If you’re passionate about mental wellness, conflict resolution, and social justice, a career in community counseling and mediation may be the perfect fit. These jobs sit at the intersection of mental health services, social advocacy, and grassroots support, offering meaningful opportunities to create positive change in underserved communities.
In this guide, we explore the types of jobs available, the skills required, potential employers, and how to start or grow your career in this impactful field.
What Is Community Counseling and Mediation?
Community counseling focuses on providing mental health and emotional support services within a community setting. It targets individuals and families who may lack access to traditional private therapy due to financial, cultural, or systemic barriers.
Mediation, on the other hand, involves resolving disputes through facilitated dialogue — often outside of court — to restore communication, address conflict, and reach mutually agreed solutions.
Together, these practices promote emotional well-being, conflict resolution, and community cohesion.
Types of Community Counseling and Mediation Jobs
1. Community Counselor
Works in local clinics, nonprofits, or outreach centers to provide short- and long-term counseling services to diverse populations.
Common duties:
- Indevidual and group therapy
- Crisis intervention
- Mental health assessments
- Connecting clients to resources
Requirements: Master’s degree (often in counseling, psychology, or social work), LPC or equivalent license.
2. Family Mediator / Conflict Resolution Specialist
Facilitates structured conversations between disputing parties — such as parents, neighbors, or community members — to reach peaceful solutions.
Common duties:
- Hosting mediation sessions
- Drafting agreements
- Educating on communication and de-escalation
- Working in family courts, housing disputes, or juvenile justice
Requirements: Certification in mediation or conflict resolution, background in law or social services helpful.
3. Case Manager / Community Advocate
Provides support, planning, and resource coordination for clients dealing with mental health issues, housing instability, or substance use.
Common duties:
- Conducting needs assessments
- Referring clients to housing, employment, or therapy
- Advocating for underserved populations
Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in social work, psychology, or human services; strong communication and organizational skills.
4. Youth Counselor / Juvenile Mediation Coordinator
Supports at-risk youth in schools, juvenile justice programs, or community centers through counseling, behavior intervention, and mentorship.
Common duties:
- One-on-one youth therapy
- Conflict mediation in peer or family settings
- Life skills education
Requirements: Bachelor’s or master’s degree; experience with adolescents or youth services.
5. Mental Health Outreach Coordinator
Designs and implements programs to raise awareness and increase access to mental health services in marginalized or underserved communities.
Common duties:
- Community education and workshop facilitation
- Partnership development with local organizations
- Data tracking and impact assessment
Requirements: BA/BS in public health, social work, or counseling; program coordination experience preferred.
Where Can You Work?
Professionals in this field are employed by:
- Nonprofit organizations
- Community health centers
- Local government or social service agencies
- Schools and educational institutions
- Family courts or alternative dispute resolution (ADR) centers
- Faith-based or culturally specific organizations
Well-known employers include:
- Community Counseling & Mediation (CCM) – A Brooklyn-based nonprofit focused on mental health and social services
- Youth mediation centers
- Domestic violence support organizations
- Reentry and rehabilitation programs
Required Skills and Qualities
- Cultural competency
- Active listening and empathy
- Crisis management skills
- Trauma-informed care knowledge
- Conflict de-escalation
- Case documentation and reporting
- Advocacy and resource networking
Salary and Job Outlook
- Community counselors earn an average of $48,000–$65,000 annually, depending on licensure and setting
- Mediators average $55,000–$75,000, with higher salaries in court or legal settings
- Case managers and outreach coordinators typically earn $40,000–$60,000
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 13% growth rate for community and social service jobs from 2022–2032 — faster than average.
How to Start a Career in Community Counseling and Mediation
- Earn a relevant degree (psychology, counseling, social work, conflict resolution)
- Complete supervised clinical hours or mediation certification
- Obtain licensure if required in your field/state
- Volunteer or intern with local nonprofits or counseling centers
- Apply for entry-level roles and grow through ongoing training and specialization
Jobs in community counseling and mediation are ideal for those who want to make a tangible difference in people’s lives. Whether you’re helping someone process trauma, resolve a family dispute, or access vital resources, your work directly contributes to healthier individuals and stronger communities.
If you’re driven by empathy, equity, and empowerment, this is a career field where your skills can change lives — every single day.