Group Counselor Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the ever-evolving sphere of mental health, the significance of group counselors has become increasingly paramount.

As our understanding of mental health expands, so does the need for skilled professionals who can facilitate, guide, and support group counseling sessions.

But let’s delve deeper: What are the real expectations from a group counselor?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker wanting to understand the intricacies of this role,
• A hiring manager in the process of outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply interested in the dynamics of group counseling,

You’ve landed at the right spot.

Today, we present a customizable group counselor job description template, made for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Group Counselor Duties and Responsibilities

Group Counselors are responsible for facilitating group therapy sessions, providing support, and helping individuals within the group to gain personal insight and improve their interpersonal relationships.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Plan and facilitate group therapy sessions
• Establish therapeutic relationships with clients and encourage active participation
• Apply therapeutic techniques appropriate to group dynamics and individual client needs
• Monitor progress of group members and adjust counseling methods accordingly
• Assist clients in setting and achieving personal goals
• Collaborate with other professionals to assess clients’ mental or physical health
• Provide crisis intervention as needed
• Maintain confidentiality and adhere to ethical standards
• Document and report on clients’ progress
• Participate in ongoing professional development and training

 

Group Counselor Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a compassionate and dedicated Group Counselor to facilitate group counseling sessions and provide support to individuals dealing with various personal issues.

Group Counselor responsibilities include assessing the mental health conditions of the group members, designing treatment plans, leading group therapy sessions, and providing individual counseling when necessary.

Our ideal candidate is well-versed in therapeutic techniques and group dynamics, and has a deep understanding of mental health issues and the recovery process.

Ultimately, the role of the Group Counselor is to create a safe and supportive environment for group members to express their feelings, discuss their problems, and develop coping strategies.

 

Responsibilities

• Conduct initial assessments to determine the mental health conditions and needs of the group members
• Develop and implement treatment plans based on the unique needs of each group member
• Facilitate group therapy sessions and promote a supportive and inclusive environment
• Monitor progress of group members and adjust treatment plans as necessary
• Provide crisis intervention and individual counseling when necessary
• Collaborate with other healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive care
• Document and maintain accurate records of each group member’s progress
• Stay updated with the latest developments in counseling techniques and mental health research

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Group Counselor or similar role
• Experience in conducting group therapy sessions
• Familiarity with various therapeutic techniques (e.g., cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy)
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and respect the privacy of group members
• Empathy, patience, and a compassionate approach to counseling
• Masters degree in counseling, psychology, or a related field
• Valid license to practice as a professional counselor

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Group Counselor
• Work Environment: Counseling clinic, mental health facility, or similar setting. Some evening or weekend hours may be required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Counseling Manager or Mental Health Director.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $70,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Group Counselor Do?

A Group Counselor typically works in a variety of settings including mental health clinics, rehabilitation centers, hospitals, schools, or private practices.

They facilitate group therapy sessions, leading and guiding discussions among a group of individuals who face similar issues or challenges.

This could involve dealing with issues such as substance abuse, grief, depression, anxiety, or other mental health conditions.

Group Counselors make use of therapeutic techniques and approaches that are effective in a group setting.

These techniques could involve cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, psychodrama, or other evidence-based methods.

They also provide a safe, non-judgmental and confidential environment that allows each group member to express their feelings, experiences, and fears.

They listen actively to the participants and help them develop strategies to cope with their issues, improve their interpersonal relationships, and manage their emotions.

Group Counselors also observe the dynamics within the group to ensure that all members are participating and benefiting from the group therapy.

They intervene if necessary to manage conflicts or challenges within the group.

Moreover, they often work in coordination with other healthcare professionals such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and social workers to provide comprehensive care to their clients.

They also maintain records of each session, documenting the group’s progress and any significant interactions or incidents.

They use these records to monitor the effectiveness of their therapeutic approaches and make necessary adjustments.

 

Group Counselor Qualifications and Skills

A competent Group Counselor should possess the skills and qualifications that cater to the needs of your institution, such as:

• Strong communication skills to facilitate open dialogues among group members and ensure that everyone’s voice is heard.
• Exceptional listening skills to understand the individual experiences, feelings, and opinions of group members.
• Interpersonal skills to build rapport and trust with group members, fostering a safe and supportive environment.
• Conflict resolution skills to handle disagreements or issues within the group effectively and amicably.
• Knowledge of group dynamics and therapeutic techniques to lead, guide, and support individuals in the group effectively.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and respect privacy, to establish an environment where group members feel safe to share personal experiences.
• Patience and empathy to understand and empathize with the experiences and struggles of group members.
• Problem-solving abilities to help group members find effective solutions to their problems.
• A background in psychology, counseling, social work, or a related field, to understand the complexities of mental health issues and provide appropriate guidance.

