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Disability Counselor Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

University of California

Counselor (PACE)

Redding, CA · On-site

$82 - $116/hr

Key responsibilities include reviewing disability documentation, conducting intake sessions for new ... Counseling services will be provided during both daytime and evening hours through in-person and ...

BAART Programs

Registered Counselor

Antioch, CA · On-site

$26.20 - $29.20/hr

Counselor conducts individual sessions and group sessions to assist with crisis management and ... Company paid Short & Long Term Disability * Company paid Basic Life Insurance * Paid Time Off

BAART Programs

Registered Counselor

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$28.43 - $31.43/hr

Counselor conducts individual sessions and group sessions to assist with crisis management and ... Company paid Short & Long Term Disability * Company paid Basic Life Insurance * Paid Time Off

BAART Programs

Registered Counselor

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$28.43 - $31.43/hr

Counselor conducts individual sessions and group sessions to assist with crisis management and ... Company paid Short & Long Term Disability * Company paid Basic Life Insurance * Paid Time Off

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All JobsDisability Counselor JobsDisability Counselor Jobs in California

Disability Counselor information

See California salary details

$29.1K

$60.8K

$86.8K

How much do disability counselor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for disability counselor in California is $60,841.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,400.00 and $71,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a disability counselor do?

A Disability Counselor provides support and guidance to individuals with physical, mental, or emotional disabilities. They help clients understand their rights, access resources, and develop strategies to overcome barriers in education, employment, or daily life. Disability counselors also collaborate with families, employers, and other professionals to create inclusive environments and advocate for necessary accommodations. Their goal is to empower clients to achieve greater independence and improve their quality of life.

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

To thrive as a Disability Counselor, you need a background in counseling, psychology, or social work—often supported by a relevant bachelor’s or master’s degree and, in some cases, state licensure or certification. Familiarity with case management systems, assistive technologies, and legal frameworks such as ADA compliance is typically required. Exceptional communication, empathy, and problem-solving skills help counselors build trust and advocate effectively for clients. These competencies ensure that individuals with disabilities receive appropriate support, accommodations, and guidance for their personal and professional development.

What are some common challenges disability counselors face when supporting clients, and how can these challenges be addressed?

Disability Counselors often encounter challenges such as navigating complex legal requirements, advocating for accommodations, and addressing the diverse needs of clients with various disabilities. Building strong communication skills and staying updated on disability legislation, like the ADA, are essential for overcoming these obstacles. Collaborating closely with multidisciplinary teams and maintaining a client-centered approach can help ensure effective support and positive outcomes for clients.

What is the difference between Disability Counselor vs Rehabilitation Counselor?

AspectDisability CounselorRehabilitation Counselor
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's or master's degree in counseling or related field; licensure may be requiredRequires a master's degree in rehabilitation counseling or related field; licensure often necessary
Work EnvironmentCommunity agencies, schools, healthcare settingsRehabilitation centers, hospitals, government agencies
Employer & Industry UsageNonprofit organizations, schools, healthcare providersState agencies, private rehab facilities, healthcare institutions

Disability Counselors and Rehabilitation Counselors share similar educational backgrounds and work environments focused on assisting individuals with disabilities. However, Rehabilitation Counselors often have specialized training in vocational rehabilitation and work within more formal rehab settings. Both roles aim to improve clients' quality of life, but Rehabilitation Counselors typically have a broader scope related to employment and functional recovery.

How to become a disability counselor?

To become a disability counselor, individuals typically need a bachelor's degree in psychology, social work, or a related field, followed by a master's degree in counseling or rehabilitation counseling. Certification or licensure, such as the National Certified Counselor (NCC) or state-specific licenses, is often required to practice professionally. Gaining experience through internships or supervised work is also important for developing counseling skills and understanding disability-related issues.

What qualifications do you need to work with people with disabilities?

Disability counselors typically need a relevant bachelor's degree in social work, psychology, counseling, or a related field. Certification or licensure, such as a state-specific counseling license, may be required, along with strong interpersonal skills and knowledge of disability services and resources.

