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Lay Counselor Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Diocese of Orlando

Guidance Counselor

Winter Haven, FL · On-site

$44K - $60K/yr

Counsels students to help them understand and overcome personal, social or behavioral problems ... Requirements Requirements The Diocese of Orlando four core values lay the foundation for the work ...

VSE AVIATION

Composite Technician I (2515)

Miramar, FL · On-site

Plans, lay-outs, and builds adhesive bonded assemblies of metallic and non-metallic composite ... counseling, and guidance. * Interface effectively with members of management, other departments ...

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How much do lay counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for lay counselor in Florida is $11.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $8.99 and $12.60 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a lay counselor?

A Lay Counselor is a trained, non-professional individual who provides emotional and psychological support to people facing personal challenges. They typically offer active listening, encouragement, and basic guidance, often in religious, community, or volunteer-based settings. Unlike licensed therapists, Lay Counselors do not diagnose or treat mental health disorders but serve as a compassionate support system. Many receive training in counseling techniques, ethics, and crisis intervention. Their goal is to offer comfort, guidance, and referrals when necessary.

What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a lay counselor?

As a Lay Counselor, your daily responsibilities often include meeting with individuals or groups to provide emotional support, listening to concerns, and guiding people toward healthy coping strategies. You may be responsible for keeping confidential notes, collaborating with professional counselors or supervisors, and referring clients to specialized services if needed. Many Lay Counselors also participate in regular training sessions or peer review meetings to enhance their skills and ensure best practices. The setting can vary from community organizations and schools to faith-based groups, and you will frequently interact with people from diverse backgrounds seeking help with personal or situational challenges.

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

To thrive as a Lay Counselor, you need foundational knowledge of basic counseling techniques, active listening, and ethical guidelines, often supported by training programs or workshops rather than formal degrees. Familiarity with basic electronic recordkeeping systems and participation in ongoing supervision or mentorship are commonly expected. Outstanding candidates demonstrate compassion, non-judgmental communication, cultural sensitivity, and strong boundaries while supporting others. These skills are essential for providing effective emotional support, ensuring client well-being, and maintaining trust within community or organizational settings.

How to become a lay counselor?

To become a lay counselor, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by relevant training or certification in counseling or mental health support. Many roles require strong communication skills, empathy, and sometimes a background in social work or psychology, with some positions offering on-the-job training or supervised experience.

What are the most commonly searched types of Lay Counselor jobs in Florida?

The most popular types of Lay Counselor jobs in Florida are:

What are popular job titles related to Lay Counselor jobs in Florida?

For Lay Counselor jobs in Florida, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Lay Counselor jobs in Florida look for?

The top searched job categories for Lay Counselor jobs in Florida are:

Lay Counselor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lay Counselor job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 36% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 63% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $23,284 per year, or $11.2 per hour.

Guidance Counselor

St Joseph Catholic School

Winter Haven, FL

$44K - $60K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 17 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.

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