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Counselor Assistant Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

City of Charlottesville

Youth Counselor

Charlottesville, VA · On-site

$57K - $69K/yr

General Summary The Youth Counselor Assistant position within the Department of Human Services provides responsible direct services to children and/or families including individual, group, and family ...

Acadia Healthcare

Counselor

Chantilly, VA · On-site

Provide treatment and support to assist patients in their recovery from substance use, eating ... Conduct individual, group or family counseling sessions as scheduled and document as required.

Acadia Healthcare

Counselor

Chantilly, VA

Provide treatment and support to assist patients in their recovery from substance use, eating ... Conduct individual, group or family counseling sessions as scheduled and document as required.

Cherry Bekaert

Legal Assistant

Mclean, VA · On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

Support legal research activities and coordinate with vendors, experts, and opposing counsel * Assist with trial preparation, including briefs and supporting materials * Organize and maintain ...

Salem City Schools

Substance Abuse Specialist

Salem, VA · On-site

$28.12 - $43/hr

Certified Substance Abuse Counselor (CSAC) or Certified Substance Abuse Counselor Assistant (CSAC-A) or certificate eligible is preferred, but not required. March 2024 SALEM CITY SCHOOLS IS AN EQUAL ...

Catholic Diocese of Richmond

Counselor

Richmond, VA · On-site

The Counselor will assist students with creating an academic path for their education and help with the high school application process. Requirements All candidates must have a degree and be ...

Summit BHC

Counselor

Chester, VA · On-site

The Counselor Two provides treatment, counseling, and support to assist clients in their recovery from addictions, such as alcoholism, drug addiction, or mental health disorders, assists with ...

Hampton University

Assistant General Counsel

Hampton, VA · On-site

$125K - $140K/yr

Trustees/General Counsel Opening Date: 07/21/2026 Description The Assistant General Counsel will report directly to the Vice President and General Counsel and will assist the General Counsel in ...

tsa

Counselor

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

Plans, coordinates, and/or facilitates life management classes to assist clients in obtaining ... Maintains current knowledge of counseling alcohol and drug rehabilitation techniques through ...

tsa

Counselor

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

Plans, coordinates, and/or facilitates life management classes to assist clients in obtaining ... Maintains current knowledge of counseling alcohol and drug rehabilitation techniques through ...

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All JobsCounselor JobsCounselor Assistant JobsCounselor Assistant Jobs in Virginia

Counselor Assistant information

See Virginia salary details

$10

$14

$18

How much do counselor assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for counselor assistant in Virginia is $14.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.69 and $16.60 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a counselor assistant?

Counselor Assistants are professionals who support licensed counselors, therapists, or psychologists in providing care to clients. Their duties often include administrative tasks, maintaining client records, assisting with group sessions, and helping clients with resources or information. They may work in schools, rehabilitation centers, mental health clinics, or social service agencies. While they do not typically provide therapy themselves, they play a vital role in supporting the overall counseling process and ensuring clients receive the help they need.

What are some common challenges counselor assistants face when supporting clients in a therapeutic setting?

Counselor Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing emotionally charged situations, maintaining professional boundaries, and supporting clients with diverse backgrounds and complex needs. They must balance empathy with objectivity while adhering to confidentiality and ethical guidelines. Regular collaboration with licensed counselors and participation in team meetings can help address these challenges and support ongoing professional development.

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

To thrive as a Counselor Assistant, you typically need foundational knowledge of counseling practices, confidentiality protocols, and a relevant associate degree or certification. Familiarity with case management software, documentation systems, and scheduling tools is often required. Strong interpersonal skills, active listening, and empathy help build rapport with clients and support the lead counselor effectively. These skills and qualifications ensure client trust, accurate record-keeping, and efficient support within counseling environments.

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

AspectCounselor AssistantMental Health Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certificationHigh school diploma; certification may be preferred
Work EnvironmentClinics, schools, community centersHospitals, mental health facilities, residential programs
Employer & Industry UsageBehavioral health agencies, schools, outpatient clinicsHospitals, psychiatric units, residential treatment centers
Common Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

Both Counselor Assistants and Mental Health Technicians support mental health services, often working in similar environments. Counselor Assistants typically focus on administrative support and client engagement, while Mental Health Technicians are more involved in direct patient care and monitoring. Understanding these differences can help job seekers identify roles that match their skills and career goals.

Do you need a degree to be a counselor assistant?

A counselor assistant typically does not need a college degree, but relevant experience, certifications, or training in mental health or social services can be beneficial. Requirements vary by employer and state regulations, with some positions emphasizing skills and experience over formal education.

What are the most commonly searched types of Counselor jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Counselor jobs in Virginia are:

What are popular job titles related to Counselor Assistant jobs in Virginia?

For Counselor Assistant jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Counselor Assistant jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Counselor Assistant jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Counselor Assistant jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Counselor Assistant job openings:

Counselor Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Counselor Assistant job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $29,248 per year, or $14.1 per hour.

Youth Counselor

City of Charlottesville, VA

Charlottesville, VA • On-site

$57K - $69K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Salary : $57,449.60 - $69,180.80 Annually
Location : Community Attention, 907 East Jefferson Street, Charlottesville (22902), VA
Job Type: Regular Full-Time
Job Number: 260800001
Department: Human Services
Division: Community Attention Programs
Opening Date: 08/07/2026
Closing Date: 8/28/2026 5:00 PM Eastern
Bargaining Unit: N/A
General Summary
The Youth Counselor Assistant position within the provides responsible direct services to children and/or families including individual, group, and family counseling, case management, skill-building, activities oversight, and other case or therapeutic services. Work is completed under general supervision and reports to a Human Services Program Supervisor.
The preferred hiring range for this position is between $27.62 - $33.26 an hour ($57,449.60 - $69,180.80 annually). Starting offer is based on applicable education, experience, and internal equity. This full-time, non-exempt position offers a comprehensive benefits package, including 13 paid holidays plus one floating holiday, vacation and sick leave, health insurance with employer contribution, employer-paid life insurance, gym membership reimbursement, tuition assistance, and professional development opportunities. This position is also eligible for the following retirement benefits:
  • Choice of retirement plan:
    • Defined Benefit Pension Plan: Provides a monthly benefit upon retirement, calculated using a defined formula based on earnings history, years of service, and age. The plan includes a 5-year vesting period and requires an employee contribution of 5% of salary.
    • Defined Contribution 401a Plan: Employer makes fixed contributions to an individual account, which are invested, and returns are credited to the account. The account balance is used to provide retirement benefits. Vesting occurs at 33% after one year, 67% after two years, and 100% after three years of service. No salary contribution is required.
  • Voluntary 457 Deferred Compensation Plan
  • Eligibility to purchase prior service credit under the Defined Benefit Plan

The City of Charlottesville manages its own retirement system and does not participate in VRS; however, a Portability Agreement is available for eligible employees. For additional details, please refer to the "Benefits" tab within this posting or visit the City's Employee Benefits webpage.
Essential Responsibilities and Duties
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations will be considered to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The essential functions of the job are not limited to those listed in the job description. The City retains the discretion to add to or change the duties of the position at any time.
  • Creates and/or participates in the coordination of treatment or assessment planning through informal individual counseling as well as crisis intervention in emergency situations.
  • Provides therapeutic structure and provides for the physical and emotional safety of participants while supervising the completion of tasks and activities.
  • Performs case management duties, which may include but is not limited to screening for eligibility and coordination with community partners, families, school staff, probation, and social service agencies.
  • Provides trauma-supportive and appropriately responsive service.
  • Participates in overall program planning, evaluation, and documentation. Maintains case records and prepares reports.
  • May develop and/or facilitate, lead, or co-lead various group meetings and/or recreational and educational activities.
  • Coordinates with other agency staff on treatment observations and information.
  • May testify in court proceedings and makes recommendations to legal authorities.
  • Additional responsibilities depending on assigned functional area:
    • Responsibility for support functions such as equipment maintenance, stocking inventory supplies and oversight of vehicle maintenance.
    • Transporting program participants.
  • Required to respond upon activation from the City Manager of the Continuity of Operations Plan and/or Emergency Operations Plan. Must have the ability to be contacted and respond based on Department guidelines.
  • Responsible for appropriate use and maintenance of City equipment, tools and other resources, including work time.
  • Regular and reliable attendance.
Other Duties
  • May provide on-call coverage and respond to emergency situations.
  • Performs additional duties to support operational requirements as apparent or assigned.

Education, Experience and Skills
Education and Experience: Candidates may qualify by demonstrating the required knowledge and skills outlined for the job through experience(s) other than formal education.
  • Bachelor's degree in any field AND some experience working in a Human Services field.

OR
  • Associate degree AND 2 years of experience working in a Human Services Field.

OR
  • High School Diploma or GED AND 4 years of experience in Human Services Field.