What are popular job titles related to Disability Counselor jobs in California?

For Disability Counselor jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Disability Counselor jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Disability Counselor jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Disability Counselor jobs?

Cities in California with the most Disability Counselor job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Disability Counselor jobs in CA?

For Disability Counselor jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Disability Counselor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Disability Counselor job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,841 per year, or $29.3 per hour.

Part-Time Learning Disability (LD) Specialist/Counselor (Pool)

Saratoga, CA

West Valley-Mission CCD
See more jobs at West Valley-Mission CCDexternal

$36K - $52K/yr

Full-time, Part-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Position Information
Position Title Part-Time Learning Disability (LD) Specialist/Counselor (Pool) Position ID Campus Mission College
Position Summary Information
Definition
PART-TIME, ASSOCIATE FACULTY POOL
Applications for Part-Time, Associate Faculty pools are continually accepted (unless otherwise specified) by the District and will be added to the application pool for review by hiring authorities on an as-needed basis. Should you be invited for an interview, you will be contacted by a District representative.
Assignment
This position is a part-time position as a part-time Learning Disability (LD) Specialist AND DSPS Counselor in the Counseling Department and DSPS. The academic assignment may include day, evening or on Saturday assignments and/or in an on-line/distance education format. The assignments are as needed, during Spring, Summer, and/or Fall semesters. This position is represented by the West Valley-Mission Federation of Teachers (WVMFT / AFT Local 6554).
Work location: Mission College, Santa Clara, CA
Salary and Benefits
Salary is based on a percentage of workload, up to a maximum of 67% of a full-time load. Salary is prorated based on an initial hiring salary range of $36,191 - $52,297 per semester; and is based on academic achievement, teaching and related experience.
Minimum Qualifications
This pool is qualifying candidates to serve as both a LD Specialist AND a DSPS Counselor. As such, BOTH sets of minimum qualifications below must be satisfied:
1. LD Specialist - Possess both:
  • Master's degree in learning disabilities, special education, education, psychology, speech language pathology, communication disorders, educational or school psychology, counseling, or rehabilitation counseling; AND
  • Fifteen (15) semester units of upper division or graduate study in the area of learning disabilities, to include, adult cognitive and achievement assessment or the equivalent;

AND
2. DSPS Counselor - Possess any one of the following:
  • Master's degree in rehabilitation counseling; OR
  • Master's degree in counseling, guidance counseling, student personnel, clinical or counseling psychology, education counseling, social work, career development, marriage and family therapy, marriage, family and child counseling; AND
    • 15 or more semester units in upper division or graduate level course work related to people with disabilities, OR
    • Completion of six semester units, or the equivalent of a graduate-level counseling practicum or counseling field work courses, in a post-secondary Disabled Students Programs and Services program or in a program dealing with people with disabilities, OR
    • Two years of full-time experience, or the equivalent, in one or more of the following:
      • Counseling for students with disabilities; or
      • Counseling in industry, government, public agencies, military or private social welfare organizations in which the responsibilities are for persons with disabilities.
  • Bachelor's degree in marriage and family therapy or in marriage, family and child counseling and possession of a license as a Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT); AND
    • 15 or more semester units in upper division or graduate level course work related to people with disabilities, OR
    • Completion of six semester units, or the equivalent of a graduate-level counseling practicum or counseling field work courses, in a post-secondary Disabled Students Programs and Services program or in a program dealing with people with disabilities, OR
      • Two years of full-time experience, or the equivalent, in one or more of the following:
        Counseling for students with disabilities; or
      • Counseling in industry, government, public agencies, military or private social welfare organizations in which the responsibilities are for persons with disabilities.

