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Prison Psychologist Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Amity Foundation

Counselor I - (CIM)

Chino, CA · On-site

$28/hr

This groundbreaking opportunity not only will be working in our prison programs to help the inmate ... the behavioral, psychological, physical and social effects of drug abuse. * Knowledge of ...

Amity Foundation

Counselor I - (CIM)

Chino, CA · On-site

$28/hr

This groundbreaking opportunity not only will be working in our prison programs to help the inmate ... the behavioral, psychological, physical and social effects of drug abuse. * Knowledge of ...

UC Irvine

BLANK AST 2

Irvine, CA · On-site

Faculty in the three highly-ranked departments (Criminology, Law and Society, Psychology, and Urban ... prison overcrowding, from gang violence to healthy child development, from health risks to ...

University of California, Irvine

BLANK AST 2

Irvine, CA · On-site

$25.45/hr

Faculty in the three highly-ranked departments (Criminology, Law and Society, Psychology, and Urban ... prison overcrowding, from gang violence to healthy child development, from health risks to ...

University Of California Irvine

BLANK AST 2

Irvine, CA · On-site

$25.45 - $29.52/hr

Faculty in the three highly-ranked departments (Criminology, Law and Society, Psychology, and Urban ... prison overcrowding, from gang violence to healthy child development, from health risks to ...

All JobsPrison Psychologist JobsPrison Psychologist Jobs in Riverside, CA

Prison Psychologist information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$11.5K

$96.8K

$415.7K

How much do prison psychologist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for prison psychologist in Riverside, CA is $96,829.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,400.00 and $122,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What kind of prison psychologist works in prisons?

A prison psychologist working in prisons typically holds a doctoral degree in psychology and is licensed or certified to provide mental health services. They assess, diagnose, and treat inmates with mental health issues, often using psychological testing and therapy, and work within correctional facilities' security protocols. These psychologists may specialize in areas such as forensic psychology or crisis intervention and often collaborate with correctional staff to ensure safety and rehabilitation.

What is the difference between Prison Psychologist vs Correctional Counselor?

AspectPrison PsychologistCorrectional Counselor
Required CredentialsDoctoral degree in psychology, state licensureBachelor's or master's degree in counseling or social work, certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentPrisons, detention centers, forensic settingsPrisons, community correction facilities, rehabilitation centers
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, forensic institutionsCorrectional facilities, community organizations
Common Search & ComparisonFocus on mental health diagnosis and treatment in prisonsFocus on counseling, rehabilitation, and behavioral management in correctional settings

Prison Psychologists and Correctional Counselors both work within correctional environments, but Prison Psychologists typically hold doctoral degrees and provide mental health assessments and therapy, while Correctional Counselors usually have a bachelor's or master's degree and focus on counseling and behavioral support. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What are some of the unique challenges faced by prison psychologists in their daily work?

Prison psychologists often encounter challenges such as managing high caseloads, working with individuals who may be resistant to treatment, and addressing a wide range of mental health issues within a confined environment. They must balance the therapeutic needs of inmates with safety protocols and security measures unique to correctional settings. Additionally, prison psychologists frequently collaborate with correctional officers, medical staff, and administrative personnel to ensure comprehensive care, making strong communication and adaptability essential for success in this role.

What does a prison psychologist do?

A prison psychologist is a mental health professional who works within correctional facilities to assess, diagnose, and treat inmates with psychological issues. They provide counseling, therapy, crisis intervention, and mental health evaluations to help inmates manage mental illnesses, stress, and behavioral problems. Prison psychologists also work with correctional staff to create rehabilitation programs, assess inmates’ risk of reoffending, and support overall prison safety and inmate well-being.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a prison psychologist?

To thrive as a Prison Psychologist, you need an advanced degree in psychology (typically a PhD or PsyD), state licensure, and expertise in clinical assessment and forensic psychology. Familiarity with risk assessment tools, psychological testing instruments, and correctional records systems is essential. Strong interpersonal skills, resilience, and the ability to build rapport with diverse and sometimes challenging populations set outstanding professionals apart. These skills are critical for providing effective mental health care, supporting rehabilitation, and maintaining safety within correctional environments.

