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Entry Level Therapy Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Occupational Therapist - Bell Unit

Cleveland, TX · On-site

$36.25 - $47.75/hr

Directs the evaluation, development, coordination, and implementation of occupational therapy ... Participates in training and supervision of entry-level therapist and mentoring physical therapist.

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Entry Level Therapy information

See Texas salary details

$12

$15

$20

How much do entry level therapy jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level therapy in Texas is $15.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.57 and $16.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Therapist, you need a bachelor's or master's degree in psychology, counseling, or a related field, along with foundational knowledge in therapeutic techniques and frameworks. Familiarity with client management software, electronic health records, and sometimes basic certifications like CPR or first aid is typically required. Strong communication, active listening, empathy, and ethical judgment are essential soft skills for building trust and rapport with clients. These skills and qualifications ensure effective support for clients' mental health needs and contribute to positive therapeutic outcomes.

What are some common challenges entry-level therapists face during their first year, and how can they overcome them?

Entry-level therapists often encounter challenges such as managing a diverse caseload, balancing administrative duties with client sessions, and building therapeutic rapport with clients from various backgrounds. Navigating professional boundaries and coping with emotional fatigue are also common. New therapists can overcome these obstacles by seeking regular supervision, participating in peer consultation groups, and prioritizing self-care. Many organizations also provide mentorship programs and ongoing training to support early-career therapists as they develop their skills.

What is an entry level therapy job?

Entry level therapy jobs are positions in the mental health or rehabilitation fields that require minimal prior professional experience and are suitable for recent graduates or those new to the profession. These roles may include positions like mental health technician, behavioral therapist assistant, or rehabilitation aide, and often involve supporting licensed therapists and helping clients with their treatment plans. Most entry level therapy jobs require at least a bachelor’s degree in psychology, social work, or a related field, and may provide on-the-job training. These roles can be a stepping stone toward advanced licensure and more independent practice as a therapist.
What are the most commonly searched types of Therapy jobs in Texas? The most popular types of Therapy jobs in Texas are:
What cities in Texas are hiring for Entry Level Therapy jobs? Cities in Texas with the most Entry Level Therapy job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Therapy job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 62% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,820 per year, or $15.8 per hour.

Occupational Therapist - Bell Unit

University of Texas Medical Branch

Cleveland, TX • On-site

$36.25 - $47.75/hr

Other

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

The mission of Correctional Managed Care is to address the healthcare needs of underserved patient populations within the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) and the Texas Juvenile Justice Department (TJJD).

JOB SUMMARY

Directs the evaluation, development, coordination, and implementation of occupational therapy intervention provided to patients. Serves as a patient advocate assuring the delivery of occupational therapy meets legal, ethical and institutional standards while adhering to the philosophy, objective, policies and procedures of the department and the organization.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
  • Provides evaluation, treatment and discharge planning to patients relative to age, culture and condition in assigned clinical area.
  • Documents patient evaluation, treatment progress and billing, appropriately in the medical record. Documentation must meet peer review requirements.
  • Communicates pertinent patient information with the patient, family members, physicians, team members, and other disciplines.
  • Participates in rounds, clinics and case conferences as assigned.
  • Meets required competencies for assigned area.
  • Delegates duties and monitors service delivery appropriately to COTA, Rehabilitation Aide.
  • Supervises students as requested (at least 1 year of experience).
  • Participates in training and supervision of entry-level therapist and mentoring physical therapist.
  • Participates in the provides in-service/continuing education/research opportunities.
  • Adheres to internal controls established for department.
  • Performs related duties as required.
EQUIPMENT:   Standard office equipment; standard occupational therapy equipment.   WORK ENVIRONMENT:
  • May be exposed to such occupational hazards such as communicable diseases, harmful chemicals, and/or disoriented or combative patients.
  • Alertness and careful attention to detail is required to avoid injury.
  • Must be able to deal with stressful and/or complex situations.
  • Travel to other outpatient clinics and to attend CEU activities may be required.
  • Lifting is required.
Located within the confines of a prison, jail or juvenile detention center. Security clearance is required; pre-employment drug testing is also required.

University of Texas Medical Branch logo

About University of Texas Medical Branch

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB), based in Galveston, TX, US, operates within the education and healthcare sectors. Established in 1891 as the University of Texas’ first academic health center, UTMB has been at the forefront of educational, research, and clinical excellence in the medical field. Its offerings encompass a full range of degrees in health-related fields, extensive research facilities, and three major institutes for advanced study. The organization's mission is to improve health for the people of Texas and around the world, and its core values revolve around diversity, integrity, leadership, respect, and teamwork. A significant achievement of UTMB includes its recognition as a top-notch medical research institution and a primary source of healthcare for many Texas residents.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Galveston, TX, US