ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Forensic Counselor Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

FOCUS HR INC

Child/ Juvenile Therapist

Saint Charles, IL · On-site

$52K - $80K/yr

... forensic clinical work and attend training and continuing education opportunities to maintain professional competency Qualifications: * Master's or doctoral degree in psychology, counseling, or ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsForensic Counselor JobsForensic Counselor Jobs in Chicago, IL

Forensic Counselor information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$42.2K

$90.5K

$141.1K

How much do forensic counselor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic counselor in Chicago, IL is $90,526.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60,300.00 and $114,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a forensic counselor typically collaborate with legal and correctional staff in their daily work?

Forensic Counselors frequently work alongside legal professionals, probation officers, and correctional staff to assess, counsel, and support individuals involved in the criminal justice system. Their day often includes conducting psychological evaluations, preparing reports for court, and providing therapy or rehabilitation programs tailored to clients’ legal circumstances. Effective communication and interdisciplinary teamwork are essential, as Forensic Counselors must balance client advocacy with legal and public safety requirements. This collaborative environment helps ensure clients receive appropriate care while meeting judicial or institutional expectations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a forensic counselor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Forensic Counselor, you need a background in psychology or counseling, often with a relevant master's degree and licensure, along with knowledge of criminal justice systems. Familiarity with assessment tools, case management software, and legal documentation processes is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, cultural competency, and the ability to maintain professional boundaries are crucial for building trust and effectively helping clients in the justice system. These skills ensure ethical, effective intervention and support for individuals navigating the intersection of mental health and the legal system.

What is the difference between Forensic Counselor vs Forensic Psychologist?

AspectForensic CounselorForensic Psychologist
Required CredentialsMaster's degree in counseling or related field, licensureDoctoral degree in psychology, licensure, often board-certified
Work EnvironmentCourts, correctional facilities, mental health clinicsCourts, correctional facilities, research settings
Employer & Industry UsageLegal settings, mental health agenciesLegal, clinical, research, and assessment settings
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for roles in legal and mental health contextsMore focused on psychological assessment and diagnosis

While both Forensic Counselors and Forensic Psychologists work within legal and mental health settings, Forensic Counselors typically hold a master's degree and focus on counseling and rehabilitation. Forensic Psychologists usually have a doctoral degree and conduct psychological assessments, research, and expert testimony. The choice depends on the level of education and specific job functions desired.

How do you become a forensic counselor?

To become a forensic counselor, you typically need a master's degree in counseling, psychology, social work, or a related field, along with specialized training in forensic or criminal justice settings. Licensure or certification is often required, and gaining experience through internships or supervised practice is important for working with criminal populations and legal systems.

How much do forensic counselors make?

Forensic counselors typically earn a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Salaries can vary based on the work setting, such as correctional facilities, mental health agencies, or court systems, and may increase with specialized certifications or advanced degrees.

How to become a forensic counselor?

To become a forensic counselor, typically a master's degree in psychology, counseling, or a related field is required, along with specialized training in forensic or criminal justice settings. Licensure or certification is often necessary, and gaining experience through internships or supervised practice is recommended to develop relevant skills for working with offenders or victims in legal contexts.

What can a forensic counselor do?

A forensic counselor provides mental health assessments, therapy, and support to individuals involved in the legal system, such as offenders, victims, or witnesses. They often work in correctional facilities, courts, or forensic settings, utilizing counseling skills and psychological evaluations to inform legal decisions and aid rehabilitation.

What are popular job titles related to Forensic Counselor jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Forensic Counselor jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Forensic Counselor jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Forensic Counselor jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Forensic Counselor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forensic Counselor job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $90,526 per year, or $43.5 per hour.

Forensic Interviewer II - CJC may underfill as Forensic Interviewer I - CJC

Utah County Sheriff

Justice, IL

$73K - $84K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

UTAH COUNTY OFFICE OF HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT

100 East Center, Suite 3800, Provo, UT 84606 Phone: (801) 851-8158

Fax: (801) 851-8166 Email: humanresources@UtahCounty.gov

http://www.utahcounty.gov

"The Value of Public Service Employment is vital to the success of our state, county, and local communities."

Utah County Government Employees start every day with the well-being of the entire community in mind:

How can I make my community a better place?

Who will need my help and protection?

How will I make a difference for someone?

We hire smart, compassionate, loyal, ethical, committed, innovative people.

Apply today and join our Team.

JOB ANNOUNCEMENT

The Children's Justice Center is a homelike facility which serves children and families who are experiencing the crisis and chaos that comes with the disclosure of significant physical or sexual abuse of a child.

Posting Date:July 15, 2026Closing Date: *open until filled

*All applications received byJuly 29, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. MST will be screened by the Human Resources Office. Those applicants meeting the specified qualifications and additional screening criteria will be referred for a hiring interview. The Human Resource Office will continue to consider qualified candidates as needed until the position is filled.

POSITION: Forensic Interviewer II - CJC POSTING #: 2372-0726srMay underfill as Forensic Interviewer I - CJC

Forensic Interviewer II - CJC - Applicants must possess and maintain licensure under the Mental Health Professional Practice Act (UCA 58-60) as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), or Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CMHC).

Forensic Interviewer I - CJC - Applicants must possess and maintain licensure under the Mental Health Professional Practice Act (UCA 58-60) as a Certified Social Worker (CSW), Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT), or Associate Clinical Mental Health Counselor (ACMHC).

The Opportunity:

Under general direction of the Associate Director - Children's Justice Center or Clinical Supervisor and as a member of the Utah Valley Special Victims Task Force, performs professional work in conducting forensically sound investigative interviews and in assessing individual child victims. Prepares individual reports and evaluations and testifies in court as required. This advanced classification level requires licensure and utilizes advanced knowledge and experience in child development and in providing therapeutic services to children.

Starting Pay: Forensic Interviewer II - CJC Grade 726 $73,528.00 - $84,468.80 AnnuallyForensic Interviewer I - CJCGrade 723 $59,633.60 - $68,515.20 Annually

Schedule: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday thru Friday

Job Qualifications:

Forensic Interviewer II - CJC

1. Master's degree in social work, psychology, or a mental health program approved by the Department of Professional Licensing (DOPL).
2. Two (2) years of work experience serving children in a clinical setting.
3. Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered.

Additional Eligibility Qualifications:
1. Applicants must possess and maintain licensure under the Mental Health Professional Practice Act (UCA 58-60) as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), or Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CMHC).
2. Applicants must possess a valid driver's license and obtain a valid State of Utah driver's license within sixty (60) days of employment.
3. Selected applicants will be required to submit to a pre-employment drug screen and background check.

Job Qualifications:

Forensic Interviewer I - CJC
1. Master's degree in social work, sociology, psychology, criminal justice, or a related field.

Additional Eligibility Qualifications:
1. Applicants must possess and maintain licensure under the Mental Health Professional Practice Act (UCA 58-60) as a Certified Social Worker (CSW), Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT), or Associate Clinical Mental Health Counselor (ACMHC).
2. Applicants must possess a valid driver's license and obtain a valid State of Utah driver's license within sixty (60) days of employment.
3. Selected applicants will be required to submit to a pre-employment drug screen and background check.

Click here for a full job description

Benefits Package Includes:

100% paid premiums for health insurance

Up to 6.2% match in your 401(k)

Utah Retirement Systems (Pension and 401(k) options)

Pre-tax savings Health Savings Account (HSA)

Fourteen (14) paid Holidays

Dental and Vision Insurance

Employee Assistance Program

AAP/EEO Statement

It is the policy of Utah County Government to assure equal employment opportunity to its employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, disability, age, sex, sexual orientation, genetic status of gender identity.

UTAH COUNTY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Apply