/
Youth Counselor
Youth Counselor
Youth counselors help young people overcome challenges, achieve positive goals, and reach their full potential. They work with individuals and groups in various settings, including schools, community centers, and residential treatment facilities. They provide guidance, support, and resources to help young people cope with issues such as substance abuse, mental health, and family conflict.
Salary Range
with 5+ years of experience
💵
$65K - $75K
per year
Benefits and Perks
Explore the typical benefits you might find in this field
💚
Counselling Services
🗓
Four-Day Workweek
⚖️
Work-Life Balance Support
🩸
Free Period Products
Length of Training
How many years of training are required to be a Youth Counselor?
⏳
4
years of training
What's it like to be a Youth Counselor?
Youth counselors work in diverse environments, which can be both challenging and rewarding. They must be able to adapt to different situations and build rapport with young people from various backgrounds. The work can be emotionally demanding, but it is also incredibly fulfilling to see young people make positive changes in their lives.
Key Aspects of the Job
- Assessment: Youth counselors conduct assessments to identify the needs and strengths of young people. This may involve interviews, observations, and psychological testing.
- Developing Treatment Plans: Youth counselors work with young people to develop individualized treatment plans that address their specific needs. These plans may include individual therapy, group therapy, medication management, and case management.
- Advocacy: Youth counselors advocate for the needs of young people by working with parents, schools, and other community agencies.
How to enter the job?
Individuals who are passionate about working with young people and helping them overcome challenges may be well-suited for a career as a youth counselor. The following steps can be taken to enter this field:
Educational Requirements
- A bachelor's degree in social work, psychology, or a related field is required.
- A master's degree in social work, counseling, or a related field is often preferred. Some states require licensure as a social worker or professional counselor.
Experience Requirements
- Internship or volunteer experience working with young people is highly recommended.
- Previous work experience in a related field, such as education, social services, or healthcare, can also be beneficial.
Task & Duties
Youth counselors perform a wide range of tasks and duties to help young people address various challenges and achieve positive outcomes. These duties may include:
Primary Duties
- Individual and group counseling: Youth counselors provide individual and group counseling to young people to address personal issues, mental health concerns, and behavioral problems. They use various therapeutic techniques to help young people develop coping skills, improve relationships, and make positive changes in their lives.
- Case management: Youth counselors often act as case managers, coordinating services and resources for young people. This may involve connecting young people with medical care, housing, educational opportunities, and other support services.
- Outreach and prevention: Youth counselors may also engage in outreach and prevention efforts to promote positive youth development and reduce risk-taking behaviors among young people.
- Collaboration with families and other professionals: Youth counselors work closely with families, schools, and other professionals to provide comprehensive support for young people. They may participate in team meetings, share information, and coordinate care.
- Documentation and reporting: Youth counselors maintain accurate records of their work, including client notes, treatment plans, and progress reports. They may also be required to complete reports for funding agencies or other stakeholders.
Career Toolkit
🌟 Ready to shine? Land your dream job with our
Available Jobs on ZEIL
View All Jobs