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Entry Level Mental Health Counselor Jobs in Riverside, CA

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Entry Level Mental Health Counselor information

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$32.9K

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$121.5K

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

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level mental health counselor in Riverside, CA is $67,108.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,000.00 and $75,600.00 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.

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Mental Health Counselor jobs in Riverside, CA?

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

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Entry Level Mental Health Counselor jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Entry Level Mental Health Counselor job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Mental Health Counselor job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 83% In-person, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,108 per year, or $32.3 per hour.

Entry-Level Mental Health Counselor - Remote

Better Selves Therapy, Ltd

Moreno Valley, CA โ€ข Remote

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

New


Job description

Position Overview

Better Selves Therapy, Ltd is actively seeking motivated and dedicated Associate Level Mental Health Counselors to join our team. This full-time, remote position based in Moreno Valley, California, offers the opportunity to work alongside seasoned mental health professionals in a supportive outpatient practice environment. Our organization is committed to delivering evidence-based mental health care while fostering professional development under direct supervision. The role is pivotal in enhancing patient outcomes through tailored mental health support.

About the Organization

Better Selves Therapy, Ltd is a forward-thinking mental health practice focused on providing comprehensive therapeutic services to individuals in need. Our mission is to empower clients to achieve their personal best and navigate life's challenges through personalized care and support. We pride ourselves on maintaining a diverse and skilled team committed to collaboration and ongoing learning. By nurturing an inclusive culture, we ensure that all voices and ideas are valued, which resonates deeply with our client population.

Work Environment

This role is entirely remote, offering you the flexibility to work from home while still being an integral part of a vibrant team dedicated to mental health solutions. The full-time schedule is Monday to Friday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, providing a structured work-life balance. Regular virtual meetings and professional development sessions will facilitate connection with colleagues and supervisors, promoting ongoing learning and support.

Key Responsibilities
  • Conduct comprehensive intake assessments to gather client history and identify treatment needs.
  • Develop individualized treatment plans based on assessment findings, incorporating evidence-based therapeutic interventions.
  • Facilitate individual and group therapy sessions, utilizing therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
  • Track client progress diligently with accurate clinical documentation and regular updates to treatment plans.
  • Engage in weekly supervision and training sessions, sharing insights and seeking guidance to deepen clinical skills.
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including psychiatrists and social workers, to ensure holistic client care.
  • Adhere to ethical standards and client confidentiality regulations in all aspects of service delivery.
Patient Population / Client Focus

In this role, you will work predominantly with a diverse adult and adolescent population facing various mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues. Our clients come from rich backgrounds and require tailored therapeutic approaches that consider their unique lived experiences. By engaging empathetically and actively, you will help clients develop coping mechanisms, improve their mental health, and achieve their personal goals.

Qualifications
  • A minimum of a Bachelorโ€™s Degree in Counseling, Psychology, Social Work, or a related field.
  • Current associate registration in California (AMFT, ASW, or APCC) is essential.
  • Exceptional communication skills and a strong ethical framework.
  • A proactive attitude towards building rapport and supporting clients from diverse backgrounds.
Preferred Experience
  • At least one year of professional experience in mental health counseling or a closely related field.
  • Familiarity with various therapeutic modalities and a willingness to integrate new approaches into practice.
  • Experience working with community health clinics or outpatient settings is a plus.
Compensation and Benefits

The annual salary for this position ranges from USD 65,000 to 85,000, commensurate with experience and qualifications. Better Selves Therapy, Ltd offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

  • No-cost supervision hours towards licensure.
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance for employees and their eligible dependents.
  • Generous paid time off for vacations, sick leave, and recognized holidays.
  • A retirement plan with employer contributions to support your future financial well-being.
  • Opportunities for mentorship, professional development, and potential career advancement within the organization.
Career Growth Opportunities

At Better Selves Therapy, we value continual professional growth and provide numerous opportunities for career advancement. As an associate therapist, you will receive personalized mentorship and supervision, aiding in your journey towards full licensure. Our supportive environment encourages ongoing education and the pursuit of specialized training to elevate your skills in specific therapeutic modalities.

Why Join Our Team

Joining Better Selves Therapy means becoming part of a compassionate community dedicated to improving mental health services. Our commitment to ethical practice, client-centered care, and continuous professional growth offers an enriching workplace where you can thrive. If you are passionate about making a difference in the lives of others and are eager to grow as a mental health professional, we invite you to apply today!

Application Information

If you are excited about the opportunity to contribute to a meaningful mission and advance your career, please submit your application, including a resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and motivation for applying. We look forward to reviewing your application and exploring the possibility of you joining our passionate team at Better Selves Therapy, Ltd.