1

Lay Counseling Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Guidance Counselor

Winter Haven, FL · On-site

$44K - $60K/yr

Requirements Requirements The Diocese of Orlando four core values lay the foundation for the work ... Bachelor's Degree from four-year College or University required in the field of Counseling, Master ...

Guidance Counselor

Winter Haven, FL · On-site

$44K - $60K/yr

Requirements Requirements The Diocese of Orlando four core values lay the foundation for the work ... Bachelor's Degree from four-year College or University required in the field of Counseling, Master ...

Excellent counseling, presentation, customer service skills, detailed orientated, multi-tasking ... Sessions (lay-off meetings), and other outreach activities as may arise from time to time. • ...

SUD Counselor

Oceanside, CA · On-site

$21 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... counseling. * Proficiency in maintaining confidential client records and case documentation. * Exudes a calm and competent manner, able to converse with medical professionals, lay persons, as well as ...

SUD Counselor

El Cajon, CA · On-site

$21 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... counseling. * Proficiency in maintaining confidential client records and case documentation. * Exudes a calm and competent manner, able to converse with medical professionals, lay persons, as well as ...

Senior Counsel

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$175K - $225K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Senior Counsel will serve as a senior member of the litigation practice, handling complex ... Take and defend lay, expert, and corporate representative depositions. * Argue motions and appear ...

SUD Counselor

Oceanside, CA · On-site

$21 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... counseling. * Proficiency in maintaining confidential client records and case documentation. * Exudes a calm and competent manner, able to converse with medical professionals, lay persons, as well as ...

Showing results 41-60

Lay Counseling information

See salary details

$9

$25

$52

How much do lay counseling jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for lay counseling in the United States is $25.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $30.29 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Lay Counselor, you need strong interpersonal skills, basic counseling knowledge, and often some formal training or certification in counseling or mental health support. Familiarity with intake systems, case management software, and basic mental health assessment tools is typically required. Empathy, active listening, and cultural sensitivity are vital soft skills that help build trust and rapport with clients. These skills and qualities are important for effectively supporting individuals in need while ensuring ethical and effective guidance within community or organizational settings.

What is the difference between Lay Counseling vs Mental Health Counselor?

AspectLay CounselingMental Health Counselor
CredentialsOften no formal licensing; may have training or certificationLicensed, with master's degree and state licensure
Work EnvironmentCommunity centers, churches, schools, non-profit organizationsClinics, private practices, hospitals, mental health facilities
Industry UsageUsed in community-based support rolesProfessional mental health treatment
Common Search/ComparisonLay Counseling vs Mental Health Counselor

Lay Counseling typically involves individuals providing emotional support and guidance without formal licensure, often in community or faith-based settings. Mental Health Counselors are licensed professionals with advanced degrees who offer clinical mental health services. While both roles aim to support mental well-being, the key difference lies in credentials, scope of practice, and work environment.

How to be a lay counselor?

To become a lay counselor, typically you need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by relevant training or certification in counseling or mental health support. Strong communication skills, empathy, and the ability to maintain confidentiality are essential, and some roles may require background checks or supervised experience.

What is lay counseling?

Lay counseling refers to the practice of providing emotional support, guidance, and basic counseling services by individuals who are not professionally trained or licensed therapists. Lay counselors are often members of the community who receive specific training to help others with common mental health concerns, stress, or life challenges. They typically work under supervision and focus on listening, offering empathy, and helping people access appropriate resources. Lay counseling can be an important resource in areas with limited access to professional mental health services.

What are some common challenges lay counselors face when supporting clients, and how can they address these challenges?

Lay counselors often encounter challenges such as managing emotional boundaries, recognizing the limits of their expertise, and handling sensitive situations. It can be difficult to know when to refer a client to a licensed mental health professional. To address these challenges, it is important for lay counselors to participate in regular supervision, seek ongoing training, and maintain open communication with their team. This ensures client safety and helps lay counselors grow in their supportive role.
More about Lay Counseling jobs

What cities are hiring for Lay Counseling jobs?

Cities with the most Lay Counseling job openings:

What states have the most Lay Counseling jobs?

States with the most job openings for Lay Counseling jobs include:

Infographic showing various Lay Counseling job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,027 per year, or $26 per hour.

$44K - $60K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

Description

In collaboration with the school's teachers and administration, the school counselor advises and counsels students and provides educational and vocational guidance services. The counselor also provides crisis intervention services, as needed.

Counsels students to help them understand and overcome personal, social or behavioral problems affecting their educational situations. Provides crisis intervention to students when difficult situations occur at school. Confers with parents/guardians, teachers, administrators and other professionals to discuss children's progress, resolve behavioral, academic and other problems and to determine priorities for students and their resource needs. Maintain accurate and complete student records as required by laws, district policies and administrative regulations. The ability to establish and maintain effective interpersonal relationships with parents, students, and co-workers. Teaches classes in small group settings on various topics relating student development.

Work is performed under the supervision of the principal. All duties, schedules and responsibilities are assigned by the principal.

Requirements

Requirements

The Diocese of Orlando four core values lay the foundation for the work performed by employees:

1. Authenticity: Conviction that God has called us to reflect exteriorly our inner life of faith in our daily living

2. Respect: Affirming each person's God-given dignity and uniqueness.

3. Courage: Inspired by this gift of the Holy Spirit, we proclaim and live the Word of God fearlessly and devotedly.

4. Commitment: Individually and collectively, we are steadfast to the team and its purpose.

Bachelor's Degree from four-year College or University required in the field of Counseling, Master's Degree preferred, Licensed Mental Health Professional preferred.

A high level of organizational and interpersonal skill is required. Attention to detail and working well with others is also required. Ability to effectively communicate with principal as well as staff, students and parents. 

Participates in the Diocesan catechetical formation requirements, professional development, faculty meetings, and other responsibilities as a faculty member.