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Peer Counselor Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Woodward Academy

Youth Counselor

Woodward, IA · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

Youth counselors also facilitate and assist in developing a positive peer culture with the guidance of the Group Leader. This entry-level position offers opportunities for advancement and leadership ...

Grand Living

Sales Counselor

West Des Moines, IA · On-site

The Sales Counselor knows and communicates verbally and in writing with prospective residents ... peers, staff, professional groups, etc. * Working knowledge of Microsoft Windows operating ...

Elon University

Counselor

Elon, IA · On-site

Counselor Position Type: Staff Full-Time Days Per Week: Monday-Friday Hours Per Week: 40 VP Area: Student Life Department: Counseling Services Location: Elon Main Campus Position Summary The ...

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How much do peer counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of May 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for peer counselor in Iowa is $19.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.73 and $21.68 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Is a Peer Counselor?

A peer counselor is a person in recovery, usually from addiction or mental illness, who is trained in counseling and conducting support programs for peers in similar situations. As a peer counselor, your responsibilities include helping people deal with their emotions and experiences, and meeting their support needs during the recovery process. You use your own experience and training to give them the tools to continue to heal. Your job is different from a mental health professional, as it is more about community and support, not diagnosis and treatment.

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

To thrive as a Peer Counselor, you need a solid understanding of counseling techniques, active listening, and lived experience relevant to the population served, often supported by specific peer counseling training or certification. Familiarity with case management systems, documentation protocols, and crisis intervention tools is beneficial. Strong interpersonal skills, empathy, and the ability to maintain boundaries make someone stand out in this role. These skills are crucial for building trust, providing effective support, and fostering recovery in individuals facing similar challenges.

What are some common challenges Peer Counselors face when supporting clients, and how can they effectively manage these situations?

Peer Counselors often encounter challenges such as maintaining professional boundaries, managing emotional stress from clients' experiences, and handling situations where clients require resources beyond their expertise. To navigate these challenges, Peer Counselors receive training in active listening, crisis intervention, and self-care strategies. Regular supervision, team debriefings, and access to mental health resources also support Peer Counselors in maintaining their own well-being while ensuring clients receive appropriate guidance and referrals when necessary.

What are peer counselors?

Peer counselors are individuals who provide support, guidance, and encouragement to others based on shared experiences, often related to mental health, recovery, or academic challenges. They are typically not licensed therapists but are trained to listen, offer emotional support, and help connect people with additional resources. Peer counselors use their own experiences to help others navigate similar situations, promoting empathy and understanding. Their role can be found in schools, colleges, community organizations, and health care settings.

What is the difference between Peer Counselor vs Substance Abuse Counselor?

AspectPeer CounselorSubstance Abuse Counselor
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; peer support trainingState certification; bachelor's or master's degree in counseling or related field; certification in substance abuse counseling
Work EnvironmentCommunity centers, schools, healthcare facilities, support groupsRehabilitation centers, clinics, hospitals, outpatient programs
Employer & Industry UsageNonprofit organizations, mental health agencies, schoolsHealthcare providers, addiction treatment centers, mental health clinics
Common Search & ComparisonPeer Counselor vs Substance Abuse Counselor

Peer Counselors provide support based on shared experiences and typically require less formal education. Substance Abuse Counselors have specialized training and certifications to diagnose and treat addiction. Both roles work in related environments but differ in credentials and scope of practice.

More about Peer Counselor jobs
What are popular job titles related to Peer Counselor jobs in Iowa? For Peer Counselor jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Peer Counselor jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Peer Counselor jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Peer Counselor jobs in IA? For Peer Counselor jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Peer Counselor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Peer Counselor job openings in Iowa as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 17% Full Time, 80% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,293 per year, or $19.4 per hour.
Youth Counselor

Youth Counselor

Woodward Academy

Woodward, IA • On-site

$19 - $20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

Description:

Youth Counselor | Make a Difference Every Day

Location: On-site in Woodward, Iowa - Full-Time Only Available


About the Role

The Youth Counselor's primary function is to provide direct care and supervision of Woodward Academy’s youth. Direct care duties include supervising and supporting youth during daily activities to observe or effect changes in their social behavior and maintain the safety of youth and teammates on and off campus. You will work with middle- and high-school-aged youth to stimulate interest and cooperation in individual and group activities. Youth counselors participate in the treatment of individual youths through observation, interaction, assessment, limit setting, and implementation and communication of treatment goals and treatment progress. Youth counselors also facilitate and assist in developing a positive peer culture with the guidance of the Group Leader. This entry-level position offers opportunities for advancement and leadership across the organization, including supervisory positions, case management, and more.


Pay & Benefits

Full-Time: $19.00–$20.00/hour

Training: Fully paid; all safety and skill-based training provided


Full-Time schedules start at:

  • 3:00 PM – 11:00 PM - Including weekends

Join Our Team

Are you someone who thrives on teamwork, leads with empathy, and believes in the power of positive influence? Join a mission-driven organization where collaboration, support, and growth are at the heart of what we do. As a Youth Counselor, you’ll help create a safe, engaging, and empowering environment for youth to build confidence, life skills, and brighter futures.


What You’ll Do

  • Build strong, positive relationships with youth through daily interactions and structured activities
  • Model teamwork, accountability, and respect to encourage positive behaviors
  • Collaborate with peers to maintain a supportive and safe environment
  • Guide youth through recreational, vocational, and life-skill development programs
  • Respond calmly and effectively in moments of crisis, providing reassurance and direction
  • Accurately complete required reports and documentation to support ongoing care

What You Bring and requirements

  • A high school diploma or equivalent
  • A team-focused mindset and strong communication skills
  • The ability to stay calm and confident in challenging situations
  • Must be able to read, write, hear and speak in English
  • Reliable transportation to the worksite
  • Ability to pass a full background check, including fingerprinting
  • Emotionally and physically able to perform physical escorts and/or restraints of the students to ensure a safe and secure environment

Full-Time Employee Benefits

  • Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
  • 401(k) retirement program
  • Short- and long-term disability coverage
  • Tuition reimbursement and student loan assistance
  • Paid time off, holiday pay, and your birthday off (paid)
  • Additional 4 weeks paid leave after 7 years of service and every 5 years thereafter
  • Free on-site meals and 24/7 gym access
  • Wellness Program
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Parental leave
  • DailyPay – Access your earnings before payday
  • Coaching opportunities
  • Housing assistance available
  • Supplemental insurance
  • Years of service recognition

Why You’ll Love It Here

You won’t do this work alone. You’ll be part of a trauma responsive team that is supportive, hands-on that celebrates wins, backs each other up, and works together to change lives for the better.

Requirements: