College Crunch

Community counselors are responsible for helping patients deal with personal, family, medical, emotional/mental, or other types of crises by use of common therapeutic practices. These counselors take on a wide variety of duties and may work in a broad-spectrum practice or specialize in one particular area. He or she may work to help individuals determine an appropriate career path, help with personal issues, deal with family problems, administer mental health therapy, and/or work with people dealing with substance abuse issues. Community counselors may work with local public agencies, or operate their own private counseling clinics. He or she may be required to hold public and/or private counseling sessions, design treatment plans, work as public advocates, and work with other public agencies.

In order to become a community counselor you must hold a Bachelor’s degree in social or human services, or other related field, as well as a Master’s degree in counseling, psychiatry, social work, or other related field. In most cases, holding a counseling license is required. Other requested skills include: educational experience, previous counseling experience, leadership skills, computer skills, and adequate interpersonal skills. This field is currently growing faster than the average for other therapy sectors.

The typical average salary of a community counselor is about $47,500 per year. Salary levels do vary somewhat depending on the area of specialty. Counselors who set up their own private practices have a much higher earning potential.