Counseling Psychologist Jobs in California
Counseling Psychologist jobs in California are among the most active in the country, concentrated in community mental health centers, K-12 and higher education, integrated healthcare systems, and veteran services, with openings at every level from practicum-supervised associate through senior licensed clinician. Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego are the largest hiring metros, anchored by employers such as Kaiser Permanente, UCLA Health, and the Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System. The most in-demand specialties are trauma-focused care, school-based counseling, and integrated primary care behavioral health. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.
Find Counseling Psychologist JobsOverview
Showing 5 of 6+ Counseling Psychologist jobs
Job Title: School Psychologist
Reports To/Supervisor: Director of Special Education
Site Lead(s): Campus Principal
Location: [Insert School Site]
Date Created/Updated: 9/17/2025
Classification: Full Time, Year Round, Exempt, Certificated
Number of Working Days: 192
Work Calendar: 12 Month Salary - 192
[for new hires only: Salary/Pay Rate: School Psychologist Pay Scale
About Us: California Montessori Project (CMP) is a successful public charter school network based in the greater Sacramento area with an exceptional TK-8 Montessori program that is tuition-free and open to all students. The network serves over 3,000 students on seven campuses. CMP is authorized through, and maintains strong relationships with four school districts: Elk Grove Unified School District, Sacramento City Unified School District, San Juan Unified School District and Buckeye Union School District. CMP teachers are supported in pursuing dual-certification, holding a Montessori certification from an AMS-accredited training center and a California state credential. The CMP Leadership Team, including the Governing Board, Directors, Principals, and Deans, provide stability and focused guidance to the organization. CMP’s commitment to equity and student success is anchored in the frameworks of Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) and Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS), which build sustainable systems and promote whole-child development.
CMP Mission: The Mission of the California Montessori Project is to provide a quality, tuition-free, TK-8, Montessori education that challenges our students to reach their full potential.
Summary/Objective
The School Psychologist provides comprehensive psychoeducational services that support student learning, mental health, and overall well-being. This role works collaboratively with teachers, administrators, families, and other specialists to promote academic and social-emotional success while ensuring compliance with state and federal special education regulations.
Essential Functions
- Conduct psychoeducational assessments for initial evaluations, triennials, and other referrals.
- Interpret assessment results and provide clear, actionable recommendations.
- Participate in the development and review of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).
- Serve as a resource to teachers, administrators, and parents regarding academic, behavioral, and social-emotional supports.
- Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to design interventions aligned with student needs.
- Provide guidance on data-driven decision making and evidence-based practices.
- Deliver individual and group counseling services to address social-emotional and behavioral challenges.
- Implement crisis intervention strategies and provide support during emergencies.
- Develop and monitor behavioral intervention plans. Collaborate with BCBAs and other specialists.
- Support Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) and Response to Intervention (RtI) processes.
- Provide professional development for staff on mental health, behavior, and student support strategies.
- Maintain accurate and timely records in compliance with IDEA, Section 504, and California Education Code.
- Prepare legally defensible assessment reports and IEP documentation.
- Participate in due process proceedings as required.
Competencies
- Knowledge of psychological principles, assessments, and interventions for children and adolescents.
- Strong communication and collaboration skills with staff, students, and families.
- Ability to manage multiple cases and meet compliance timelines.
- Proficiency in data analysis and evidence-based practices.
- Cultural competence and sensitivity when working with diverse student populations.
Supervisory Responsibilities (if applicable)
May provide guidance and mentoring to school psychology interns or practicum students.
Work Environment
This job operates in a school environment. The role requires frequent interaction with students, parents, teachers, administrators, and outside professionals.
Physical Demands
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk, hear, stand, walk, use hands, and reach. The position may require responding quickly in crisis situations.
Safety Measures
- Safety Protocols: Follow established safety protocols and crisis intervention guidelines.
- Proper Techniques: Utilizing appropriate techniques for assisting students with physical disabilities or behavioral challenges to prevent injury to both students and staff.
- Health Considerations: Adhering to health and hygiene standards and being mindful of any allergies or medical conditions that students may have.
Travel Requirements
- Minimal travel required
- Some travel between CMP’s campuses and the central administration building.
- Adherence to CMP’s Motor Vehicle Use policy
Required Education and Experience
Master’s Degree or higher in School Psychology
A valid California Pupil Personnel Services (PPS) Credential
Preferred Education and Experience
- Training or experience in restorative practices, trauma-informed care, or crisis intervention
- Training or experience in Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) and Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS)
- Background in autism assessment and interventions
Compensation and Benefits
- Time Off: Sick leave, paid holidays, vacation (as applicable by position)
- Retirement: 403(b) and 457 retirement plans through CalSTRS Pension2 according to California state law, California Education code and CMP policy.
- Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance for Full Time Positions: Comprehensive coverage for you and your eligible dependents.
- Childcare Support: Access to free before and after care through Club M for employees with students enrolled at a CMP campus (subject to availability; application fees apply).
- Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA): Options for health care and dependent care.
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential support for personal or work-related challenges.
- Mental Health Support: Access to Nivati, a mental health platform offering counseling, coaching, and wellness tools.
AAP/EEO Statement: It is the policy of California Montessori Project to provide equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law. This policy applies to all employment practices including recruitment, hiring, compensation, promotion, training, and termination.
Other Duties
This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.
Job Title: School Psychologist
Reports To/Supervisor: Director of Special Education
Site Lead(s): Campus Principal
Location: [Insert School Site]
Date Created/Updated: 9/17/2025
Classification: Full Time, Year Round, Exempt, Certificated
Number of Working Days: 192
Work Calendar: 12 Month Salary - 192
[for new hires only: Salary/Pay Rate: School Psychologist Pay Scale
About Us: California Montessori Project (CMP) is a successful public charter school network based in the greater Sacramento area with an exceptional TK-8 Montessori program that is tuition-free and open to all students. The network serves over 3,000 students on seven campuses. CMP is authorized through, and maintains strong relationships with four school districts: Elk Grove Unified School District, Sacramento City Unified School District, San Juan Unified School District and Buckeye Union School District. CMP teachers are supported in pursuing dual-certification, holding a Montessori certification from an AMS-accredited training center and a California state credential. The CMP Leadership Team, including the Governing Board, Directors, Principals, and Deans, provide stability and focused guidance to the organization. CMP’s commitment to equity and student success is anchored in the frameworks of Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) and Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS), which build sustainable systems and promote whole-child development.
CMP Mission: The Mission of the California Montessori Project is to provide a quality, tuition-free, TK-8, Montessori education that challenges our students to reach their full potential.
Summary/Objective
The School Psychologist provides comprehensive psychoeducational services that support student learning, mental health, and overall well-being. This role works collaboratively with teachers, administrators, families, and other specialists to promote academic and social-emotional success while ensuring compliance with state and federal special education regulations.
Essential Functions
- Conduct psychoeducational assessments for initial evaluations, triennials, and other referrals.
- Interpret assessment results and provide clear, actionable recommendations.
- Participate in the development and review of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).
- Serve as a resource to teachers, administrators, and parents regarding academic, behavioral, and social-emotional supports.
- Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to design interventions aligned with student needs.
- Provide guidance on data-driven decision making and evidence-based practices.
- Deliver individual and group counseling services to address social-emotional and behavioral challenges.
- Implement crisis intervention strategies and provide support during emergencies.
- Develop and monitor behavioral intervention plans. Collaborate with BCBAs and other specialists.
- Support Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) and Response to Intervention (RtI) processes.
- Provide professional development for staff on mental health, behavior, and student support strategies.
- Maintain accurate and timely records in compliance with IDEA, Section 504, and California Education Code.
- Prepare legally defensible assessment reports and IEP documentation.
- Participate in due process proceedings as required.
Competencies
- Knowledge of psychological principles, assessments, and interventions for children and adolescents.
- Strong communication and collaboration skills with staff, students, and families.
- Ability to manage multiple cases and meet compliance timelines.
- Proficiency in data analysis and evidence-based practices.
- Cultural competence and sensitivity when working with diverse student populations.
Supervisory Responsibilities (if applicable)
May provide guidance and mentoring to school psychology interns or practicum students.
Work Environment
This job operates in a school environment. The role requires frequent interaction with students, parents, teachers, administrators, and outside professionals.
Physical Demands
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk, hear, stand, walk, use hands, and reach. The position may require responding quickly in crisis situations.
Safety Measures
- Safety Protocols: Follow established safety protocols and crisis intervention guidelines.
- Proper Techniques: Utilizing appropriate techniques for assisting students with physical disabilities or behavioral challenges to prevent injury to both students and staff.
- Health Considerations: Adhering to health and hygiene standards and being mindful of any allergies or medical conditions that students may have.
Travel Requirements
- Minimal travel required
- Some travel between CMP’s campuses and the central administration building.