OR
  • An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered in lieu of the specific requirements listed above.
Preferred:
  • Experience in the care and treatment of adolescents.
  • College coursework in behavioral sciences or human services.
  • Directly related experience (case management services) in Virginia within the past 2 years.
Certifications/Licenses/Other Requirements:
  • Must obtain and maintain a valid Virginia Driver's License and acceptable driving record according to City criteria.
  • Required to successfully pass a pre-employment background check and pre-employment drug screen.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and Other Characteristics:
Job Knowledge
  • Knowledge of counseling and social work principles and practices particularly related to adolescent behavior.
  • General knowledge of community services and facilities available for adolescents. Knowledge of crisis intervention and behavior change techniques.
  • Knowledge of human behavior and of the current social, economic and health problems of the community served.
Reading
  • Intermediate: Ability to read, understand, and interpret human services policies and regulations and reference materials.
Writing
  • Intermediate: Ability to organize data and write explanations and summaries such as data for reports and assessments with proper format, punctuation, spelling, and grammar, using all parts of speech.
Math
  • Basic: Ability to perform basic mathematical functions.
Communication Skills
  • Intermediate: Establish and maintain effective working relationships with clients, families, co-workers, managers, and the public. Ability to provide information and guidance that assists others in making decisions; explains issues and concepts with clarity. Interactions may involve stressful, negative situations requiring tact and the ability to diffuse aggressive behavior and reach consensus. Elements of persuasion may be necessary to gain cooperation and understanding.
Independence and Decision-Making
  • Requires General Direction: normally performs the job by following general instructions and established standard operating procedures and/or policies. There is some discretion when making decisions among a few easily identifiable choices.
Technical Skills
  • Skilled: practical knowledge of service programs and requirements. Ability to investigate, research, analyze, and measure information or data. Skilled in interviewing techniques and eliciting information from clients. Skill in the use of Microsoft Office applications and department software.
Fiscal Responsibilities
  • No budgetary or fiscal responsibilities.
Supervisory Responsibilities
  • No responsibility for supervision of others. However, may assist in the training of Youth Counselor Assistants, volunteers, and/or student interns.
Other Characteristics
  • Ability to maintain calm under pressure and a fast-paced environment.
  • Organization and time management skills.
  • Works closely with others as part of a team.
  • Work effectively with sensitive and confidential issues and information.
  • May be required to work weekends, evenings and/or on-call.
  • May require frequent travel to and from community-based locations.
  • May require dealing with angry, frustrated and/or upset individuals.

Physical Conditions & Additional Information
Physical Demands:
  • Light Work: Exerting up to 25 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 10 pounds of force frequently, and/or a negligible amount of force constantly to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects.
  • Must occasionally move about inside the office to access file cabinets, office machinery, etc. Must constantly position self to maintain files in file cabinet.
  • Must be able to communicate information and ideas so others will understand. Must be able to exchange accurate information in these situations
  • Ability to observe details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
Machines, Tools, Equipment, Software and Hardware:
  • Typically requires use of standard office equipment and telephone, and related software and hardware; and any other equipment as appropriate or as assigned.
Work Environment:
  • Work is performed in an office environment where there may be exposure to computer screen for extended periods of time, monitor glare and dust.
  • Work may also occur in client homes, facilities of other agencies and/or court buildings.
  • At times, may be exposed to outdoor weather conditions and temperatures.
  • Work may involve threatening and potentially dangerous settings and disturbing circumstances.
  • The noise level is typically moderate and may be loud depending on the work site.

The City of Charlottesville is an Equal Opportunity Employer and supports workforce diversity at all levels of the organization. The City prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, sex or gender (including pregnancy, childbirth and pregnancy-related conditions), gender identity or expression (including transgender status), sexual orientation, marital status, military service and veteran status, physical or mental disability, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. The City is dedicated to this with respect to recruitment, hiring, placement, promotion, transfer, training, compensation, benefits, employee activities, access to facilities and programs, and general treatment during employment.
Requests for reasonable accommodation by individuals with disabilities may be requested by contacting Human Resources at (434) 970-3490 or
The City of Charlottesville conducts job related background checks, reference checks, and pre-employment drug tests, in accordance with federal, state, and local law, of applicants who reach the final stages of the employment selection process. The City's policy has not changed because of the decriminalization of marijuana in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Marijuana remains an illegal drug under federal law, and it continues to be a violation of the US Department of Transportation regulations and the City's policy prohibiting employees from testing positive for marijuana.
SUMMARY OF EMPLOYEE BENEFITS
Updated February 9, 2026
Benefits cited represent those for regular 40-hour employees and may differ for Management Level, Part-Time, and/or Library positions. Long-term temporary employees are eligible for all benefits except retirement. Interns, temporary, seasonal, substitute, and relief employees are not eligible for benefits.
1. LEAVE:
Vacation: Need some time off? Use it, you earned it:
Years Worked
0 - <3
3 - <5
5 - <10
10 - <15
15 - <20
20 - <25
25+
Hours Accrued Biweekly
3.09
3.85
4.62
5.4
6.16
6.93
7.7
Sick: Under the weather? Earn 4.62 hours biweekly, approximately 120 hours a year, with no limit on accumulation to be used to care for yourself and qualifying family members.
Holidays: Enjoy 13 paid holidays per year. Including 1 Floating Holiday, which must be taken during the Fiscal Year (July 1 - June 30):
OBSERVED CITY HOLIDAYS
New Years Day
Dr. Martin Luther King Day
Presidents' Day
Liberation & Freedom Day
Memorial Day
Juneteenth Day
Independence Day
Labor Day
Veterans Day
Thanksgiving Day
Friday after Thanksgiving
Christmas Eve
Christmas Day
1 Floating Holiday

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