Lead Counselor Jobs
Lead counselor jobs are open across mental health agencies, youth programs, residential treatment, and school-based services, from entry-level to senior and director roles, with specializations in crisis intervention, substance use recovery, and behavioral health. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.
Find Lead Counselor JobsOverview
Showing 5 of 119+ Lead Counselor jobs
Job Description
APPLICATIONS SHOULD BE COMPLETED ONLINE THROUGH CAPPS TAM/CG AT:
https://erphcmprd.cpa.texas.gov/psp/candidateportal/EMPLOYEE/HRMS/c/HRS_HRAM_FL.HRS_CG_SEARCH_FL.GBL?Page=HRS_APP_JBPST_FL&Action=U&FOCUS=Applicant&SiteId=401&JobOpeningId=108005&PostingSeq=1
APPLICATIONS SUBMITTED THROUGH WORK IN TEXAS:
Applicants may submit applications through WorkIn Texas (WIT), however, applicants must complete the supplemental questions in CAPPS TAM/CG to be considered for the position. In order to complete the supplemental questions, please register and/or login to CAPPS TAM/CG and access your profile.
Note for WorkInTexas Applicants: If you applied for a position through the WorkInTexas website and did not previously have a CAPPS applicant profile, your account will be created automatically. You will receive an email, Subject Line: Your CAPPS Careers Applicant Profile Has Been Created. Follow the instruction in the email to set your new username and password. You will manage the remainder of your application process in the CAPPS Careers website.
Go to CAPPS Recruit TAM/CG Sign In Link: https://erphcmprd.cpa.texas.gov/psc/candidateportal/EMPLOYEE/HRMS/c/HRS_HRAM_FL.HRS_CG_SEARCH_FL.GBL?FOCUS=Applicant
Resumes and Job Questionnaire
Your application submission MUST include answers to all the required supplemental questions to be considered complete. Your application and resume must contain job titles, dates of employment, name of employer and a description of duties performed. If this information is not submitted, your application may be considered incomplete and rejected.
NOTES TO THE APPLICANT:
TMD State Employees support the Texas Military Department by delivering critical services that enable the agency to meet its strategic goals. Your work will contribute to the support we offer our Texas National Guard members, thereby multiplying their capability to serve at home and abroad as missions dictate. The Texas Military Department provides a benefits package that includes, but is not limited to:
- Health insurance benefits (employee premiums are covered at 100%, family premiums at 50%)
- Optional Vision, Dental, Life, and Disability insurance at competitive rates
- Generous paid vacation, sick leave, and State and Federal holidays
- Defined benefit retirement structure known as a cash balance benefit, with a state match equal to 150% of the account balance at retirement and guaranteed earnings of at least 4% annually
- Additional voluntary retirement savings programs (Texa$aver 401(k) and 457 programs)
- Flexible spending account options for medical and childcare expenses
- Potential for modified work schedules including flex, compressed, or telework (position dependent)
- Free access to Camp Mabry Museum and historical structures
- Robust free training access through Texas Military Department's Web-Based Learning Program
- Expansive Employee Assistance Program and complimentary counseling services
- Employee Wellness and Physical Fitness Programs
Military membership is not required for this position.
ABOUT US:
Our Agency: The Texas Military Department (TMD) is commanded by The Adjutant General of Texas, the state's senior military official appointed by the governor, and is comprised of the Texas Military Department (State & Federal Civilian Employees), the Texas Army National Guard (TXARNG), the Texas Air National Guard (TXANG) and the Texas State Guard (TXSG).
Our Vision: America's premier state military organization comprised of professional mission-ready forces, fully engaged with our communities, and relevant through the 21st century.
Our Mission: Provide the Governor and the President with ready forces in support of state and federal authorities at home and abroad.
BRIEF POSITION SUMMARY
Performs advanced (senior-level) counseling and psychological work with youth and adults. Provides assistance to teens (aged 15 - 19) and Texas ChalleNGe Academy (TCA) staff members with emergent behavioral health or other emotional needs. Work involves assessing, counseling, reporting and providing training with regard to mental well-being. Reports to the Deputy Director. Works under limited supervision, with considerable latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.
WORK HOURS: 40 hours a week, some weekends/holidays
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Supports the ongoing mental health of cadets and TCA staff.
- Performs behavioral health assessments of applicants to determine program capability.
- Works in tandem with TCA leadership, Cadre, Case Management, and Medical Departments for the benefit of each cadet.
