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Volunteer Counselor Jobs in Springfield, IL (NOW HIRING)

Bachelor's degree in theology, religion, human services, counseling, psychology, or sociology (or ... Voluntary Benefits (Pet, Critical Illness, Accident, LTC) Apply Today Join us in expanding access ...

Chaplain

Springfield, IL · On-site

$25.95 - $30.50/hr

Bachelor's degree in theology, religion, human services, counseling, psychology, or sociology (or ... Voluntary Benefits (Pet, Critical Illness, Accident, LTC) Apply Today Join us in expanding access ...

... counselors * Maintain accurate spiritual care service records * Attend team meetings and offer spiritual care expertise * Recruit and supervise spiritual care volunteers * Participate in quality ...

Bachelor's degree in theology, religion, human services, counseling, psychology, or sociology (or ... Voluntary Benefits (Pet, Critical Illness, Accident, LTC) Apply Today Join us in expanding access ...

Free counseling and support resources through our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) * Daily Pay ... Voluntary Benefits like pet insurance, critical illness coverage, and identity theft insurance

Free counseling and support resources through our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) * Daily Pay ... Voluntary Benefits like pet insurance, critical illness coverage, and identity theft insurance

Salaried teammates receive one paid volunteer day. Income Protection Buckle provides company-paid ... counseling, wellness coaching, and self-care tools. Paid Leave in Applicable States Paid leave ...

Salaried teammates receive one paid volunteer day. Income Protection Buckle provides company-paid ... counseling, wellness coaching, and self-care tools. Paid Leave in Applicable States Paid leave ...

Salaried teammates receive one paid volunteer day. Income Protection Buckle provides company-paid ... counseling, wellness coaching, and self-care tools. Paid Leave in Applicable States Paid leave ...

Free counseling and support resources through our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) * Daily Pay ... Voluntary Benefits like pet insurance, critical illness coverage, and identity theft insurance

Free counseling and support resources through our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) * Daily Pay ... Voluntary Benefits like pet insurance, critical illness coverage, and identity theft insurance

Free counseling and support resources through our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) * Daily Pay ... Voluntary Benefits like pet insurance, critical illness coverage, and identity theft insurance

Showing results 41-60

Volunteer Counselor information

See Springfield, IL salary details

$8

$18

$33

How much do volunteer counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for volunteer counselor in Springfield, IL is $18.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.28 and $20.00 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 Springfield, IL?

The most popular types of Counselor jobs in Springfield, IL are:

What cities near Springfield, IL are hiring for Volunteer Counselor jobs?

Cities near Springfield, IL with the most Volunteer Counselor job openings:

Infographic showing various Volunteer Counselor job openings in Springfield, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,450 per year, or $19 per hour.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT SPECIALIST (TITLE 32) with Security Clearance

Department of the Army

Springfield, IL • On-site

Other

Re-posted 17 days ago


United States Army rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 493 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

44th of 49 rated military and defense


Job description

Duties As a EQUAL EMPLOYMENT SPECIALIST (TITLE 32), GS-0260-9, you will serve as the assistant to the Equal Opportunity Manager in planning and implementation of a Statewide equal employment opportunity program. Major Duties - This is NOT an all-inclusive list: * Assist in the development and implementation of the National Guard Bureau Equal Opportunity Program at the State level. Assists in writing the Affirmative Action plan covering both short- and long-range goals and objectives. * Conduct periodic analysis of the Active/Guard Reserve (AGR) military technician work force to identify underrepresented classes in the various occupations and military grades/ranks. * Work closely with the Human Resources office in developing recruiting and employment strategies which ensure that equal employment opportunity goals are achieved. * Track the status of formal discrimination complaints in progress. * Participate in meetings with community action organizations interested in improving equal employment opportunity relationships. * Provide training to supervisors on preventing or remedying discrimination and may provide counseling to employees who feel they may have discrimination complaints. * Regularly collects and compiles statistical data, using the data as a basis for extrapolating recommendations on courses of action. * Disseminate news and information concerning the State equal opportunity program. Requirements Conditions of employment This is an excepted service position that requires membership in the Illinois National Guard and in the military grade listed in the announcement. This is required prior to the effective date of placement. If you are not sure you are eligible for military membership, please contact a National Guard recruiter prior to applying for this position. Selectee will be required to wear a military uniform. Acceptance of an excepted service position constitutes concurrence with these requirements as a condition of employment. Males born after 31 December 1959 must be registered for Selective Service. Federal employment suitability as determined by a background investigation. May be required to successfully complete a trial period. This position is covered by the Domestic Violence Misdemeanor Amendment (30 Sep 96) of the Gun Control Act (Lautenberg Amendment) of 1968. An individual convicted of a qualifying crime of domestic violence may not perform the duties of this position. IAW The Fair Chance Act, Agency employees may not request criminal history information at the point of initial application, upon receipt of an application, or prior to, during or after a job interview. If an Optional Form (OF) 306, Declaration of Employment is submitted prior to the point of a conditional offer, questions related to background information section may not be asked. Irregular and/or overtime (compensatory) hours may be required to support operational requirements or contingencies or may be required to work hours outside of the normal duty day. Participation in direct deposit is mandatory. Qualifications AREA OF CONSIDERATION: The areas of considerations for this position, Title 32 Excepted Service (32 U.S. Code § 709), will be in the following manner and sequence, * The FIRST area of consideration for this position will be all excepted permanent and indefinite temporary technicians within the ILNG. * The SECOND area of consideration will be all current Federal Employees. * The THIRD area of consideration will be all Federal re-employment eligible. * The FOURTH area of consideration will be applicants willing to become T32 Dual Status Technicians and gain ILNG membership. * The FIFTH area of consideration will be all U.S. Citizens. Military Grades: Enlisted/Warrant Officer/Officer - NTE O5 One year of specialized experience equivalent to the lower grade level in the Federal service or equivalent experience in the private sector to be considered for this position. SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE : GS-9 Level MUST possess at least 1-year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade of GS-7; experience, education or training involving the administering, delivering, maintaining, advising, and adapting basic concepts, principles, and theories of Equal Employment Opportunity to the unique organizational, management, and mission requirements. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. Verbiage displayed on your resume or application must contain your own words. You may refer to position descriptions, i.e. the general and specialized experience located within the vacancy announcement, to assist with describing work experience; however, resumes or applications received in verbatim will not be considered. In your resume you will need to address the general and specialized experience listed below. Please use as much detail as needed, giving dates (months and years) of the experience, position title and how the experience was gained. This information is needed to determine if you are qualified for the position. Education If you are using Education to qualify for this position, you MUST have a master's or equivalent graduate degree or 2 full years of progressively higher level graduate education leading to such a degree or LL.B. or J.D., if related. You must provide OFFICIAL transcripts to support your Educational claims. Additional information If you are a male applicant who was born after 12/31/1959 and are required to register under the Military Selective Service Act, the Defense Authorization Act of 1986 requires that you be registered or you are not eligible for appointment in this agency ( ). If you are needing some extra information regarding Federal Resumes, you should consider these tips from USA Jobs:

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National security, health care and social assistance, national security and international affairs and public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Arlington, VA, US

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