ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

First Responder Counselor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsGovernment JobsEmergency Services JobsEmergency Services Professional JobsFirst Responder Counselor Jobs

First Responder Counselor information

See salary details

$12

$25

$39

How much do first responder counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for first responder counselor in the United States is $25.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $28.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a first responder counselor?

A First Responder Counselor provides mental health support to first responders, such as police officers, firefighters, paramedics, and other emergency personnel. They help address stress, trauma, and emotional challenges that arise from high-pressure and often traumatic situations. Their role includes crisis intervention, therapy, and developing coping strategies to improve mental well-being. Many First Responder Counselors have backgrounds in psychology, social work, or counseling and specialize in trauma and PTSD treatment.

What types of situations or cases does a first responder counselor typically handle?

First Responder Counselors primarily work with police officers, firefighters, EMTs, and other emergency personnel, helping them process acute stress, trauma exposure, and work-related mental health challenges. You may address issues such as post-traumatic stress, anxiety, depression, and burnout, often delivering both individual and group counseling sessions. Counselors frequently collaborate with HR departments, department leadership, and outside healthcare providers to ensure a comprehensive support network. The fast-paced nature of the role means you'll regularly respond to urgent requests while also maintaining ongoing therapeutic relationships. This rewarding role enables you to make a direct impact on the wellbeing and long-term resilience of those who serve on the front lines.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a first responder counselor?

To excel as a First Responder Counselor, you need a background in mental health counseling or social work, relevant licensure (such as LPC, LCSW, or LMFT), and specialized training in trauma or crisis intervention. Experience with case management software, electronic health records, and crisis assessment tools is typically required. Exceptional listening skills, emotional resilience, and the ability to communicate effectively with high-stress clients are vital soft skills in this field. These competencies ensure you can provide timely, effective support to first responders coping with occupational trauma, helping them maintain emotional wellbeing and job performance.

More about First Responder Counselor jobs

What cities are hiring for First Responder Counselor jobs?

Cities with the most First Responder Counselor job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of First Responder Counselor jobs?

The most popular types of First Responder Counselor jobs are:

What states have the most First Responder Counselor jobs?

States with the most job openings for First Responder Counselor jobs include:

What job categories do people searching First Responder Counselor jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for First Responder Counselor jobs are:

First Responder Counselor jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Responder Counselor job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,365 per year, or $25.2 per hour.

Remote Mental Health Counselor - First Responder Focus

Lancaster, CA • Remote

First Responder Mental Health Clinic
See more jobs at First Responder Mental Health Clinicexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Position Overview

We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Mental Health Counselor to join our team at the First Responder Mental Health Clinic. This full-time, remote position is designed for licensed therapists who are passionate about providing support to individuals who serve on the front lines of public safety. As a Mental Health Counselor, you will play a crucial role in assisting first responders in managing the unique emotional and psychological challenges associated with their high-stress environments.

About the Organization

The First Responder Mental Health Clinic is committed to offering specialized mental health services to police officers, firefighters, paramedics, and other first responders. Located in Lancaster, California, we recognize the sacrifices these individuals make for our communities, and we strive to provide a supportive and understanding environment. Our dedicated team of professionals utilizes evidence-based practices tailored to the distinct needs of our clients, ensuring that every individual receives the highest quality of care.

Work Environment

This position offers a flexible remote work setting, allowing you to provide therapy from the comfort of your own home while eliminating overhead costs associated with private practice. Our digital tools and user-friendly documentation platform make it easy to connect with clients and manage their treatment plans efficiently. You will have a consistent client base, enabling you to focus on what you do best: providing compassionate mental health support.

Key Responsibilities
  • Conduct virtual therapy sessions with clients from various professional backgrounds, primarily focusing on first responders.
  • Utilize established evidence-based therapeutic techniques to address a range of emotional and behavioral health challenges, including PTSD, anxiety, depression, and chronic stress.
  • Develop comprehensive, individualized treatment plans that cater to each client's unique circumstances and adjust these plans as necessary based on progress and feedback.
  • Provide ongoing support and skill-building strategies to help clients develop effective coping mechanisms, enhancing their resilience and overall mental wellness.
  • Maintain accurate and detailed records of client interactions, treatment goals, and progress within our digital documentation system, ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations.
Patient Population / Client Focus

Your role will primarily involve working with first responders—those who face high-stress situations daily, including law enforcement personnel, paramedics, and fire service members. Understanding the unique pressures and experiences faced by these clients is critical, and you will provide tailored support that respects their backgrounds and challenges.

Qualifications
  • A bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Social Work, Counseling, or a related discipline is required.
  • Active licensure in California as either an LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker), LMFT (Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist), or LPCC (Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor).
  • A minimum of two years of relevant clinical experience in a mental health setting, with a preference for work involving first responders or similar high-stress professions.
  • Exceptional organizational skills and the ability to work independently in a remote environment.
  • Proficiency with digital documentation tools, ensuring efficient client management and progress tracking.
Preferred Experience
  • Experience working specifically with first responders or emergency service professionals.
  • Familiarity with trauma-informed care practices and the use of specific therapeutic techniques, such as CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) or EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
Compensation and Benefits

We offer a competitive salary ranging from USD 90,000 to 100,000 annually based on experience and qualifications. In addition to a robust compensation package, we provide comprehensive benefits, including:

  • 401(k) plan with employer contributions to help you save for your future.
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance, ensuring you and your family have access to high-quality health care.
  • Life insurance coverage for peace of mind.
Career Growth Opportunities

At the First Responder Mental Health Clinic, we value professional development and continuous learning. Our organization offers opportunities for career advancement, access to specialized training programs, and support for further education in mental health. As we expand our services, there will be room for growth into leadership or specialized areas of therapy.

Why Join Our Team

Joining our team means becoming part of an organization that genuinely cares about the well-being of first responders. You will work in a collegial environment with like-minded professionals who share your passion for mental health. Your contributions are vital in paving the way for improved mental health outcomes among those who risk so much for our communities.

Application Information

If you are committed to supporting the mental health of our heroes and have the qualifications and experience we seek, we invite you to apply today. Please submit your resume and cover letter outlining your relevant experience and motivation for this role. Don’t miss this opportunity to make a meaningful impact!

Apply