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Professional Counseling information

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$34.5K

$60.6K

$88.5K

How much do professional counseling jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for professional counseling in the United States is $60,597.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,000.00 and $66,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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.
More about Professional Counseling jobs
What cities are hiring for Professional Counseling jobs? Cities with the most Professional Counseling job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Counseling jobs? The most popular types of Counseling jobs are:
What states have the most Professional Counseling jobs? States with the most job openings for Professional Counseling jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Professional Counseling jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Professional Counseling jobs are:
Professional Counseling jobs near you
Infographic showing various Professional Counseling job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 20% Full Time, 60% Part Time, and 18% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,597 per year, or $29.1 per hour.
Advanced Professional & Special Services, School & Professional Counseling - Full-Time, Non-Tenur...

Advanced Professional & Special Services, School & Professional Counseling - Full-Time, Non-Tenur...

UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL OKLAHOMA

Edmond, OK • On-site

Other

Posted 13 days ago

University Of Central Oklahoma rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

40th of 535 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Position Overview:
Teaches, advises, and mentors students; evaluates student performance; and maintains department and student records in accordance with university policies. Adheres to the educational philosophy of the university. Works collaboratively with colleagues and professional peers. Participates in university meetings that relate specifically to faculty. Serves on department, college, and university committees as requested. Prepares departmental reports as requested. Engages in teaching, service, and scholarly and/or creative activities as defined by the tenure and promotion policy in the UCO Employee and Faculty Handbook. Faculty are expected to support & facilitate the department/school/college academic and university missions, visions, & long-term goals.
Department-Specific Essential Job Functions:
Teaching graduate courses in School Counseling and Licensed Professional Counseling. Supervising interns and practicum students across clinical, school, and mental health settings. Engaging in scholarly activities and serving on department, college, and university committees and related initiatives.
Experience Required:
An earned doctorate awarded by a regionally accredited or internationally recognized institution in the field specified in the position announcement (exceptions require Academic Affairs approval). **NOTE** If the doctorate is not obtained and submitted by the time of employment, the position rank will change to TT-Instructor.
A candidate who possesses the following items will be considered for the current position: a Master's or Doctorate in School Counseling or a related field, ABD, a mental health licensure degree, previous experience in school and mental health counseling, excellent communication, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
Experience Preferred:
Preference is given to candidates who hold board licensure and possess experience as a Licensed Professional Counselor or Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor (LPC-S).
Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:
Candidates must provide evidence of teaching and counseling effectiveness/excellence. Must be willing to teach in various instructional formats (in-person, hybrid, and online) as needed and appropriate. Candidate must have at least two years of school and mental health counseling experience and the ability to maintain ongoing professional credentials. Candidates need to have skills in team building, coaching, mentoring, supervision, conflict resolution, delegation, and problem-solving. Candidates will also need to be able to comply with the UCO Employee and Faculty Handbook.
Physical Demands:
Reasonable accommodations (in accordance with ADA requirements) may be made, upon request, to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

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