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Pastoral Counselor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Trace Church

Church Counselor

Colorado Springs, CO · On-site

This role exists at the intersection of professional clinical practice and pastoral ministry ... The Counselor leads Trace's counseling response, providing initial assessment and short-term care ...

UHS

CHAPLAIN

Philadelphia, PA · On-site

Board Certified Pastoral Counselor (CpastC) or Certified Clinical Pastoral Therapist (CCPT) or Licensed Pastoral Counselor (LPC) from the American Association of Pastoral Counselors preferred.

UHS

CHAPLAIN

Philadelphia, PA

Board Certified Pastoral Counselor (CpastC) or Certified Clinical Pastoral Therapist (CCPT) or Licensed Pastoral Counselor (LPC) from the American Association of Pastoral Counselors preferred.

Tides Hospice LLC

Chaplain

Norwell, MA · On-site

$35 - $40/hr

Two or more years of experience as a Hospice Chaplain, Hospital Chaplain, Spiritual Counselor, Pastoral Counselor, or similar role. * Experience providing direct patient care within the past three ...

Ohio Health

Mgr Pastoral Care

Mansfield, OH · On-site

... pastoral care services are provided to physicians, staff, patients, and families as a member of the ... He/She counsels, offers emotional support, religious rites and sacraments, and assists in ...

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$61K

How much do pastoral counselor jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for pastoral counselor in the United States is $60,170.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60,000.00 and $60,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a pastoral counselor?

A pastoral counselor is a professional who integrates psychological therapy and spiritual guidance to help individuals cope with personal, emotional, or spiritual challenges. They are often trained in both mental health counseling and theology, allowing them to address issues from a holistic perspective. Pastoral counselors may work in religious institutions, counseling centers, or private practice, and they typically respect the client's faith background while providing support. They help with concerns such as grief, relationship issues, anxiety, and spiritual crises, combining clinical skills with compassionate, faith-informed care.

What is a pastoral counselor?

A pastoral counselor blends traditional psychology with theological concepts. As a pastoral counselor, your job is to provide counseling that incorporates the religious beliefs of the patient. Typical duties involve meeting with patients and their families, developing treatment methods, and analyzing the results. As a pastoral counselor, you often utilize prayer in your treatment services. You work with people of all ages with emotional, mental health, and behavioral issues as well as substance abuse and marriage problems. Though you typically work in a clinical setting, you may also provide group therapy to a church congregation.

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

To thrive as a Pastoral Counselor, you need a background in counseling or psychology, theological training, and often a relevant master's degree or certification. Familiarity with assessment tools, counseling techniques, and ethical guidelines is important, along with potential use of case management software. Strong active listening, empathy, and cultural sensitivity are crucial soft skills for building trust and supporting clients through spiritual and emotional challenges. These skills ensure that clients receive holistic care that addresses both psychological and spiritual needs in a compassionate and ethically responsible manner.

How does a pastoral counselor typically collaborate with other mental health professionals?

Pastoral Counselors often work as part of an interdisciplinary team that can include psychologists, social workers, and medical professionals. They collaborate by sharing insights—while maintaining client confidentiality—to ensure comprehensive care for clients, especially when spiritual and emotional needs intersect. Regular meetings or case conferences are common, and Pastoral Counselors may provide referrals or receive referrals for clients who need specialized support. This collaborative approach helps address the holistic well-being of individuals within a faith-based context.

What is the difference between Pastoral Counselor vs Mental Health Counselor?

AspectPastoral CounselorMental Health Counselor
CredentialsTypically requires a religious degree, pastoral training, and state licensureRequires a master's degree in counseling or psychology and state licensure
Work EnvironmentReligious settings, churches, faith-based organizationsClinics, hospitals, private practices, mental health facilities
Employer & IndustryReligious institutions, faith-based organizationsHealthcare, mental health services, private practices
FocusSpiritual guidance, faith-based counseling, emotional supportPsychological treatment, mental health management, behavioral therapy

While both roles provide emotional support and counseling, Pastoral Counselors focus on spiritual guidance within faith-based settings, whereas Mental Health Counselors provide clinical mental health treatment in healthcare environments. The choice depends on whether the client seeks faith-based or clinical mental health support.

Do pastoral counselors get paid?

Yes, pastoral counselors typically receive a salary or hourly wage for their work, which can vary based on experience, location, and employer. They often work in religious organizations, hospitals, or mental health settings and may need relevant certifications or training.

What is required to be a pastoral counselor?

To become a pastoral counselor, individuals typically need a bachelor's degree in psychology, counseling, or a related field, followed by a master's degree in divinity, theology, or pastoral counseling. Certification or licensure may be required depending on the state or organization, and strong interpersonal and communication skills are essential for providing effective support and guidance. Many pastoral counselors also have training in mental health and counseling techniques.

What jobs can you get with a pastoral counselor degree?

A pastoral counselor degree prepares individuals for roles such as pastoral counselor, mental health counselor, or chaplain, often in settings like churches, hospitals, or community organizations. These roles involve providing emotional support, counseling, and spiritual guidance, sometimes requiring certification or licensing depending on the region. Skills in active listening, empathy, and understanding mental health are essential for these positions.
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Pastoral Counselor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Pastoral Counselor job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,170 per year, or $28.9 per hour.

Pastoral Care Clinician/ Therapist

Provive Wellnes of Wayne

Wayne, PA • On-site

Other

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Pastoral Counselor

The Pastoral Counselor provides counseling services that integrate psychological principles with spiritual and faith-based perspectives. This role supports individuals in addressing emotional, relational, and spiritual concerns, often within a religious or ministry setting.

Key Responsibilities
  • Provide individual, couple, and family counseling using a blend of therapeutic techniques and spiritual guidance
  • Offer crisis intervention and emotional support during times of grief, trauma, or major life transitions
  • Incorporate faith-based perspectives (e.g., prayer, scripture, spiritual reflection) into counseling when appropriate
  • Maintain confidentiality and ethical standards in line with counseling and religious guidelines
  • Collaborate with clergy, healthcare providers, and community resources as needed
  • Conduct spiritual assessments and develop personalized care plans
  • Lead workshops, support groups, or educational sessions on topics such as stress, relationships, and spiritual growth
  • Keep accurate records of counseling sessions and client progress
Qualifications
  • Master's degree in counseling, psychology, divinity, or a related field
  • Certification or licensure in counseling (requirements vary by state)
  • Ordination or endorsement by a recognized religious body (preferred or required depending on employer)
  • Knowledge of theological principles and counseling practices
  • Strong interpersonal, communication, and active listening skills
  • Ability to work with diverse populations and respect varying beliefs
Work Environment
  • Outpatient Program
  • May involve evening or weekend hours depending on client needs
Skills and Competencies
  • Empathy and compassion
  • Ethical judgment and integrity
  • Cultural and spiritual sensitivity
  • Conflict resolution and crisis management
  • Strong boundaries and self-awareness

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