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Entry Level Counselor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Credo Community Center

Entry Level Counselor

Watertown, NY · On-site

$17.50/hr

Co-facilitate group counseling and didactic sessions * Participate in clinical supervision at least bi-weekly and comply with directions * Utilize ATTC's Performance Assessment Rubrics as a tool for ...

Guardian Recovery

COUNSELOR ASSISTANT

Portland, ME · On-site

Substance Abuse: Entry-level counselor assistants (Certified Addiction Counselor I, or CAC I) need only a high school diploma or GED, 40 hours of approved training, and 4,000 hours of supervised ...

Guardian Recovery

COUNSELOR ASSISTANT

Portland, ME

Substance Abuse: Entry-level counselor assistants (Certified Addiction Counselor I, or CAC I) need only a high school diploma or GED, 40 hours of approved training, and 4,000 hours of supervised ...

DIAMOND HOUSE DETOX

AOD Counselor I

Sacramento, CA

$23 - $26/hr

POSITION REQUIREMENTS / QUALIFICATIONS: * Entry-level Counseling Registration such as RADT, SUDRC, or equivalent required prior to start date. * None to minimal prior counseling experience. * Current ...

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 ...

Gateway Foundation

Substance Abuse Counselor

Valdosta, GA · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

Certifications/Licensures are NOT required for Entry Level Counselors** Location: Valdosta State Prison 3259 Val Tech Rd Valdosta, GA 31603 Work Schedule: Monday through Thursday, 6:45 AM - 5:15 PM ...

Gateway Foundation

Substance Abuse Counselor

Valdosta, GA · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

Certifications/Licensures are NOT required for Entry Level Counselors** Location: Valdosta State Prison 3259 Val Tech Rd Valdosta, GA 31603 Work Schedule: Monday through Thursday, 6:45 AM - 5:15 PM ...

Gateway Foundation

Substance Abuse Counselor

Garden City, GA · On-site

$19 - $25.50/hr

Certifications/Licensures are NOT required for Entry Level Counselors** Location: Coastal State Probation 200 Gulfstream Rd Garden City, GA 31418 Work Schedule: Monday through Thursday, 10-hour ...

Gateway Foundation

Substance Abuse Counselor

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$20.25 - $27.25/hr

Certifications/Licensures are NOT required for Entry Level Counselors** Location: Northwest PSATC 97 Kevin Lane Rock Spring, GA 30739 Work Schedule: Monday through Thursday, 10-hour shifts (day shift ...

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Entry Level Counselor information

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How much do entry level counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level counselor in the United States is $25.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $28.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 by region and work setting, but LCSWs tend to have higher earning potential in mental health counseling roles.

What Does an Entry-Level Counselor Do?

An entry-level counselor position is the first step in a rewarding career as a counselor. In this field, you work with a patient to understand their concerns and struggles and advise them on ways to improve their situation. Your duties are to evaluate their current mental health, develop a treatment plan, and provide them with skills to reshape negative behavior. You can counsel an adult, student, or a young child depending on your specialty. Entry-level counselors work in various fields that require counseling responsibilities, including addiction recovery and substance abuse, mental health, college and other academic environments, relationship therapy, prisons for adults and juveniles, the foster system, and more.

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, you need a foundational understanding of counseling theories, active listening, and a relevant degree in psychology, counseling, or social work. Familiarity with case management software, documentation standards, and possibly certifications like a state counseling license or associate credential are typical requirements. Strong interpersonal skills, empathy, and the ability to build rapport help entry level counselors connect effectively with clients and colleagues. These competencies are crucial for providing effective support, maintaining ethical standards, and fostering positive client outcomes.

Can you become a counselor with no experience?

Entry level counselors often do not need prior professional experience but typically require relevant education such as a bachelor's degree in psychology, social work, or a related field. Some positions may offer on-the-job training or supervision, and obtaining certifications like a counseling license can improve job prospects.

How to begin a career in counseling?