- Participates in the design, development, implementation, and monitoring of individualized support plans and coping strategies; modifies plans, as needed.
- Recommends referral services and coordinates with other social service, educational, and health agencies to provide advocacy and resources for cadets and staff, as needed.
- Conducts behavioral health assessments for cadets, as needed, to include preparing behavior analyses; develops individual behavior plans to address problematic behaviors.
- Develops and leads individual and group counseling sessions; supports general behavioral health counseling, as needed.
- May mediate restorative justice practices between individuals.
- Coordinates with TCA leadership to support behavioral health awareness and wellness promotion plans.
- Plans and conducts behavioral health training for TCA staff and cadets.
- Provides staff training on adolescent behavior, mandated reporting requirements, identifying at-risk youth behaviors, implementing conflict resolution strategies, and supporting cadets in setting and achieving goals.
- Coordinates and collaborates with program staff in program planning, development, implementation, analysis, and documentation of agency program(s).
- Maintains professional license.
- May occasionally work evenings, weekends, or holidays.
- May be required to perform duty in support of national emergencies, disasters, and other missions, to include holidays and weekends.
- Attends work regularly and observes approved work hours in accordance with the agency state employee policies & procedures handbook.
- Performs other duties as assigned.
- Attends relevant training to maintain the essential functions of the position. Attends work regularly and observes approved work hours in accordance with agency state employee policies & procedures handbook
-
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
EDUCATION:
Graduation from a nationally accredited masteR's or PhD program with major coursework in counseling, psychology, or related field is required.EXPERIENCE:
- Three (3) years of post-graduate level experience as a fully licensed counselor, with completed supervision and direct practice in counseling or psychological services is required. Experience using Microsoft Office (such as Outlook, Word, or Excel) is required.
-
PREFERRED EXPERIENCE:
- Experience with adolescents and/or at-risk youth is preferred.
- Prior experience providing mental health services to adolescents and/or at-risk youth is preferred. Experience in a residential setting is preferred.
-
REGISTRATION, CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE:
- Must possess one of the following licenses prior to date of hire: licensed by the State of Texas as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), or hold a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) before the first day of employment.
- First Aid and CPR certification is required, or the ability to obtain such certification, and must be maintained throughout employment.
- Valid driver's license is required. *If not currently a Texas resident, must obtain a Texas Driver's License within 30 days after entering Texas as a new resident. A satisfactory driving record is required for operating state or personal vehicles to conduct agency business.
OTHER REQUIREMENTS:
- This position is security sensitive, and employment is contingent upon favorable results of a criminal record check with the Texas Department of Public Safety.
- Background Investigation. Selected candidate must be able to obtain a CAC and/or pass a federal security background investigation. The process includes a National Agency Check and Inquiry (NACI) and fingerprinting. New employees must complete and sign the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Form SF85. Completed forms are submitted to the OPM for the background investigations.
- Eligibility to Work in the U.S. The Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986 requires all new employees to present proof of eligibility to work in the United States within three (3) days of being hired. The Texas Military Department participates in E-Verify and will provide the Social Security Administration (SSA) and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), with information from each new employee's Form I-9 to confirm work authorization. All offers of employment are contingent upon the candidate having and maintaining legal authorization to work in the United States. Failure to present such authorization within the time specified by the U.S. Department of Labor will result in the offer being rescinded.
- Sponsorship. Candidates must be eligible to work in the United States without requiring sponsorship.
- Upon hire with the State of Texas, males between the ages of 18 through 25 must provide proof of registration or exemption with the Selective Service. For further information, visit the Selective Service website at https://www.sss.gov/register/
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
Knowledge of:
- counseling, psychology, therapy, and related disciplines;
- mental healthcare privacy principles;
- mental health support plan development;
- mental health assessments, measurements, treatment techniques and practices;
- military culture;
- community resources; and applicable local, state, and federal ordinances and laws.
-
Skill in:
- communicating effectively both orally and in writing;
- operating computers using Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint);
- conducting interviews and assessments;
- promoting services to TCA staff and cadets; and
- networking with community resources.
Ability to:
- maintain confidentiality;
- interpret policies, procedures, and regulations;
- interpret diagnostic interviews and analyze behavioral deficits;
- prepare complex and concise reports within required timeline;
- communicate effectively to small or large groups;
- effectively coordinate work with other individuals or groups;
- establish effective working relationships with supervisor, coworkers, and TCA leadership; and
- work in a military environment.
