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Entry Level Counselor Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

A desire for a meaningful, hands-on career Experience working with children is a plus, including backgrounds such as camp counselor, nanny, preschool teacher, paraprofessional, teacher's aide, or ...

A desire for a meaningful, hands-on career Experience working with children is a plus, including backgrounds such as camp counselor, nanny, preschool teacher, paraprofessional, teacher's aide, or ...

A desire for a meaningful, hands-on career Experience working with children is a plus, including backgrounds such as camp counselor, nanny, preschool teacher, paraprofessional, teacher's aide, or ...

WC Attorney Remote Workers' Compensation Defense Attorney (Entry-Level to Junior) - California ... Communicate directly with clients, carriers, and opposing counsel * Draft pleadings, motions, and ...

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Entry Level Counselor information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$13

$26

$40

How much do entry level counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level counselor in Riverside, CA is $26.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.05 and $30.10 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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Counselor jobs in Riverside, CA? The most popular types of Counselor jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Entry Level Counselor jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Entry Level Counselor job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Counselor job openings in Riverside, CA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $54,631 per year, or $26.3 per hour.

Primary Counselor - Per Diem/On Call - Entry Level

Sierra Vista Behavioral Health Center

Highland, CA โ€ข On-site

$21 - $21.95/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

Are You Looking for Your New Career? We are now hiring per diem (on call) Primary Counselors to join our dynamic team!
Sierra Vista was recently listed among Newsweek Magazine's "Best Nursing Homes in America." We have high standards for our residents and high expectations for our co-workers. If you're motivated, dependable, and kind, we want you!
Salary Range: $21.00 to $21.95 per hour
Flexible days/hours
Sierra Vista Behavioral Health Center values high quality, compassionate care above all else. We're looking to expand our team with people who share our commitment to care and hold themselves to high expectations on behalf of their residents, teammates, and company.
What Makes Us Special?
  • UKG Wallet: Access earned wages before payday.
  • Competitive Wages: We offer a great salary package.
  • Great Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
  • Growth Opportunities: We support your professional development.
  • Continuing Education & Training: Stay current with industry standards.

Are you ready to contribute to a team committed to excellent customer service and dedicated to each individual's unique talent?
If Yes, How You Will Contribute to the Team:
As a Primary Counselor, you will provide crucial therapeutic support to clients by assessing their needs, conducting individual and group counseling sessions, and implementing individualized behavioral programs. You will work cooperatively with an interdisciplinary team under the supervision of the Program Director to offer treatment options, help resolve problems, and assist clients in managing stress, mental health challenges, and other life issues. You will maintain case notes, monitor client progress, and actively participate in the development of treatment plans.
Must Have:
  • Two years' direct care work experience in an inpatient or outpatient behavioral setting; or
  • Two years of college-level coursework including behavioral health; or
  • A combination of relevant experience and education totaling two years.

Nice to have:
  • Background education in psychology, sociology, social work, counseling, or related fields.

Equal Opportunity Employer
All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, national origin, veteran or disability status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Pay Transparency Statement
Compensation for roles varies depending on a wide array of factors including but not limited to the location, role, skill set and level of experience. As required by state or local law, we provide a reasonable pay scale to include the hourly or salary range that we reasonably expect to pay for roles, as stated above.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.