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Direct Care Counselor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Secure Haven Youth Services

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Direct Care Counselor Residential

Midlothian, VA · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

The Direct Care Counselor shall have direct responsibility for guidance and supervision to whom he/she is assigned including: * Overseeing physical care in a group home setting * Development of ...

ServiceNet

Direct Care Counselor

Pittsfield, MA · On-site

$17.50/hr

Training & development Relief Direct Care Counselors Division: Shelter and Housing Division Part-Time Pay: $17.50 Per Hour Locations/Shifts Available: * Greenfield: Day shift * Pittsfield: All shifts ...

ServiceNet

Direct Care Counselor

Pittsfield, MA · On-site

$17.50/hr

Training & development Relief Direct Care Counselors Division: Shelter and Housing Division Part-Time Pay: $17.50 Per Hour Locations/Shifts Available: * Greenfield: Day shift * Pittsfield: All shifts ...

Apply Early

Walker Cares

Direct Care Counselor

Needham, MA · On-site

$20 - $21/hr

Make a Difference Every Day-and Gain Skills You Can Use for Life As a Direct Care Counselor at Walker, you'll work directly with children and teens who are navigating social, emotional, and ...

WALKER INC

Direct Care Counselor

Needham, MA · On-site

$20 - $21/hr

Make a Difference Every Day--and Gain Skills You Can Use for Life As a Direct Care Counselor at Walker, you'll work directly with children and teens who are navigating social, emotional, and ...

CP Unlimited

Direct Care Counselor

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$18.75 - $23/hr

We are currently seeking dedicated and compassionate individuals to help care for and assist people with disabilities with activities of daily living in the Bronx. Requirements: * High School Diploma ...

CP Unlimited

Direct Care Counselor

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$18.75 - $23/hr

We are currently seeking dedicated and compassionate individuals to help care for and assist people with disabilities with activities of daily living in Brooklyn. Requirements: * High School Diploma ...

ServiceNet

Temp Direct Care Counselor

Pittsfield, MA · On-site

$18/hr

Tuition assistance Direct Care Counselor Division: Shelter and Housing Division Temporary (See Details Below) Location: Pittsfield, MA Pay: $18.00/hour Position Summary: Be part of a team that ...

ServiceNet

Temp Direct Care Counselor

Pittsfield, MA · On-site

$18/hr

Tuition assistance Direct Care Counselor Division: Shelter and Housing Division Temporary (See Details Below) Location: Pittsfield, MA Pay: $18.00/hour Position Summary: Be part of a team that ...

Apply Early

CP Unlimited

Direct Care Counselor

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$18.75 - $23/hr

We are currently seeking dedicated and compassionate individuals to help care for and assist people with disabilities with activities of daily living in Staten Island. Requirements: * High School ...

CP Unlimited

Direct Care Counselor

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$18.75 - $23/hr

We are currently seeking dedicated and compassionate individuals to help care for and assist people with disabilities with activities of daily living in Manhattan. Requirements: * Excellent ...

CP Unlimited

Direct Care Counselor

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$18.75 - $23/hr

We are currently seeking dedicated and compassionate individuals to help care for and assist people with disabilities with activities of daily living in Queens. Requirements: * Excellent ...

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Direct Care Counselor information

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$10

$19

$27

How much do direct care counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct care counselor in the United States is $19.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $20.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What other jobs can a counselor do?

A counselor can transition into roles such as social worker, case manager, mental health therapist, or substance abuse counselor, often requiring additional certifications or licenses. They can also work in community outreach, school counseling, or healthcare settings, utilizing skills in communication, assessment, and support. These positions typically involve similar interpersonal skills and may require specialized training or credentials.

What is a Direct Care Counselor?

A Direct Care Counselor is a professional who provides support, supervision, and guidance to individuals with physical, mental, or emotional challenges in residential or community settings. Their responsibilities often include assisting clients with daily living activities, implementing treatment plans, and helping clients develop life skills. They play a crucial role in ensuring the well-being, safety, and progress of those in their care, often working as part of a multidisciplinary team. Direct Care Counselors may work with children, adults, or elderly clients, depending on the setting and population served.

What Is a Direct Care Counselor?

A direct care counselor is responsible for providing continuous care to clients in community facilities or group homes that provide help to children, adults, and seniors with special health needs or mental disabilities. As a direct care counselor, your job duties include helping clients with daily activities like running errands and taking medicine and transporting them to doctor’s appointments. The qualifications to begin a career as a direct care counselor include an associate or bachelor’s degree in mental health or psychology, and employers may provide on-the-job training. To succeed in this role, you need excellent communication skills as well as empathy and compassion. It’s helpful to have some prior social work experience with individuals who have special needs.

What is the highest paid counselling job?

Among counselling roles, clinical psychologists and psychiatrists tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding six figures annually. These positions typically require advanced degrees, licensure, and specialized training, reflecting their higher level of responsibility and expertise.

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. While direct care counselors typically earn less, specializing in areas like forensic or neuropsychology can lead to higher income, especially with additional certifications and experience.

What are some common challenges faced by Direct Care Counselors, and how can they be managed effectively?

Direct Care Counselors often encounter challenges such as managing clients with complex behavioral or emotional needs, maintaining clear boundaries, and handling high-stress situations. To manage these effectively, it’s important to utilize strong communication skills, actively participate in team debriefings, and seek regular supervision. Building rapport with clients while following established protocols can help counselors support positive outcomes and reduce burnout. Many organizations also offer ongoing training and peer support to help staff navigate these challenges.

What does a direct care counselor do?

A direct care counselor provides support and supervision to individuals with mental health, developmental, or behavioral challenges. They assist clients with daily activities, implement treatment plans, and monitor progress, often working in settings like residential facilities or community programs. Strong communication skills and relevant certifications are typically required for this role.

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

To thrive as a Direct Care Counselor, you need a background in human services, psychology, or a related field, often supported by a high school diploma or associate degree and relevant experience. Familiarity with documentation systems, crisis intervention techniques, and basic first aid or CPR certification is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, patience, and the ability to remain calm under pressure help you build trust and effectively support clients. These skills are crucial for ensuring client safety, promoting positive behavioral changes, and maintaining a supportive environment.
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What states have the most Direct Care Counselor jobs? States with the most job openings for Direct Care Counselor jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Direct Care Counselor jobs? For Direct Care Counselor jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Direct Care Counselor jobs near you

Direct Care Counselor Residential

Secure Haven Youth Services

Midlothian, VA • On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Part-time

Posted 29 days ago

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Job description

The Direct Care Counselor shall have direct responsibility for guidance and supervision to whom he/she is assigned including:

  • Overseeing physical care in a group home setting
  • Development of acceptable habits and attitudes
  • Management of resident behavior
  • Transport residents to various activities
  • Administer medication as prescribed
  • Ability to work with children diagnosed with mental health disorders
  • Provide mentoring /counseling to the residents, as needed
  • Attend meetings and trainings pertaining to the job duties


  • The Direct Care Counselor must have:
  • A valid driver's license
  • Clean criminal background history
  • A high school graduate
  • Must be at least 26 years old

Company Description

Secure Haven Youth Services is a Children's Residential Facility for adolescent males aged 12-17.