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Counselor Assistant Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Counselor I/II

Pomona, CA · On-site

$24 - $29.05/hr

Identify, report and assist with the management of emergencies. • Take and record accurate vital ... Counselor I Competencies and Performance Expectations All Counselor I's are expected to: • ...

Counselor I

Pomona, CA · On-site

$24 - $26.40/hr

Identify, report, and assist with the management of emergencies. * Participate in safety ... Counselor I Competencies and Performance Expectations: * Ability to complete the above major tasks ...

Counselor I

Pomona, CA · On-site

$24 - $26.40/hr

Identify, report, and assist with the management of emergencies. * Participate in safety ... Counselor I Competencies and Performance Expectations: * Ability to complete the above major tasks ...

Substance Abuse Counselor

Orange, CA · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

Level of Supervision Given Substance Abuse Counselor I Does not supervise others Substance Abuse Counselor II May assist in orienting, training, assigning and reviewing work of other. Substance Abuse ...

Substance Abuse Counselor

Orange, CA · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

Level of Supervision Given Substance Abuse Counselor I Does not supervise others Substance Abuse Counselor II May assist in orienting, training, assigning and reviewing work of other. Substance Abuse ...

Substance Abuse Counselor

Orange, CA · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

Level of Supervision Given Substance Abuse Counselor I Does not supervise others Substance Abuse Counselor II May assist in orienting, training, assigning and reviewing work of other. Substance Abuse ...

Showing results 41-60

Counselor Assistant information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$10

$14

$18

How much do counselor assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for counselor assistant in Riverside, CA is $14.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.13 and $17.22 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 Riverside, CA?

The most popular types of Counselor jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Counselor Assistant jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Counselor Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Counselor Assistant job openings in Riverside, CA as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,348 per year, or $14.6 per hour.

Counselor I/II

Pomona, CA • On-site

$24 - $29.05/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

Statement of Purpose
The Counselor I fulfills assigned role as a part of the treatment team, maintaining the well being of clients and integrity of the program.
Major Tasks, Duties and Responsibilities
• Report and record any changes observed in client condition or behavior, including unusual incidents. Identify, report and assist with the management of emergencies.
• Take and record accurate vital signs and perform urinalysis testing. Chart routine information e.g. vital signs, client progress and daily activities.
• Make rounds every 30 minutes for 72 hours on withdrawal management clients, document and record withdrawal symptoms.
• Observe and document client self- administration of medications.
• Administer anti -overdose medications as needed.
• Knowledge of drug and alcohol dependency, mental health, family systems and 12-Step/recovery resources in the community.
• Develop and maintain individualized records of client progress and participation in treatment including admission and discharge, individual, group, family, vocational (both individual and group) literacy training, and other occasions as appropriate.
• Ability to write clear statements, summarizing client's feelings, expressions, resistance and response to their treatment plan; goals and objectives. Includes letters to referral agencies, courts/probation.
• Ability to confront behavioral changes, identify a crisis, and recognize when additional assistance is necessary.
• Ability to recognize personal issues that have an impact on job performance and interactions with clients.
• Ability to demonstrate ethical and professional behavior.
• Ability to convey respect for cultural and lifestyle diversities of clients and staff.
• Ability to prepare for, and facilitate related educational groups.
• Basic knowledge of referrals, both in and out of the BHS treatment system.
• May carry a caseload as needed.
• Working knowledge of the philosophy and approach of the 12-Step model of recovery (AA, CA, NA, Alanon).
• Ability to communicate clearly, with clients, staff, peers, supervisors and non-BHS resources.
• Basic understanding of computer operations; Windows and word processing (MS Word). Ability to readily adapt to the electronic health record information system.
Counselor I Competencies and Performance Expectations
All Counselor I's are expected to:
• Document client intake and treatment progress
• Identify a crisis
• Know and understand withdrawal management
• Recognize the symptoms associated with chemical dependency and detoxification
• Facilitate an educational group
• Liaison with and refer to treatment team, inside and outside agencies
• Assess and report client behavioral changes
• Identify personal boundaries and be able to work as part of the treatment team
• Adhere to professional standards
• Recognize personal biases working within diverse populations
Prerequisite Qualifications
Following are the qualifications required to perform the essential functions of this position. Qualifications may be subject to modification based on the Americans with Disabilities Act. Bilingual abilities may be required within certain BHS programs.
High school diploma or equivalency. Registered and enrolled in a state-recognized chemical dependency counselor certification program or progress towards AOD, with six months' substance abuse experience or Bachelor's and registered with state or nationwide approved credentialing body (i.e. CCAPP, CAADE. Maintain registration thereafter, and to complete certification within the specified time subsequent to registration, will result in loss of employment.
Must have valid California driver's license and liability insurance if driving personal vehicle on BHS business.
Vision, hearing, manual dexterity and eye-hand coordination must be adequate for performance of job duties. Able to sit at desk, use keyboard, write and physically perform other job duties. Able to move about the facility to observe clients and staff.
Statement of Purpose
The Counselor II works as a member of the treatment team, coordinating program services, and maintaining the well-being of clients and the integrity of the program.
Major Tasks, Duties and Responsibilities
• Thorough knowledge of drug and alcohol dependency, mental health, family systems and
12-Step/recovery resources in the community.
• Develop and maintain individualized records of client progress and participation in treatment including admission and discharge, individual, group, family, vocational (both individual and group) literacy training and other occasions as appropriate.
• Ability to write clear statements, summarizing client's feelings, expressions, resistance and response to their treatment plan; goals and objectives. Includes letters to referral agencies, courts/probation.
• Ability to confront behavioral changes, identifies a crisis, and recognize when additional assistance is necessary.
• Ability to recognize personal issues that have an impact on job performance and interactions with clients.
• Ability to demonstrate ethical and professional behavior.
• Ability to convey respect for cultural and lifestyle diversities of clients and staff.
• Ability to prepare for, and facilitate related process and educational groups.
• Knowledge of referrals, both in and out of the BHS treatment system.
• Knowledge of the philosophy and approach of the 12-Step model of recovery (AA, CA, NA, Alanon).
• Ability to communicate clearly, with clients, staff, peers, supervisors and non-BHS resources.
• Knowledge of computer operations; Windows and word processing (MS Word). Ability to readily adapt to the Caminar information system.
Counselor II Competencies and Performance Expectations
All Counselor II's are expected to meet the requirements of Counselor I and in addition are expected to:
• Admit, orient, and discharge clients
• Facilitate group process
• Conduct assessments
• Formulate treatment plans
• Intervene in crisis situations
• Adhere to professional boundaries
• Maintain client records
Prerequisite Qualifications
Following are the qualifications required to perform the essential functions of this position. Qualifications may be subject to modification based on the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Bilingual abilities may be required within certain BHS programs.
High school diploma or equivalency. Required current certification number issued from a statewide or nationwide credentialing body (i.e. CCAPP) received upon completion of passing the California Certification exam. Two years supervised experience working in substance abuse and/or a related field. Failure to maintain certification will result in result in loss of employment.
Must have valid California driver's license and liability insurance if driving personal vehicle on BHS business.
Vision, hearing, manual dexterity and eye-hand coordination must be adequate for performance of job duties. Able to sit at desk, use keyboard, write and physically perform other job duties. Able to move about the facility to observe clients and staff.