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Transitional Counselor Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

YAI

Transitional Coordinator (IITS) - CA

Lakewood, CA · On-site

$87K/yr

Support the person pre transition, during transition and post transition with at a minimum of ... A Master's Degree in Psychology, Social Work, Counseling and five years of experience in the past 7 ...

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Transitional Counselor information

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How much do transitional counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for transitional counselor in California is $19.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $21.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a transitional counselor?

Transitional counselors are professionals who assist individuals during significant life changes, such as moving from high school to college, transitioning out of incarceration, or re-entering the workforce. They provide guidance, resources, and emotional support to help clients navigate challenges and set achievable goals during these periods of transition. Their role often involves counseling, career planning, and connecting clients with community resources to ensure a smoother adjustment.

What are some common challenges transitional counselors face when supporting clients through major life changes?

Transitional Counselors often encounter challenges such as helping clients manage anxiety, uncertainty, and resistance to change during significant life transitions (like moving, career changes, or recovery from trauma). Building trust and rapport quickly is essential, as clients may be experiencing heightened emotions or ambivalence. Counselors also frequently need to coordinate with other professionals, such as social workers or healthcare providers, to ensure comprehensive support. Effective communication, patience, and adaptability are key to successfully guiding clients through these periods.

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

To thrive as a Transitional Counselor, you need a background in counseling, social work, or a related field, often supported by a relevant degree and licensure or certification. Familiarity with case management systems, client assessment tools, and community resource databases is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, active listening, and empathy are crucial for building trust and guiding clients through challenging transitions. These skills and qualities are vital for effectively supporting clients’ emotional well-being and ensuring successful adjustment during periods of change.

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

AspectTransitional CounselorSubstance Abuse Counselor
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's or master's degree in counseling or social work, and state licensureRequires a bachelor's or master's degree in counseling, psychology, or social work, plus certification or licensure
Work EnvironmentWorks in community agencies, schools, or correctional facilities assisting clients transitioning back into societyWorks in clinics, rehab centers, or hospitals focusing on addiction treatment
Employer & IndustryPublic and private social service agencies, correctional facilitiesRehabilitation centers, clinics, hospitals, addiction treatment facilities

Transitional Counselors and Substance Abuse Counselors both require similar educational backgrounds and licensure. However, Transitional Counselors focus on helping clients transition from incarceration, homelessness, or institutional settings back into society, while Substance Abuse Counselors specialize in addiction treatment. Their work environments and employer types often overlap but serve different client needs.

What are popular job titles related to Transitional Counselor jobs in California?

For Transitional Counselor jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Transitional Counselor jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Transitional Counselor jobs in California are:

Transitional Counselor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Transitional Counselor job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,959 per year, or $19.7 per hour.

Transitional Housing Resident Manager/Crisis Intervention Counselor

Little Tokyo Service Center

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$18.50 - $20/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

Background:
Kosumosu Transitional Housing is a residential program for domestic violence survivors and their children who wish to rebuild their lives after fleeing from abusive relationships. Kosumosu provides culturally sensitive and linguistically appropriate supportive services to residents. Kosumosu is a joint program with Social Services and Property Management.
Location: Work will be performed on-site at our Kosumosu Transitional Housing location, which is undisclosed until hired, to maintain the safety of onsite residents.
Summary of Duties
The Resident Manager will live on-site at Kosumosu Transitional Housing. Above and beyond the duties of a resident manager, this position will require daily interaction with residents, sensitivity to domestic violence issues and intervention in potential crises.
Job duties and responsibilities will include:
  • Report, respond to and resolve all emergency situations including after hours emergencies;
  • Provide crisis intervention/emergency counseling for residents;
  • Handle and resolve (as much as possible) all resident complaints including both resident versus management complaints, and resident versus resident complaints;
  • Interact daily with residents to assure/confirm residents' safety and well-being;
  • Keep Social Services staff updated as to all significant developments for residents;
  • Keep property management staff updated as to all significant issues regarding the property;
  • Maintain the security of the building and enforce all security policies;
  • Conduct clerical duties for property management including keeping files, processing paperwork and conducting some accounting;
  • Fulfill property management duties as assigned by property manager including collecting rent and overseeing routine maintenance and repairs;
  • Inspect the property regularly, including walking the property at least twice daily;
  • Check curfew in the evenings

Qualifications and Experience:
  • General knowledge of domestic violence issues;
  • 65-hour Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Certificate required (training could also be provided);
  • Bilingual/Bicultural preferred;
  • Strong office skills;
  • Strong communication skills;
  • Experience managing residential property preferred;
  • Experience in transitional housing settings is strongly preferred;
  • Ability to travel locally using an approved mode of transportation; and
  • Proof of eligibility to work in the United States.

Equivalent education or experience can be substituted for all minimum qualifications, except when legal requirements, such as a license/certification/registration, are required.

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