1. California State University - Long Beach
Long Beach, CA • Private
In-State Tuition
$6,798
Enrollment
31,503
A residential counselor is an individual who works for a rehabilitation center, a group home, a residential care facility, a college, or a homeless shelter. Depending on the area, the responsibilities of a residence counselor vary, but the position generally entails supervising a group of individuals enrolled in a program within a structured environment. They also may manage counseling staff, organize group activities, and provide services such as therapy to residents of group homes or assisted-living facilities.
The majority of residence counselors work with adults who have problems with addiction or moderate intellectual disabilities and seek to help these individuals integrate into society and help them find employment. These professionals also organize and supervise the daily care of disabled adults and activities to encourage their patients to participate in community activities and develop skills so that they can live on their own. Residence counselors who live in assisting-living facilities are responsible for managing the health and well-being of the elderly, as well as organizing social events and field trips.
Most residence counselors have a bachelor's degree in psychology, social work, or a related field, and in some states may require licensing. They should also possess excellent communication, interpersonal and organizational skills. Most residence counselors make up to $33,000 per year in the US, and the career field is expected to grow 36% by 2028.