- Adherence to CMP’s Motor Vehicle Use policy
Required Education and Experience
Master’s Degree or higher in School Psychology
A valid California Pupil Personnel Services (PPS) Credential
Preferred Education and Experience
- Training or experience in restorative practices, trauma-informed care, or crisis intervention
- Training or experience in Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) and Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS)
- Background in autism assessment and interventions
Compensation and Benefits
- Time Off: Sick leave, paid holidays, vacation (as applicable by position)
- Retirement: 403(b) and 457 retirement plans through CalSTRS Pension2 according to California state law, California Education code and CMP policy.
- Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance for Full Time Positions: Comprehensive coverage for you and your eligible dependents.
- Childcare Support: Access to free before and after care through Club M for employees with students enrolled at a CMP campus (subject to availability; application fees apply).
- Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA): Options for health care and dependent care.
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential support for personal or work-related challenges.
- Mental Health Support: Access to Nivati, a mental health platform offering counseling, coaching, and wellness tools.
AAP/EEO Statement: It is the policy of California Montessori Project to provide equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law. This policy applies to all employment practices including recruitment, hiring, compensation, promotion, training, and termination.
Other Duties
This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.
See All 6 Counseling Psychologist Jobs in California
Find roles in California that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Counseling Psychologist JobsCounseling Psychologist Jobs by City in California
Where California roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Counseling Psychologist Job Market in California
A snapshot from current California openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
- California Montessori Project1
- Child Mind Institute1
- San Francisco Unified School District1
- South San Francisco Unified School District1
- Sutter Health1
Top Industries Hiring
- Education4
- Government & Public Sector1
- Healthcare & Medical Services1
- Science & Research1
What California Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in counseling psychologist jobs across California.
- Active California licensure as a psychologist issued by the California Board of Psychology
- Doctoral degree in counseling psychology or closely related field from an accredited program
- Completion of a California-accepted postdoctoral supervised experience hours requirement
- Proficiency in evidence-based modalities including CBT, DBT, or trauma-focused therapies
- Experience conducting psychological assessments and producing written clinical reports
- Bilingual fluency in Spanish preferred for community mental health and school-based roles
Counseling Psychologist Jobs in California: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a counseling psychologist in California?
To practice as a counseling psychologist in California, you must earn a doctoral degree in psychology from an accredited program, complete a supervised predoctoral internship, and accumulate the postdoctoral supervised hours required by the California Board of Psychology before sitting for the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology. The California Board of Psychology issues the license, and all applicants must meet its specific education and supervision standards before practicing independently.
How much do counseling psychologists make in California?
Counseling psychologists in California earn a median of about $116,000 a year, based on May 2025 Bureau of Labor Statistics wage data, ranging from around $62,900 for the lowest 10% to over $188,050 for the top 10%. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and employer.
Which companies hire counseling psychologists in California?
Employers hiring counseling psychologists in California right now include California Montessori Project, Child Mind Institute, and San Francisco Unified School District, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of June 2026. California's large integrated health systems, county behavioral health departments, and University of California campuses represent some of the most consistent sources of full-time openings across the state.
Which California cities have the most counseling psychologist jobs?
Novato, Sacramento, and San Francisco have the most counseling psychologist openings in California. Los Angeles leads because of its scale, its concentration of county mental health programs, VA facilities, and major academic medical centers, while San Francisco and San Diego draw demand from large healthcare networks, research universities, and military-connected behavioral health services that sustain hiring throughout the year.
Are there remote counseling psychologist jobs in California?
Yes, but they are less common than in purely desk-based fields because the role often involves in-person assessment, crisis response, and hands-on clinical supervision. About 17% of counseling psychologist openings tied to California are remote or hybrid as of June 2026, reflecting modest growth in telehealth. The positions most likely to be fully remote are outpatient individual therapy caseloads delivered through telehealth platforms, where California licensure still applies.
How can I get hired as a counseling psychologist in California with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path is securing a predoctoral internship or a postdoctoral fellowship at a California institution such as a UC campus counseling center, a county Department of Mental Health, or a VA outpatient clinic, all of which run structured programs for early-career candidates. Associate-level psychological associate roles, which are supervised positions sanctioned by the California Board of Psychology, let you accumulate required hours while earning. Candidates who have completed a California-recognized internship and hold strong assessment training have a clear edge in the application process.
Where can I find and apply to counseling psychologist jobs in California?
You can find and apply to counseling psychologist jobs in California on Migrate Mate, which lists current California openings updated regularly. Search the listings, find roles that fit your license level, specialty, and preferred location, and apply directly to the employers posting them.
See All 6 Counseling Psychologist Jobs in California
Find roles in California that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Counseling Psychologist Jobs