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Entry Level Unlicensed Counselor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Summit BHC

Associate Counselor - (Family)

Tucson, AZ · On-site

Eligible for entry level licensure or certification as recognized by the state within they are ... unlicensed professional work. * CPR and de-escalation certification required (training available ...

Summit BHC

Eligible for entry level licensure or certification as recognized by the state within they are ... unlicensed professional work. * CPR and de-escalation certification required (training available ...

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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 Aug 6, 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.

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.

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.

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.

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:
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, 20% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,280 per year, or $27.5 per hour.

Associate Counselor - (Family)

Summit BHC

Cottonwood, AZ • On-site

Full-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Associate Counselor - (Family) | Cottonwood Tucson | Tucson, Arizona

About the Job:

PURPOSE STATEMENT:
The Associate Counselor provides supervised treatment and support to assist clients in their recovery from addictions, such as alcoholism, drug addiction, or mental health disorders, assists with modifying problem behaviors; may also provide counseling services to families of clients.

Roles and Responsibilities:

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

  • Under supervision, conducts client assessments focused on identifying client history, current presentation, problem areas, ongoing clinical need for treatment and risk assessment.
  • Under clinical supervision, participates in client treatment planning and treatment plan progress reviews as assigned and documents as required.
  • Under supervision, conducts assigned group counseling, individual or family sessions and implements evidence-supported treatment modalities as assigned and documents as required.
  • Under supervision, provides client and family education relative to substance abuse/psychiatric problems.
  • Ensures all documentation regarding client care, treatment and incidents is completed timely and in a clear, concise manner, including co-signature of assigned supervisor.
  • Provides crisis intervention to clients, as needed, and seeks consultation and supervision as appropriate.
  • Plans for and completes required documentation of aftercare for assigned clients.
  • Acts as a liaison with insurance carriers, as requested.
  • Provides case management duties for clients, ensuring individualized quality care.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE/SKILL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Bachelor's degree in social or mental health services or closely related field required.
  • No prior professional work experience required.
  • Cannot practice independently. Requires a minimum of weekly supervision oversight for all areas of clinical training practice in alignment with state standards.

LICENSES/DESIGNATIONS/CERTIFICATIONS:

  • Eligible for entry level licensure or certification as recognized by the state within they are practicing that has not been obtained yet either due to requirement for supervised work experience or due to state permitting unlicensed professional work.
  • CPR and de-escalation certification required (training available upon hire and offered by facility).
  • First aid may be required based on state or facility.

SUPERVISORY REQUIREMENTS:

This position is an Individual Contributor.

Why Cottonwood Tucson?Cottonwood Tucson offers a comprehensive benefit plan and a competitive salary commensurate with experience and qualifications. Qualified candidates should apply by submitting a resume. Cottonwood Tucson is an EOE.

Veterans and military spouses are highly encouraged to apply. Summit BHC is dedicated to serving Veterans with specialized programming at our treatment centers across the country. We recognize and value the unique strengths of the military community in supporting our mission to serve those who have served.

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About Summit BHC

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Summit BHC, based in Franklin, TN, USA, is a recognized leader in the field of addiction treatment and behavioral health care services. The company operates a nationwide network of treatment centers aimed at caring for individuals battling substance abuse and mental health disorders. Summit BHC was established with the mission to provide high-quality, addiction treatment and behavioral health services to those in need throughout the United States. With compassion, dignity, and respect as their core values, they endeavor to instill hope during the journey to recovery and beyond.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Franklin, TN, US

Year founded

2013

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