Counseling Psychology Jobs & Career Guide 2024

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What’s in this guide?

By PsychologyJobs.com Staff Writer

Our career guides are produced by staff writers in conjunction with our expert career coaches.

What is a Counseling Psychologist?

A counseling psychologist is a professional who specializes in facilitating personal and interpersonal functioning across the lifespan.

They focus on emotional, social, vocational, educational, health-related, developmental, and organizational concerns.

Counseling psychologists use a variety of techniques and interventions to help individuals cope with issues such as anxiety, stress, and life transitions, and to improve their clients’ well-being and functioning.

They often work in diverse settings such as private practices, hospitals, schools, and community agencies.

Their approach is generally more holistic and client-centered, emphasizing a supportive and growth-oriented framework rather than treating psychopathological disorders.

What is a Counseling Psychologist Responsible For?

Counseling psychologists are trained to help individuals with a range of personal, social, and emotional issues. Here are some specific responsibilities you will have:

  1. Providing therapy: provide one-on-one therapy sessions to individuals dealing with a range of personal and emotional issues, such as anxiety, depression, relationship problems, grief, and trauma.
  2. Conducting assessments: conduct assessments to diagnose mental health disorders, identify strengths and weaknesses, and develop treatment plans.
  3. Creating treatment plans: These plans may involve therapy sessions, group therapy, or other interventions designed to improve their clients’ mental health and wellbeing.
  4. Collaborating with other healthcare professionals: work closely with other healthcare professionals, such as psychiatrists, social workers, and primary care physicians, to coordinate care for their clients.
“As a counseling psychologist, my day-to-day work typically involves providing individual counseling to clients, conducting psychological assessments, and collaborating with other healthcare professionals to coordinate care for my clients. I also spend time preparing for therapy sessions, documenting client progress, and engaging in ongoing professional development to stay up-to-date with the latest research and techniques in the field.”

Where Does a Counseling Psychologist Work?

Counseling Psychologists work just about anywhere there are people in need. Frequently, they are found working in either private or group practices, however there are a variety of settings which employ counseling psychologists:

  1. Private practice: Many counseling psychologists work in private practice, either as sole practitioners or as part of a group practice.
  2. Mental health clinics: providing a range of services to individuals with mental health and substance abuse issues. In these settings, they may work as part of a team that includes psychiatrists, social workers, and other mental health professionals.
  3. Hospitals: Some counseling psychologists work in hospitals, where they may provide therapy to patients who are dealing with acute or chronic medical conditions.
  4. Schools and universities: providing individual or group counseling to students, as well as consultation services to teachers and other school personnel.
  5. Government agencies e.g. Veterans Administration, Department of Defense or the Department of Health and Human Services: counsel active military or veterans, often assisting them with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), dealing with loss, transitioning to civilian life, or depression.

A day in the life of a counseling psychologist

Here is a possible example of a typical day for a counseling psychologist working in a mental health clinic:

8:00 AM – Arrive at the clinic and check email for any urgent messages or updates from colleagues.

8:30 AM – Begin seeing clients. Depending on the clinic’s policies and scheduling practices, the psychologist may see clients for 50-minute sessions with a 10-minute break in between each session, or they may see clients for longer sessions with longer breaks in between.

12:00 PM – Take a lunch break.

1:00 PM – Resume seeing clients. During this time, the psychologist may conduct intake assessments with new clients, provide ongoing therapy to existing clients, or work with clients who are in crisis or need immediate support.

4:00 PM – Finish seeing clients for the day. Spend some time documenting progress notes, updating treatment plans, and responding to any urgent messages or requests from colleagues or clients.

5:00 PM – Wrap up for the day, making sure to organize any materials needed for the following day.

How do become a Counseling Psychologist

It takes 7-12 years to become a counseling psychologist, below we will walk you through the process from obtaining your degrees to obtaining your license.

Bachelor’s Degree

The first step is to obtain a Bachelor’s degree in psychology or a related field. Students in a Bachelor’s degree program in psychology will likely cover topics such as counseling theories and techniques, human development, abnormal psychology, and group therapy.

It will provide a strong foundation of knowledge and skills that you will build upon with a Master’s and Doctorate.

Master’s Degree

A Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology is a graduate-level program that typically takes 2-3 years to complete. The program covers topics such as counseling theories and techniques, human development, abnormal psychology, group counseling, assessment and diagnosis, and professional ethics and standards. Students typically gain hands-on experience through a supervised internship or practicum component. The program is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills needed to pursue further education at the doctoral level.

The program should be accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP).

 

Learn more in our guide to a Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology.

Supervised Internship

After earning a Master’s degree, aspiring counseling psychologists must complete a supervised internship of at least 2,000 hours. The internship should be completed at a site that is approved by the American Psychological Association (APA) or the Association of Psychology Postdoctoral and Internship Centers (APPIC) .

