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Transitional Counselor Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Counselor - Grand Avenue

San Rafael, CA · On-site

$19.50 - $25/hr

... long-term Transitional Residential treatment. We also provide Case Management Services in ... COUNSELOR PRIMARY JOB RESPONSIBILITIES: Under the supervision of the Program Director or the ...

$95K - $130K/yr

The counselor works closely with administrators and teachers. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS * Provide ... RESPONSIBILITIES/DUTIES * Assist in the transition to and from school divisions, communicating ...

The counselor works closely with administrators and teachers. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS * Provide ... RESPONSIBILITIES/DUTIES * Assist in the transition to and from school divisions, communicating ...

Enrollment Counselor

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$26 - $30/hr

... transitions, post-event follow-up, application completion, and territory enrollment goals ... Senior Enrollment Counselor * Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. * A combination of ...

Counselor

Emeryville, CA · On-site

$71K - $100K/yr

As a Counselor, you will play a critical role in transforming lives and helping individuals regain ... issues, transitional reactions, sexuality, and social behavior. Requires visual and auditory ...

Enrollment Counselor

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$26 - $30/hr

... transitions, post-event follow-up, application completion, and territory enrollment goals ... Senior Enrollment Counselor * Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. * A combination of ...

Recovery Counselor

Orange, CA · On-site

$21.75 - $29/hr

... and transition back to the community. Population Served : adults aged 18-59 experiencing a ... counseling Skills & Services : rehabilitation and recovery services (including substance use ...

Showing results 41-60

Transitional Counselor information

See California salary details

$13

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

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

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.

Support Counselor, FT

Stars Behavioral Health Group

Redwood City, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago


Stars Behavioral Health Group rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Partner with us in making a positive change!
Join a team where your work truly matters. We're proud to have been certified as a Great Place to Work for 8 years by our own employees. We invite you to partner with us in our mission to improve mental healthcare.
Job Title:
Support Counselor, FT
Division/Program:
Acacia Mental Health Rehabilitation Center
Starting Compensation:
26.62 - 31.94 USD Per Hour
Working Location:
Redwood City: Mental Health Rehabilitation Center (In-Person position)
Working Hours/Shift:
FT, Tuesday-Saturday, AM Shift (7 am-3:30 PM)
Why Join Our Team?
  • Competitive Compensation: Offering a salary that matches your skills and experience.
  • Generous Time Off: Enjoy ample vacation and holiday pay.

Comprehensive Benefits Package:
  • Employer-paid medical, dental, and vision coverage.
  • Additional voluntary benefits to support your lifestyle.

Professional Growth Opportunities:
  • On-the-job training with access to paid CEU opportunities.
  • Career development programs designed to help you grow.
  • Supervision for BBS hours for AMFT, ACSW, and APCC professionals (where applicable).

Employee Recognition & Rewards: A culture that celebrates and rewards your hard work and dedication
What you bring to SBHG (qualifications):
Licensing & Driving Requirements:
  • Must possess a valid California Driver's License and current automobile insurance.
  • Must maintain a clean driving record that aligns with the company's driver eligibility policy.

Certification:
Mental Health Rehabilitation Specialist (MHRS): Certification is preferred; however, this credential can be obtained post-hire for qualified candidates.
Education/Experience:
Applicants must meet one of the following education and experience combinations in a related field (e.g., behavioral health, social services, or criminal justice/juvenile probation):
Support Counselor II:
  • High School Diploma: Plus 4 years of relevant experience.
  • Associate degree: Plus 2 years of relevant experience.

Support Counselor III:
  • Associate degree: Plus 4 years of relevant experience.
  • Bachelor's Degree: Plus 2 years of relevant experience.

How you will make a difference (job overview):
This position has primary responsibility for providing direct care to meet the physical and psychosocial needs of the clients through direct and indirect physical and verbal interaction. Duties are performed under direct supervision of the Program Coordinator, or designee, in most cases, but some tasks are accomplished independently.
Division/Program Overview:
  • Population Served: Adults (Ages 18-64) with severe mental health challenges that have required placement in a state hospital or other intensive behavioral health setting.
  • Facility & Setting: 16-bed inpatient rehabilitation facility.
  • Clinical Services: Comprehensive behavioral health and psychiatric services delivered by a multidisciplinary team.
  • Skills & Transition: Independent living skills development, self-sufficiency training, and transition planning for community re-entry.

Learn more about SBHG at: https://www.starsinc.com/stars-inc/
For Additional Information:
Norcalrecruitment@starsinc.com

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