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Group Counselor Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Symetria Recovery

Counselor

Naperville, IL · On-site

$25.75 - $31/hr

Lead group counseling sessions to foster discussion, peer support, and the sharing of recovery strategies. * Equip patients with coping skills and behavioral management techniques to sustain ...

Symetria Recovery

Counselor - SUD

Naperville, IL · On-site

$25.75 - $31/hr

Lead group counseling sessions to foster discussion, peer support, and the sharing of recovery strategies. * Equip patients with coping skills and behavioral management techniques to sustain ...

Management & Training Corporation

Counselor

Joliet, IL · On-site

$54K/yr

Responsible for planning, coordinating, developing and implementing a professional individual and group counseling program for assigned students, in compliance with government and management ...

Distinctive Schools

School Counselor

Chicago, IL · On-site

$55K/yr

Title: School Counselor Location: CICS Longwood- 1309 W 95th St, Chicago, IL 60643 Reports To ... group lessons * Implement developmentally appropriate and prevention-oriented activities to meet ...

AB Staffing Solutions

School Counselor

Mundelein, IL · On-site

$60 - $70/hr

Conducts small group counseling on student-selected and counselor-identified topics such as study skills, social skills, anger management, self-esteem, changing families, and grief. * Obtains and ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsGroup Counselor JobsGroup Counselor Jobs in Chicago, IL

Group Counselor information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$15

$33

$57

How much do group counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for group counselor in Chicago, IL is $33.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.77 and $49.57 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a group counselor?

Group counselors are mental health professionals who facilitate therapeutic sessions with multiple participants at once. They help group members share experiences, provide support, and develop coping strategies within a safe and structured environment. Group counselors may work with various populations, such as children, teens, or adults, and address issues like addiction, grief, social skills, or mental health disorders. Their role involves guiding discussions, ensuring confidentiality, and fostering a sense of community among group members.

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

To thrive as a Group Counselor, you need a background in psychology, counseling, or social work, often supported by a relevant degree and, in many cases, state licensure or certification. Familiarity with therapeutic modalities, group facilitation techniques, and case management software is important. Strong communication, empathy, and conflict resolution skills help build trust and effectively manage group dynamics. These skills are crucial for fostering a supportive environment that promotes positive behavioral and emotional outcomes for group members.

What are some common challenges a group counselor might face when facilitating group sessions, and how can they effectively manage them?

Group Counselors often encounter challenges such as managing differing personalities, ensuring equitable participation, and addressing conflicts that arise within the group. Balancing the needs of individual members while maintaining group cohesion is key. Effective Group Counselors use active listening, clear guidelines, and evidence-based group facilitation techniques to foster a supportive environment. Regular supervision and ongoing professional development also help counselors refine their skills in navigating complex group dynamics.

What is the difference between Group Counselor vs School Counselor?

AspectGroup CounselorSchool Counselor
Required CredentialsTypically a bachelor's degree in psychology, counseling, or related field; certification may be preferredMaster's degree in school counseling or related field; state certification/license required
Work EnvironmentCommunity centers, mental health clinics, residential programsPublic and private schools, educational settings
Employer & Industry UsageNonprofit organizations, mental health agencies, residential facilitiesSchool districts, educational institutions
Common Search & Comparison IntentPeople comparing roles in counseling, mental health support, group therapyIndividuals exploring careers in school-based counseling or educational support

While both roles involve providing counseling services, a Group Counselor primarily works in community or clinical settings focusing on group therapy, whereas a School Counselor operates within educational environments, supporting students' academic and emotional needs. The key differences lie in their work settings, required credentials, and target populations.

How to become a group counselor?

To become a group counselor, you typically need a bachelor's degree in psychology, social work, or a related field, followed by a master's degree such as a Master of Social Work (MSW) or a counseling degree. Licensure or certification is often required, which involves completing supervised clinical hours and passing an exam. Developing strong interpersonal and communication skills is essential for effective group facilitation.
Group Counselor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Group Counselor job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,247 per year, or $33.8 per hour.

Counselor

Management and Training Corporation

Joliet, IL • On-site

$54K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description


Wage - $54,000 annually
Schedule - Full Time
Our staff also enjoy these benefits:
  • Health, dental, vision, prescription and life insurance
  • Short & long-term disability
  • 401(k) retirement plan
  • Paid time off and paid holidays
  • Professional development assistance
  • Career advancement opportunities

MTC is proud to operate the Joliet Job Corps Center in Joliet, IL where our staff provide quality services to our local youth. We value our professional and caring employees who are dedicated to improving people's lives and we want YOU to join our team!
What you will be doing: Responsible for planning, coordinating, developing and implementing a professional individual and group counseling program for assigned students, in compliance with government and management directives
Essential Functions:
  • Review detailed background file, conduct personal interview and test as necessary to analyze and recommend a program for each assigned student
  • Initiate and maintain individual folder on each assigned student. Ensure information is updated on a timely basis including case note entries in CIS
  • Provide direct aid to students with personal needs, problems, sickness, injury, family problems, emergency leaves, and AWOL retrieval
  • Provide continuous educational, career training, personal and social adjustment counseling on an individual and group basis; recommend necessary program modifications throughout each assigned student's stay
  • Conduct continuous interpretation and evaluation of progress in student's specific career development program. Coordinate problem cases and point out areas in which guidance and development techniques can be improved; maintain documentation and records
  • Utilize new concepts and approaches; recommend and conduct training sessions and conferences to develop greater proficiency among staff in areas of guidance, social adjustment and social skills development
  • Recommend medical or psychiatric evaluation for emotional or psychological problems; evaluate results and take remedial action as warranted
  • Refer students to other program areas such as transfers, extension or advanced programs, college placement, etc
  • Chair the assessment/career development team; participate in other center programs such as career preparation, diversity, and pregnancy programs
  • Maintain contact with student's family; utilize community resources as needed
  • Assist in the evaluation of center services for students and recommend modifications for improvement
  • Facilitate Career Success Standards (CSS) group sessions for students and/or staff; provide guidance to residential advisors in student social skill development
  • Visit career training and academic training areas regularly to evaluate student's progress and maintain positive rapport with instructors
  • Regular and predictable attendance is required
  • Provide positive, quality customer services to students, staff and other customers
  • Participate in student employability programs and activities
  • Support, promote, and enforce the Job Corps' Zero Tolerance Policy
  • Promote the development of Career Success Standards by modeling appropriate behaviors, mentoring students where necessary and monitoring both positive and negative behaviors through interventions
  • Maintain accountability of staff, students and property; adhere to safety practices.

It is expected that the incumbent shall perform other duties as assigned within his/her capabilities as determined by management.
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:
  • Bachelor's degree including 15 semester hours in social services related instruction and one year experience in counseling or related field required
  • Experience with youth, excellent written and verbal communications skills and computer proficiency required
  • Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record.

Management & Training Corporation (MTC) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, disabled status, veteran status, genetic information, national origin, or any other category protected by federal law. MTC participates in E-Verify. We strive to provide reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals with disabilities, including disabled veterans, in our job application and hiring process. If you are interested in employment opportunities with Management & Training Corporation and need assistance, please contact our staffing department through customersupport@mtctrains.com or 801-693-2888.
About Us
Learn more about Management & Training Corporation here

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