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Group Counselor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

We are currently seeking passionate and experienced Substance Use Group Counselor to facilitate group therapy sessions for individuals struggling with substance use disorders. Our employees have ...

Group Counselor - CIT, PLPC

Metairie, LA · On-site

$20 - $27/hr

... all group sessions conducted * Ensure all clinical assessments and individual client charting is completed What We're Looking For * Bachelor's degree in psychology, counseling or related field ...

Group Counselor - CIT, PLPC

Metairie, LA · On-site

$20 - $27/hr

... all group sessions conducted * Ensure all clinical assessments and individual client charting is completed What We're Looking For * Bachelor's degree in psychology, counseling or related field ...

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Group Counselor information

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How much do group counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for group counselor in the United States is $32.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.00 and $48.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

What are group counselors?

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.
More about Group Counselor jobs
What cities are hiring for Group Counselor jobs? Cities with the most Group Counselor job openings:
What states have the most Group Counselor jobs? States with the most job openings for Group Counselor jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Group Counselor jobs? For Group Counselor jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Senior Group Counselor - Full Time - Behavioral Health

Senior Group Counselor - Full Time - Behavioral Health

Hackensack Meridian Health

Belle Mead, NJ • On-site

$48K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


Hackensack Meridian Health rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 352 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

130th of 871 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Our team members are the heart of what makes us better. At Hackensack Meridian Health we help our patients live better, healthier lives — and we help one another to succeed. With a culture rooted in connection and collaboration, our employees are team members. Here, competitive benefits are just the beginning. It’s also about how we support one another and how we show up for our community. Together, we keep getting better - advancing our mission to transform healthcare and serve as a leader of positive change.

The Senior Group Counselor provides activities and leisure assessment and group counseling services to assigned caseload of patients. In addition, the Senior Group Counselor coordinates the distribution of caseloads on each unit. Monitors quality provision of treatment services on the unit as requested. Functions as the primary Group Counselor between the unit with the responsibility for communicating information accurately, assertively, and in a timely manner.

*Monday - Friday, 8:30am-5:00pm, one weekend day per pay period, some holidays. Behavioral health experience and leadership experience preferred.


A day in the life of a Senior Group Counselor at Hackensack Meridian Health includes:

  • Provides activities/leisure assessment and counseling services to assigned patient groups within the standards of the department's policies. Groups are of a psycho educational nature to include:  social and recreational skills, creative expressions, stress management and physical activities.
  • Begins group assessment within 48 hours of admission and determines what types of groups patients will best benefit from
  • Understands and implements hospital wide, regulatory agencies' procedures, regulations and standards
  • Assesses learning needs, readiness and barriers to learning of patients and documents appropriately. Provides age appropriate learning opportunities (individual and group) and documents teaching and outcomes appropriately.  Provides educational materials that are specifically appropriate for the patient/family, considering age, educational level, culture and disability.
  • Communicates patient participation/progress in conducted groups to the treatment team.
  • Identifies relevant goals, objectives and interventions for activity groups documented on the Master Treatment Plan in the patient's chart and attends the patient's Treatment Planning conference.
  • Completes documentation of patient's progress including weekly progress note, weekly treatment plan revision and transfer or discharge summary in the context of specific treatment objectives.
  • Participates in departmental meetings, unit meetings, problem solving teams, in-services and other meetings as called by supervisory staff.
  • Maintains current knowledge of developments within the field of one's specialization by attending in-service programs, conferences or continuing education as stated in the department's policy on professional development.
  • Orients patients on caseload to clinical services and completes an assessment for each assigned patient within 48 hours of patient's admission.
  • Provides ongoing supervision for other Group Counselors on at least a once monthly basis.
  • Other duties and/or projects as assigned.
  • Adheres to HMH Organizational competencies and standards of behavior.

Education, Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required:

  • Bachelor's Degree in Social Work, Counseling, Psychology or related field.
  • Minimum 2 years relevant work experience in a healthcare setting.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Proficient computer skills that may include but are not limited to Microsoft Office and/or Google Suite platforms.

Education, Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Preferred:

  • Master's Degree in Social Work, Counseling, Psychology or related field.

If you feel the above description speaks directly to your strengths and capabilities, then please apply today!


Minimum rate of $48,110.40 Annually
HMH is committed to pay equity and transparency for our team members. The posted rate of pay in this job posting is a reasonable good faith estimate of the minimum base pay for this role at the time of posting in accordance with the New Jersey Pay Transparency Act and does not reflect the full value of our market-competitive total rewards package.
The starting rate of pay is provided for informational purposes only and is not a guarantee of a specific offer. Posted hourly rates may be stated as an annual salary in the offer and posted annual salaries may be stated as an hourly rate in the offer, depending on the level and nature of the job duties and credentials of the candidate. The base compensation determined at the time of the offer may be different than the posted rate of pay based on a number of non-discriminatory factors, including but not limited to:
Labor Market Data: Compensation is benchmarked against market data to ensure competitiveness.
Experience: Years of relevant work experience.
Education and Certifications: Level of education attained, including specialized certifications, credentials, completed apprenticeship programs or advanced training.
Skills: Demonstrated proficiency in relevant skills and competencies.
Geographic Location: Cost of living and market rates for the specific location.
Internal Equity: Compensation is determined in a manner consistent with compensation ranges for similar roles within the organization.
Budget and Grant Funding: Departmental budgets and any grant funding associated with the job position may impact the pay that can be offered.
Some jobs may also be eligible for performance-based incentives, bonuses, or commissions not reflected in the starting rate. Certain positions may also be eligible for shift differentials for work performed on evening, night, or weekend shifts.
In addition to our compensation for full-time and part-time (20+ hours/week) job positions, HMH offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, vision, paid leave, tuition reimbursement, and retirement benefits.

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