To start a career as an entry-level counselor, obtain a relevant bachelor's degree such as psychology, social work, or counseling, and gain experience through internships or volunteer work. Many positions require a state-specific license or certification, which involves completing supervised hours and passing an exam. Developing strong communication and active listening skills is essential for success in this field.

What does an entry level counselor do?

An entry level counselor provides support and guidance to individuals, often under the supervision of more experienced counselors. Their duties may include conducting intake assessments, helping clients set goals, facilitating group or individual counseling sessions, and maintaining client records. They often work in schools, community agencies, or healthcare settings, assisting clients with issues like stress, family relationships, or academic challenges. Entry level counselors use basic counseling techniques and refer clients to specialized resources when needed.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Entry level counselor positions typically do not pay $2000 a day; such high daily earnings are usually associated with specialized roles like executive consultants, high-level legal or financial advisors, or certain freelance professionals with extensive experience. Most entry level counseling roles offer lower daily rates, often paid hourly or salaried, and require relevant certifications and skills in mental health or social services.

What types of support and supervision can an entry level counselor expect in their first year?

Entry level counselors typically receive regular supervision from experienced, licensed professionals to help them navigate client cases and develop their skills. Most organizations offer weekly or bi-weekly meetings for reviewing client progress, discussing challenges, and ensuring ethical standards are met. New counselors may also participate in team meetings, training sessions, and case consultations to foster collaboration and continued learning. This supportive environment helps build confidence and paves the way for professional growth within the organization.
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Entry Level Counselor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Counselor job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,365 per year, or $25.2 per hour.

Entry Level Counselor

THRIVE Wellness and Recovery Inc

Watertown, NY

$17.50/hr

Other

Posted 18 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Provide individual and group activities for residents.

  • Co-facilitate group counseling and didactic sessions.

  • Supervise and participate with residents during recreational, vocational, and educational activities including meal preparation, cleaning, hygiene, nutrition, and daily chores.

Job description

Description

Schedule:

Part-Time: Monday-Friday 4:30pm-9:30pm


SUMMARY

Provide supportive presence for Clinical Staff in all areas of programming. Interaction with residents including, clinical activities, transport to off - site services, recreation, work projects and volunteer activities.


ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Maintain Standards that apply to Confidentiality and 42 CFR/HIPAA
  • Must be knowledgeable and able to demonstrate the Canon of Ethics, healthy professional relationships and boundaries with clients and co-workers
  • Provide individual and group activities
  • Co-facilitate group counseling and didactic sessions
  • Participate in clinical supervision at least bi-weekly and comply with directions
  • Utilize ATTC's Performance Assessment Rubrics as a tool for assessing and developing clinical competencies to strive to meet the Proficient Counselor standard.
  • Ensure the delivery of prompt medical attention in cases of illness or accident, report any such incidents to the Program Director/Supervisor, complete untoward incident reports and documentation as required. Utilize the On-call system as needed.
  • Obtain breath and urine samples for AOD testing
  • Participate in record reviews
  • Attend and participate in relevant training while pursuing/maintaining CASAC
  • Attend staff meetings, in-service and conference/trainings as assigned
  • Convey information inter/intra agency
  • Be sensitive and responsible to public relations within the community
  • Maintain basic knowledge of the physical plant
  • Supervise and participate with residents during recreational, vocational and educational activities including meal preparation, cleaning, hygiene, nutrition and daily chores.
  • Utilize program consumables and supplies cost effectively
  • Transport residents to appointments and activities as needed
  • Safeguard, monitor and distribute residents' medication as prescribed
  • Perform other duties as assigned

Management has the right to add or change the duties of this position at any time.

Requirements

QUALIFICATIONS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.


EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

Required: Must have a High School Diploma or GED.

Preferred: College Degree and experience in Substance Abuse, Mental Health, Physical Education and/or Recreation preferred


Other Job Requirements: Must maintain a valid Drivers License, as specified in the personnel policies.


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