1

Police Counselor Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Officer I Unarmed

Clinton, MD ยท On-site

$16 - $19/hr

Observes and monitors conditions objects or persons which might require police action. Controls ... Completes written reports and when subpoenaed or requested notifies Legal Counsel for MedStar of ...

Officer I Unarmed

Clinton, MD ยท On-site

$16 - $19/hr

Observes and monitors conditions, objects, or persons which might require police action. Controls ... Completes written reports and when subpoenaed or requested notifies Legal Counsel for MedStar of ...

Officer I Unarmed

Clinton, MD ยท On-site

$16 - $19/hr

Observes and monitors conditions objects or persons which might require police action. Controls ... Completes written reports and when subpoenaed or requested notifies Legal Counsel for MedStar of ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Police Counselor information

See Washington, DC salary details

$40.2K

$70.8K

$115.5K

How much do police counselor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for police counselor in Washington, DC is $70,798.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,300.00 and $78,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a police counselor?

A Police Counselor provides mental health support and counseling services to law enforcement officers and sometimes crime victims. They help officers manage stress, trauma, and emotional challenges associated with their job. Their role may include crisis intervention, therapy sessions, and training on mental wellness. Police Counselors often work within police departments, government agencies, or private practices specializing in first responder mental health.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a police counselor?

To thrive as a Police Counselor, you need a background in psychology or counseling, relevant licensure (e.g., LPC or LCSW), and experience in trauma-informed care. Familiarity with standardized assessment tools, case management systems, and documentation protocols is important. Strong interpersonal skills, cultural sensitivity, and emotional resilience help counselors effectively support officers and the community. These competencies ensure counselors can address complex mental health challenges in law enforcement settings while maintaining trust and professionalism.

What are some of the common challenges faced by police counselors on the job?

Police Counselors often encounter high stress levels due to the sensitive nature of their work, dealing with trauma, crisis intervention, and supporting officers after critical incidents. Balancing confidentiality with department protocols and building trust among law enforcement personnel can be challenging. Additionally, they may need to provide immediate mental health support, facilitate group debriefings, and manage a varied caseload. Support from colleagues and ongoing professional development opportunities can help counselors navigate these challenges effectively.

How to become a police counselor?

To become a police counselor, individuals typically need a bachelor's degree in psychology, social work, or a related field, along with experience in counseling or mental health services. Many agencies also require specialized training or certification in crisis intervention or law enforcement procedures. Gaining knowledge of law enforcement protocols and strong communication skills are essential for this role.

What are the most commonly searched types of Police Counselor jobs in Washington, DC?

The most popular types of Police Counselor jobs in Washington, DC are:

Infographic showing various Police Counselor job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, and 15% Part Time. Highlights an 94% Physical, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,798 per year, or $34 per hour.

District of Columbia Police Officers Standards and Training Board

Washington, DC โ€ข On-site

Part-time

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

Total public member: 7
Method of Appointment: Appointed by Mayor
Length of Appointment: 2 years
Residency: Strong preference for DC residents from all 8 wards
Paid board: No (all roles are voluntary)
Description: The Board shall establish minimum application and appointment criteria for the Metropolitan Police Department that include the following:
(1) That an applicant be a citizen of the United States at the time of application;
(2) Age limits;
(3) Height and weight guidelines;
(4) Physical fitness and health standards;
(5) Psychological fitness and health standards;
(6) The completion of a criminal background investigation;
(7) The consideration to be placed on an applicant's participation in court-ordered community supervision or probation for any criminal offense at any time from application through appointment;
(8) The consideration to be placed on an applicant's criminal history, including juvenile records; (9) The completion of a background investigation;
(10) Military discharge classification information; and
(11) Information on prior service with the Metropolitan Police Department.
The Board shall also review and make recommendations to the Chief of POlice, the Mayor, and the Council, regarding:
(1) The Metropolitan Police Department's tuition assistance program;
(2) The optimal probationary period for new members of the Metropolitan Police Department pursuant to subsection (q) of this section;
(3) The issue of creating separate career tracks for patrol and investigations;
(4) Minimum standards for continued level of physical fitness for sworn members of the Metropolitan Police Department; and
(5) The Metropolitan Police Department Reserve Corps program's training and standards.
Qualifications: Membership on the Board shall consist of the following 11 persons who shall be voting members:
(1) The Mayor or the Mayor's designee;
(2) Chief of Police, Metropolitan Police Department or the Chief of Police's designee;
(3) Corporation Counsel for the District of Columbia or the Corporation Counsel's designee;
(4) United States Attorney for the District of Columbia or the United States Attorney's designee;
(5) Assistant Director in Charge, Washington Field Office, Federal Bureau of Investigation or the Assistant Director's designee;
(6) Representative of the District of Columbia Superior Court appOinted by the Mayor in consultation with the Chief Judge of the Superior Court;
(7) One criminal justice educator appointed by the Mayor;
(8) One police representative appointed by the certified collective bargaining agent, and one police representative appointed by the Mayor in consultation with the Chief of Police.
(9) Two community representatives appointed by the Mayor.