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Masters In Counseling Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Social Worker

Des Plaines, IL · On-site

$28.42 - $41.47/hr

Des Plaines, IL Responsibilities To provide emotional support, crisis intervention and counseling ... preferred. 2. Masters in Psychology, Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy, Licensed ...

Social Worker

Des Plaines, IL · On-site

$28.42 - $41.47/hr

Des Plaines, IL Responsibilities To provide emotional support, crisis intervention and counseling ... preferred. 2. Masters in Psychology, Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy, Licensed ...

A.) in Counseling: Art Therapy Program * (M.A.) in Couple and Family Therapy (CFT) Program * (M.A ... Masters Program: * A Master's in the applied concentration, or a related field with extensive ...

Social Worker

Park Ridge, IL

$30.70 - $46.05/hr

Demonstrates competence in counseling and discharge planning.MSW (Licensed Social Worker Masters) from accredited school of Social Work and field experience. Physical Requirements and Working ...

A.) in Counseling: Art Therapy Program * (M.A.) in Couple and Family Therapy (CFT) Program * (M.A ... Masters Program: * A Master's in the applied concentration, or a related field with extensive ...

Social Worker

Park Ridge, IL · On-site

$30.70 - $46.05/hr

Demonstrates competence in counseling and discharge planning. MSW (Licensed Social Worker Masters) from accredited school of Social Work and field experience. Physical Requirements and Working ...

Showing results 21-40

Masters In Counseling information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$37.1K

$61.5K

$81.9K

How much do masters in counseling jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for masters in counseling in Chicago, IL is $61,487.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,600.00 and $67,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What can you do with a master's in counseling?

With a Masters in Counseling, you can pursue a variety of careers in mental health, education, and community services. Graduates often become licensed professional counselors, school counselors, marriage and family therapists, or substance abuse counselors. This degree also opens opportunities in academic advising, career counseling, and nonprofit organizations. Many positions require state licensure, which typically involves supervised experience and passing an exam. The degree equips you with the skills to support individuals, couples, and groups in managing emotional, behavioral, and mental health issues.

What types of career paths are available with a master's in counseling, and how can I specialize within the field?

With a Master's in Counseling, you can pursue careers in school counseling, mental health counseling, marriage and family therapy, or substance abuse counseling, among others. Specializations are often determined by your coursework, practicum experiences, and post-graduate licensing requirements. Many professionals choose to focus on a specific population or issue, such as working with children, veterans, or individuals facing addiction. It's common to work in settings like schools, private practices, hospitals, or community agencies, and ongoing professional development can open doors to supervisory, administrative, or specialized clinical roles over time.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a counselor with a master's degree in counseling, and why are they important?

To thrive as a counselor with a master's in counseling, you need a solid understanding of psychological theories, assessment techniques, and ethical standards, typically supported by state licensure and supervised clinical experience. Familiarity with electronic health record (EHR) systems, counseling software, and ongoing continuing education or certifications is common. Exceptional active listening, empathy, and interpersonal communication skills help build client trust and rapport. These competencies are vital for effectively supporting clients' mental health needs and fostering positive therapeutic outcomes.

What is the difference between Masters In Counseling vs Licensed Professional Counselor?

AspectMasters In CounselingLicensed Professional Counselor
CredentialsMaster's degree in counseling or related fieldMaster's degree plus state licensure
Work EnvironmentInternships, entry-level roles, supervised settingsIndependent practice, private practice, clinical settings
Industry UsageEducational programs, entry-level jobsLicensed practitioners, clinical roles

Masters In Counseling is an academic qualification, while Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) is a credential obtained after completing a master's degree and licensure requirements. The master's degree prepares individuals for entry-level roles, whereas licensure allows independent practice. Both are essential steps in a counseling career, with the degree focusing on education and the license on legal practice authority.

Is it worth getting a master's in counseling?

A master's in counseling prepares individuals for roles such as licensed professional counselor or mental health counselor, often requiring supervised clinical hours and certification. It can lead to higher earning potential and expanded job opportunities in mental health services, schools, and healthcare settings.

What field of Masters in Counseling makes the most money?

Among counseling specializations, clinical mental health counseling and marriage and family therapy tend to have higher earning potential, especially for licensed professionals working in private practice or healthcare settings. Salaries vary based on experience, location, and certifications, with those holding licensure and advanced skills generally earning more.

What are popular job titles related to Masters In Counseling jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Masters In Counseling jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Masters In Counseling jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Masters In Counseling jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Masters In Counseling job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,487 per year, or $29.6 per hour.

Mental Health Specialist Master Level

NATIONAL YOUTH ADVOCATE PROGRAM

Homewood, IL

$57K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 5 days ago


National Youth Advocate Program rating

5.8

Company rating: 5.8 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Masters Level experienced working with adults in a mental health setting.

Location: Homewood, Illinois (travel required to assigned hospitals across Chicago and the South Suburbs)

Compensation: $50,000–$55,000 annually for candidates with a Master’s degree; up to $57,000 annually for licensed candidates

Schedule: Sunday through Thursday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Note: Hours may be flexible; scheduled workdays are fixed

Working At NYAP

  • NYAP's commitment to doing what is best for children, youth and their families is a core value and one that we look for in our newest team members.
  • Excellent training and continuing education and development opportunities offered on topics such as: PCIT, NMT, TF-CBT, BFST, CSAYC, TBRI, FFT and many, many more!
  • Student Loan Repayment assistance, up to $1,200 per year!
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance for you and your family!
  • 22 Days Off Each Year! 
  • Plus 11 Paid Holidays Per Year!
  • Competitive salaries and benefits including a 401(k)
  • Tuition Assistance
  • Work Anniversary Trips!
  • Peace leave
  • Parental leave
  • Mileage Reimbursement 

Position Summary: Working in alignment with the program supervisor to ensure that DHS expectations and NYAP values around services delivery to vulnerable populations that the Front Door Diversion Program serves are fully responded to by providing excellent front-end assessments and welcoming approach to potential customers of the program. This position provides timely mental health evaluation and assessment data to help determine the correct service venue for the customer.

