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Volunteer Counselor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... counselors, teachers, social workers, and others involved in the case Submit thorough, independently written reports for the Court to the Guardian Ad Litem Volunteer Coordinator prior to court ...

Volunteer Coordinator

Aurora, IL · On-site

$44K - $50K/yr

In addition, through our case managers, guests have access to general counseling, substance abuse ... VOLUNTEERS This role is vital to the success of the organization and is responsible for filling the ...

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Volunteer Counselor information

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How much do volunteer counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for volunteer counselor in the United States is $19.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $20.19 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 cities are hiring for Volunteer Counselor jobs?

Cities with the most Volunteer Counselor job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Counselor jobs?

The most popular types of Counselor jobs are:

What states have the most Volunteer Counselor jobs?

States with the most job openings for Volunteer Counselor jobs include:

Infographic showing various Volunteer Counselor job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,804 per year, or $19.1 per hour.

Volunteer Guardian Ad Litem

Grant County

Ephrata, WA

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

Position Summary A Guardian Ad Litem is a trained citizen volunteer appointed by the Juvenile Court to ensure that the needs and interests of abused or neglected children are being met. Volunteer Guardian Ad Litems are assigned to dependent children who are under the Juvenile Court's jurisdiction and are assigned at the discretion of the Judge of the Juvenile Court. ***Due to conflict of interest, Volunteer Guardian Ad Litems are not allowed to be placements for children within Grant County.*** Essential Duties and Responsibilities The following examples of duties and accountabilities illustrate the general range of tasks assigned to the position but are not intended to define the limits of required duties

Other essential duties may be assigned consistent with the general scope of the position. Employee must comply with all County and department policies, procedures, WAC's, or other regulatory bodies. To serve as an arm of the Juvenile Court as researcher, monitor, and child advocate Interview child, parents, foster parents and any other concerned parties or relatives Review appropriate records and reports Work with Attorney General as counsel, representing the best interests of the child Confer with counselors, teachers, social workers, and others involved in the case Submit thorough, independently written reports for the Court to the Guardian Ad Litem Volunteer Coordinator prior to court hearings Appear in Court as needed to answer questions or testify on findings or recommendations Maintain records of all findings and document all contacts Visit institutions, foster homes or group homes where child is placed or may be placed Monitor court orders to ensure services to the child are being furnished in a timely manner and placement is appropriate Maintain regular contact with the Guardian Ad Litem Volunteer Coordinator and submit all requested documentation Remain involved in the case until the Court's jurisdiction is terminated Education, Experience, and Licensing To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.

The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Any combination of education and experience may be substituted as long as it provides the desired skills, knowledge and abilities to perform the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Required: Valid Washington State Driver's License and proof of automobile insurance Make a commitment to serve as a Volunteer Guardian Ad Litem for a minimum of one year Be 21 years of age (some exceptions allowed for intern students) Be willing to donate 2-6 hours per month Attend training sessions and review all training materials provided by the Guardian Ad Litem Volunteer Coordinator or Program Manager Maintain objectivity and professionalism in dealing with children, parents and all other parties involved in the case Possess verbal and written communication skills Preferred: Demonstrated knowledge and abilities in child dependency in domestic violence, child abuse, substance abuse and neglect conditions; child development, parenting and family dynamics; legal processes of child protection matters; mentoring, organization and supervision of volunteers. Prior general knowledge of Washington State computer software systems. These skills and abilities typically are acquired through a combination of experience and training.

Experience may be substituted for education. Physical Abilities and Working Conditions Work is performed in an office environment, in courtrooms, in various locations in the community including personal homes, schools and social service agencies. Personal supervision and counseling of juvenile clients as well as adult family or caregivers may expose incumbents to aggressive and assaultive behavior.

The physical abilities described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to walk, sit, write, hear and speak and lift up to 50lbs. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.