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Entry Level Counseling Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

American Oversight

Entry-Level Counsel

Washington, DC · On-site

For more information, please visit our website: www.americanoversight.org JOB OVERVIEW American Oversight seeks an entry-level Counsel to join our team to lead and support high-impact litigation ...

American Oversight

Entry-Level Counsel

Washington, DC · On-site

For more information, please visit our website: www.americanoversight.org JOB OVERVIEW American Oversight seeks an entry-level Counsel to join our team to lead and support high-impact litigation ...

Office of General Counsel

Law Clerk

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$70K - $91K/yr

... Counsel (OGC). We are currently filling one vacancy, additional vacancies may be filled as needed. This vacancy is developed for applicants seeking entry level attorney positions but who have not yet ...

BrightView Health

Therapist I

Woodbridge, VA · On-site

$52K - $65K/yr

If you excel in a dynamic counseling environment, possess a profound understanding of addiction ... Active entry-level clinical certification or licensure consistent with state-level regulatory ...

BrightView Health

Therapist I

Woodbridge, VA

$52K - $65K/yr

Are you a dedicated and experienced Counselor with a passion for assisting individuals on their ... Active entry-level clinical certification or licensure consistent with state-level regulatory ...

Brightview Health

Therapist I

Woodbridge, VA

If you excel in a dynamic counseling environment, possess a profound understanding of addiction ... Active entry-level clinical certification or licensure consistent with state-level regulatory ...

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Entry Level Counseling information

What types of support and supervision can entry-level counselors expect during their first year on the job?

Entry-level counselors typically receive regular supervision from experienced licensed professionals, especially during their initial year. This often includes weekly or biweekly meetings to discuss cases, review progress, and develop counseling techniques. New counselors may also participate in team meetings, case conferences, and ongoing training sessions to enhance their skills. This supportive environment helps build confidence, ensures ethical practice, and provides opportunities to learn from more seasoned colleagues.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Counselor, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Counselor, a bachelor's degree in psychology, social work, or a related field and foundational knowledge of counseling theories are typically required. Familiarity with case management software and basic assessment tools is often needed, and some positions may require progress toward professional certifications or licensure. Strong interpersonal skills, active listening, empathy, and cultural sensitivity help counselors build trust and rapport with clients. These skills and qualifications are vital for effectively supporting clients’ mental health and promoting positive outcomes in counseling settings.

What are entry level counseling jobs?

Entry level counseling jobs are positions designed for individuals who are new to the counseling field, often recent graduates or those with limited professional experience. These roles typically involve working under supervision to provide support, guidance, and basic counseling services to clients in settings like schools, community organizations, or healthcare facilities. Entry level counselors may assist with assessments, lead group sessions, and help clients develop coping strategies. These positions help new counselors gain experience, build their skills, and work toward full licensure or certification. Most entry level counseling jobs require at least a bachelor’s degree in a related field, though some may require a master's degree.

Is there a way to become a counselor without a degree?

Entry level counseling positions typically require at least a high school diploma or equivalent, but most professional counseling roles require a relevant bachelor's or master's degree in counseling, psychology, or social work. Without a degree, individuals may work in related support roles or as paraprofessionals, but they cannot generally provide licensed counseling services. Certification or training in specific areas can enhance job prospects but do not replace formal education requirements for licensed counseling positions.

How to make $200,000 as a therapist?

Entry level counseling positions typically do not pay $200,000 annually; reaching this income level usually requires advanced degrees, specialized certifications, private practice, or working in high-demand specialties. Building a large client base, gaining experience, and expanding services can increase earning potential over time.

Who gets paid more, LCSW or LMHC?

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs) generally earn higher salaries than Licensed Mental Health Counselors (LMHC) due to their broader scope of practice, additional licensing requirements, and ability to provide a wider range of services. Salary differences can vary based on location, experience, and work setting, but LCSWs tend to have higher earning potential overall.

How to become an entry level counselor?

To become an entry-level counselor, typically a bachelor's degree in psychology, social work, or a related field is required, along with relevant internship or volunteer experience. Some positions may require or prefer certification or licensure depending on the setting and state regulations.
What are the most commonly searched types of Counseling jobs in Washington? The most popular types of Counseling jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Entry Level Counseling jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Entry Level Counseling job openings:
Entry Level Counseling jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Counseling job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.
Entry-Level Counsel