PHYSICAL/WORKING CONDITIONS
May be required to work evenings, weekends or holidays as required. Work is typically performed in an office setting involving sitting, standing, and walking to perform job duties. Work requires extensive use of a personal computer and telephone. Incumbent must be able to drive a state-owned vehicle to designated locations. Work requires travel approximately less than or equal to 10% of the time. This position may periodically require the ability to lift, carry, move and/or set up equipment and materials that weigh up to 25 pounds.
MILITARY EMPLOYMENT PREFERENCE
If you qualify for a Military Employment Preference, it is mandatory that you provide the required documentation at the time of applying. Documentation must be provided before a Military Employment Preference can be granted.
Currently Serving U.S. Armed Forces or Texas National Guard - Statement of service memo
Veteran - DD Form 214 (or Equivalent)
Disabled Veteran - VA Civil Service Preference Letter
Spouse of a member of the United States Armed Forces or Texas National Guard serving on active-duty - Marriage certificate and verification of duty status (active-duty orders, PCS orders, statement of service)
Spouse of a veteran if the spouse is the primary source of income for the household and the veteran has a total disability rating based either on having a service-connected disability with a disability rating of at least 70 percent or on individual unemployability - Marriage certificate, VA Civil Service Preference Letter indicating disability rating, and documentary proof of income
Surviving Spouse of a Veteran who has not remarried - Marriage certificate and DD Form 1300
Orphan of a Veteran who was killed during active duty - Birth Certificate and DD Form 1300
VETERANS:
Use your military skills to qualify for this position or other jobs. Go to www.texasskillstowork.com to translate your military work experience and training courses into civilian job terms, qualifications, and skill sets.
Veterans, Reservist or Guardsmen with an MOS or additional duties that fall in the following fields or other related fields pertaining to the minimum experience requirements may meet the minimum qualifications for this position and are highly encouraged to apply:
United States Army: 71F Research Psychology
United States Navy: HN Hospitalman
United States Coast Guard: HS Health Services Technician
United States Marine Corps: No military equivalent
United States Air Force: 4E0X1 Public Health
Additional Military Crosswalk information can be accessed at: hr.sao.texas.gov/Compensation/MilitaryCrosswalk/MOSC_MedicalandHealth.pdf
Contact TMD's Veteran's Liaison, Paul Love if you have questions at (512)782-3836 or staffingHR@military.texas.gov
The Texas Military Department does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, genetic information, or status as an individual with a disability or protected veteran status in employment or in the provision of services.
Job Description
APPLICATIONS SHOULD BE COMPLETED ONLINE THROUGH CAPPS TAM/CG AT:
https://erphcmprd.cpa.texas.gov/psp/candidateportal/EMPLOYEE/HRMS/c/HRS_HRAM_FL.HRS_CG_SEARCH_FL.GBL?Page=HRS_APP_JBPST_FL&Action=U&FOCUS=Applicant&SiteId=401&JobOpeningId=108005&PostingSeq=1
APPLICATIONS SUBMITTED THROUGH WORK IN TEXAS:
Applicants may submit applications through WorkIn Texas (WIT), however, applicants must complete the supplemental questions in CAPPS TAM/CG to be considered for the position. In order to complete the supplemental questions, please register and/or login to CAPPS TAM/CG and access your profile.
Note for WorkInTexas Applicants: If you applied for a position through the WorkInTexas website and did not previously have a CAPPS applicant profile, your account will be created automatically. You will receive an email, Subject Line: Your CAPPS Careers Applicant Profile Has Been Created. Follow the instruction in the email to set your new username and password. You will manage the remainder of your application process in the CAPPS Careers website.
Go to CAPPS Recruit TAM/CG Sign In Link: https://erphcmprd.cpa.texas.gov/psc/candidateportal/EMPLOYEE/HRMS/c/HRS_HRAM_FL.HRS_CG_SEARCH_FL.GBL?FOCUS=Applicant
Resumes and Job Questionnaire
Your application submission MUST include answers to all the required supplemental questions to be considered complete. Your application and resume must contain job titles, dates of employment, name of employer and a description of duties performed. If this information is not submitted, your application may be considered incomplete and rejected.
