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First Responder Counselor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Recovery Centers of America

Counselor

Westminster, MA · On-site

The Counselor provides support to enhance the quality of patient care by working directly with the ... Provides direct supports to 1st responder and frontline program as assigned. * Provides direct ...

Veterans Inc.

Residential Counselor

Bradford, VT · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

We are seeking to fill Residential Counselor positions and add valuable members to our team to ... First responder for client-related emergencies, RC are trained in CPR, First Aid, and Narcan ...

Veterans Inc.

Residential Counselor

New Britain, CT · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

We are seeking to fill Residential Counselor positions and add valuable members to our team to ... First responder for client-related emergencies, RC are trained in CPR, First Aid, and Narcan ...

Veterans Inc.

Residential Counselor

Lewiston, ME · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

We are seeking to fill Residential Counselor positions and add valuable members to our team to ... First responder for client-related emergencies, RC are trained in CPR, First Aid, and Narcan ...

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First Responder Counselor information

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$12

$25

$39

How much do first responder counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 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 job?

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the First Responder Counselor position, and why are they important?

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.

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.

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First Responder Counselor jobs near you
Licensed Mental Health Counselor

Licensed Mental Health Counselor

Friends Of Firefighters Inc

Brooklyn, NY

$37 - $45/hr

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago

Be an early applicant

Job description

Friends of Firefighters is seeking an experienced counselor to contribute to our mission of delivering inclusive counseling services tailored to the unique needs of the first responder community. This position will be responsible for providing counseling services to active and retired first responders and their families, and sessions vary but may include individuals, couples, or groups. 
Rate: 
 $37-45 per hour, dependent upon experience. 
Responsibilities: 
  • Provide mental health counseling services to individuals and groups, including assessment, diagnosis, treatment planning, and therapy. 
  • Maintain accurate and up-to-date client records, including progress notes and individualized treatment plans, in accordance with Friends of Firefighters policies and procedures. 
  • Follow all applicable laws and regulations set forth by the State of New York, and all other applicable regulatory bodies. 
  • Collaborate with other mental health professionals, medical professionals, and social service providers to ensure that clients receive comprehensive and coordinated care. 
  • Provide crisis intervention services as needed. 
  • Communicate effectively with clients, families, and Friends of Firefighters to provide education, support, and advocacy. 
  • Adhere to ethical and professional standards of practice, including maintaining confidentiality, obtaining informed consent, and avoiding conflicting relationships. 
  • May include other duties as requested by Friends of Firefighters. 
 
Qualifications: 
  • Master's degree in social work, counseling, psychology, or a related field from an accredited institution. 
  • Current licensure as a mental health counselor or social worker in the state of New York. 
  • Strong clinical skills, including assessment, diagnosis, treatment planning, and therapy, with a commitment to providing patient-focused care. 
  • Excellent communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills. 
  • Trauma care or other related experience highly preferred. 
  • Ability to work flexible hours based upon client needs. 
  • Ability to facilitate remote counseling sessions, with flexibility to meet with clients in-person as needed. 
 
The above job description is not intended to be a complete list of responsibilities for the position. Friends of Firefighters reserves the right to modify job duties as necessary to meet business and client needs. 
 
 
Friends of Firefighters is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EEO), and we encourage candidates from diverse backgrounds, including those who may not check all of the traditional boxes, to apply. Your unique lived experiences and perspectives are essential to our mission to be able to serve our clientele with empathy, understanding, and cultural competence. 
We are dedicated to ensuring equal opportunities for all applicants. If you require application assistance or accommodations throughout the application process, please do not hesitate to reach out to us at applications@friendsoffirefighters.org or by contacting the job poster.