 

Group Counselor Experience Requirements

Entry-level group counselors typically have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in counseling, psychology, social work, or a related field.

Along with their degree, they may have gained experience through internships or practicums in mental health settings or social service agencies.

Group counselors with 1 to 2 years of experience often have had roles in substance abuse counseling, crisis intervention, mental health counseling or social work.

These professionals can also gain valuable experience through roles such as Case Manager, Mental Health Assistant, or Rehabilitation Counselor.

Those with 3 to 5 years of experience have often further developed their counseling skills and knowledge, often through specialized roles such as Substance Abuse Counselor, Family Therapist, or School Counselor.

They may also have experience in managing group therapy sessions, psychoeducational workshops, and crisis intervention situations.

Group counselors with more than 5 years of experience often have significant experience in leading group therapy sessions and have mastered various therapeutic techniques.

They may have also acquired some leadership skills and are therefore ready for a supervisory or managerial role in counseling or social service settings.

Additionally, many employers require group counselors to be licensed or certified, which usually involves meeting education and experience requirements and passing a state-recognized exam.

 

Group Counselor Education and Training Requirements

Group Counselors, also referred to as group therapists, typically need to hold a master’s degree in counseling, psychology, social work, or a related field.

These programs provide counselors with the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical training to effectively help individuals within a group setting.

Most states also require group counselors to obtain a license to practice, which typically involves passing a state-recognized exam.

Licensing criteria vary, but generally require that the individual has completed a master’s degree program and gained a certain number of supervised clinical experience hours.

Many group counselors also choose to pursue specialized certifications to highlight their expertise in certain areas, such as substance abuse counseling, family counseling, or mental health counseling.

Furthermore, continuing education is important in this field, as it allows counselors to stay updated on the latest therapeutic techniques and research findings.

Some positions, especially in certain healthcare or educational settings, may require group counselors to hold a doctorate in psychology or related field.

 

Group Counselor Salary Expectations

A Group Counselor can expect to earn an average salary of $45,000 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings may differ based on factors such as experience, education, geographical location, and the specific organization they work for.

 

Group Counselor Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Group Counselor need?

Group Counselors should have excellent listening and communication skills.

They must be empathetic, patient, and be able to foster trust and establish rapport with their clients.

Their abilities to facilitate group discussions, manage conflicts, and provide constructive feedback are also crucial.

Besides, they should have knowledge about group dynamics, various counseling methods, and strategies to facilitate behavior changes.

 

Do Group Counselors need a degree?

Yes, typically, Group Counselors are required to have a bachelor’s degree in a related field such as psychology, social work, or counseling.

However, most employers prefer candidates with a master’s degree in counseling or a related field.

Additionally, they need to be licensed, which requires passing state-specific exams.

 

What should you look for in a Group Counselor resume?

A Group Counselor’s resume should include a degree in a related field and a valid counseling license.

Look for experience working with groups, specifically in the area your organization focuses on, such as addiction, family, mental health, etc.

Additional training or certification in group therapy techniques can also be beneficial.

Besides, key skills such as empathy, patience, excellent listening and communication skills, problem-solving and crisis management skills should be evident.

 

What qualities make a good Group Counselor?

A good Group Counselor is an excellent communicator and an active listener.

They can facilitate group discussions, manage conflicts, and maintain a safe, respectful environment for everyone.

They are empathetic, patient, and supportive, fostering trust among their clients.

They are also knowledgeable and skilled in various counseling strategies and techniques, and they can adapt their approach based on the group’s needs.

 

What are the challenges faced by a Group Counselor?

Group Counseling is a demanding job that involves managing group dynamics, resolving conflicts and dealing with individuals with different personalities and issues.

The challenge increases when dealing with individuals who are resistant to change or struggle with communication.

Keeping all members engaged and maintaining a safe and respectful environment can also be challenging.

Moreover, the emotional burden of the job can also be high, necessitating self-care and stress management skills.

 

Conclusion

So, there you have it.

Today, we’ve given you a closer look at what it truly means to be a group counselor.

And guess what?

It’s not just about facilitating discussions.

It’s about shaping healthier minds, one group session at a time.

Armed with our go-to group counselor job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take that leap.

But why limit yourself?

Explore more with our job description generator. It’s your stepping stone to crafting meticulous job listings or refining your resume to excellence.

Remember:

Every group session is a step towards a healthier community.

Let’s build that future. Together.

How to Become a Group Counselor (Complete Guide)

Cash in Hand: The Jobs That Are Ruling the Pay Scale in 2025!

The Unbelievable Reality of Working in the Most Stressful Jobs Today!

The Thrill of the Risk: Why Some Choose Careers in Danger’s Path

Why Go to an Office? Remote Jobs with Better Salaries!