NOTES TO THE APPLICANT:
TMD State Employees support the Texas Military Department by delivering critical services that enable the agency to meet its strategic goals. Your work will contribute to the support we offer our Texas National Guard members, thereby multiplying their capability to serve at home and abroad as missions dictate. The Texas Military Department provides a benefits package that includes, but is not limited to:
- Health insurance benefits (employee premiums are covered at 100%, family premiums at 50%)
- Optional Vision, Dental, Life, and Disability insurance at competitive rates
- Generous paid vacation, sick leave, and State and Federal holidays
- Defined benefit retirement structure known as a cash balance benefit, with a state match equal to 150% of the account balance at retirement and guaranteed earnings of at least 4% annually
- Additional voluntary retirement savings programs (Texa$aver 401(k) and 457 programs)
- Flexible spending account options for medical and childcare expenses
- Potential for modified work schedules including flex, compressed, or telework (position dependent)
- Free access to Camp Mabry Museum and historical structures
- Robust free training access through Texas Military Department's Web-Based Learning Program
- Expansive Employee Assistance Program and complimentary counseling services
- Employee Wellness and Physical Fitness Programs
Military membership is not required for this position.
ABOUT US:
Our Agency: The Texas Military Department (TMD) is commanded by The Adjutant General of Texas, the state's senior military official appointed by the governor, and is comprised of the Texas Military Department (State & Federal Civilian Employees), the Texas Army National Guard (TXARNG), the Texas Air National Guard (TXANG) and the Texas State Guard (TXSG).
Our Vision: America's premier state military organization comprised of professional mission-ready forces, fully engaged with our communities, and relevant through the 21st century.
Our Mission: Provide the Governor and the President with ready forces in support of state and federal authorities at home and abroad.
BRIEF POSITION SUMMARY
Performs advanced (senior-level) counseling and psychological work with youth and adults. Provides assistance to teens (aged 15 - 19) and Texas ChalleNGe Academy (TCA) staff members with emergent behavioral health or other emotional needs. Work involves assessing, counseling, reporting and providing training with regard to mental well-being. Reports to the Deputy Director. Works under limited supervision, with considerable latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.
WORK HOURS: 40 hours a week, some weekends/holidays
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Supports the ongoing mental health of cadets and TCA staff.
- Performs behavioral health assessments of applicants to determine program capability.
- Works in tandem with TCA leadership, Cadre, Case Management, and Medical Departments for the benefit of each cadet.
- Participates in the design, development, implementation, and monitoring of individualized support plans and coping strategies; modifies plans, as needed.
- Recommends referral services and coordinates with other social service, educational, and health agencies to provide advocacy and resources for cadets and staff, as needed.
- Conducts behavioral health assessments for cadets, as needed, to include preparing behavior analyses; develops individual behavior plans to address problematic behaviors.
- Develops and leads individual and group counseling sessions; supports general behavioral health counseling, as needed.
- May mediate restorative justice practices between individuals.
- Coordinates with TCA leadership to support behavioral health awareness and wellness promotion plans.
- Plans and conducts behavioral health training for TCA staff and cadets.
- Provides staff training on adolescent behavior, mandated reporting requirements, identifying at-risk youth behaviors, implementing conflict resolution strategies, and supporting cadets in setting and achieving goals.
- Coordinates and collaborates with program staff in program planning, development, implementation, analysis, and documentation of agency program(s).
- Maintains professional license.
- May occasionally work evenings, weekends, or holidays.
- May be required to perform duty in support of national emergencies, disasters, and other missions, to include holidays and weekends.
- Attends work regularly and observes approved work hours in accordance with the agency state employee policies & procedures handbook.
- Performs other duties as assigned.
- Attends relevant training to maintain the essential functions of the position. Attends work regularly and observes approved work hours in accordance with agency state employee policies & procedures handbook
-
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
EDUCATION:
Graduation from a nationally accredited masteR's or PhD program with major coursework in counseling, psychology, or related field is required.EXPERIENCE:
- Three (3) years of post-graduate level experience as a fully licensed counselor, with completed supervision and direct practice in counseling or psychological services is required. Experience using Microsoft Office (such as Outlook, Word, or Excel) is required.
-
PREFERRED EXPERIENCE:
- Experience with adolescents and/or at-risk youth is preferred.
- Prior experience providing mental health services to adolescents and/or at-risk youth is preferred. Experience in a residential setting is preferred.
-
REGISTRATION, CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE:
- Must possess one of the following licenses prior to date of hire: licensed by the State of Texas as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), or hold a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) before the first day of employment.
