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Counselor Trainee Jobs in Alaska (NOW HIRING)

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Counselor Trainee information

See Alaska salary details

$13

$25

$37

How much do counselor trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for counselor trainee in Alaska is $25.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.96 and $28.22 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a counselor trainee?

Counselor trainees are individuals who are in the process of completing their education and supervised experience required to become licensed counselors. They typically work under the supervision of a licensed professional, such as a licensed professional counselor (LPC), as part of their graduate training or internship. Counselor trainees provide counseling services to clients while developing their skills, gaining practical experience, and fulfilling licensure requirements. Their work is closely monitored to ensure ethical and effective practice. This role is essential for bridging the gap between academic learning and independent professional practice.

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

To thrive as a Counselor Trainee, you need a foundational understanding of counseling theories, basic assessment techniques, and often enrollment in or completion of a relevant graduate program. Familiarity with case management systems, documentation software, and supervision protocols is typically required. Active listening, empathy, and self-awareness are crucial soft skills for building trust and rapport with clients. These skills and qualifications are essential for delivering ethical, effective support while developing professional competence under supervision.

What kind of supervision and support can counselor trainees expect during their training period?

Counselor Trainees typically work under the close supervision of licensed counselors or clinical supervisors who provide regular feedback and guidance. Supervision often includes weekly meetings to discuss client cases, review counseling techniques, and address any challenges that arise. This supportive environment helps trainees develop their professional skills, navigate ethical dilemmas, and build confidence in their counseling abilities. Additionally, trainees usually have access to peer support groups and ongoing training workshops, fostering both learning and professional growth.

How much does a counselor trainee make?

A counselor trainee typically earns between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on the location, organization, and level of education. The position often serves as an entry-level role requiring relevant coursework or certification, with pay increasing as experience and responsibilities grow.

How to become a trainee counselor?

To become a trainee counselor, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by enrolling in a relevant training program or obtaining a related degree such as psychology, social work, or counseling. Gaining practical experience through internships or supervised practice is also important, and some regions may require certification or licensing to advance in counseling roles.

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

The most popular types of Counselor jobs in Alaska are:

What cities in Alaska are hiring for Counselor Trainee jobs?

Cities in Alaska with the most Counselor Trainee job openings:

Infographic showing various Counselor Trainee job openings in Alaska as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,567 per year, or $25.3 per hour.

Relief Chemical Dependency Counselor Trainee / I / II / S

Holland America-Princess (Holland America Dawson City Inn)

Kotzebue, AK โ€ข On-site

$56 - $80/hr

Other

Posted 3 days ago

New


Key responsibilities

  • Provides assessment, evaluation, counseling, treatment planning, referral, and behavioral health services for individuals and/or groups with addiction and behavioral health problems.

  • Develops, maintains, and records individualized client treatment plans, progress notes, discharge summaries, and demographic information.

  • Facilitates rehab service groups focused on skills and recovery.


Job description

Maniilaq Association isa P.L. 93-638 Native/Indian Preference/EEO Employer


Relief Chemical Dependency Counselor Trainee / I / II / S


Job Code:


2026:OTZ-138


Location:


Kotzebue, Alaska


Program:


Counseling & Recovery Center


FT/PT Status:


Relief


Job Responsibilities:


Maniilaq Association


3/25


Title:Chemical Dependency Counselor Trainee / I / II / S Range:


14+9/15/+2/+4


Program:Counseling and Recovery Center Status: Non-Exempt


Housing Priority: None BCP: Yes


POSITION SUMMARY

Responsible for providing assessment, evaluation, education, counseling, treatment planning, referral, and Behavioral Health Services for individuals and/or groups who require services due to addiction and behavioral health problems. Provides support to Behavioral Health Aides and other members of the Counseling and Recovery Center staff. Reports directly to the Substance Treatment Supervisor or designee. Direct client contact hours are hours spent directly with clients related to substance education, treatment and/or outreach.


PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Provides individual, family, and group counseling to assigned clients/family members.

  • Develops, maintains, and records individualized client treatment plans, progress notes, discharge summaries, and demographic information.

  • Facilitates rehab service groups focused on skills and recovery.

  • Provides case management/file documentation for individual caseload, noting all treatment related activities and services in an accurate, professional, and timely manner.

  • Provides culturally sensitive and relevant services to clients and their families.

  • Presents client cases on a weekly basis for review by supervisor and team.

  • Prepares and presents quarterly reports and other documentation in a professional and timely manner.

  • Compiles and/or writes statistical and narrative reports in an accurate and timely manner.

  • Attend staff meetings and in-service trainings.

  • Works as part of a dual diagnosis team to provide Behavioral Health Counseling services to the people of the Maniilaq Service Area.

  • Abides by the NAADAC Ethical Standards as adopted by the Alaska Commission for Chemical Dependency Professionals Certification, Staff Code of Conduct. Alternate consultation responsibilities with other Counseling and Recovery staff.

  • Transports clients when required.

  • Travels by non-traditional means (i.e., small plane, snow machine, boat) to villages and the surrounding area.

  • Works flexible hours when needed to provide appropriate staff coverage at the Counseling and Recovery Program and functions.

  • Supports sobriety activities in the community.

  • Facilitates substance use/abuse group meetings.

  • Has basic working knowledge of mental health issues/diagnosis.


Chemical Dependency Counselor S:

  • All of the above duties and responsibilities for Chemical Dependency Counselor Trainee/ I / II.

  • Clinically supervises CDC Trainee, I, II.


Job Qualifications:
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

Chemical Dependency Counselor Trainee:


High School diploma or equivalent. Must be able to lift and carry a minimum of 50 pounds. Must obtain Chemical Dependency Counselor I certification within two (2) years of hire. Familiarity with the local community. Must be able to obtain an Alaska drivers license within six (6) months of hire with a good enough driving record to be covered by Maniilaq's insurance. Must also be willing and able to travel in small planes and stay overnight in villages (if needed). Must also be willing to work a variable work schedule as needed. Special consideration will be given to Traditional Counselors who receives the recognition through the Alaska Commission for Behavioral Health Certification. First aid and CPR certification preferred.


Chemical Dependency Counselor I:


Meets qualifications above AND has received certification as a Chemical Dependency Counselor level I by the State of Alaska (or the national equivalent).


Chemical Dependency Counselor II:


Meets the qualifications above AND has been certified as Chemical Dependency Counselor level II by the State of Alaska (or the national equivalent).


Chemical Dependency Counselor S:


Meets the qualifications above AND has been certified as Chemical Dependency Counselor Supervisor certification (CDC-S) by the State of Alaska (or the national equivalent).


Other Job Information (if applicable):
DISCLAIMER

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. They are not intended to be considered an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel in this job, and the employer reserves the right to revise or change this description. This description does not constitute or imply contract of employment. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to satisfactorily perform each of the above essential duties and meet physical demands. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to meet those conditions.

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