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Entry Level Counselor Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Woodward Academy

Youth Counselor

Woodward, IA · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

This entry-level position offers opportunities for advancement and leadership across the ... As a Youth Counselor , you'll help create a safe, engaging, and empowering environment for youth to ...

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Entry Level Counselor information

See Iowa salary details

$11

$23

$36

How much do entry level counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of May 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level counselor in Iowa is $23.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.08 and $27.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.
More about Entry Level Counselor jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Counselor jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Counselor jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Counselor jobs in Iowa? For Entry Level Counselor jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Counselor jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Counselor jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Entry Level Counselor jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Entry Level Counselor job openings:
Entry Level Counselor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Counselor job openings in Iowa as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 52% Full Time, 42% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 22% Physical, and 78% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,185 per year, or $23.6 per hour.

Night Youth Counselor

Sequel Employment Center

Woodward, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

We are passionate about what we do and delight in providing excellent programs that make permanent, positive changes in the lives of those we serve. Our programs are designed to equip our clients with the vision, motivation, life skills, education, and self-discipline necessary to lead a successful life.
DO YOU WANT TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN THE LIVES OF TROUBLED YOUTH? WOODWARD ACADEMY MAY BE THE PLACE FOR YOU!
The Youth Counselor is an entry level position. They work with students every day, a vital part of a team, that help youth make positive changes in their lives. Youth Counselors supervise students on their dorms and in the classrooms and participate in counseling on a daily basis. The position is located in Woodward, Iowa.
Job Requirements: High school diploma or GED is required and previous experience working with kids is required. It is an essential function of the job that staff be capable of participating in crisis interventions. A State of Iowa class D3 chauffeur's license and clear MVR is preferred.
Benefit Package includes:
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision.
  • Company provided Short Term and Long Term Disability
  • Company provided Basic Life/AD&D insurance
  • Flexible Spending program
  • 401K after sixty days.
  • Holiday pay
  • Paid time off
  • Birthday paid day off
  • Employee Educational Assistance Program
  • Paid meals
  • Housing opportunities
  • Wellness Program
  • Membership to local country club
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • DailyPay option
  • Parental Leave
  • Quarterly bonus opportunities
  • $750.00 sign on bonus for Full Time applicants hired after they complete 90 days of employment.
  • Referral bonus opportunities

Sequel Youth & Family Services is an Equal Opportunity and Veteran Friendly employer.

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