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Entry Level Counselor Jobs in Needham, MA (NOW HIRING)

MassAbility

Vocational and Career Counselor-Malden

Malden, MA · On-site

$43K - $58K/yr

The Vocational and Career Counselor will coordinate vocational rehabilitation services from intake ... entry-level QVRC position Duties and Responsibilities (these duties are a general summary and not ...

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Entry Level Counselor information

See Needham, MA salary details

$13

$27

$42

How much do entry level counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level counselor in Needham, MA is $27.43, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.96 and $31.44 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Who gets paid more, LCSW or LMHC?

LCSWs (Licensed Clinical Social Workers) generally earn higher salaries than LMHCs (Licensed Mental Health Counselors) due to their broader scope of practice, additional clinical responsibilities, and often required supervision hours. Salary differences can vary by region and setting, but LCSWs tend to have higher earning potential in mental health 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.

How to make $200,000 as a therapist?

Entry level counselors typically earn less than $200,000 annually; reaching this income level usually requires advanced licensure, specialization, private practice, or working in high-demand settings. Building a strong client base, gaining additional certifications, and expanding services can increase earning potential over time.

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. Gaining relevant experience through internships or volunteer work and obtaining any necessary state licensure or certification can also be important steps in qualifying for entry-level counseling positions.

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 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.

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

Entry level counselors typically need at least a high school diploma or equivalent, but most counseling roles require a relevant bachelor's degree in fields like psychology or social work. Some positions may accept related experience or certifications, but advanced counseling generally requires a degree and licensure or certification to practice legally and effectively.

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 Needham, MA? The most popular types of Counselor jobs in Needham, MA are:
What cities near Needham, MA are hiring for Entry Level Counselor jobs? Cities near Needham, MA with the most Entry Level Counselor job openings:
Entry Level Counselor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Counselor job openings in Needham, MA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,045 per year, or $27.4 per hour.
Awake Overnight Counselor

Awake Overnight Counselor

NORTH SUFFOLK COMMUNITY SERVICES INC

Chelsea, MA • On-site

$20/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

North Suffolk is looking for Awake Overnight Counselors to join our team! Overnight Residential Counselors are members of a team responsible for providing high quality direct care services to adults with developmental disabilities. As a nonprofit organization, we believe that every individual deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential. We are looking for both entry level and experienced individuals to work as Awake Overnights in our residential homes. The right candidates will be responsible for providing care and assistance to Individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. If you have experience working with developmentally disabled adults, or are willing to learn, we encourage you to apply.

Full and part time positions available in Chelsea, Winthrop, Revere, Waltham, West Roxbury, Hyde Park and Saugus. Please indicate preference for location and shift.

Salary Range: $20 - $22 / hour depending on program placement

What you’ll do:

  • Be awake and available to persons during overnight shift until persons have left residential program, or until the morning staff person arrives.
  • Perform security checks on an hourly basis to ensure safety of individuals and facility.
  • Document each person’s progress in the confidential record.
  • Perform tasks on the cleaning checklist and all duties based on individual’s needs and schedule.
  • Write daily notes at end of shift if needed, noting any incidents and maintain regular communication with other team members.
  • Complete medication counts.

What you’ll need:

  • Education:
    • High School diploma or GED required.
    • Bachelor’s degree in any related field preferred.
  • Experience:
    • Zero to six years related experience (depending on DSP level) providing child care/elder care/direct support to developmentally disabled persons or previous experience supporting individuals in a mental health/special education or other human services setting is required.
  • Skills:
    • Must have valid Massachusetts Driver’s license.
    • Must be or able to become MAP certified
    • CPR/First Aid certified within five months of hire (training provided).

Competitive & Comprehensive Benefits

  • Paid Time Off – Two weeks’ Vacation per year (three weeks after 2 years of service), 12 Sick Days per year, and 11 Paid Holidays per year
  • Eligible employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program
  • Health & Dental Insurance, with generous employer contribution
  • Employer Paid Life Insurance
  • 403 (b) Retirement Plan with employer matching
  • Voluntary Short and Long Term Disability Insurance
  • Medical & Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Access to Credit Union Banking
  • Access to State Tuition Remission Program (Worksite Specific)
  • Employee Referral Bonus Program
  • Discounted Movie Tickets
  • Comprehensive Training Program
  • Internal Advancement Opportunities