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Full Time Counselor Jobs in Bellingham, WA (NOW HIRING)

Acadia Healthcare

Substance Use Counselor

Bellingham, WA · On-site

$24 - $28/hr

Washington SUDP or SUDPT is required Full Time Hours: * Monday - Friday, 5:30AM - 2:00PM Our ... Our counseling team provides compassionate, high-quality counseling and therapy to patients that ...

Acadia Healthcare

Substance Use Counselor

Bellingham, WA · On-site

$24 - $28/hr

Washington SUDP or SUDPT is required Full Time Hours: * Monday - Friday, 5:30AM - 2:00PM Our ... Our counseling team provides compassionate, high-quality counseling and therapy to patients that ...

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All JobsCounselor JobsFull Time Counselor JobsFull Time Counselor Jobs in Bellingham, WA

Full Time Counselor information

See Bellingham, WA salary details

$13

$26

$40

How much do full time counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for full time counselor in Bellingham, WA is $26.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.00 and $30.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a full time counselor?

Full Time Counselors are professionals who work with individuals, groups, or families to help them address personal, social, academic, or mental health challenges. They typically work regular business hours and are employed in settings such as schools, community organizations, private practices, or healthcare facilities. Their responsibilities include conducting assessments, providing guidance, developing treatment plans, and offering ongoing support to clients. Full Time Counselors often collaborate with other professionals to ensure comprehensive care. Their goal is to empower clients to develop coping strategies and achieve personal growth.

What are some common challenges full time counselors face when managing their caseloads?

Full Time Counselors often juggle a high volume of clients with varying needs, which can make time management and prioritization challenging. Balancing administrative duties, such as documentation and reporting, with direct client sessions is a common hurdle. Additionally, managing emotional boundaries and avoiding burnout is crucial, as counselors are regularly exposed to sensitive issues. Successful counselors develop strong organizational skills and utilize supervision and peer support to navigate these challenges effectively.

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

To thrive as a Full Time Counselor, you generally need a relevant master's degree in counseling or psychology, state licensure, and a solid understanding of therapeutic techniques. Familiarity with case management software, assessment tools, and documentation systems is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, active listening, and emotional intelligence help build trust and rapport with clients. These competencies are crucial for delivering effective support, maintaining ethical standards, and fostering positive outcomes for those seeking help.

What is the difference between Full Time Counselor vs Part Time Counselor?

AspectFull Time CounselorPart Time Counselor
Work HoursTypically 35-40 hours per weekFewer hours, often less than 20 hours per week
CredentialsRequired certifications and licenses, such as state licensureSame credentials as full-time, but may vary by employer
Work EnvironmentFull-time positions in schools, clinics, or agenciesPart-time roles in similar settings, often with flexible schedules
Employment BenefitsUsually includes benefits like health insurance and paid time offLimited or no benefits, depending on employer

Full Time Counselors work more hours and typically receive benefits, while Part Time Counselors have flexible schedules with fewer hours and limited benefits. Both roles require similar credentials and work in comparable environments, but the commitment level and benefits differ.

What are the most commonly searched types of Counselor jobs in Bellingham, WA?

The most popular types of Counselor jobs in Bellingham, WA are:

What are popular job titles related to Full Time Counselor jobs in Bellingham, WA?

For Full Time Counselor jobs in Bellingham, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Full Time Counselor jobs in Bellingham, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Full Time Counselor jobs in Bellingham, WA are:

What cities near Bellingham, WA are hiring for Full Time Counselor jobs?

Cities near Bellingham, WA with the most Full Time Counselor job openings:

Full Time Counselor jobs near you

Crisis Peer Counselor- San Juan - Full Time

Compass Health

Eastsound, WA • On-site

$21.89 - $36.11/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Offer peer support grounded in lived experience with behavioral health or substance use challenges.

  • Collaborate with clients and care teams to develop and support person-centered recovery goals.

  • Support clients in accessing mental health and chemical dependency treatment, peer groups, housing, and other resources.

Job description

Crisis Peer Counselor
Location: Friday Harbor, WA
Program: 500-11750
Schedule: Full-Time (40 hours/week, Mon–Fri 8:00am–5:00pm)
Wage: $21.89–$36.11/hr DOEShare Your Lived Experience. Support Recovery. Strengthen Community.

Compass Health is seeking a Crisis Peer Counselor to join our Mobile Crisis Outreach Team (MCOT) on San Juan, Orcas and Lopez Islands. In this vital role, you’ll draw on your personal journey with behavioral health to offer hope, understanding, and practical support to individuals experiencing crisis.

This is your opportunity to make a meaningful difference while working as part of a dynamic, multidisciplinary team serving San Juan County communities.

About the Team

The Mobile Crisis Outreach Team responds directly to homes, schools, shelters, and other community locations to support adults, adolescents, and children facing behavioral health crises. We deliver strength-based, culturally responsive, trauma-informed interventions aimed at stabilization and prevention.

What You’ll Do

  • Offer peer support grounded in your lived experience with behavioral health or substance use challenges.

  • Promote recovery, self-advocacy, and connection to community and natural supports.

  • Collaborate with clients and care teams to develop and support person-centered recovery goals.

  • Support clients in accessing mental health and chemical dependency treatment, peer groups, housing, and other resources.

  • Advocate for client voice and ensure respect and validation of their experience.

  • Assist with monitoring, documentation, and treatment goal setting in partnership with the team.

What You Bring

  • Lived experience with a behavioral health or substance use diagnosis (required).

  • Current WA Peer Counselor Certification (preferred) or willingness to complete certification training upon hire.

  • Experience as a peer support professional strongly preferred.

  • Must obtain Agency Affiliated Counselor status upon hire if not currently licensed.

  • Valid WA State driver’s license, vehicle, and insurance (if applicable).

What We Offer

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance – at no cost to full-time employees

  • 16 days of paid vacation in your first year

  • 12 sick days annually, including a dedicated wellness day

  • 13 paid holidays – 11 standard + 2 personal choice

  • $500 in professional development funds

  • Up to 5 days of paid education leave

  • 403(b) retirement plan match (up to 2% after one year)

  • And much more!

About Compass Health

Compass Health is Northwest Washington’s largest private, non-profit provider of community behavioral health services. For over 110 years, we’ve supported individuals across Island, San Juan, Skagit, Snohomish, and Whatcom counties. We serve all ages through a continuum of outpatient, residential, and inpatient care. Learn more at www.compasshealth.org.

Compass Health is an Equal Opportunity Employer
We are committed to creating a workforce that reflects the diversity of our communities and supports inclusivity in all aspects of employment.