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Entry Level Mental Health Counselor Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Hope Services, LLC

Mental Health Counselor

Smithfield, NC · On-site

$49K - $53K/yr

We proudly employ a diverse team that includes both entry-level recent graduates seeking to begin ... Seeking mental health counselors to work in our Intensive In Home program: * Counselors will work ...

Mindology

Mental Health Counselor

Raleigh, NC · On-site

Mental Health Counselor (Fully Licensed & Associate-Level) Job Summary: We are seeking compassionate and dedicated Mental Health Counselors (both fully licensed and associate-level) to join our team.

Headway

Licensed Mental Health Counselor

Raleigh, NC · On-site +1

$120/hr

" Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) Wage: Up to $120/hour Licensed Mental Health Counselor -- Are you ready to launch or expand your private practice? Headway is here to help you start accepting ...

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All JobsMental Health Counselor JobsEntry Level Mental Health Counselor JobsEntry Level Mental Health Counselor Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Entry Level Mental Health Counselor information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$30.6K

$62.5K

$113.2K

How much do entry level mental health counselor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level mental health counselor in Raleigh, NC is $62,525.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,700.00 and $70,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level mental health counselor do?

As an entry-level mental health counselor, your job is to provide therapy, assessment, and emotional support for a client as part of a treatment plan. Entry-level mental health counselors often specialize in specific areas, such as behavioral therapy, and you can also focus on specific demographics like children, inmates, or immigrant populations who only speak a foreign language. Many entry-level mental health counselors work under the supervision of more-experienced counselors. Doing this can help you progress towards additional industry licensing or certification. This job can be remote, but most entry-level mental health counselors work out of offices or, less often, travel to visit patients.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level mental health counselor, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Mental Health Counselor, you generally need a bachelor's or master's degree in psychology, counseling, or a related field, along with supervised clinical experience. Familiarity with electronic health records (EHRs), counseling software, and sometimes relevant state licensure or certification is important. Outstanding listening skills, empathy, and strong verbal communication help counselors build trust and rapport with clients. These skills and qualifications are vital for effectively supporting clients' mental health and ensuring ethical, high-quality care.

What kinds of support and supervision can entry level mental health counselors expect in their first year on the job?

Entry-level mental health counselors typically receive regular supervision from licensed clinicians, which helps them develop their counseling skills and navigate challenging cases. Many organizations offer weekly or bi-weekly individual and group supervision sessions, along with opportunities for ongoing training and professional development. New counselors often work as part of a multidisciplinary team, collaborating with social workers, psychologists, and case managers to coordinate comprehensive care for clients. This structured support system ensures that new counselors build confidence and competency while working towards licensure.

What is the difference between Entry Level Mental Health Counselor vs Mental Health Technician?

AspectEntry Level Mental Health CounselorMental Health Technician
Required CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in psychology, social work, or related field; some roles may need state licensure or certificationUsually requires a high school diploma or associate degree; certification may be preferred but not always required
Work EnvironmentClinics, mental health facilities, hospitals, private practicesHospitals, residential treatment centers, community health settings
Job ResponsibilitiesProviding counseling, developing treatment plans, supporting clients' mental health needsAssisting with client activities, monitoring behavior, supporting treatment plans under supervision

In summary, Entry Level Mental Health Counselors typically hold a bachelor's degree and provide direct counseling services, while Mental Health Technicians often have less formal education and focus on supporting client care and monitoring in mental health settings.

How to start a career in entry level mental health counseling?

To start a career as an entry-level mental health counselor, obtain a relevant bachelor's degree such as psychology or social work, and consider earning a master's degree in mental health counseling or a related field. Gaining supervised clinical experience and obtaining licensure or certification, such as the National Counselor Certification (NCC), are also essential steps to qualify for entry-level positions in the field.

What is the fastest way to become an entry level mental health counselor?

To become an entry-level mental health counselor, you typically need to earn a relevant bachelor's degree in psychology, social work, or a related field, followed by obtaining supervised experience or internships. Many states require passing a licensing exam and completing a master's degree in mental health counseling or a similar discipline for full licensure, but some entry-level roles may be available with a bachelor's degree and relevant experience.
More about Entry Level Mental Health Counselor jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Mental Health Counselor jobs in Raleigh, NC?

The most popular types of Mental Health Counselor jobs in Raleigh, NC are:

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For Entry Level Mental Health Counselor jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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The top searched job categories for Entry Level Mental Health Counselor jobs in Raleigh, NC are:

What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Entry Level Mental Health Counselor jobs?

Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Entry Level Mental Health Counselor job openings:

Entry Level Mental Health Counselor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Mental Health Counselor job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,525 per year, or $30.1 per hour.

Mental Health Counselor

Smithfield, NC • On-site

Hope Services, LLC
See more jobs at Hope Services, LLCexternal

$49K - $53K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

Why Hope Services?
Hope Services, LLC is dedicated to providing high-quality, evidence-based Mental Health services to children, adolescents, and families. Our mission is to improve the lives of those we serve by hiring compassionate and skilled professionals with backgrounds in Social Work, Psychology, and related Human Services Degree programs. We proudly employ a diverse team that includes both entry-level recent graduates seeking to begin their careers in behavioral health and experienced, licensed therapists committed to making a lasting impact. Through ongoing support, professional development, and the implementation of proven treatment models, Hope Services fosters an environment where employees can grow while delivering exceptional care to the communities we serve. 

Seeking mental health counselors to work in our Intensive In Home program:
  • Counselors will work as part of a team to provide intensive home based services to children and their families in order to prevent out of home placement.
  • Masters degree preferred but bachelors accepted with a minimum of 2 years experience working with the child/adolescent mental health population.
  • Ideal position for newly provisionally licensed professionals or recent grads seeking provisional licensure.
  • Supervision towards licensure provided as well as training opportunities in the following evidence based treatment models: Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TFCBT); Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT); and Eco-Systemic Family Therapy (ESFT).

Requirements:
  • Masters degree preferred but bachelors accepted with a minimum of 2 years experience working with the child/adolescent mental health population. 
  • Newly provisionally licensed professionals LCSWA, LCMHCA or recent grads seeking provisional licensure as well.