AND
3. Understanding of, and sensitivity to the diverse academic, socio-economic, ethnic, religious and cultural backgrounds, disability, and sexual orientation of community college students, faculty and staff.
Desired Qualifications
Not applicable
Examples of Duties and Responsibilities
Counseling duties and responsibilities may consist of one or more of the following:
  • Counsel and advise students, on both an appointment and a drop-in basis.
  • Perform specialized work duties as necessary during registration periods.
  • May teach Counseling courses.
  • Provide formal in-service training.
  • Participate in program/service development activities.
  • Perform other duties as required for the department and/or college.
  • Work cooperatively within the college community.
  • Foster an environment that protects academic freedom within the college community.
  • Foster a positive working environment that is free from harassment, prejudice and/or bias.
  • Demonstrate a respect for the dignity of each individual.
Other Duties Application Information
APPLICATION INFORMATION:
  • Interested applicants must submit online all materials requested, including: (1) A completed online West Valley-Mission Community College District application; (2) Resume; (3) Unofficial copies of transcripts; (4) District Equivalency Application, if applicable; and (5) Any requested licenses or certificates, if applicable.
  • All sections of the online application, including Education and Educational Work History, must be completed thoroughly.
  • Supervisor(s) name(s) and telephone numbers must be included in the application.
  • Incomplete applications will not be considered.
  • Do NOT send unrequested materials. Unrequested materials will be removed from your application and will not be used for consideration of employment.
  • The employment application and supporting documents represent you; it is to your advantage to fill out the application form carefully and completely.

ABOUT TRANSCRIPTS:
  • If a minimum requirement is possession of a degree, then a copy of transcripts is required to be included with your application to verify the degree being awarded. If no transcripts are included, the application may be screened as not meeting minimum requirements.
  • Degrees must have been awarded by a college or university accredited by an accrediting body recognized by the U.S. Council on Post-Secondary Accreditation and/or the U.S. Department of Education.
  • Candidates with degrees earned outside of the United States must provide official certification of equivalency to U. S. degrees by a certified U. S. credential review service, must have a U.S. evaluation (course by course of the transcripts) and must be submitted with this online application.
  • If you do not have an electronic version of the transcript, you can get it scanned at an office supply or copy store, then attach the electronic version of your transcript to this online application.
  • Copies of diplomas, grade reports, graduation petitions, transcript evaluations requests, or similar documents WILL NOT be accepted in lieu of transcripts.
  • When uploading transcripts, please ensure they are NOT encrypted, secured, or password-protected or they will be rejected by the system.

For assistance, contact:
Office of Human Resources, Attn: Recruitment
14000 Fruitvale Ave, Saratoga, CA 95070
Phone: (408) 741-2174 Fax: (408) 867-9059
Email: Jobs@wvm.edu
Selection Process
SELECTION PROCESS INFORMATION:
  • Applications will be screened by appropriate department representatives on an as-needed basis. Qualified applicants who best meet the needs of the division will be contacted for an interview.
  • Travel expenses to attend the interview are the responsibility of the candidate.
  • Applications will remain in our online system for 1 year. Each year, part-time pools will be refreshed and applicants will be notified of the opportunity to re-submit application.
  • Application materials become the property of the District and will not be returned or duplicated.
  • The District reserves the right to contact former, current, the most recent employers, and others to investigate past employment records of applicants.
  • Upon hire the successful candidate must provide the required documents of identity and authorization to work and attest he/she is authorized to work in the United States.
  • Prior to employment, the selected candidate must submit official transcripts.
  • The district does not provide visa sponsorship.

EEO STATEMENT:
West Valley-Mission Community College District is an Equal Opportunity Employer that seeks to employ a diverse workforce who will contribute to an inclusive and welcoming educational and employment environment. The District is committed to nondiscrimination on the basis of ethnic group identification, race, color, national origin, religion, age, sex, physical disability, mental disability, genetic information, ancestry, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, language, accent, citizenship status, transgender status, parental status, marital status, economic status, military or veteran status, and medical condition consistent with applicable federal and state laws.
Special Instructions to the Applicant
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number FY20/21-006POOL Open Date 05/22/2025 Close Date Open Until Filled Yes

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