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Counselor Assistant Jobs in Cleveland, OH (NOW HIRING)

Chemical Dependency Counselor

Amherst, OH ยท On-site

$17.50 - $24/hr

Counselor conducts individual sessions and group sessions to assist with crisis management and coping strategies. Counselor will evaluate patients' progress during counseling and collaborate with ...

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Counselor Assistant information

See Cleveland, OH salary details

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How much do counselor assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of May 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for counselor assistant in Cleveland, OH is $13.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.24 and $15.96 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 Counselor Assistants?

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 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Counselor jobs in Cleveland, OH? The most popular types of Counselor jobs in Cleveland, OH are:
What cities near Cleveland, OH are hiring for Counselor Assistant jobs? Cities near Cleveland, OH with the most Counselor Assistant job openings:

Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistant (CDCA)

Dove Recovery

Cleveland, OH โ€ข On-site

$19.50 - $26.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistant (CDCA)
Department: Clinical Services
Reports To: Clinical Director / Licensed Supervisor
Employment Type: Full-Time
Location: Outpatient / PHP / IOP Treatment Center

Position Summary
The Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistant (CDCA) supports the delivery of substance use disorder treatment services under the supervision of a licensed clinical professional. The CDCA plays a critical role in client engagement, group facilitation, documentation, care coordination, and maintaining compliance with OhioMHAS and payer requirements.
This position requires professionalism, strong boundaries, timely documentation, and a client-centered approach aligned with recovery-oriented care.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities
Clinical & Client Care
  • Facilitate psychoeducational and therapeutic group sessions appropriate to scope of CDCA practice
  • Assist with individual sessions, treatment planning, and progress reviews under supervision
  • Support client engagement, attendance, and participation in programming
  • Observe and document client behaviors, progress, and barriers to treatment
  • Assist with crisis de-escalation and behavioral interventions as needed
  • Coordinate with case managers, housing staff, and medical providers as appropriate
Documentation & Compliance
  • Complete timely, accurate, and compliant clinical documentation in the EMR
  • Ensure documentation supports medical necessity and level-of-care requirements
  • Follow OhioMHAS, Medicaid, and payer documentation standards
  • Maintain confidentiality and HIPAA compliance at all times
  • Participate in chart audits and corrective action as directed
Team & Program Support
  • Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings, staffing, and supervision
  • Communicate professionally with supervisors and clinical leadership
  • Support program structure, schedules, and group flow
  • Assist with admissions, discharges, and transitions of care when assigned
  • Uphold center policies, procedures, and professional standards

Required Qualifications
  • Active CDCA certification through the Ohio Chemical Dependency Professionals Board (OCDPB)
  • Minimum of 2 years of relevant experience in behavioral health, substance use disorder treatment, or a related field.
  • Experience utilizing ASAM criteria for client assessment, placement, and level of care determination.
  • Demonstrated ability to develop and maintain individualized treatment plans and complete accurate, timely clinical documentation.
  • Knowledge of and experience applying de-escalation techniques to safely manage challenging client situations while maintaining a therapeutic environment.
  • High school diploma or GED
  • Ability to work under clinical supervision and within defined scope of practice
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Basic computer skills and EMR experience preferred
  • Ability to maintain professional boundaries and ethical standards

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience in outpatient, IOP, PHP, or residential SUD treatment
  • Familiarity with OhioMHAS, Medicaid, and managed care requirements
  • Group facilitation experience
  • Trauma-informed care experience
  • Prior experience with co-occurring disorders

Core Competencies
  • Client-centered and recovery-oriented mindset
  • Time management and documentation discipline
  • Professionalism and reliability
  • Emotional intelligence and de-escalation skills
  • Team collaboration and accountability

Physical & Work Requirements
  • Ability to sit, stand, and facilitate groups for extended periods
  • Ability to manage a fast-paced clinical environment
  • May require evening hours based on program needs

Supervision
This position is clinically supervised by a licensed professional in accordance with OCDPB and OhioMHAS regulations.

Equal Opportunity Statement
Dove and Robin Recovery is an equal opportunity employer committed to providing a diverse, inclusive, and supportive work environment.
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