ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Volunteer Counselor Jobs in Decatur, GA (NOW HIRING)

YMCA OF METRO ATLANTA

Lead Camp Counselor

Alpharetta, GA · On-site

$13.75 - $17.75/hr

At the Y, we're an association of like-minded people (staff, volunteers, and members), on the ... Under the supervision of the Youth Development Director, the Lead Counselor is responsible for ...

YMCA OF METRO ATLANTA

Lead Camp Counselor

Marietta, GA · On-site

$13.25 - $17.25/hr

At the Y, we're an association of like-minded people (staff, volunteers, and members), on the ... Under the supervision of the Youth Development Director, the Lead Counselor is responsible for ...

YMCA OF METRO ATLANTA

Counselor - SAIL

Atlanta, GA · On-site

At the Y, we're an association of like-minded people (staff, volunteers, and members), on the ... SAIL) Counselor will be primarily responsible for supporting the branch Summer Adventure SAIL ...

YMCA OF METRO ATLANTA

Counselor - SAIL

Atlanta, GA · On-site

At the Y, we're an association of like-minded people (staff, volunteers, and members), on the ... SAIL) Counselor will be primarily responsible for supporting the branch Summer Adventure SAIL ...

SKYLAND TRAIL

Activity Counselor

Atlanta, GA · On-site

Scope: o The Activity Counselor works under the direction of the Recreation Therapist/Coordinator ... AITG, volunteer celebration, alumni celebration o Other duties assigned by Recreation Therapist ...

YMCA of Metropolitan Atlanta

Counselor - SAIL

Atlanta, GA

$19.50 - $26.25/hr

At the Y, we're an association of like-minded people (staff, volunteers, and members), on the ... SAIL)Counselor will be primarily responsible for supporting the branch Summer Adventure SAIL ...

YMCA of Metropolitan Atlanta

Counselor - SAIL

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$19.50 - $26.25/hr

At the Y, we're an association of like-minded people (staff, volunteers, and members), on the ... SAIL)Counselor will be primarily responsible for supporting the branch Summer Adventure SAIL ...

YMCA OF METRO ATLANTA

Afterschool Counselor I

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$11.50 - $15.75/hr

At the Y, we're an association of like-minded people (staff, volunteers, and members), on the ... Under the direction of the Afterschool Program Director(s) and Site Director, the Site Counselor is ...

YMCA OF METRO ATLANTA

Afterschool Counselor I

Marietta, GA · On-site

$11.25 - $15.50/hr

At the Y, we're an association of like-minded people (staff, volunteers, and members), on the ... Under the direction of the Afterschool Program Director(s) and Site Director, the Site Counselor is ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

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 Aug 22, 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 a volunteer counselor?

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 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.

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 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.

How to be a volunteer counselor?

To become a volunteer counselor, you typically need to complete relevant training or certification in counseling or mental health, demonstrate strong communication and empathy skills, and often undergo background checks. Many organizations require a commitment of a certain number of hours and may provide ongoing supervision or support. Volunteering in this role involves providing emotional support, guidance, and resources to individuals in need within a structured environment.

What is volunteer counseling?

Volunteer counseling involves providing emotional support, guidance, or advice to individuals or groups without monetary compensation. It often requires active listening, empathy, and communication skills, and may involve training or certification depending on the setting. Volunteers typically work in community organizations, mental health programs, or crisis centers to assist those in need.

What qualifications do you need to be a volunteer counselor?

To be a volunteer counselor, individuals typically need relevant training or certification in counseling, psychology, or social work, along with strong communication and interpersonal skills. Some organizations may require background checks and a minimum age or commitment period. Specific qualifications vary depending on the organization and the type of counseling provided.

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, and 18% Part Time. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,862 per year, or $18.7 per hour.

