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Forensic Counselor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

M2E LLC

Forensic Architect

Coral Gables, FL

Job Purpose We are seeking a highly experienced and credentialed Forensic Architect to serve as a ... and private sector, legal counsels, condominium associations and clients to provide clear ...

State of Oklahoma

Forensic Psychologist

Vinita, OK · On-site

Job Posting Title Forensic Psychologist Agency 452 MENTAL HEALTH AND SUBSTANCE ABUSE SERV ... counseling psychology, plus one (1) academic year in a full-time post-master's or pre-doctoral ...

Recovery Solutions

Forensic Psychologist

Conroe, TX · On-site

$120K/yr

Employee Assistance Program (EAP) including free counseling and health coaching * Company paid life insurance * Tax free Health Spending Accounts (HSA) * Wellness program featuring fitness ...

ITC Federal, Inc.

Forensic Analyst II

As a digital forensics expert, serves as a source of technical counsel and advice for forensic collection/processing activities. * Acts as a source of reference for junior analysts and technicians ...

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$87.9K

$137K

How much do forensic counselor jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic counselor in the United States is $87,877.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,500.00 and $111,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

How long does it take to be a forensic therapist?

Becoming a forensic counselor typically requires earning a relevant master's degree in psychology, counseling, or social work, which generally takes 2 to 3 years. After completing education, gaining supervised clinical experience and obtaining licensure can take an additional 1 to 2 years, making the total pathway approximately 3 to 5 years.

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 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 is a forensic counselor?

A forensic counselor is a mental health professional who works within the criminal justice system to assess, treat, and provide therapy to individuals involved in legal cases. They often evaluate psychological conditions, provide expert testimony, and work with offenders, victims, or law enforcement agencies. Certification or specialized training in forensic psychology or counseling is typically required for this role.

What degree do you need to be a forensic therapist?

To become a forensic counselor, a minimum of a master's degree in psychology, counseling, social work, or a related field is typically required. Licensure or certification is often necessary, and specialized training in forensic or criminal justice settings enhances job prospects.

Is it hard to get hired as a forensic psychologist?

Getting hired as a forensic psychologist can be competitive due to the specialized nature of the field, which often requires advanced degrees, licensure, and relevant experience. Strong skills in psychological assessment, report writing, and understanding legal procedures can improve employment prospects, but the job market varies by region and demand for forensic services.
More about Forensic Counselor jobs
What cities are hiring for Forensic Counselor jobs? Cities with the most Forensic Counselor job openings:
What states have the most Forensic Counselor jobs? States with the most job openings for Forensic Counselor jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Forensic Counselor jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Forensic Counselor jobs are:
Forensic Counselor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forensic Counselor job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 7% Temporary, 9% Contract, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,877 per year, or $42.2 per hour.

Forensic Psychologist - Georgia

Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities, Georgia Department of - DBHDD

Atlanta, GA

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

The Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD) is the state agency that focuses solely on policies, programs, and services for people with severe and persistent mental illness, substance use disorders, and developmental and intellectual disabilities.
We have nearly 5,000 employees whose work is structured in three divisions by disability area: Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities, and Addictive Diseases.
DBHDD operates five regional state hospitals and provides and oversees community-based services across the state.
We are currently seeking qualified candidates for the position of Forensic Psychologist - Community based and Inpatient for the following hospitals:
 

  • Georgia Regional Hospital Atlanta, located in Decatur, GA
  • Georgia Regional Hospital Savannah, located in Savannah, GA
  • West Central Georgia Regional Hospital, locate in Columbus, GA
  • Central State Hospital, located in Milledgeville, GA


Job Description
Under supervision of the hospital forensic director, the successful candidates will be responsible for the completion of criminal forensic evaluations.
Knowledge of abnormal psychology, pertinent statutes and case law related to the practice of forensic psychology, malingering assessment tools, intellectual testing, personality assessment, best practices in mental health treatment, and ethical/professional guidelines for the practice of forensic psychology is required.
Job duties include the participation on the recovery planning (treatment) team; facilitation of group treatment; participation in the development of individualized recovery (treatment) plans; documentation of treatment progress; completion of face-to-face forensic mental health evaluations to determine competency to stand trial, criminal responsibility, and violence risk; report preparation; expert testimony; behavioral programming; clinical supervision of mental health counselors, and related work as assigned. Completion of the state's Competency to Stand Trial Certification process within one year of hire is required for continued employment.
Job Responsibilities & Performance Standards

  • Conducts court-ordered pretrial forensic psychological evaluations to answer questions of competency to stand trial and/or criminal responsibility as a neutral friend of the court. 
  • Completes assessments on individuals admitted to a State Forensic Psychiatric Unit. 
  • Conducts forensic risk assessments and other psychological testing. 
  • Conducts groups and psycho-educational interventions. 
  • License may be temporary, provisional, or permanent. "License eligible" if able to obtain within a reasonable time (i.e. relocation from another state) 


Benefits

 We are inspired by the dedication and passion of our teams and take seriously our responsibility to ensure teammates feel supported, prepared, and encouraged to contribute to our mission and vision.  As a team member you will receive:

       Exceptional vacation leave plan

o   15 days each year for first 5 years of service,

o   18 days each year from 5-10 years of service, and

o   21 days each year for 10 + years of service.

       13 paid state holidays, and 1 educational leave day.

       Sick leave accrual at a rate of 10 hours per month or 15 days each year.

       3 weeks of paid paternity leave.

       Your choice from our healthcare plan options for you and your family, including support in the activation of a healthcare savings account.

       Dental, vision, life, dependent life, legal, and disability insurance program options.

       Healthcare and childcare spending accounts

       Wellness incentive program.

       DBHDD is a Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program qualified employer.

       Retirement Pension.

       401(K) with company match. 

FOR THIS TYPE OF EMPLOYMENT, STATE LAW REQUIRES A NATIONAL AND STATE BACKGROUND CHECK AS A CONDITION OF EMPLOYMENT.

B9876

 
Doctorate degree in clinical or counseling psychology from an American Psychological Association (APA) accredited college or university AND current Georgia license to practice psychology AND One year of experience at the lower level Psychologist 1 (HCP140) or equivalent. Note: License may be temporary, provisional, or permanent.
Additional Information
  • Agency Logo:
  • Requisition ID: HEA09XP
  • Number of Openings: 1
  • Advertised Salary: Based on Edu & Exp
  • Shift: Day Job
  • Posting End Date: Jul 4, 2026

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