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Ministry Counseling Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Mercy

Chaplain I PRN/As Needed

Joplin, MT · On-site

Some Master's level work in Theology, Ministry, Counseling, Divinity or related field. Two units of CPE. Preferred Licensure: None. Preferred Experience: Current healthcare or military chaplaincy ...

Mercy

Chaplain I - PRN - Mercy Hospital STL

Anoka, MN · On-site

Some Master's level work in Theology, Ministry, Counseling, Divinity or related field. Two units of CPE. Preferred Experience: Current healthcare or military chaplaincy experience. Preferred Other ...

Hilbert College

Campus Minister

Hamburg, NY

$45K - $50K/mo

Bachelor's degree in Theology, Religious Studies, Pastoral Ministry, Counseling, Human Services, or a closely related field required. Demonstrated experience in campus ministry, youth ministry ...

Hilbert College

Campus Minister

Hamburg, NY

$45K - $50K/mo

Bachelor's degree in Theology, Religious Studies, Pastoral Ministry, Counseling, Human Services, or a closely related field required. * Demonstrated experience in campus ministry, youth ministry ...

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Ministry Counseling information

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$36K

$59.7K

$79.5K

How much do ministry counseling jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for ministry counseling in the United States is $59,688.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,000.00 and $65,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Ministry Counseling vs Pastoral Counseling?

AspectMinistry CounselingPastoral Counseling
CredentialsOften requires counseling certification and theological trainingTypically requires pastoral ordination and counseling certification
Work EnvironmentChurches, faith-based organizations, community centersChurch settings, religious institutions, private practices
Employer & IndustryReligious organizations, non-profits, community servicesReligious institutions, faith-based clinics, private practices

Both Ministry Counseling and Pastoral Counseling involve providing emotional and spiritual support within faith-based contexts. However, Ministry Counseling often emphasizes counseling certifications alongside theological knowledge, while Pastoral Counseling combines pastoral ordination with counseling skills. The choice depends on whether the focus is more on clinical counseling or pastoral ministry within religious settings.

What is the highest paid counselling job?

In counseling, clinical directors or senior mental health executives often earn the highest salaries, especially in private practice or healthcare organizations. Licensed professionals with advanced degrees, extensive experience, and specialized certifications tend to command higher compensation, with some reaching six-figure incomes depending on the setting and location.

What field of counseling makes the most money?

In counseling, clinical psychologists and psychiatrists tend to earn the highest salaries, often due to advanced degrees and licensing requirements. While ministry counseling can be rewarding, it generally offers lower compensation compared to clinical or psychiatric roles, which may involve working in hospitals or private practice with specialized skills and certifications.

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

To thrive as a Ministry Counselor, you need a strong background in theology, counseling techniques, and often a relevant degree or pastoral certification. Familiarity with counseling frameworks, record-keeping systems, and sometimes licensure in pastoral counseling are commonly required. Compassion, active listening, and strong interpersonal skills help build trust and support individuals through spiritual and emotional challenges. These skills are vital to providing effective guidance, fostering personal growth, and addressing the holistic needs of those seeking ministry support.

What are some common challenges faced by ministry counselors, and how can they effectively manage emotional burnout?

Ministry counselors often encounter emotionally intense situations as they support individuals through grief, crisis, and personal struggles. This can sometimes lead to compassion fatigue or emotional burnout. To effectively manage these challenges, counselors are encouraged to maintain healthy boundaries, seek regular supervision or peer support, and prioritize self-care practices such as prayer, reflection, and rest. Many ministries also provide professional development and counseling resources to support the well-being of their counseling staff.

What is ministry counseling?

Ministry counseling is a form of guidance and support provided by clergy, pastors, or trained laypersons within a religious context. It often focuses on spiritual, emotional, and personal issues, helping individuals find direction or healing through faith-based principles. Ministry counselors may assist with relationship problems, grief, addiction, or personal crises, and typically integrate religious teachings into their approach. While they may not be licensed therapists, they offer valuable support grounded in the beliefs and practices of their faith community.