- First Aid and CPR certification is required, or the ability to obtain such certification, and must be maintained throughout employment.
- Valid driver's license is required. *If not currently a Texas resident, must obtain a Texas Driver's License within 30 days after entering Texas as a new resident. A satisfactory driving record is required for operating state or personal vehicles to conduct agency business.
OTHER REQUIREMENTS:
- This position is security sensitive, and employment is contingent upon favorable results of a criminal record check with the Texas Department of Public Safety.
- Background Investigation. Selected candidate must be able to obtain a CAC and/or pass a federal security background investigation. The process includes a National Agency Check and Inquiry (NACI) and fingerprinting. New employees must complete and sign the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Form SF85. Completed forms are submitted to the OPM for the background investigations.
- Eligibility to Work in the U.S. The Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986 requires all new employees to present proof of eligibility to work in the United States within three (3) days of being hired. The Texas Military Department participates in E-Verify and will provide the Social Security Administration (SSA) and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), with information from each new employee's Form I-9 to confirm work authorization. All offers of employment are contingent upon the candidate having and maintaining legal authorization to work in the United States. Failure to present such authorization within the time specified by the U.S. Department of Labor will result in the offer being rescinded.
- Sponsorship. Candidates must be eligible to work in the United States without requiring sponsorship.
- Upon hire with the State of Texas, males between the ages of 18 through 25 must provide proof of registration or exemption with the Selective Service. For further information, visit the Selective Service website at https://www.sss.gov/register/
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
Knowledge of:
- counseling, psychology, therapy, and related disciplines;
- mental healthcare privacy principles;
- mental health support plan development;
- mental health assessments, measurements, treatment techniques and practices;
- military culture;
- community resources; and applicable local, state, and federal ordinances and laws.
-
Skill in:
- communicating effectively both orally and in writing;
- operating computers using Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint);
- conducting interviews and assessments;
- promoting services to TCA staff and cadets; and
- networking with community resources.
Ability to:
- maintain confidentiality;
- interpret policies, procedures, and regulations;
- interpret diagnostic interviews and analyze behavioral deficits;
- prepare complex and concise reports within required timeline;
- communicate effectively to small or large groups;
- effectively coordinate work with other individuals or groups;
- establish effective working relationships with supervisor, coworkers, and TCA leadership; and
- work in a military environment.
PHYSICAL/WORKING CONDITIONS
May be required to work evenings, weekends or holidays as required. Work is typically performed in an office setting involving sitting, standing, and walking to perform job duties. Work requires extensive use of a personal computer and telephone. Incumbent must be able to drive a state-owned vehicle to designated locations. Work requires travel approximately less than or equal to 10% of the time. This position may periodically require the ability to lift, carry, move and/or set up equipment and materials that weigh up to 25 pounds.
MILITARY EMPLOYMENT PREFERENCE
If you qualify for a Military Employment Preference, it is mandatory that you provide the required documentation at the time of applying. Documentation must be provided before a Military Employment Preference can be granted.
Currently Serving U.S. Armed Forces or Texas National Guard - Statement of service memo
Veteran - DD Form 214 (or Equivalent)
Disabled Veteran - VA Civil Service Preference Letter
Spouse of a member of the United States Armed Forces or Texas National Guard serving on active-duty - Marriage certificate and verification of duty status (active-duty orders, PCS orders, statement of service)
Spouse of a veteran if the spouse is the primary source of income for the household and the veteran has a total disability rating based either on having a service-connected disability with a disability rating of at least 70 percent or on individual unemployability - Marriage certificate, VA Civil Service Preference Letter indicating disability rating, and documentary proof of income
Surviving Spouse of a Veteran who has not remarried - Marriage certificate and DD Form 1300
Orphan of a Veteran who was killed during active duty - Birth Certificate and DD Form 1300
VETERANS:
Use your military skills to qualify for this position or other jobs. Go to www.texasskillstowork.com to translate your military work experience and training courses into civilian job terms, qualifications, and skill sets.
Veterans, Reservist or Guardsmen with an MOS or additional duties that fall in the following fields or other related fields pertaining to the minimum experience requirements may meet the minimum qualifications for this position and are highly encouraged to apply:
United States Army: 71F Research Psychology
United States Navy: HN Hospitalman
United States Coast Guard: HS Health Services Technician
United States Marine Corps: No military equivalent
United States Air Force: 4E0X1 Public Health
Additional Military Crosswalk information can be accessed at: hr.sao.texas.gov/Compensation/MilitaryCrosswalk/MOSC_MedicalandHealth.pdf
Contact TMD's Veteran's Liaison, Paul Love if you have questions at (512)782-3836 or staffingHR@military.texas.gov
The Texas Military Department does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, genetic information, or status as an individual with a disability or protected veteran status in employment or in the provision of services.
