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Entry Level Unlicensed Counselor information

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$28.5K

$57.3K

$75K

How much do entry level unlicensed counselor jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level unlicensed counselor in the United States is $57,280.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,000.00 and $69,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Who gets paid more, LCSW or LMHC?

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs) generally earn higher salaries than Licensed Mental Health Counselors (LMHC) due to their broader scope of practice, additional licensing requirements, and often more extensive clinical responsibilities. Salary differences can vary by region and work setting, but LCSWs tend to have higher earning potential in mental health counseling roles.

What is an Entry Level Unlicensed Counselor?

An Entry Level Unlicensed Counselor is an individual who provides support and guidance to clients under the supervision of licensed mental health professionals. They typically assist with intake assessments, facilitate group activities, and help clients access resources, but they are not yet licensed to provide independent therapy or clinical diagnosis. This role is often held by individuals who are recent graduates or are in the process of completing the requirements for full licensure. Entry level unlicensed counselors gain valuable hands-on experience while working toward becoming licensed counselors.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Unlicensed Counselor, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Unlicensed Counselor, you need a bachelor's degree in psychology, social work, or a related field, along with foundational knowledge of counseling theories and practices. Familiarity with documentation software, client management systems, and basic assessment tools is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, active listening, empathy, and the ability to maintain confidentiality help set candidates apart in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for building trust with clients and effectively supporting their mental health needs under supervision.

How to become an entry level counselor?

To become an entry-level counselor, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by completing a relevant bachelor's degree such as psychology, social work, or counseling. Some positions may require or prefer certification or supervised internship experience, and strong communication and interpersonal skills are essential for success in the role.

How to make $200,000 as a therapist?

Entry level unlicensed counselors typically do not earn $200,000 annually; reaching this income usually requires advanced licensure, such as becoming a licensed professional counselor or psychologist, gaining extensive experience, and possibly working in private practice or specialized settings. Building a high income may also involve developing specialized skills, obtaining additional certifications, and increasing client volume or service fees.

What are the typical responsibilities of an entry level unlicensed counselor during a workweek?

As an entry level unlicensed counselor, your weekly responsibilities often include conducting intake interviews, assisting with case management, providing support under supervision, maintaining client records, and participating in team meetings. You will likely work closely with licensed counselors, following their guidance and protocols, and may also facilitate group sessions or educational workshops. This role provides valuable hands-on experience in client interaction and documentation while ensuring you learn proper ethical and professional standards within a supportive team environment.

Can I work as a counselor without a license?

Entry level unlicensed counselors can often provide support under supervision or in specific settings such as schools or community programs, but many counseling roles require licensure to independently practice and offer mental health services. Licensing typically involves completing a relevant degree, supervised hours, and passing a licensing exam. Without a license, responsibilities may be limited to administrative or support tasks within counseling environments.

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

AspectEntry Level Unlicensed CounselorMental Health Technician
Required CredentialsTypically a bachelor's degree; no license requiredHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentCounseling centers, clinics, schoolsHospitals, residential facilities, clinics
Employer & Industry UsageBehavioral health, mental health servicesBehavioral health, inpatient care
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Both roles support mental health services but differ mainly in credentials and responsibilities. Entry Level Unlicensed Counselors typically hold a bachelor's degree and assist with counseling under supervision, while Mental Health Technicians focus on patient care and support in clinical settings with less formal education requirements.

More about Entry Level Unlicensed Counselor jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Unlicensed Counselor jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Unlicensed Counselor job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Unlicensed Counselor jobs? The most popular types of Unlicensed Counselor jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Unlicensed Counselor jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Unlicensed Counselor jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Unlicensed Counselor jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Unlicensed Counselor jobs are:
Entry Level Unlicensed Counselor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Unlicensed Counselor job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,280 per year, or $27.5 per hour.
Youth Counselor - Hampstead Hospital

Youth Counselor - Hampstead Hospital

Amergis Healthcare Staffing

Hampstead, NH • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

The Unlicensed Social Worker/Counselor/Mental Health Clinician provides counseling to patient’s in a variety of settings including medical facilities, hospitals, clinics, learning centers and other organizations that are in need of assistance. Counselors are entry level, they do progress notes, treatment plans but not individual counseling,  not meeting 1 on 1. Run Milu activities (run exercise groups, assist with group work). Intervening with crisis, responsible for practicing and learning coping skills, bathing and toileting. MHT’s are not able to write progress notes or run Milu activities but they do assist with them.

Minimum Requirements:

  • Licensing/Certification according to state/facility/contract requirements
  • The Counselor may possess an Associate’s Degree, Bachelor’s Degree or Master’s Degree in Psychology, Sociology, Social Work, Counseling, Nursing or other Human Development Major
  • Current CPR if applicable
  • TB questionnaire, PPD or chest x-ray if applicable 
  • Current Health certificate (per contract or state regulation) 
  • Must meet all federal, state and local requirements 
  • Must be at least 18 years of age 
Benefits
At Amergis, we firmly believe that our employees are the heartbeat of our organization and we are happy to offer the following benefits:
  • Competitive pay & weekly paychecks
  • Health, dental, vision, and life insurance
  • 401(k) savings plan
  • Awards and recognition programs 
*Benefit eligibility is dependent on employment status. 

About Amergis
Amergis, formerly known as Maxim Healthcare Staffing, has served our clients and communities by connecting people to the work that matters since 1988. We provide meaningful opportunities to our extensive network of healthcare and school-based professionals, ready to work in any hospital, government facility, or school. Through partnership and innovation, Amergis creates unmatched staffing experiences to deliver the best workforce solutions.  

Amergis is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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