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Counselor Jobs in Independence, LA (NOW HIRING)

Acadia Healthcare

Substance Use Counselor

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$19.50 - $26.25/hr

Substance Use Counselor Full Time Hours: Monday - Friday 5:15 AM - 1:30 PM Our Benefits: * Semi-Annual Bonus Program * Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance * Competitive 401(k) plan * Paid vacation ...

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FMOLHS

FranU Admissions Counselor

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$37K - $49K/yr

Admissions Counselor FranU Baton Rouge, La Watch FranU's Mission Video at: The Admissions Counselor position within Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University's (FranU) Office of Admissions plays ...

BAART Programs

Counselor in Training

Hammond, LA

$16.75 - $22.50/hr

Counselor in Training will be in charge with assisting patients through medically assisting programs and offering techniques for handling opioid addiction. Substance abuse counselor conducts group ...

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All JobsCounselor JobsCounselor Jobs in Independence, LA

Counselor information

See Independence, LA salary details

$10

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$32

How much do counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for counselor in Independence, LA is $20.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.72 and $23.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a counselor do?

Counselors work in a variety of fields and may help individuals, families, or groups with job and career concerns, educational decisions, mental and emotional health issues, and relationship problems. Mental health counselors, for example, work with people to address and treat mental and emotional disorders. Counselors can work in a wide variety of specialties, so their duties vary greatly, depending on the community in which they work and the population they serve. Counselors may work with children, adolescents, or families on school, social, or domestic problems. They may also work with adults in areas such as mental health disorders, addiction, disability, and employment. Counselors are trained to recognize diverse issues and potential problems in order to provide their clients with appropriate support and coping tools.

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

To thrive as a Counselor, you need a solid understanding of psychological principles, active listening, and assessment skills, generally supported by a relevant degree and professional licensure. Familiarity with counseling software, case management systems, and standardized assessment tools is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, empathy, and ethical judgment help counselors build trust and effectively support clients. These skills ensure effective client care, ethical practice, and positive therapeutic outcomes.

What are some common challenges counselors face when working with clients, and how are these typically addressed within the team?

Counselors often encounter challenges such as clients being hesitant to open up, managing complex or crisis situations, and preventing burnout from emotionally demanding sessions. These challenges are typically addressed through regular supervision, team debriefings, and ongoing professional development. Many counseling teams foster a supportive environment where colleagues can share difficult cases confidentially, seek advice, and receive emotional support, helping maintain both counselor well-being and high-quality client care.

What is the difference between Counselor vs Therapist?

AspectCounselorTherapist
CredentialsTypically requires a master's degree in counseling, psychology, or related field; licensure varies by stateUsually holds a master's or doctoral degree in psychology, counseling, or social work; licensure or certification often required
Work EnvironmentSchools, community agencies, outpatient clinics, private practicePrivate practice, hospitals, mental health clinics, hospitals
Industry UsageCommonly used in educational, community, and outpatient settingsUsed across mental health, healthcare, and private practice sectors
FocusGuidance, support, and skill development for clients facing life challengesIn-depth mental health treatment, diagnosis, and psychotherapy

While both counselors and therapists provide mental health support, counselors often focus on guidance and skill-building in specific areas, whereas therapists typically provide more comprehensive psychotherapy for mental health conditions. The roles overlap, but their settings and scope of practice differ.

What degree do most counselors have?

Most counselors hold at least a bachelor's degree in fields such as psychology, social work, or counseling. Many also pursue a master's degree in counseling, psychology, or social work to meet licensing requirements and enhance their qualifications. Certification or licensure often requires completing supervised clinical hours and passing a licensing exam.

What kind of work does a counselor do?

A counselor provides guidance and support to individuals facing emotional, mental, or behavioral challenges. They assess clients' needs, develop treatment plans, and use techniques such as active listening and counseling strategies to help clients improve their well-being, often working in settings like schools, clinics, or private practices. Certification or licensure is typically required depending on the specialization and location.

What type of counselor gets paid the most?