 

Doctorate Degree

A PhD in Counseling Psychology is a doctoral-level program that typically takes 5-7 years to complete, depending on the specific program and the student’s course load. The program builds upon the foundational knowledge and skills learned in a Master’s degree program and provides students with advanced training in areas such as research methods, advanced counseling techniques, and specialized areas of counseling psychology. The program typically includes coursework, a comprehensive exam, a supervised practicum, and a dissertation. Graduates of a PhD in Counseling Psychology program are prepared to work as licensed counseling psychologists, conduct research in the field, or pursue academic careers in teaching and research.

 

Learn more in our guide to a PhD in Counseling Psychology.

Postdoctoral Internship

After earning a Doctoral degree, counseling psychologists must complete a postdoctoral internship of at least 1,500 hours. The internship should be completed at a site that is approved by the APA or the APPIC.

Licensure

Licensing requirements vary by state – consult our guide for more detail.

The licensing exam for counseling psychologists is the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP), which is administered by the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards.

Continuing Education

Counseling psychologists, as is the case for all licensed psychologists, are required to engage in ongoing continuing education to maintain their licensure and stay up-to-date with the latest research and techniques in the field.

Learn more about continuing education requirements by state.

How Much Does a Counseling Psychologist Earn?

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the average salary is $81,000 in traditional settings. Many practitioners work in private practice where there are opportunities to earn more.

Geographic location and level of degree factor prominently in income potential with urban counseling and doctorate degrees in higher demand. Experience is a significant element in determining compensation.