Do biblical counselors get paid?

Biblical counselors can be paid or volunteer, depending on their setting. Many professional or licensed biblical counselors receive compensation for their services, often working in churches, counseling centers, or private practice, and may require training or certification. Volunteer counseling is also common in faith-based communities without financial compensation.

How to become a ministerial counselor?

To become a ministerial counselor, individuals typically need a relevant educational background such as a degree in counseling, psychology, or theology, along with training in counseling techniques. Certification or licensing may be required depending on the region, and strong interpersonal and communication skills are essential for providing effective support and guidance in a religious or spiritual context.
More about Ministry Counseling jobs
What states have the most Ministry Counseling jobs? States with the most job openings for Ministry Counseling jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Ministry Counseling jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Ministry Counseling jobs are:
Ministry Counseling jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ministry Counseling job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,688 per year, or $28.7 per hour.

Chaplain

Ministerial Association of California Counties ("MACC")

Colusa, CA • On-site

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Position Summary


The Chaplain serves as the primary spiritual, emotional, and pastoral care resource for employees of the Ministerial Association of California Counties (MACC). The Chaplain provides confidential support, counseling, encouragement, and crisis care to staff members while promoting employee wellness, resilience, and a healthy workplace culture. The position works closely with organizational leadership to support the overall well-being of employees and strengthen MACC's mission-driven environment.


Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Staff Care and Support (Primary Responsibility)

  • Provide confidential spiritual care, pastoral counseling, and emotional support to MACC employees.
  • Support staff experiencing personal, family, health, financial, or workplace challenges.
  • Offer crisis intervention and grief support during periods of loss, trauma, illness, or significant life transitions.
  • Maintain a visible and approachable presence for employees seeking support and guidance.


Employee Wellness and Organizational Health

  • Develop and facilitate wellness, resilience, and staff care initiatives.
  • Provide resources and training related to stress management, self-care, compassion fatigue, and work-life balance.
  • Assist leadership in fostering a culture of respect, compassion, engagement, and employee well-being.
  • Participate in staff retreats, meetings, and organizational events as needed.


Organizational Support

  • Serve as a spiritual and ethical resource to MACC leadership and staff.
  • Provide prayers, invocations, memorial services, and other ceremonial support when requested.
  • Support staff during organizational changes, critical incidents, and challenging workplace situations.
  • Occasionally provide chaplaincy support to volunteers, board members, and affiliated partners when appropriate.

Required Qualifications

  • Ordained, licensed, commissioned, or endorsed by a recognized faith organization.
  • Minimum three years of experience in chaplaincy, pastoral ministry, counseling, employee care, or a related field.
  • Demonstrated ability to provide compassionate, confidential, and non-judgmental support.
  • Strong interpersonal, communication, and crisis-intervention skills.
  • Ability to serve individuals from diverse faith traditions, backgrounds, and belief systems.


Preferred Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Theology, Ministry, Counseling, Psychology, or a related field.
  • Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) or equivalent chaplaincy experience.
  • Experience supporting employees in nonprofit, government, faith-based, or community service organizations.


Physical and Environmental Requirements

  • Work may include both onsite responsibilities and online administrative tasks.
  • Requires adaptability and comfort working in a dynamic ministry environment.
  • Ability to remain in a stationary position and work on a computer at a desk for extended periods. Be able to use a computer, keyboard, mouse, and interact with a monitor.
  • Ability to walk across variable terrain when assisting at events.
  • Ability to travel locally as needed (valid driver’s license may be required).
  • Ability to occasionally lift and/or move up to 20 pounds.
  • Work is performed in office and community settings.


Mission Alignment

The Chaplain advances MACC's mission by providing compassionate care and support to employees, promoting wellness and resilience throughout the organization, and fostering a work environment grounded in integrity, service, respect, and faith-based values.


Position Classification

Full-Time / Non-Exempt status