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Eap Intake Counselor Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

The Thresholds

Intake Specialist - Master's

Chicago, IL

$59K - $62K/yr

Master's degree in Counseling, Psychology, Social Work, or closely related field What sets ... Robust employee assistance program (EAP) * Mileage reimbursement  * Cell phone reimbursement (up ...

Thresholds

Intake Specialist - Master's

Chicago, IL

$59K - $62K/yr

Master's degree in Counseling, Psychology, Social Work, or closely related field What sets ... Robust employee assistance program (EAP) * Mileage reimbursement * Cell phone reimbursement (up to ...

Thresholds

Intake Specialist - Master's

Chicago, IL · On-site

$59K - $62K/yr

Master's degree in Counseling, Psychology, Social Work, or closely related field What sets ... Robust employee assistance program (EAP) * Mileage reimbursement * Cell phone reimbursement (up to ...

Thresholds

Intake Specialist - Master's

Chicago, IL · On-site

$59K - $62K/yr

Master's degree in Counseling, Psychology, Social Work, or closely related field What sets ... Robust employee assistance program (EAP) * Mileage reimbursement * Cell phone reimbursement (up to ...

Ascension

Behavioral Health Intake Specialist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$27.69 - $40.50/hr

Bachelor's Degree in Psychology, Social Work, or Counseling required * BH Intake experience ... EAP)Parental leave & adoption assistanceTuition reimbursementWays to give back to your community ...

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Eap Intake Counselor information

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How much do eap intake counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for eap intake counselor in Chicago, IL is $22.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.84 and $25.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an EAP Intake Counselor?

EAP Intake Counselors are mental health professionals who serve as the first point of contact for employees seeking assistance through an Employee Assistance Program (EAP). They conduct initial assessments, provide crisis intervention, and connect individuals with appropriate resources or counseling services. Their role is crucial in ensuring employees receive timely support for personal, work-related, or mental health concerns. EAP Intake Counselors maintain confidentiality and often help guide employees toward longer-term care or support if needed.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an EAP Intake Counselor?

To thrive as an EAP Intake Counselor, you need a background in psychology, counseling, or social work, often supported by relevant licensure or certification such as LPC, LCSW, or LMFT. Familiarity with case management systems, clinical documentation software, and telephone intake protocols is typically required. Strong active listening, empathy, and crisis intervention skills help you effectively assess client needs and provide immediate support. These skills are essential to ensure timely, accurate assessments and to connect individuals with appropriate resources during times of personal or workplace stress.

What are the main challenges EAP Intake Counselors face when handling high volumes of client calls?

EAP Intake Counselors often manage fluctuating call volumes, which can be especially challenging during peak periods or times of increased organizational stress. Maintaining empathy and active listening skills while efficiently assessing client needs requires strong emotional resilience and time management. To address these challenges, counselors typically follow structured protocols and rely on support from their clinical teams, ensuring that clients receive timely and appropriate referrals. Regular supervision and peer support are also integral to managing stress and maintaining professional well-being in this fast-paced environment.

What is the difference between Eap Intake Counselor vs Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Counselor?

AspectEap Intake CounselorEmployee Assistance Program (EAP) Counselor
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in psychology, social work, or related field; licensure may be preferredUsually requires a master's degree in counseling, social work, or psychology; licensure or certification often necessary
Work EnvironmentInitial client intake, assessment, and referral within EAP settingsProviding ongoing counseling, support, and intervention for employees facing personal or work-related issues
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by organizations to screen and refer employees to appropriate resourcesUsed by organizations to deliver direct counseling services to employees and their families

The main difference is that an Eap Intake Counselor focuses on initial assessments and referrals, while an EAP Counselor provides ongoing counseling and support. Both roles are essential in employee assistance programs but differ in scope and responsibilities.

How to become an EAP intake counselor?

To become an EAP intake counselor, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in psychology, social work, or a related field, along with experience in counseling or mental health services. Certification or training in employee assistance programs and strong communication skills are also important for this role.

What is it like to be an EAP intake counselor?

An EAP intake counselor is responsible for assessing employee needs, providing initial support, and guiding individuals to appropriate mental health or wellness services. The role involves active listening, documentation, and often requires knowledge of counseling techniques and confidentiality protocols. Typically, the position is performed in an office or remote setting with regular working hours.

What are popular job titles related to Eap Intake Counselor jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Eap Intake Counselor jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Eap Intake Counselor jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Eap Intake Counselor jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Eap Intake Counselor jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Eap Intake Counselor job openings:

Eap Intake Counselor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Eap Intake Counselor job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $47,110 per year, or $22.6 per hour.

Intake Specialist - Master's

The Thresholds

Chicago, IL

$59K - $62K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Do you want to apply your clinical skills to make an immediate impact in someone’s life? Be the first connection in a Thresholds client’s journey to mental health recovery as an Intake Specialist.

You will complete assessments with individuals interested in mental health services at Thresholds, meeting with clients, families, and providers in a variety of community-based settings throughout Chicago, including hospitals, nursing homes, specialized mental health rehabilitation facilities, or even a coffee shop. Each week, you will build rapport with new people, forming a short-term yet impactful relationship as you complete the IM+CANS and comprehensive service plan. While much of this role is autonomous, you will also work closely with a variety of Thresholds teams. Within the Intake team, you will collaborate with your colleagues and supervisor to determine the diagnostic impression and appropriate level of care for each individual. Additionally, you will partner with clinical programs to coordinate the transition of the client to the team’s ongoing care.

Enjoy great work/life balance and a supportive culture that provides you with the tools and resources you need for the best client care. Opportunities for training and professional development, including clinical supervision, will deepen your knowledge and expand your clinical skills in harm reduction, trauma-informed care, and other evidence-based practices. This invaluable experience will strengthen your clinical writing skills and set you up for a variety of career paths and growth opportunities within our organization.

To succeed in this role, you need:

  • Passion for mental health advocacy
  • Effective communication and relationship-building skills
  • Excellent clinical writing skills
  • Strong time management and organization
  • To be at least 21 years old
  • A valid driver’s license, current car insurance, and daily access to your own car

Education required for this role:

  • Master’s degree in Counseling, Psychology, Social Work, or closely related field

What sets Thresholds apart: 

  • Competitive pay - Salary Range: $59,100 - $62,100 annually
    • Based on experience and licensure
  • Generous PTO (9 federal holidays, 8 days of sick leave, 15-22 days personal and vacation)
  • Dental insurance, vision insurance, choice of 4 medical insurance plans
  • 403(b) retirement plan with 3% employer match 
  • Robust employee assistance program (EAP)
  • Mileage reimbursement 
  • Cell phone reimbursement (up to $50/month)
  • Public service loan forgiveness 
  • Supervision for clinical licensure at no cost (LSW, LCSW, LPC, LCPC) 
  • Reimbursement for professional licensure and license renewal

Thresholds is a mission-driven agency with a deep commitment to fostering an environment where all feel valued and respected, a place where every employee can be themselves, thrive, and support the agency’s mission. Click here to learn more.

One of the oldest and largest community mental health organizations in Illinois, we pride ourselves in being a Chicago Tribune Top Workplace and one of Chicago’s 101 Best & Brightest Companies to Work For, several years in a row.