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Entry Level Counselor Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Seamar

Group Life Counselor I

Tacoma, WA

$21.30/hr

Sea Mar is a mandatory COVID-19 and flu vaccine organization Group Life Counselor The Group Life ... An entry level person is expected to have a basic understanding of how to provide the direct ...

Seamar

Group Life Counselor I - Renacer

Seattle, WA

$23 - $31/hr

An entry level person is expected to have a basic understanding of how to provide the direct ... Group Life Counselors will also assist counselors: They will attend groups with clients who are ...

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All JobsCounselor JobsEntry Level Counselor JobsEntry Level Counselor Jobs in Seattle, WA

Entry Level Counselor information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$14

$28

$44

How much do entry level counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level counselor in Seattle, WA is $28.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.88 and $32.84 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 Seattle, WA? The most popular types of Counselor jobs in Seattle, WA are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Counselor jobs in Seattle, WA? For Entry Level Counselor jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Counselor jobs in Seattle, WA look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Counselor jobs in Seattle, WA are:
What cities near Seattle, WA are hiring for Entry Level Counselor jobs? Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Entry Level Counselor job openings:
Entry Level Counselor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Counselor job openings in Seattle, WA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, and 29% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $59,627 per year, or $28.7 per hour.
Group Life Counselor I, II, or III

Group Life Counselor I, II, or III

Sea Mar Community Health Centers

Tacoma, WA • On-site

$20.80 - $23.66/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Sea Mar Community Health Centers, a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) founded in 1978, is a community-based organization committed to providing quality, comprehensive health, human, housing, educational and cultural services to diverse communities, specializing in service to Latinos in Washington State. Sea Mar proudly serves all persons without regard to race, ethnicity, immigration status, gender, or sexual orientation, and regardless of ability to pay for services. Sea Mar's network of services includes more than 90 medical, dental, and behavioral health clinics and a wide variety of nutritional, social, and educational services. We are recruiting for the following position:

Sea Mar is a mandatory COVID-19 and flu vaccine organization

Group Life Counselor I, II, or III - Posting #27446

Hourly Rate: $20.80 - 23.66

Position Summary:

Full-time Group Life Counselor position available for our Treatment Center located in Tacoma, WA.  The descriptions below outline the job duties and requirements of a GLC I, GLC II and GLC III. The person hired will either work in a GLC II or GLC III capacity if the requirements are met. We have open positions for Evening, Graveyard, or day shift.

The Group Life Counselor I  is an entry level Human Service position that is part of the multi-disciplinary treatment team providing direct services to patients in a residential setting. Direct services may include a combination of all or the following: group care, intake procedures, evaluation, individual and group counseling, milieu management, evaluation and supervision of patients. An entry level person is expected to have a "base to moderate" understanding of how to provide the direct services listed above. Must understand that chemical dependency is a treatable illness and a public health problem. 

The Group Life Counselor II is a mid-level Human Service position that is part of the multi-disciplinary treatment team providing direct services to patients in a residential setting.  Direct services may include a combination or all of the following:  group care, intake procedures, evaluation, individual and group counseling, milieu management, evaluation, and supervision of patients.  Services are provided to out-of-control, high-risk, chronic runaway youth.  These youth/adult have a primary diagnosis of chemical dependency and may also have mental health problems.  The person in this position must be of good character and able to maintain the understanding, physical health, emotional stability, and personality suited to meet the physical, mental, emotional, and social needs of the adolescent population served. A mid-level person is expected to have a, “moderate to complete” understanding of how to provide the direct services listed above.

GLC II – Education and or/Experience:

  • B.A. degree in Psychology, Sociology, Human Services, or has at least two years of experience working with high-risk youth.
  • This person must receive a background check from DSHS and Washington State Patrol at hire and yearly.  Must have a Washington State driver’s license if applicable. 
  • Must have and maintain CPR Certification every two years and First-Aid every three years.

The Group Life Counselor III is a position that is part of the multi-disciplinary treatment team providing direct services to patients in a residential setting. Direct services may include a combination or all of the following: group care, intake procedures, evaluation, individual and group counseling, milieu management, and supervision of patients. These patients have a primary diagnosis of chemical dependency and may also have mental health problems.   GLC III will be responsible to facilitate treatment educational groups with the Individuals.  The GLC III is the agent for providing services to patients in individual or group sessions.  GLC III will work closely with CDP in treatment activities.

GLC III – Education and or/Experience

  • B.A. degree in Psychology, Sociology, Human Services, Addictions or related field.
  • Associates degree in Chemical Dependency and at least two years’ experience in working with at-risk population. 
  • Experience working with high-risk youth or adults preferred.
  • Must have and maintain CPR Certification every two years and First-Aid every three years.

What We Offer:

Sea Mar offers talented and motivated people the opportunity to work in a dynamic and growing community health organization. Working at Sea Mar Community Health Centers is more than just a job, it’s a fulfilling career with opportunity for advancement. The fringe benefits surpass most companies. For example, Full-time employees working 30 hours or more, receive an excellent benefit package of:

  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Prescription coverage
  • Life Insurance
  • Long Term Disability
  • EAP (Employee Assistance Program)
  • Paid-time-off starting at 24 days per year + 10 paid Holidays.

We also offer 401(k)/Retirement options and an exciting opportunity to work in a culturally diverse environment. 

How to Apply:

To apply for this position, complete the online application and click SUBMIT or APPLY NOW. If you have any questions regarding the position, email Joshua Sweet, Program Manager at JoshuaSweet@seamarchc.org.

Sea Mar is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Posted 04/03/2025

External candidates considered after 04/08/2025

This position is represented by Office and Professional Employees International Union (OPEIU).

Please visit our website to learn more about us at www.seamar.org. You may also apply through our Career page at https://www.seamar.org/jobs-general.html

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