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Counselor Internship Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

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Counselor Internship information

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How much do counselor internship jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for counselor internship in Riverside, CA is $21.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.55 and $24.01 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a counselor internship?

A counselor internship is typically a training position for students studying mental health, clinical psychology, or substance abuse therapy, or recent graduates of such programs. Graduate students who are preparing to enter into practice often need to complete an internship or fellowship as part of their educational requirements. As a counselor intern, your responsibilities include observing licensed practitioners during counseling sessions, learning diagnostic and therapeutic approaches to different mental health issues, and performing administrative duties, such as taking patient histories and completing insurance reimbursement and billing paperwork.

What is a counselor internship?

A counselor internship is a supervised practical experience for students or recent graduates pursuing a career in counseling. It allows interns to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings, develop essential counseling skills, and gain exposure to various client populations. Typically, counselor internships are required as part of graduate programs in counseling and are necessary for licensure. Interns work under the supervision of licensed professionals who provide guidance and feedback throughout the process.

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

To thrive as a Counselor Intern, you typically need foundational knowledge in psychology or counseling, often gained through enrollment in a relevant graduate program. Familiarity with documentation software, intake assessment tools, and adherence to ethical guidelines is important, and some programs may require progress toward state licensure. Strong active listening, empathy, and cultural sensitivity help build trust and rapport with clients. These skills and qualifications are crucial for providing effective support and learning from supervised clinical experiences.

What types of supervision and mentorship can I expect during a counselor internship?

During a Counselor Internship, you will typically work under the close supervision of a licensed counselor or mental health professional. Supervision usually involves regular one-on-one meetings to review your cases, receive feedback, and discuss counseling techniques. Many organizations also offer group supervision or peer discussion sessions to encourage learning from different perspectives. This supportive structure helps interns build confidence, refine their skills, and ensure they are providing ethical and effective care to clients.

What is the difference between Counselor Internship vs Counseling Assistant?

AspectCounselor InternshipCounseling Assistant
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or recent graduate in psychology, social work, or related fieldOften holds a relevant degree or is in training, may require certification
Work EnvironmentInternships are usually in clinics, schools, or community centers, supervised by licensed counselorsAssist in administrative and client support tasks within counseling settings
Employer & Industry UsageUsed as training experience for future counselors, common in mental health and educational sectorsSupport role within counseling agencies, often part of staff training or volunteer programs

In summary, a Counselor Internship is a training position for individuals gaining practical experience in counseling, often with supervision, while a Counseling Assistant typically supports licensed professionals with administrative or client-related tasks. Both roles are essential in the counseling field but differ mainly in responsibilities and experience level.

How hard is it to get a counselor internship?

Securing a counselor internship typically requires relevant coursework, some experience in helping roles, and strong interpersonal skills. Competition can vary depending on the organization and location, but having certifications such as CPR or mental health training can improve chances. Internships often have specific application processes and may require interviews or references.

What do you do in a counselor internship?

A counselor internship involves assisting licensed counselors or mental health professionals by observing client sessions, supporting clients under supervision, and gaining practical experience in counseling techniques. Interns often participate in case discussions, develop communication skills, and may complete required training or certifications during the internship period.

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 job categories do people searching Counselor Internship jobs in Riverside, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Counselor Internship jobs in Riverside, CA are:

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

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

Infographic showing various Counselor Internship job openings in Riverside, CA as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 11% Internship, 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 77% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 21% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,076 per year, or $21.2 per hour.

Full-Time Licensed Mental Health Counselor at Valiant Mind Counseling Center

Irvine, CA • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Dental, Retirement

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Position Overview

Valiant Mind Counseling Center is seeking a dedicated and qualified Full-Time Licensed Mental Health Counselor to join our dynamic team. In this critical role, you will provide compassionate and professional mental health care to a diverse patient population, focusing on the continuity and coordination of care while ensuring the highest standards of therapeutic support. If you are passionate about making a positive impact on individuals’ mental health and well-being, we encourage you to apply.

About the Organization

Valiant Mind Counseling Center is committed to delivering outstanding mental health care within the Irvine, California community. Our mission is to empower individuals and families through comprehensive mental health services that address psychological, emotional, and social challenges. We pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment for both our staff and clients, making a real difference in the lives of those we serve.

Work Environment

This position offers a fully remote work setting with an outpatient focus, allowing you to deliver vital mental health services from the comfort of your home while maintaining necessary connections with your clients. You will work closely with healthcare professionals to ensure a comprehensive approach to patient care. Flexibility is key, with the ability to set your own hours within a 40-hour work week, primarily Monday through Friday, along with occasional weekend hours as needed.

Key Responsibilities
  • Conduct comprehensive mental health evaluations to assess patient needs and develop individualized treatment plans.
  • Provide crisis intervention services and ongoing assessments to ensure effective management of care.
  • Coordinate and determine the appropriate disposition of patients, facilitating efficient access to necessary mental health resources.
  • Lead group treatment sessions within mental health observation units and other settings, creating a supportive therapeutic environment.
  • Collaborate with various departments, including the Department of Corrections, to ensure coordinated care, proper housing, and required treatment disposition for patients.
  • Document all client interactions and treatment plans accurately and in a timely manner as part of compliance with regulatory standards.
  • Engage in weekly clinical supervision sessions to enhance professional development and ensure adherence to best practices.
  • Participate actively in mental health and medical rounds, case conferences, and treatment planning discussions with multidisciplinary teams.
  • Occasionally conduct psychological testing and supervise social work interns or student volunteers to enrich their learning experience.
Patient Population / Client Focus

Our target client population includes individuals from varied backgrounds facing mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and substance abuse. You will have the opportunity to make profound connections and influence their recovery journeys by tailoring your therapeutic approaches based on each client’s unique circumstances and needs.

Qualifications
  • A Master’s degree in Social Work, Psychology, Marriage and Family Therapy, or Mental Health Counseling from an accredited institution is required.
  • Valid State license as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC), or Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) is also required, along with the ability to obtain or maintain this licensure.
Preferred Experience
  • Previous experience in providing mental health counseling, particularly in outpatient or community settings, is highly desirable.
  • Familiarity with evidence-based therapy modalities, including CBT, DBT, and trauma-informed care.
  • Demonstrated ability to function effectively within multidisciplinary teams to enhance collaborative patient care.
Compensation and Benefits

The compensation for this position ranges from USD 115,000 to 130,000 annually, commensurate with experience and qualifications. Valiant Mind Counseling Center offers comprehensive benefits including a flexible work schedule, a 401(k) plan with matching contributions, dental insurance, disability insurance, and an employee assistance program designed to support your personal and professional well-being.

Career Growth Opportunities

At Valiant Mind Counseling Center, we value our staff and are dedicated to promoting professional development. You will have numerous opportunities for training, mentorship, and advancement. As you grow your skill set and expertise, you may pursue leadership roles or specialties within the field of mental health counseling.

Why Join Our Team

Joining the Valiant Mind Counseling Center means becoming part of a compassionate, dedicated team that prioritizes mental health excellence. You will have a meaningful role in improving the lives of individuals and families, ensuring they receive the support necessary for meaningful recovery and growth, all while enjoying the benefits of a supportive work environment that respects flexibility and innovation.

Application Information

We invite you to apply for this rewarding position by submitting your resume, cover letter, and any relevant licensure documentation. If you are ready to make a difference in the mental health landscape of California and take on a fulfilling challenge, we look forward to hearing from you!