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Professional Counseling Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

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Professional Counseling information

See Tennessee salary details

$31.3K

$55K

$80.3K

How much do professional counseling jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for professional counseling in Tennessee is $54,999.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,300.00 and $60,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is professional counseling?

Professional counseling is a confidential process in which trained mental health professionals help individuals, couples, or groups address emotional, psychological, or behavioral issues. Counselors use evidence-based techniques to support clients in managing stress, overcoming challenges, improving relationships, and achieving personal growth. The counseling process typically involves talking through concerns, setting goals, and developing coping strategies in a safe, nonjudgmental environment.

What are some common challenges faced by professional counselors when working with clients from diverse backgrounds?

Professional counselors often encounter challenges related to cultural differences, language barriers, and varying perspectives on mental health when working with clients from diverse backgrounds. Navigating these differences requires strong cultural competence, sensitivity, and ongoing education to ensure effective communication and respectful, individualized care. Counselors may also need to adapt their therapeutic approaches to be more inclusive and relevant to each client's unique context. Building trust and rapport can take additional time, but it is essential for positive outcomes.

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

To thrive as a Professional Counselor, you need a solid understanding of psychological theories, assessment techniques, and counseling methodologies, typically supported by a master's degree in counseling and state licensure. Familiarity with case management software, diagnostic tools (like DSM-5), and telehealth platforms is commonly required. Exceptional active listening, empathy, and strong communication skills help build trust and rapport with clients. These combined abilities ensure ethical, effective guidance and support for individuals facing mental health or life challenges.

What is the difference between Professional Counseling vs School Counseling?

AspectProfessional CounselingSchool Counseling
Required CredentialsMaster's degree in Counseling or related field, licensureMaster's degree in School Counseling, state certification
Work EnvironmentPrivate practices, mental health clinics, hospitalsPublic and private schools, educational settings
Employer & IndustryHealthcare, mental health services, community agenciesEducational institutions, school districts

Both Professional Counseling and School Counseling require advanced degrees and licensure, but they differ mainly in work settings. Professional Counselors typically work in healthcare or community settings, focusing on individual mental health, while School Counselors operate within educational environments, supporting students' academic and emotional needs.

What other jobs can licensed professional counselors do?

Licensed professional counselors can work in various roles such as mental health therapists, school counselors, substance abuse counselors, marriage and family therapists, and clinical supervisors. They often utilize skills in assessment, counseling, and crisis intervention, and may work in settings like hospitals, schools, community agencies, or private practice.

What are the most commonly searched types of Counseling jobs in Tennessee?

The most popular types of Counseling jobs in Tennessee are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Professional Counseling jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Professional Counseling job openings:

Infographic showing various Professional Counseling job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,999 per year, or $26.4 per hour.

Assistant Professor of Professional Counseling Program

Lincoln Memorial University

Harrogate, TN • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago


Lincoln Memorial University rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

526th of 621 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Position Details
Position Information
Position Title
Assistant Professor of Professional Counseling Program
Department
GRADUATE EDUCATION (EDS)
Position Category
Faculty
Job Description
The instructional faculty member shall have the primary
responsibilities of teaching, research/creative achievement, and
service functions and shall be held accountable for these obligations
as they contribute to the attainment of the mission of the University,
the School, and the Department.
The faculty member shall serve as a full-time Assistant Professor in
the Professional Counseling Program with an emphasis in School
Counseling and shall support the development, implementation, and
evaluation of the graduate counseling curriculum in accordance with
CACREP standards
Required Qualifications
Earned PhD or EdD in Counselor Education and Supervision (CES)
from a CACREP-accredited program
Demonstrated evidence of graduation from a CACREP-accredited CES
program
Several years of professional experience as a school counselor
(K-12 setting)
Eligibility for or current licensure as a professional counselor
(LPC or equivalent)
Evidence of potential for effective teaching and scholarly
activity
TN School Counseling License
Preferred Qualifications
Experience teaching in a CACREP-accredited counseling program
Evidence of scholarly productivity and/or research agenda
Experience supervising counseling students in practicum and/or
internship
Familiarity with CACREP accreditation standards, particularly in
School Counseling
Active TN School Counseling License
Physical Demands
Campus
Cedar Bluff
Job Duty
Job Duty
Teach graduate-level courses in Professional Counseling, including School Counseling specialization courses
Job Duty
Advise and mentor students in the Professional Counseling Program
Job Duty
Participate in program development, curriculum review, and CACREP accreditation processes
Job Duty
Engage in research, scholarship, and/or creative achievement
Job Duty
Participate in university, school, and departmental committees
Job Duty
Promote effective working relationships among faculty, staff, and students
Job Duty
Maintain appropriate records and ensure compliance with institutional policies and procedures
Job Duty
Complete required institutional, program, and accreditation reports
Job Duty
Promote the mission of Lincoln Memorial University to students, colleagues, and the community
Job Duty
Perform duties as assigned
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number
F01432P
Job Open Date
07/28/2026
Job Close Date
10/28/2026
Open Until Filled
Yes
Special Instructions Summary
Post in High Ed and Online website
About the Institution
Lincoln Memorial University is a values-based learning community dedicated to providing educational experiences in the liberal arts and professional studies. The main campus is located in Harrogate, Tennessee. For more information about employment opportunities, contact the Office of Human Resources at 423-869-7112 or humanresources@lmunet.edu.
AA/EEO Statement
Lincoln Memorial University is an Equal Opportunity education institution. Lincoln Memorial University prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, religion, sex, national origin, age, ancestry, disability, veteran status, military status, pregnancy, sexual orientation, marital status, parental status, gender, gender identity, gender expression, and genetic information in all University programs and activities.
Background Check Statement
The University will conduct criminal background checks on all employees. Background checks may include but are not limited to confirmation of the individual's identity, credit information, motor vehicle driving record, review of an individual's criminal conviction record (if any), verification of any license, and certificate or degree required for the position.
Quicklink for Posting
https://careers.lmunet.edu/postings/38989
Minimum Salary
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