Latest Counseling Psychologist Job Listings

PositionCompanyLocationPosted
Staff CounselorEast Carolina University Greenville, North Carolina US12/26/2024
Job Description: Staff Counselors employed by the Center for Counseling and Student Development provide therapeutic and developmental services to enrolled students at East Carolina University. Staff Counselors report to either the Director, Associate Director, or Assistant Director of the Center for Counseling and Student Development.Position Duties:Counseling individuals and groups regarding personal, social, career and academic development.Provide crisis intervention … More
Licensed Mental Health Therapist – LICSW, LMHCUnitedHealth Group Kirkland, Washington US12/25/2024
Peninsula Psychological Center, part of the Optum family of businesses is seeking a Licensed Mental Health Therapist – LCSW, LPC, LMFT to join our team in Kirkland, WA. Optum is a clinician-led care organization that is changing the way clinicians work and live.As a member of the Optum Behavioral Care Team, you’ll be an integral part of our vision to make healthcare better for everyone.Explore opportunities at Optum Behavioral Care. We’re revolutionizing … More
Licensed Clinical Therapist LCMHC LCSWUnitedHealth Group Fayetteville, North Carolina US12/25/2024
Carolina Behavioral Care, part of the Optum family of businesses is seeking a Licensed Clinician – LCMHC or LCSW to join our team in Fayetteville, NC.Optum is a clinician-led care organization that is changing the way clinicians work and live.As a member of the Optum Behavioral Care Team, you’ll be an integral part of our vision to make healthcare better for everyone.Explore opportunities at Optum Behavioral … More
Outpatient Therapist – LCSW, LMFT, LPCUnitedHealth Group Middlebury, Connecticut US12/25/2024
Tides Of Mind Counseling, part of the Optum family of businesses, is seeking a Licensed Behavioral Health Clinician/Therapist to join our team in Middlebury, CT. Optum is a clinician-led care organization that is changing the way clinicians work and live.As a member of the Optum Behavioral Care Team, you’ll be an integral part of our vision to make healthcare better for everyone. Explore opportunities at Optum Behavioral Care. We’re revolutionizing … More
Remote Therapist – 1099 Contractor – LCSW or LPC – Pennsylvania LicensedUnitedHealth Group Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania US12/25/2024
AbleTo, part of the Optum family of businesses is seeking a Licensed Therapist to join our team in. Optum is a clinician-led care organization that is changing the way clinicians work and live.As a member of the Optum Behavioral Care Team, you’ll be an integral part of our vision to make healthcare better for everyone.Explore opportunities at Optum Behavioral Care. We’re revolutionizing behavioral health care delivery for individuals, clinicians … More
Short Term or As Needed Coverage , MFLC Counselor , Miramar (CA)Leidos Oceanside, California US12/25/2024
Make a difference in the lives of our military Service Members and their families with your expertise in counseling and behavioral health – without the fuss of insurance or paperwork. Military and Family Life Counselors (MFLCs) are the first line of defense for our Service Members mental health, and we need flexible, ready-to-serve counselors willing to jump in at a moments notice.Leidos seeks passionate licensed mental healthcare providers ready to embrace a flexible PRN-type schedule, … More
Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)LifeStance Health Southfield, Michigan US12/25/2024
We are actively looking to hire talented Therapists in the area, who are passionate about patient care and committed to clinical excellence. Is this you?Wanting to deliver high quality behavioral healthcare.Seeking work life balance.Interested in growing professionally.What we offer Therapists:Flexible work schedulesFull Time opportunitiesTelemedicine and in-person flexibility. … More
Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC, LCSW, LMFT)LifeStance Health Middleton, Wisconsin US12/25/2024
At LifeStance Health, we believe in a truly healthy society where mental and physical healthcare are unified to make lives better. Our mission is to help people lead healthier, more fulfilling lives by improving access to trusted, affordable, and personalized mental healthcare. Everywhere. Every day. It’s a lofty goal; we know. But we make it happen with the best team in behavioral health. Thank you for taking the time to explore a career with us. As the fastest growing behavioral health … More
Position
Staff Counselor
Job Description: Staff Counselors employed by the Center for Counseling and Student Development provide therapeutic and developmental services to enrolled students at East Carolina University. Staff Counselors report to either the Director, Associate Director, or Assistant Director of the Center for Counseling and Student Development.Position Duties:Counseling individuals and groups regarding personal, social, career and academic development.Provide crisis intervention … More
Company
East Carolina University
Location
Greenville, North Carolina US
Posted
12/26/2024
Position
Licensed Mental Health Therapist – LICSW, LMHC
Peninsula Psychological Center, part of the Optum family of businesses is seeking a Licensed Mental Health Therapist – LCSW, LPC, LMFT to join our team in Kirkland, WA. Optum is a clinician-led care organization that is changing the way clinicians work and live.As a member of the Optum Behavioral Care Team, you’ll be an integral part of our vision to make healthcare better for everyone.Explore opportunities at Optum Behavioral Care. We’re revolutionizing … More
Company
UnitedHealth Group
Location
Kirkland, Washington US
Posted
12/25/2024
Position
Licensed Clinical Therapist LCMHC LCSW
Carolina Behavioral Care, part of the Optum family of businesses is seeking a Licensed Clinician – LCMHC or LCSW to join our team in Fayetteville, NC.Optum is a clinician-led care organization that is changing the way clinicians work and live.As a member of the Optum Behavioral Care Team, you’ll be an integral part of our vision to make healthcare better for everyone.Explore opportunities at Optum Behavioral … More
Company
UnitedHealth Group
Location
Fayetteville, North Carolina US
Posted
12/25/2024
Position
Outpatient Therapist – LCSW, LMFT, LPC
Tides Of Mind Counseling, part of the Optum family of businesses, is seeking a Licensed Behavioral Health Clinician/Therapist to join our team in Middlebury, CT. Optum is a clinician-led care organization that is changing the way clinicians work and live.As a member of the Optum Behavioral Care Team, you’ll be an integral part of our vision to make healthcare better for everyone. Explore opportunities at Optum Behavioral Care. We’re revolutionizing … More
Company
UnitedHealth Group
Location
Middlebury, Connecticut US
Posted
12/25/2024
Position
Remote Therapist – 1099 Contractor – LCSW or LPC – Pennsylvania Licensed
AbleTo, part of the Optum family of businesses is seeking a Licensed Therapist to join our team in. Optum is a clinician-led care organization that is changing the way clinicians work and live.As a member of the Optum Behavioral Care Team, you’ll be an integral part of our vision to make healthcare better for everyone.Explore opportunities at Optum Behavioral Care. We’re revolutionizing behavioral health care delivery for individuals, clinicians … More
Company
UnitedHealth Group
Location
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania US
Posted
12/25/2024
Position
Short Term or As Needed Coverage , MFLC Counselor , Miramar (CA)
Make a difference in the lives of our military Service Members and their families with your expertise in counseling and behavioral health – without the fuss of insurance or paperwork. Military and Family Life Counselors (MFLCs) are the first line of defense for our Service Members mental health, and we need flexible, ready-to-serve counselors willing to jump in at a moments notice.Leidos seeks passionate licensed mental healthcare providers ready to embrace a flexible PRN-type schedule, … More
Company
Leidos
Location
Oceanside, California US
Posted
12/25/2024
Position
Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)
We are actively looking to hire talented Therapists in the area, who are passionate about patient care and committed to clinical excellence. Is this you?Wanting to deliver high quality behavioral healthcare.Seeking work life balance.Interested in growing professionally.What we offer Therapists:Flexible work schedulesFull Time opportunitiesTelemedicine and in-person flexibility. … More
Company
LifeStance Health
Location
Southfield, Michigan US
Posted
12/25/2024
Position
Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC, LCSW, LMFT)
At LifeStance Health, we believe in a truly healthy society where mental and physical healthcare are unified to make lives better. Our mission is to help people lead healthier, more fulfilling lives by improving access to trusted, affordable, and personalized mental healthcare. Everywhere. Every day. It’s a lofty goal; we know. But we make it happen with the best team in behavioral health. Thank you for taking the time to explore a career with us. As the fastest growing behavioral health … More
Company
LifeStance Health
Location
Middleton, Wisconsin US
Posted
12/25/2024