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Counselor In Training Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Vocational Counselor

Flint, MI · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

In a variety of locations and community-based settings, we offer a range of programs, including ... Provide 1:1 and group-based Job Readiness and Soft Skills training, including resume development ...

The City complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in ... training. The City expressly prohibits any form of unlawful employee harassment based on race ...

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Counselor In Training information

See Michigan salary details

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How much do counselor in training jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for counselor in training in Michigan is $20.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.97 and $22.84 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Counselor In Training vs Camp Counselor?

AspectCounselor In TrainingCamp Counselor
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some camps may prefer previous experienceHigh school diploma; experience in youth activities often preferred
Work EnvironmentPart of training programs, assisting counselors, learning supervision skillsDirectly supervising campers, leading activities, ensuring safety
Employer & Industry UsageSummer camps, youth programs, community centersSummer camps, recreational facilities, youth organizations
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level roles, training opportunitiesJob responsibilities, experience requirements

In summary, a Counselor In Training is an entry-level position focused on learning and assisting, often as part of a training program, while a Camp Counselor is responsible for directly supervising and engaging with campers. The CIT role is ideal for gaining experience before becoming a full counselor.

What responsibilities can a Counselor In Training (CIT) expect to have during a typical day at camp?

As a Counselor In Training, you will assist experienced counselors with daily camp activities, help supervise campers, and support the set-up and clean-up of events. CITs often help facilitate games, crafts, and group discussions, while learning to manage group dynamics and address minor issues among campers. This role provides hands-on experience in leadership and teamwork, offering opportunities to observe and gradually take on more responsibility as you gain confidence. You’ll also receive feedback and guidance from senior staff, making it an excellent stepping stone toward becoming a full counselor in the future.

What field of counseling makes the most money?

In counseling, clinical psychologists and psychiatrists tend to earn the highest salaries, often due to advanced degrees and licensure requirements. These roles typically involve diagnosing and treating mental health conditions and may require specialized training and certification. Other high-paying counseling fields include substance abuse counselors with advanced credentials and school psychologists in certain regions, but overall, clinical and psychiatric roles lead in income.

How do I become a counselor in training?

To become a counselor in training, individuals typically need to be at least 16 or 18 years old, depending on the program, and often must complete a background check and training sessions. Many programs require a high school diploma or equivalent and may include coursework in counseling, psychology, or related fields, along with supervised practical experience.

Do YMCA counselors in training get paid?

YMCA Counselors in Training (CITs) are typically unpaid or receive a stipend rather than a salary, as the program is designed to provide training and experience for future staff. Some programs may offer small stipends or incentives, but payment is not standard across all YMCA CIT programs. Participants usually gain skills and certifications while volunteering or working part-time during the summer or school year.

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

To thrive as a Counselor In Training, you need a foundational understanding of counseling principles, active listening, and a desire to help others, often supported by enrollment in a relevant academic program. Familiarity with basic counseling tools, note-taking systems, and sometimes introductory training modules or certifications are typical. Strong interpersonal skills, empathy, openness to feedback, and the ability to build rapport make individuals stand out in this role. These skills are crucial for developing trust, learning effective counseling techniques, and supporting both clients and experienced counselors in a professional setting.

What are Counselor In Training (CIT) positions?

Counselor In Training (CIT) positions are programs designed for teens or young adults who want to develop leadership and counseling skills, often in a camp or youth program setting. CITs assist experienced counselors with daily activities, learn how to supervise younger campers, and receive training in areas like communication, teamwork, and conflict resolution. These programs are intended to prepare participants for future roles as full counselors, providing both hands-on experience and structured learning opportunities.

What does a counselor in training do?

A counselor in training assists professional counselors by supporting clients, facilitating activities, and observing counseling sessions to gain experience. They often work in settings like camps, schools, or community programs and may need to complete relevant training or certifications. Their role focuses on developing counseling skills under supervision to prepare for a full counseling position.
What are popular job titles related to Counselor In Training jobs in Michigan? For Counselor In Training jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Counselor In Training jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Counselor In Training job openings:
Infographic showing various Counselor In Training job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,544 per year, or $20.5 per hour.
Substance Abuse Counselor

Substance Abuse Counselor

Eastside Outpatient Services

Muskegon, MI • On-site

$20 - $27/hr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

Salary:

Eastside Outpatient Services, an outpatient substance abuse treatment center, has an immediate opening for a full-time Substance Abuse Counselor. This position provides individual and group counseling services to patients of the program in accordance with licensing requirements and clinic guidelines.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Provides individual and group counseling, and discharge planning as appropriately required;
  • Provides pre-screening, assessment and substance abuse diagnosis utilizing DSM-V criteria that drives the course of treatment planning;
  • Knowledgeable of DSM-V and ASAM Placement Criteria related to substance abuse disorders;
  • Prepares patient treatment plans and reviews goals & objectives identified in the treatment plan within designated time frames and in accordance with clients needs;
  • Treats all patients similarly, generally able to individualize counseling strategies to meet the unique characteristics of the patient;
  • Compiles reports and maintains progress notes in an accurate and timely manner in accordance with regulations;
  • Participates in weekly staff meetings and case conferences;
  • Attends workshops, conferences, online training and staff development training, seminars on current practices as directed by Supervisor to acquire continuing education in the appropriate field;
  • Maintains cooperative relationships with all referral sources and community resources;
  • Participates in collaborative community efforts;
  • Aware of and follows federal and state laws and agency guidelines regarding the confidentiality of client records;
  • Undertakes related duties as assigned;

EDUCATION/TRAINING:

  • Bachelors degree required; Masters degree preferred.
  • All Counselors are required to achieve and maintain their CADC, or CAADC certification during their employment. If a Counselor does not have the CADC/CAADC certification at the time of hire, he/she will be required to submit a developmental plan to Michigan Certification Board of Addiction Professional (MCBAP) within the first 10 business days of their employment. Failure to achieve and or maintain the MCBAP certification may result in the separation of employment.
  • Knowledge and ability to use computer and software, including Microsoft Office and database management.

CHARACTERISTICS/EXPERIENCE REQUIRED:

  • Knowledge of screening/assessment instruments.
  • Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and written.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Creative problem solver with ability to suggest ways to enhance program.
  • Ability to plan, organize, set objectives, time frames and prioritize.
  • Demonstrate experience in addiction and needs identification.