Youth Counselor Intern information
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$32.8K - $40.6K
8% of jobs
$46.5K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$40.6K - $48.5K
17% of jobs
$48.5K - $56.3K
16% of jobs
The median wage is $59.3K / yr.
$56.3K - $64.1K
14% of jobs
$70.3K is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$64.1K - $71.9K
21% of jobs
$71.9K - $79.7K
10% of jobs
$79.7K - $87.5K
6% of jobs
$87.5K - $95.4K
2% of jobs
$95.4K - $103.2K
1% of jobs
$103.2K - $111K
1% of jobs
How much do youth counselor intern jobs pay per year?
As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for youth counselor intern in the United States is $64,006.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,000.00 and $73,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.
Youth Counselor Interns are individuals, often students or recent graduates, who work under supervision to support young people in various settings such as schools, community centers, or residential programs. Their primary role is to assist in providing guidance, mentorship, and emotional support to youth facing personal, social, or behavioral challenges. Interns gain practical experience by observing and participating in counseling sessions, organizing activities, and helping youth develop coping and life skills. This internship is typically part of an educational program in psychology, social work, or a related field, and offers valuable hands-on training for a future career in counseling or youth services.
To thrive as a Youth Counselor Intern, you need foundational knowledge of counseling principles, child and adolescent development, and typically be pursuing or holding a degree in psychology, social work, or a related field. Familiarity with client management systems, documentation practices, and crisis intervention tools is often required. Strong interpersonal skills, active listening, patience, and cultural sensitivity help build trust and rapport with youth clients. These competencies are crucial for effectively supporting young people through personal challenges and fostering their emotional and social growth.
Youth Counselor Interns often encounter challenges such as building trust with clients, navigating complex family dynamics, and managing emotional or behavioral outbursts. These are typically addressed through ongoing supervision, training in trauma-informed care, and collaboration with experienced counselors and multidisciplinary teams. Interns are encouraged to participate in regular case discussions and debriefings to develop effective strategies and receive support, helping them grow both professionally and personally.
Youth counselor interns are often paid, but compensation varies by organization and location. Some internships are unpaid or offer stipends, while others provide hourly wages or stipends based on the program's funding and requirements. It's important to check the specific internship opportunity for details on pay and eligibility criteria.
What cities are hiring for Youth Counselor Intern jobs?
Cities with the most Youth Counselor Intern job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Youth Counselor jobs?
The most popular types of Youth Counselor jobs are:
What states have the most Youth Counselor Intern jobs?
States with the most job openings for Youth Counselor Intern jobs include: