2

Entry Level Mental Health Counselor Jobs in Riverside, CA

Showing results 21-40

Entry Level Mental Health Counselor information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$32.9K

$67.1K

$121.5K

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

As of Aug 23, 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.

Remote Mental Health Counselor

Changing Phases Staffing Partners LLC

Fontana, CA โ€ข On-site

$51K - $67K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Position Overview

Changing Phases Staffing Partners LLC is currently seeking dedicated and experienced Mental Health Counselors to join our dynamic team in a full-time remote capacity. This position offers an opportunity to make a significant impact on the lives of individuals seeking support for mental health challenges while enjoying the flexibility of working from home.

About the Organization

At Changing Phases Staffing Partners LLC, we are committed to providing personalized mental health care. Our community health clinic is recognized for its compassionate, evidence-based therapy services aimed at empowering individuals to lead fulfilling lives. Our licensed therapists work tirelessly to create an atmosphere of trust and understanding where clients can heal and grow.

Work Environment

The role is performed entirely remotely, allowing for a comfortable and confidential workspace. We foster a collaborative environment with a supportive team of professionals who share a passion for helping clients navigate through trauma, anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. Our infrastructure includes robust telehealth technology that ensures seamless interactions with clients from their preferred locations.

Key Responsibilities
  • Conduct comprehensive assessments to determine client needs and develop individualized treatment plans that promote personal growth.
  • Implement and administer evidence-based therapy modalities tailored to the specific challenges clients face, whether in-person or via teletherapy.
  • Set clear therapeutic goals and monitor client progress through regular evaluations and adjustments to treatment protocols.
  • Maintain meticulous documentation in adherence to ethical standards and legal requirements, ensuring client confidentiality is prioritized.
  • Participate in ongoing professional development activities, including training workshops and peer supervision, to enhance skills and knowledge.
Patient Population / Client Focus

Our client base encompasses a diverse population seeking support for various mental health issues, including but not limited to anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, trauma, and relationship challenges. Clients are from various backgrounds, and our counselors must employ cultural competency to meet each client's unique needs. We prioritize creating a therapeutic alliance that fosters growth, healing, and empowerment.

Qualifications
  • A current and valid state license as an LCSW, LPCC, LMFT, or PsyD is required.
  • A Master's or Doctoral degree in Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy, Mental Health Counseling, or Psychology is mandatory.
  • Proven ability to demonstrate empathy, compassion, and a non-judgmental attitude toward clients.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to facilitate strong therapeutic relationships.
  • Robust organizational skills coupled with effective time management capabilities.
Preferred Experience
  • A minimum of two years of relevant experience in mental health counseling is highly preferred.
  • Familiarity with teletherapy platforms and electronic health record (EHR) systems.
Compensation and Benefits

This position offers a competitive salary range of USD 115,000 โ€“ 130,000 annually, based on your caseload and relevant experience. Additional benefits include:

  • Flexible work schedules to accommodate personal and professional obligations.
  • Administrative support to streamline scheduling, billing, and insurance processing.
  • Opportunities for continuing education reimbursement to foster professional development.
  • Professional autonomy in the treatment process, allowing counselors to utilize their skills effectively.
Career Growth Opportunities

Joining our organization not only provides a rewarding career in mental health counseling but also opens pathways for personal and professional advancement within the field. We encourage our counselors to pursue specialization areas that align with their interests and create opportunities for leadership roles within our organization.

Why Join Our Team

If you are a licensed Mental Health Counselor dedicated to providing personalized care and making a difference in the lives of clients, we invite you to apply. At Changing Phases Staffing Partners LLC, you will become part of a caring community that values collaboration, professional growth, and the crucial work we do together to support individuals on their journey to healing.

Application Information

Ready to embark on a fulfilling career with us? Please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your qualifications and passion for mental health counseling. We look forward to welcoming you to our committed team dedicated to fostering positive change in the community.