Can you work in a prison with a psychology degree?

Prison psychologists typically need a master's or doctoral degree in psychology, along with state licensure or certification. They work in correctional facilities providing mental health assessments, therapy, and crisis intervention, often requiring knowledge of forensic psychology and security protocols.

How do I become a prison psychologist?

To become a prison psychologist, you typically need a master's or doctoral degree in psychology, along with state licensure or certification. Relevant experience in mental health and knowledge of correctional environments are also important, and some positions may require specialized training or security clearances.

How much do prison psychologists get paid?

Prison psychologists typically earn between $60,000 and $90,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and level of education. Salaries may also vary based on the facility type and whether the psychologist is licensed and specialized in forensic or clinical psychology.
What are popular job titles related to Prison Psychologist jobs in Riverside, CA? For Prison Psychologist jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Prison Psychologist jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Prison Psychologist jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Prison Psychologist jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Prison Psychologist job openings:
Prison Psychologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Prison Psychologist job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $96,829 per year, or $46.6 per hour.

Counselor I - (CIM)

Amity Foundation

Chino, CA • On-site

$28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago

Amity Foundation rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

62nd of 770 rated non-profit organizations

Job description

Amity Foundation, an internationally acclaimed Teaching and Therapeutic Community, is seeking compassionate and enthusiastic individuals with a desire to teach, learn and join our community as a Counselor I at our in-prison facilities. This groundbreaking opportunity not only will be working in our prison programs to help the inmate population but will also enhance your training and experience in the field.
 
About Amity:
 
Amity Foundation is a safe place where people can change in an environment that fosters trust; where new values can be formed; responsibility developed, and lasting relationships built. Amity is dedicated to the inclusion and habilitation of people marginalized by addiction, homelessness, trauma, criminality, incarceration, poverty, racism, sexism, and violence. Amity is committed to research, development implementation, and dissemination of information regarding community building.
 
Remembrance, Resolution, Reconciliation, Restoration, Renewal
 
About the Position:
 
The Counselor I is responsible for the delivery of face-to-face rehabilitative programming services provided in the Integrated Substance Use Disorder Treatment Program (ISUDTP).  
What You Will Do:
  • Facilitate CBI classes, using evidence-based and standardized curriculum to the participants.
  • Conduct class and facilitate individual sessions to develop release prevention/action plans and/or provide make-up work.
  • Evaluate and document the progress of participants assigned to their classes.
  • Document delivery of CBI programming services in ARMS.
  • Engage participants daily and reinforce group norms and expectations for participations and completion.
  • Work collaboratively with the CDCR/CCHCS headquarters, local institution, and CDCR contracted staff.
  • Other related duties as assigned by the Contractor. 
What You Will Bring:
Required:
Counselor I: Must be registered with an organization approved by DHCS and obtain their AOD certification within five (5) years of registration date.
  • Understanding of causes, symptoms, and effects of substance abuse; appreciation for the behavioral, psychological, physical and social effects of drug abuse.
  • Knowledge of contractual requirements of ISUDTP is essential.
  • Excellent interpersonal, written and communication skills.
  • Operational knowledge of MS Office Suite and ARMS.
  • Ability to maintain sensitivity and objectivity under pressures generated by association with substance abuse treatment participants.  Demonstrate ethical behavior in order to maintain professional standards and safeguard the participants.
  • Protect and maintain program participants' health, safety, welfare, and confidentiality of records and participant information.
 
What We Offer:
  • Medical, Dental, Vision.
  • Paid vacation, sick time, & holidays.
  • 401K, HSA, & Life insurance programs.
  • Organization committed to community action.
  • Community oriented workplace. 
TEMP positions do not offer benefits
$28 - $28 an hour
Full-Time
Hourly wage: $28.00
On-site
Work duties performed in a state prison.
 
 

This is a Non-Exempt position.
Hourly wage is $28.00
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