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Volunteer Counselor Jobs in Decatur, GA (NOW HIRING)

City of Alpharetta, GA

Camp Counselors-Happy Heart

GA · On-site

$13 - $17/hr

Essential Job Functions and Responsibilities The Camp Counselor will be responsible for: * Acting as a positive role model/mentor to participants and volunteer counselors in training * Developing and ...

Emory Healthcare

Genetic Counselor II

Johns Creek, GA · On-site

Provides genetic counseling services to individuals and families according to established practices ... Assists with training students, interns, residents, fellows and volunteers. * Participates in ...

Emory Healthcare

Genetic Counselor II

Johns Creek, GA · On-site

Provides genetic counseling services to individuals and families according to established practices ... Assists with training students, interns, residents, fellows and volunteers. * Participates in ...

Emory Healthcare

Genetic Counselor II

Johns Creek, GA

$41.28 - $49.07/hr

Provides genetic counseling services to individuals and families according to established practices ... Assists with training students, interns, residents, fellows and volunteers. * Participates in ...

Emory Healthcare

Genetic Counselor II

Johns Creek, GA · On-site

Provides genetic counseling services to individuals and families according to established practices ... Assists with training students, interns, residents, fellows and volunteers. * Participates in ...

YMCA OF METRO ATLANTA

Camp Counselor

Norcross, GA · On-site

At the Y, we're an association of like-minded people (staff, volunteers, and members), on the ... Under the direction of the Youth Development Director, the Camp Counselor will be primarily ...

YMCA OF METRO ATLANTA

Camp Counselor

Alpharetta, GA · On-site

At the Y, we're an association of like-minded people (staff, volunteers, and members), on the ... Under the direction of the Youth Development Director, the Camp Counselor will be primarily ...

YMCA OF METRO ATLANTA

Teen Counselor

Marietta, GA · On-site

At the Y, we're an association of like-minded people (staff, volunteers, and members), on the ... Under the direction of the Youth Development Director, the Teen Counselor plans, organizes all ...

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All JobsVolunteer Counselor JobsVolunteer Counselor Jobs in Decatur, GA

Volunteer Counselor information

See Decatur, GA salary details

$8

$18

$32

How much do volunteer counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for volunteer counselor in Decatur, GA is $18.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.09 and $19.71 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Volunteer Counselor vs Professional Counselor?

AspectVolunteer CounselorProfessional Counselor
CredentialsOften no formal certification; may have basic trainingRequires state licensure and advanced degrees (e.g., Master’s or Doctorate)
Work EnvironmentNon-profit organizations, community centers, crisis hotlinesHospitals, private practices, mental health clinics
Employer & IndustryNon-profit, community service, mental health supportHealthcare, mental health, private practice
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding volunteer roles vs paid professionalsCareer development, licensing, qualifications

Volunteer Counselors provide support and guidance without formal licensure, often in community or non-profit settings. Professional Counselors hold advanced degrees and licensure, working in clinical environments. The main difference lies in credentials, scope of practice, and employment settings.

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

To thrive as a Volunteer Counselor, you need a background in psychology or social work, basic counseling training, and a strong understanding of ethical guidelines. Familiarity with case management systems and completion of relevant certifications, such as crisis intervention or mental health first aid, are typically expected. Exceptional active listening, empathy, and nonjudgmental communication set outstanding counselors apart. These skills and qualifications are crucial for building trust, supporting individuals in distress, and ensuring responsible, effective assistance.

How to become a volunteer counsellor?

To become a volunteer counsellor, individuals typically need to complete relevant training or certification in counseling or mental health support, and often require a background check. Many organizations also look for strong communication skills, empathy, and a commitment to volunteer hours or schedules. Volunteering opportunities may vary by organization and location, so checking specific requirements is recommended.

What qualifications do you need to be a Crisis Counselor?

To become a crisis counselor, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with relevant training in crisis intervention and mental health. Many roles require certification such as Crisis Prevention and Intervention (CPI) or Mental Health First Aid, and strong communication and emotional resilience skills are essential.

What are some common challenges Volunteer Counselors face when supporting clients, and how can they effectively navigate these situations?

Volunteer Counselors often work with individuals experiencing intense emotions, trauma, or crisis situations, which can be emotionally demanding and challenging. Navigating boundaries, managing personal stress, and ensuring appropriate referrals when issues exceed their training are critical aspects of the role. Effective Volunteer Counselors regularly participate in supervision, debrief with experienced colleagues, and utilize organizational training and resources to maintain their own well-being while providing quality support. Building strong communication skills and practicing self-care are essential for long-term success in this field.

What are Volunteer Counselors?

Volunteer Counselors are individuals who offer their time and skills to provide guidance, support, and counseling services without receiving monetary compensation. They typically work with organizations such as schools, nonprofits, crisis centers, or community outreach programs to help people facing emotional, social, or mental health challenges. Volunteer Counselors may assist with active listening, offering advice, facilitating support groups, and connecting clients with additional resources. Their work is important in expanding access to mental health and support services for those who might not otherwise be able to afford them.

What is volunteer counseling?

Volunteer counseling involves providing emotional support, guidance, or advice to individuals without monetary compensation, often through nonprofit organizations or community programs. It requires active listening, communication skills, and sometimes specific training or certifications, and typically occurs in settings like clinics, schools, or support groups.

How do I become a NICU cuddler?