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Actively supports, represents, and extends the mission, vision, and values of the organization
  • Functions as the primary mental health professional contact person with referral sources at assigned hospitals and other community venues.
  • Delivers prompt and professional clinical services while maintain appropriate level of confidentiality.
  • Screen referrals for mental health services, determine severity and what type of services are needed.
  • Builds name recognition and working relationships with Maximus screeners.
  • Work as a member for the care team to meet the needs of the customer and to support program goals.
  • Builds working relationships with the various hospital social workers.
  • Applies clinical skills to help screen individuals for the program.
  • Utilizing and creating a work base from the point of referral, which will be the hospital or community setting.
  • Builds and fosters a working relationship with hospital staff and hospital social workers.
  • Fostering people skills to be able to connect with clients.
  • Develops comprehensive front-end assessment of potential clients.
  • Completes clinical assessment of potential clients.
  • Utilizes standardized assessment/screening tools effectively in order to help gage client appropriateness for services.
  • Diagnosing mental illness with knowledge of DSM VI.
  • Creates linkage and referrals for follow up services.
  • Provides individual therapy, depression, anger management, medical providers for related medical conditions.
  • Functions effectively as a link between the hospital, the client and the subsequent service providing agency worker.
  • Demonstrates the technical and behavioral competencies necessary in the implementation of standardized assessment tools.
  • Completes all related screening documentation in a timely manner.
  • Completes all required performance tracking, data collection and documentation
  • Perform other duties as assigned by program supervisor.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

  • A licensed social worker (LSW) possessing at least a master's degree in social work and licensed under the Clinical Social Work and Social Work Practice Act [225 ILCS 20] with specialized training in mental health services or with at least 2 years of experience in mental health services working with adults.
  • A licensed professional counselor possessing at least a master's degree and licensed under the Professional Counselor and Clinical Professional Counselor Licensing Act [225 ILCS 107] with specialized training in mental health services or with at least two years of experience in mental health services working with adults.
  • A registered nurse (RN) licensed under the Nurse Practice Act [225 ILCS 65] with at least one year of clinical experience in a mental health setting or who possesses a master's degree in psychiatric nursing.
  • An occupational therapist (OT) licensed under the Illinois Occupational Therapy Practice Act [225 ILCS 75] with at least one year of clinical experience in a mental health setting.
  • An individual possessing at least a master's degree in counseling and guidance, rehabilitation counseling, social work, vocational counseling, psychology, pastoral counseling, or family therapy or related field, who has successfully completed a practicum or internship that included a minimum of 1,000 hours of supervised direct service, or who has one year of clinical experience under the supervision of a QMHP.
  • Minimum of 2 years of work experience working in the mental health field in a crisis setting.
  • Excellent communication skills, interpersonal skills, customer services, and organizational skills.
  • Ability to relate therapeutically with customers, display cultural sensitivity and strong sense of empathy.
  • Knowledge of Medicaid Rules and other funder expectations.
  • Familiarity and knowledge of DSM VI and psychological testing strongly encouraged.
  • Knowledge of psychiatric diagnosis and recognizes signs/symptoms of psychiatric illness and substance related diagnoses.
  • Must have a valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, automotive insurance, and a good driving record.
  • Capacity to remain objective and professional in all areas of job function.
  • Ability to organize data, plan, provide written and very feedback, utilize electronic health systems.
  • Demonstrates tolerance and respect for the ideas and actions of others.
  • Capacity to effectively work with and be respectful and sensitive to persons from various cultures, socioeconomic, ethnic, religious, and racial backgrounds.
  • Ability to manage multiple tasks.

Driving and Vehicle Requirements

  • Valid driver’s license
  • Reliable personal transportation
  • Good driving record
  • Minimum automobile insurance coverage of $100,00/$300,000 bodily injury liability

If this describes YOU, please apply today!

www.nyap.org/employment

NYAP also requires all of our employees, regardless of your title/position, to hold and maintain automobile liability insurance coverage of $100,000/$300,000. Please contact our HR department with questions, 614-487-3888 or hr@nyap.org.

The person in this position needs to follow a team concept and support both agency goals and co-workers. Employees must be able to effectively work with and be respectful and sensitive to persons from various cultures, socioeconomic, ethnic, religious, and racial backgrounds. 

Benefits listed are for eligible employees as outlined by our benefit policy.

National Youth Advocate Program has been serving communities and clients since 1978 and we continue to grow each year. Our growth allows us to expand and develop new and innovative programs to meet the ever-changing needs of those we serve.  We offer unique and personalized services for families and individuals in four areas: Prevention/Intervention, Positive Youth Development, Out-of-Home-Placement and Reunification/Permanency.

If YOU can envision it; WE can DO it! The possibilities are endless!

We know you are compassionate and dedicated to serving your clients and communities and NYAP is dedicated to providing support to those who join our team! We look for individuals that are ready to make a direct impact and are excited to be an instrument in supporting the needs of our children, youth and families.

An Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/veterans


What National Youth Advocate Program employees say

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