Lead Camp Counselor

YMCA of Metropolitan Atlanta

Alpharetta, GA

$13.75 - $17.75/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 7 days ago

YMCA Of Metro Atlanta rating

5.6

Company rating: 5.6 out of 10

Based on 30 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

651st of 781 rated non-profit organizations

Job description

As a thought-leader and best-in-class provider in education, wellness, youth development, and community-building, The YMCA of Metro Atlanta is one of the oldest and most essential non-profits serving in Atlanta. Today, we're looking for you to join us as we carry out our mission to positively impact lives and communities across the state.

At the Y, we're an association of like-minded people (staff, volunteers, and members), on the forefront of a movement to ensure that everyone -- especially children -- experience an equal opportunity to reach their full potential. In the course of a year, we provide more than 3,000 children, ages 6 weeks through Pre-K with high-quality literacy and STEAM-infused learning; give 58,000 youth and teens access to sports, aquatics, day and resident camps, teen leadership development programs, and employment opportunities; provide over 200,000 members with programs, services, and facilities to enjoy connection and maintain wellness regardless of age; and engage over 25,000 volunteers and donors from across Atlanta to share in the gift of supporting their communities.

NATURE AND SCOPE:

Under the supervision of the Youth Development Director, the Lead Counselor is responsible forexecution of program activities, transitions, incident reports and leading other counselors in their group.This role is crucial for providing guidance, safety, leadership, education, and enjoyment for children served at camp.

RESPONSIBILITIES (including, but not limited):

  • Assist in the implementation of activitiestoprovide guidance, leadership, education, andengagementfor children served by camp.

  • Assist in planning and implementation of programs and safety protocol which will assist in the development of the camper physically, mentally, socially, and spiritually and which promote YMCA values: caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.

  • Teachthe basic skills of various programs to campers in a safe and respectful manner.

  • Report to theYouth Development Director or Camp Site Leadabout any difficult or unusual situations.

  • Share problems with theYouth Development Director or Camp Site Leadso they can be solved.

  • Facilitating proper group behavior.

  • Stay updated on current issues regarding camp programs.

  • Promote, monitor, evaluate and ensure that all camp programs run smoothly with a high level of service to participants.

  • Maintain branch and association certifications inMetro Atlanta YMCA New Staff Orientation and BranchEmergency procedures, Keeping Kids Safeand any other required certifications and/or training required by the YMCA of Metro Atlanta.

  • Maintainand report incident/accident paperwork.

REQUIREMENTS:

  • High School Diplomain progress or completeor GED

  • Must be at least 18 years of age

  • Experience working with children in a structured setting

  • Required certifications current First Aid/CPR;must obtain any other certifications required for the position

  • Exemplify YMCA ideals, leadership qualities

  • Excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills

  • Ability to handle multiple tasks, work independently, problem solve and possess effective time management skills

  • Strong customer service skills and personal commitment to service and hospitality

  • Pass a Bright from the Start (BFTS) fingerprint background check and a drug screen

ERGONOMIC REQUIREMENTS:

Ability to climb, walk, run, stoop, squat or kneel. Ability to lift and carry equipment to appropriate destinations or affect the carrying of such equipment. Ability to use senses which enable safe supervision including seeing and/or hearing.

Employment and Benefits package for this job posting is offered through the YMCA of Metropolitan Atlanta, Inc.

Employment Requirement:

  • Ability to pass a pre-employment background check including Criminal Record check, Drug Screening, motor vehicle record (MVR) and reference check according to company policy.

  • Must be legally eligible to work in the US without current or future sponsorship.

This job posting is subject to change at any time.

The YMCA of Metropolitan Atlanta offers excellent benefits and career opportunities as part of our culture of excellence. The opportunities to serve are vast, and we're looking for like minded people, who share our values of CARING, HONESTY, RESPECT, and RESPONSIBILITY to join us and do their best work.

The YMCA of Metropolitan Atlanta does not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristics protected by law.


Location:

Ed Isakson / Alpharetta YMCA

What YMCA Of Metro Atlanta employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply