Health Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or associate degree; some roles may require certificationHigh school diploma; certification may be preferred
Work EnvironmentClinics, schools, outpatient facilitiesHospitals, mental health facilities, residential programs
Employer & Industry UsageHealthcare providers, mental health clinics, educational institutionsHospitals, psychiatric units, community mental health centers
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles, qualifications, and responsibilitiesSimilar support roles in mental health settings

Both Counseling Assistants and Mental Health Technicians support mental health services, but Counseling Assistants typically work in outpatient or educational settings with less direct patient care, while Mental Health Technicians often work in inpatient or hospital environments providing more hands-on support. The roles overlap in credentials and work environment, making them common points of comparison for those exploring careers in mental health support.

Do you need a degree to be a counseling assistant?

A counseling assistant typically does not require a college degree, but some employers prefer candidates with a high school diploma or equivalent. Relevant skills such as communication, organization, and basic knowledge of mental health practices are important, and certifications in mental health support can be beneficial. Requirements vary by employer and location.

What field of counseling assistant pays the most?

Counseling assistants working in specialized fields such as mental health, substance abuse, or rehabilitation tend to earn higher salaries due to the complexity and demand of these areas. Those with additional certifications or experience in clinical settings can also command higher pay. Overall, counseling assistants in healthcare or clinical environments generally have higher earning potential than those in educational or community settings.

What are the most commonly searched types of Counseling jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Counseling jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Counseling Assistant jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Counseling Assistant job openings:

Counseling Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Counseling Assistant job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,751 per year, or $20.1 per hour.

Assistant/Associate Counsel

Iowa City, IA • On-site

The University Of Iowa
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 10K+ employees

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 85 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

462nd of 622 rated colleges and universities

People enjoy working here

Recommended by students

Respectful managers

Learn more about The University Of Iowaexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

UI Health Care's law department has a new opportunity for an assistant/associate counsel to join their legal team.  The attorney will report to the chief legal counsel for UI Health Care and be responsible for providing legal advice in a fast-paced environment in support of the operations of UIHC and its affiliated entities as part of a collaborative team.

Position responsibilities:

  • Provide counsel to administration and clinical staff regarding federal and state laws affecting the cinical and business operations of UI Health Care and its affiliates, such as the Stark Law, Anti-Kickback Statute, Civil Monetary Penalties Law, the HIPAA Privacy Rule, the HIPAA security Rule, tax-exemption, antitrust, EMTALA, and Affordable Care Act.

  • Draft, review, and negotiate contracts and other legal documents, including documents for complex transactions or joint ventures with providers, third-party payors, or vendors, incorporating state and federal health care regulatory requirements, in particular the Stark Law, the Anti-Kickback Statue, antitrust, and tax-exemption requirements.

  • Advise on delivery of care issues including informed consent, privacy, scope of practice, licensure, disclosures to law enforcement, patients' rights, and medical staff, and peer review issues.

  • Develop, review, and revise policies and procedures for business and clinical functions.

  • Investigate and gather evidence, including employee interviews, on all events that may lead to hospital/physician/employee liability, including: medical malpractice cases, lost property, personal liability, criminal activities, employment practice issues, etc.

  • Develop and conduct training programs for UI Health Care staff and administrators on such issues as employment law, IRS regulations, medical legal issues, etc.

  • Investigate and prepare materials in conjunction with the Iowa Attorney General's office for potential or actual litigation.

  • Investigate and prepare materials in conjunction with outside legal counsel for potential or actual litigation.

  • Regularly collaborate and coordinate with other members of the Office of the General Counsel, including attorneys, paralegals, risk managers, and contract administrators.

  • May provide functional supervision over staff while researching, investigating and preparing legal responsibilities.

  • Possess a high-level functional understanding of the day-to-day operations of a complex health system.

  • Collaborate with clinical and administrative leadership within the organization in furtherance of the organization's mission.

  • Coordinate, supervise, and provide direction to outside legal counsel for complex transactions and investigations related to the day-to-day operations of a multi-campus health system (e.g., acquisitions, divestitures, investigations, responding to government investigations or inquiries, etc.).

  • Leverage and use artificial intelligence applications in the delivery of legal services in a compliant and ethical manner.

  • Other duties as assigned.

Required:

  • Possession of a Juris Doctorate or equivalent degree in Law from an accredited law school.

  • Admission in good standing to the State Bar of Iowa or eligibility for immediate admission.

  • 3-5 years of experience practicing law in a complex medical/healthcare environment to be classified as Assistant/Associate Counsel

  • Knowledge of state and federal laws and regulations relating to health care and business (medical licensing, malpractice, employment, etc.)

  • Strong interpersonal skills

  • Strong oral and written communication, including preparation and delivery of presentations to all levels of the organization.

  • Demonstrated experience working effectively in a welcoming and respectful workplace environment.

Desired:

  • Experience practicing law for clients in a complex medical/healthcare environment

  • Experience with complex transactions or joint ventures with providers, third-party payors, or vendors.

  • Experience with the state and federal health care regulatory requirements, in particular Stark Law, the Anti-Kickback Statue, antitrust, tax-exemption, federal and state privacy laws, and the Affordable Care Act.

  • Experience analyzing and supporting health system clinical risk departments, clinical leaders, and administrative leaders to foster safe, legally compliant, and patient-centered care across the organization in furtherance of the organizational mission.

  • Experience evaluating and advising on hospital compliance with applicable state and federal laws and regulations.

  • Experience reviewing, drafting, and negotiating a broad range of contracts on behalf of a health system.

  • Experience working with public entities, academic medical centers, and tax-exempt organizations.

Application Process: To be considered, applicants must upload a cover letter and resume (under the submission of relevant materials) that clearly address how they meet the listed required and desired qualifications of this position. Job openings are posted for a minimum of 7 calendar days. Successful candidates will be required to self-disclose any conviction history and will be subject to a criminal background check and credential/education verification.

  •  Up to 5 professional references will be requested at a later step in the recruitment process. For questions, contact Sharon Walther at sharon-walther@uiowa.edu.

This position is not eligible for University sponsorship for employment authorization now or in the future.

Additional Information
  • Classification Title: Assistant/Associate Counsel
  • Appointment Type: Professional and Scientific
  • Schedule: Full-time
Compensation
  • Pay Level: 5B
Contact Information
  • Organization: Healthcare
  • Contact Name: Sharon Walther
  • Contact Email: sharon-walther@uiowa.edu

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