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Entry Level Mental Health Counselor Jobs in Rochester, NY

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Entry Level Mental Health Counselor information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$31.1K

$63.5K

$114.9K

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

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level mental health counselor in Rochester, NY is $63,467.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,400.00 and $71,500.00 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.
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What are the most commonly searched types of Mental Health Counselor jobs in Rochester, NY?

The most popular types of Mental Health Counselor jobs in Rochester, NY are:

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

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What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Entry Level Mental Health Counselor jobs?

Cities near Rochester, NY 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 Rochester, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, and 12% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $63,496 per year, or $30.5 per hour.

Remote Mental Health Counselor

Rochester, NY • Remote

South Pine Care Center
See more jobs at South Pine Care Centerexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Position Overview

The South Pine Care Center is seeking a dedicated and compassionate Mental Health Counselor to join our innovative team in a fully remote setting. This full-time opportunity allows professionals to provide critical mental health services to individuals in need through telehealth platforms. The ideal candidate will possess strong clinical skills, a passion for patient care, and the ability to conduct thorough assessments and develop effective treatment plans.

About the Organization

At South Pine Care Center, we are committed to delivering high-quality, individualized support to individuals facing various physical, intellectual, or behavioral challenges. With a staff of 40,000, we pride ourselves on being a leader in the mental health field, serving over 50,000 clients. Our organization values diversity and is an Equal Opportunity Employer, explicitly including individuals with disabilities and veterans.

Work Environment

This position is fully remote, utilizing cutting-edge telehealth technology to facilitate therapy sessions and patient assessments. Our team members enjoy the flexibility of creating their own schedules, ranging from part-time to full-time hours. The supportive virtual environment promotes collaboration among counselors and administrators, enhancing the overall quality of care we provide to our clients.

Key Responsibilities
  • Provide comprehensive and individualized therapy sessions for clients, tailored to their unique psychological needs.
  • Conduct initial assessments and periodically evaluate mental health progress, adjusting treatment plans as necessary.
  • Maintain meticulous documentation of treatment logs, progress notes, and care strategies to meet regulatory standards.
  • Utilize advanced clinical skills to address crisis situations, offering immediate and effective therapeutic interventions.
  • Work collaboratively with patients and their families to develop, implement, and monitor intervention strategies.
  • Provide psychoeducation to clients and their families, helping them to understand mental health issues and the resources available to them.
  • Refer clients to additional specialized services when necessary to ensure comprehensive treatment.
Patient Population / Client Focus

The Mental Health Counselor will work with a diverse array of patients, catering to individuals with varying psychological needs. Clients may include those facing anxiety, depression, trauma, relational issues, and other mental health disorders. The role requires an enthusiastic commitment to fostering independence and growth among clients, ensuring they receive the support necessary to improve their quality of life.

Qualifications
  • A Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology, Social Work, or Counseling is required; a Master’s Degree or Ph.D. in a related field is preferred.
  • Licensure as a Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), or a Psy.D. is mandatory.
Preferred Experience

Applicants should have a minimum of two years of experience providing clinical mental health services in a professional setting. Previous experience with telehealth modalities is preferred, as well as an understanding of the unique issues faced by individuals in remote therapy settings.

Compensation and Benefits

We offer a competitive salary ranging from USD 90,000 to 135,000 yearly, depending on experience and qualifications. Additionally, the compensation package includes:

  • An attractive sign-on bonus of up to $1,500.
  • Potential for earning additional bonuses up to $2,000 based on state licensure.
  • Full-time employees enjoy comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, and vision insurance.
  • Generous paid time off with rollover options and opportunities to cash out accrued time.
  • 12 weeks of paid parental leave to support family growth and stability.
Career Growth Opportunities

At South Pine Care Center, we are dedicated to the professional development of our team members. As a Mental Health Counselor, you will have opportunities for advancement within our organization through continued education and specialized trainings. We support our staff in pursuing licensure upgrades and specialized certifications that enhance their clinical skills and career trajectory.

Why Join Our Team

Joining South Pine Care Center means becoming part of a progressive team that values innovation and patient-centric care. You'll be equipped with the latest in telehealth technology and support, fostering a collaborative virtual environment aimed at achieving positive patient outcomes. Here, you can make a real difference in the lives of individuals while benefiting from competitive compensation and a fulfilling work-life balance.

Application Information

If you are passionate about mental health and eager to make a lasting impact, we invite you to apply for the Mental Health Counselor position at South Pine Care Center. Please submit your resume along with a cover letter detailing your experience and qualifications. We look forward to welcoming you to our dedicated team!

Apply