To become a NICU cuddler, you typically need to volunteer through a hospital or neonatal unit that offers cuddling programs. Requirements often include completing a volunteer application, undergoing a background check, and attending training on infant care and hospital policies. Strong communication skills and a compassionate attitude are essential for this role.
What are the most commonly searched types of Counselor jobs in Decatur, GA? The most popular types of Counselor jobs in Decatur, GA are:
What cities near Decatur, GA are hiring for Volunteer Counselor jobs? Cities near Decatur, GA with the most Volunteer Counselor job openings:
Volunteer Counselor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Volunteer Counselor job openings in Decatur, GA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 4% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,862 per year, or $18.7 per hour.

Camp Counselors-Happy Heart

City of Alpharetta, GA

GA • On-site

$13 - $17/hr

Temporary

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

Salary: $13.00 - $17.00 Hourly
Location : Recreation, Park & Cultural Services, GA
Job Type: Seasonal
Job Number: 2025-00319
Department: Recreation, Parks & Cultural Services
Opening Date: 12/22/2025
Closing Date: Continuous
Job Summary & General Information
Hours per week: Availability between 7:30am and 6:00pm (actual shift will vary); 40 hours/week
The City of Alpharetta is accepting applications for the seasonal position of Camp Counselor for Camp Happy Hearts. Camp Happy Hearts is the City of Alpharetta's day camp for children with mild disabilities. The purpose of this position is to supervise, teach, and instruct youth in various games, arts and crafts, and leisure skills in a camp environment for children with mild disabilities. Counselors will be responsible for four children during the day providing an exceptional camp experience. Counselors report to the Camp Happy Hearts Director and Camp Manager. A Camp Counselor would need to be available to work from May 26- July 31. Camp Happy Hearts is for children ages 6-12, and the camp accepts only 35 campers each week.
Job Description
Under the general supervision of the Camp Director, Camp Manager and Recreation Supervisor, Camp Counselor will assist with the planning, organization, supervision and implementation of a daily activity schedule for up to 35 elementary school aged children with mild disabilities.
Essential Job Functions and Responsibilities
The Camp Counselor will be responsible for:
  • Acting as a positive role model/mentor to participants and volunteer counselors in training
  • Developing and leading daily activities with campers ranging from indoor and outdoor games, sports, fitness activities, arts and crafts that relate to the theme of the week
  • Eating lunch and snack with campers
  • Providing positive and thorough interaction between parents and staff
  • Communicating regularly with other Camp Counselors, Camp Director, Programs Coordinator and Recreation staff to ensure camp runs smoothly and efficiently
  • Overseeing the enforcement of camp rules at all times
  • Monitoring campers on field trips, at the City pool and various locations
  • Completing accurate accidents, behavior and/or discipline reports
  • Rendering first aid in cases of minor injuries
  • Assisting with light-duty cleaning, and the setup and breakdown of tables and chairs
  • Participating in in-service training as required; participates in weekly staff meetings
  • Organizing and maintaining all equipment and supplies
  • Performing regular visual inspections of camp equipment and notify supervisor of defective equipment
  • Performing miscellaneous tasks as directed

Minimum Qualifications
  • Applicant must be 16 years of age or older (by the start date of orientation, May 26, 2026).
  • A minimum of one (1) year experience working paid or volunteer in a recreational camp setting, afterschool setting, daycare facility, or related activity is preferred.
  • A minimum of one (1) year experience working paid or volunteer in special needs camps, Special Olympics or similar programs, classroom or afterschool programs, or individual experience with special needs population is preferred.
  • Applicant must have the ability to work as a team member and coordinate with other staff in contributing to the goals of the program.
  • Applicant must have the ability to follow oral and written instructions.
  • Applicant must have exceptional communication skills.
  • Applicant must be able to interpret policies and procedures.
  • Applicant must be able to perform the essential functions of this role, with or without accommodation.
  • Applicant must provide their own transportation.
  • Applicant must be able to work a flexible daytime schedule, Monday through Friday, from May 26 through July 31.
  • Applicant must be able to attend mandatory Camp Staff orientation/training sessions scheduled on Tuesday, May 26 - Friday, May 29.
  • Regular and consistent attendance is required.
Pre-Employment Requirements
  • Applicant must clear a criminal background check.
  • Applicant must pass a mandatory drug test.
  • Hired applicants must possess a valid certificate of course completion for First Aid training that includes Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) for Children and Infant, first aid, and AED. This training must be from the American Red Cross or American Heart Association. The City of Alpharetta will offer a CPR course during the week of camp training for all those who need this certification.
  • Hired applicants must provide official verification as to identity and work authorization.

Supplemental Information
This job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the City of Alpharetta and employee and is subject to modifications as the needs and requirements of the position change.
The City of Alpharetta is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. All applicants receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender (including identity or expression), marital status, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability or any other protected classification as defined by applicable law (except as limited by Employee Manual & Benefits Handbook or bona fide occupational qualifications).
In compliance with the Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988, the City of Alpharetta is committed to providing a safe, quality-oriented and productive work environment consistent with the standards of the community in which it serves. Alcohol and drug abuse poses a threat to the health and safety of City's employees and to the security of the City's equipment and facilities. For these reasons, the City is committed to the elimination of drug and alcohol use and abuse in the workplace.
Title I of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) protects qualified individuals with disabilities from employment discrimination. Under the ADA, a person has a disability if they have a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits a major life activity.The physical demands described within the job description are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. In compliance with the ADA, the City of Alpharetta will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.
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