Lead Counselor Jobs by Experience Level
See All 119+ Lead Counselor Jobs
Find roles that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Lead Counselor JobsLead Counselor Job Market
Who's Hiring
- Vinfen10
- YMCA5
- Pyramid Healthcare5
- Pinnacle Treatment Centers5
- Associated Recreation Council5
What Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in lead counselor jobs.
- Bachelor's or master's degree in counseling, social work, psychology, or a related field
- Active state licensure or certification such as LPC, LCSW, CADC, or equivalent credential
- Minimum of two to four years of direct counseling experience with the target population
- Experience supervising, mentoring, or coordinating a team of counselors or case managers
- Proficiency with electronic health record systems and clinical documentation standards
- Knowledge of crisis intervention protocols, trauma-informed care, and evidence-based treatment models
Tips for Your Lead Counselor Job Search
Tailor your resume to each setting
Lead counselor roles in residential treatment look for different competencies than those in outpatient or school-based programs. Customize your resume to reflect the specific population, modality, and regulatory environment of each listing you apply to.
List your licensure and certifications clearly
Many employers filter applicants by licensure status before reading anything else. Place your credentials, whether LPC, LCSW, CADC, or state-specific equivalents, near the top of your resume so hiring managers can confirm eligibility immediately.
Highlight supervision and caseload leadership
Lead roles expect you to have managed or mentored junior counselors. Describe the size of teams you have guided, the clinical documentation standards you enforced, and any training you delivered to demonstrate that you are ready to lead, not just carry a caseload.
Apply early to roles that fit
Migrate Mate lists lead counselor openings from across the United States in one place, so you can find roles that match and apply directly to each listing.
Prepare a scenario answer on crisis response
Interviewers for lead counselor positions almost always ask how you have handled a client in acute crisis or a team member who deviated from protocol. Prepare a concise, outcome-focused example that shows your clinical judgment and your ability to debrief and support staff afterward.
Negotiate continuing education and supervision support
Lead counselor offers often have more flexibility on professional development budgets than on base pay. When you receive an offer, ask specifically about licensure supervision hours, continuing education reimbursement, and paid time for required training.
Lead Counselor Jobs: Frequently Asked Questions
Which companies are hiring the most lead counselors?
Vinfen, YMCA, and Pyramid Healthcare are hiring the most lead counselors right now, with openings concentrated in California, Massachusetts, and Texas, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of November 2026. Demand is especially high in community mental health centers and residential treatment programs.
How many lead counselor jobs are remote?
About 30% of lead counselor openings are fully remote or hybrid as of November 2026, with remote availability concentrated in outpatient telehealth programs and EAP provider roles. Direct-care positions in residential, inpatient, or school-based settings are almost always on-site due to supervision and crisis-response requirements.
How do you become a lead counselor?
Start by earning a bachelor's degree in counseling, social work, or psychology, then pursue a master's degree if your target setting requires licensure. Accumulate direct counseling experience, obtain the relevant state license or certification, and move into roles with increasing responsibility such as senior counselor or clinical team lead before applying to lead counselor positions.
Can you get hired as a lead counselor with little experience?
Some entry-level lead counselor roles exist in youth camp, community outreach, and after-school program settings, where a bachelor's degree and demonstrated leadership in a volunteer or practicum context can be enough. For clinical or residential settings, most employers require at least two years of direct experience, so building that foundation first significantly strengthens your application.
What does the lead counselor interview process look like?
Most employers start with a phone or video screen to confirm credentials and availability, followed by a panel interview with a clinical director and HR representative. You will typically be asked behavioral questions about managing a team, handling a client crisis, and navigating documentation compliance. Some programs include a brief role-play or case vignette to assess your clinical judgment before extending an offer.
Where can I find and apply to lead counselor jobs?
You can find and apply to lead counselor jobs on Migrate Mate, which lists current openings from across the United States. Search for roles that match your credentials, setting preference, and population focus, then apply directly to each listing that fits.
See All 119+ Lead Counselor Jobs
Find roles that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
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