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Transitional Counselor Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Amity Foundation

Counselor I - (COR)4

Corcoran, CA · On-site

$29.40/hr

Liaise with transition/reentry staff, plans and prepares transitional documents as directed by CDCR ... Counselor I: Must be registered with an organization approved by DHCS and obtain their AOD ...

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Transitional Counselor information

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$19

$30

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.

Residential Counselor

Larkin Street Youth Services

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$23 - $24.54/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

WHAT YOU'LL DO:

Under the direction and guidance of the Program Manager, you will be responsible for guiding and counseling clients in our housing programs to ensure that they are on track to meet their goals. You may provide guidance to clients one-on-one or in groups. 

This is a full-time position, eligible for full benefits.

Your responsibilities:

  • Inspire and support clients to reach their goals.
  • Oversee and maintain joy and safety in community spaces.
  • Assist clients in understanding and overcoming social and emotional challenges.
  • Collecting, organizing, and analyzing information about individuals through records, tests, interviews, and professional sources.
  • Collect and share occupational, educational, and economic information to aid clients in making and carrying out objectives.
  • Engage in research and follow-up activities to evaluate counseling techniques.
  • In conjunction with internal resources, teach domestic and practical skills or hold group meetings.
  • Collaborate with other staff members to ensure the continuum of services for the clients.
  • Maintain community resources including foodstuffs (communal dinners), laundry, etc.

WORKING LOCATION:

  • Any of our housing programs located throughout San Francisco. 
    • This may include sites in the Tenderloin neighborhood.
    • We have one housing site in the East Bay (Berkeley).
    • We have one licensed facility that serves clients under the age of 18. Otherwise, all of our programs serve Transitional Aged Youth (TAY), age 18-24. 
WORKING DAYS:
  • Tuesday through Saturday
  • Sunday through Thursday
SHIFT OPTIONS:
  • DAY: 8AM to 4PM
    • As of June 2026, we are only looking for full time Swing Shift Counselors.
  • SWING: 4PM to 12AM
    • As of June 2026, we are only looking for full time Swing Shift Counselors.
  • OVERNIGHT: 12AM to 8AM
    • Pay differential of +$1 per hour

****PLEASE INDICATE YOUR PREFERED SHIFT(S) ON YOUR APPLICATION****

WHO YOU ARE:
  • You are passionate about the Larkin Street Youth Services mission to end youth homelessness.
  • You embody our values and core strategies: "This Is How We Roll":
    • Client-Centered
    • Trauma Informed Care
    • Restorative Practices
    • Harm Reduction
    • Non-Violent Crisis Intervention
    • Motivational Interviewing
  • You have some experience working with Transitional Aged Youth (TAY), aged 18 to 25 of diverse backgrounds, similar to the client base at Larkin Street Youth Services.
    • *BONUS* You have experience working in shelter, transitional, and/or permanent supportive housing programs.
  • You have experience noticing symptoms of use and abuse, recovery, and treatment philosophies.
  • You are a self-starter and team player. Your colleagues describe you as personable, reliable, and dependable.
  • You work best in a fully in-person working environment.
    • Remote work is NOT possible for this position.
  • You are willing to work holidays occasionally.
THE PERKS:
  • Hourly rate: $23-$24.54 per hour
    • +$1 for overnight shifts worked.
    • +$1.50 for bilingual incentive pay. Must be fluent in Spanish and English.
  • Clipper Bay Pass - Commute for FREE!
  • Choice of Kaiser and Sutter medical plans, plus dental and vision.
  • Generous 3 weeks of vacation annually, plus 11 Paid Holidays and 3 Floating Holidays.
  • 403(b) retirement plan with employer matching.
  • Flexible spending accounts for Healthcare and Dependent Care expenses.
  • Life Insurance.
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for counseling services.
  • Health Advocate Service.
  • Paid Sabbatical following 5 and 10 years of employment.

Apply