In the counseling field, clinical or mental health counselors with advanced licenses, such as Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs) or Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), tend to earn higher salaries. Specialized counselors, such as substance abuse counselors or school counselors with additional certifications, may also have higher earning potential depending on their experience and work setting.
More about Counselor jobs

What cities near Independence, LA are hiring for Counselor jobs?

Cities near Independence, LA with the most Counselor job openings:

Counselor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Counselor job openings in Independence, LA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,860 per year, or $20.6 per hour.

Homeownership Counselor

Habitat for Humanity St. Tammany West

Mandeville, LA • On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

JOB DESCRIPTION

Position Summary: The Homeownership Counselor is responsible for carrying out the affiliate’s homeownership client intake, counseling, education, and closing process, with particular emphasis on either preparing applicants for successful partnership in HFHSTW’s homeownership program or successful qualification with an outside lender, utilizing HUD compliant practices. The duties listed below are not all inclusive and could change at the affiliate's discretion.

Employee Status: Full time


Responsibilities/Duties/Functions/Tasks

Homeownership Counseling Activities
  • Pass HUD certification exam within 2 months of hire
  • Counsel clients and keep records in compliance with all HUD certification requirements 
  • Orient clients to the St. Tammany Homeownership Center services and accept intake packet
  • Document household income, expenses, debt, and other required information
  • Identify potential loan programs for income level
  • Discuss underwriting criteria and pros and cons of Habitat and outside loan options
  • Collect credit report fee, run initial credit report, and review with homebuyer
  • Identify credit challenges
  • Facilitate analysis and modification of homebuyer household budget
  • Conduct calculations including affordability based on income and debt
  • Create written action plan for resolution of credit, budget, and/or other issues
  • Provide structured follow-up to written action plan
  • Document all activity in Counselor Max client management system
  • Screen/coordinate participants through available Individual Development Account Programs
  • Make referrals to other lenders or entities for additional services as needed

Homeownership Education Activities
  • Teach/Facilitate the following:
  • Financial Fitness classes
  • Homebuyer Education classes
  • Additional classes as needed
  • Identify and engage subject matter experts for classes as appropriate 


Loan Origination Activities
  • Obtain and maintain requirements for Qualified Loan Originator status per Habitat for Humanity International requirements
  • Conduct regular income and credit verification throughout the partnership phase for HFHSTW homebuyers
  • Conduct final loan qualifying activities as HFHSTW acts of sale approach
  • Perform loan origination for HFHSTW closings using Calyx Point system
  • Work with outside lenders of non-Habitat clients, including packaging USDA 502 Direct loans
  • Obtain homeownership counseling and education certifications as required
  • Obtain USDA 502 Direct loan packaging certification


General
  • Ensure all record keeping, tracking and reporting is complete, timely, and in compliance with appropriate guidelines
  • Participate in community housing-related groups and coalitions
  • Report non-routine matters to your supervisor timely
  • Other duties as assigned 


Education Requirements

  • Four year degree, plus two years of experience in housing counseling/education/non-profit residential lending strongly preferred
  • Five years of relevant experience may be substituted for the degree
  • Current or recent housing counseling certification


Special Position Requirements

  • Availability outside of regular business hours, generally evenings
  • Reliable insured transportation
  • Ability to be insured by HFHSTW’s automobile insurance carrier
  • Valid Driver’s License


EEO Policy Statement

Habitat for Humanity St. Tammany West provides equal employment opportunity to all individuals regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, national origin, gender, age, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, physical or mental disability, (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), gender identity or gender expression, results of genetic testing, service in the military or veteran status, or any other status protected under applicable federal, state or local law.


REQUIREMENTS

    ABOUT THE COMPANY

    Habitat for Humanity STW is seeking a skilled individual with a background in case management, lending, mortgages or banking. This individual will be comfortable presenting in front of large audiences, be a self-starter and able to work independently, as well as possess or be able to obtain HUD and Housing Counseling certifications.


    Come see why Habitat is a rewarding place to work!