Entry-Level Counsel

American Oversight

Washington, DC • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

Job description

WHO WE ARE
American Oversight (AO) is a nonpartisan, nonprofit watchdog that advances truth, accountability, and democracy by enforcing the public's right to government records. We use multiple tools, backed by aggressive litigation, to fight attacks on democratic institutions, threats to civil rights and liberties, abuses of power, and the erosion of government transparency. We expose and disrupt these attacks - and the officials and networks behind them - by forcing the government to turn over records officials would rather keep secret.
Since our founding in 2017, American Oversight has worked on issues that touch nearly every aspect of American life. Our team has:
  • Secured a court order to preserve records in the 2025 "Signalgate" scandal, and spurred a related investigation by the Department of Defense inspector general that found Secretary Pete Hegseth had put troops' lives in danger and violated federal record keeping laws
  • Forced DOGE to implement a records preservation policy to ensure long-term accountability for its chaotic actions
  • Revealed the Trump-sanctioned pressure campaign on the Ukrainian government by forcing the Trump administration to turn over records initially withheld from Congress
  • Unmasked sham "audits" of the 2020 election in Wisconsin and Arizona, which used taxpayer money to undermine state elections
  • Exposed the Trump administration's unprecedented use of personal data to target immigrant communities and remove people from state voter rolls

We are committed to fighting threats to democracy at the federal, state, and local levels, using time-tested and innovative tools to expose misconduct, defend against attacks on marginalized communities, and demand accountability.
For more information, please visit our website: www.americanoversight.org
JOB OVERVIEW
American Oversight seeks an entry-level Counsel to join our team to lead and support high-impact litigation advancing government accountability and transparency. This role focuses on high-impact, records-based and other transparency-driven litigation and legal strategies to expose corruption, challenge abuses of power, and hold those who threaten democratic institutions to account.
RESPONSIBILITIES (including but not limited to)
  • Litigate high-impact transparency and government accountability cases in federal and state courts, including matters under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), state open records acts, state and federal open meetings laws, open courts doctrines, and other relevant authorities.
  • Serve as lead or supporting counsel across a diverse docket of federal and state cases, shaping litigation strategy and managing day-to-day case execution.
  • Draft pleadings at the trial and appellate levels, including complaints, motions, briefs, and amicus filings.
  • Conduct discovery where permitted, including written discovery, depositions, and evidentiary hearings.
  • Present oral arguments in federal and state courts, including appellate courts.
  • Oversee and partner with local counsel nationwide on state-based litigation.
  • Develop and maintain expertise in FOIA and state open records laws.
  • Partner with American Oversight's investigations team to design records-driven strategies and shape public records requests to maximize strong legal leverage and evidentiary value.
  • Negotiate with federal, state, and local agencies to advance pending records requests and drive timely compliance through follow-up and escalation.
  • Draft non-judicial advocacy materials including demand letters, administrative complaints, and other tools for demanding accountability.
  • Collaborate with American Oversight's communications and investigations teams to translate legal findings into clear, compelling public-facing materials, including reports, blog posts, and other advocacy content.
  • Represent American Oversight in meetings with partners, coalitions, and external stakeholders, consistent with 501(c)(3) requirements.
  • Other duties as assigned.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
  • J.D. and admission to practice in at least one state (D.C. eligibility required).
  • 1-3 years of litigation experience (civil or criminal), including drafting pleadings, motions, and briefs.
  • Excellent legal analytical, research, and writing skills.
  • Demonstrated interest in government accountability and public interest advocacy.
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities, operate with increasing independence, and exercise sound judgment.
  • Experience working in and/or desire to contribute to workplaces with a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Familiarity with pro-democracy issues, including but not limited to voting rights, election administration, civil rights and civil liberties, or threats like abuse of power, corruption, or undue influence.
  • Experience with the federal FOIA, state open records laws, or government ethics laws

COMPENSATION
The salary range for this position is $99,000 - $111,000 based on post-J.D. experience, qualifications, and internal leveling.
BENEFITS
  • Remote-first work environment
  • Generous employer contribution toward medical, dental and vision insurance coverage
  • Generous paid time off
  • Paid office closure from Christmas Eve to New Years' Day
  • 403(b) with up to 4% employer match
  • Flexible scheduling practices that support collaboration during core business hours
  • Summer Fridays
  • Up to $100/month reimbursement for internet services and personal device usage
  • Professional development stipend
  • Generous home office allowance
  • Commuter benefits

LOCATION
This position is based in the United States, with a preference for candidates in the Washington, D.C. area (remote will be considered). Must be available to work East Coast business hours, with evening and weekend work as needed.
TIMELINE
Interested applicants are encouraged to apply by Thursday, July 9 to ensure priority consideration of your application. Following July 9, we will continue to review applications on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
OUR COMMITMENT TO AN INCLUSIVE WORKPLACE
At American Oversight, we value and strive to hire, develop, and grow a diverse and inclusive team. We are an equal opportunity employer, and encourage applications from all individuals without regard to an individual's race, color, sex, gender identity, gender expression, religion, age, national origin or ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, family care status, marital status, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other basis protected by federal, state, or local laws. We strongly encourage individuals to apply for opportunities at American Oversight even if they do not have any of the desired qualifications.

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