Social Work Counselor Jobs in Des Moines, IA

A Social Work Counselor plays a crucial role in the social service industry by providing essential services to aid and improve the lives of individuals, families, and communities. They assess their clients' needs, situations, strengths, and resources to assist and empower them in resolving their problems and improving their wellbeing. Their responsibilities may also include crisis intervention, case management, client advocacy, counseling, and prevention programs. Social Work Counselors work in various settings such as hospitals, schools, community agencies, and social service organizations.

Essential skills for a Social Work Counselor include empathy, active listening, organization, critical-thinking, and communication skills. They should have a strong understanding of social diversity and cultural competency as well. A bachelor's degree in social work (BSW) is typically required, while a master's degree in social work (MSW) may be necessary for some positions. Most states require Social Work Counselors to obtain a license or certification. Prior roles a person may have before becoming a Social Work Counselor include Social Work Assistant, Case Manager, and Community Outreach Worker.

1-6 of 6 Jobs

Mobile Crisis On-Call Counselor (degreed) - Eyerly Ball

  • Des Moines, IA
  • 1 day ago
  • Des Moines, IA
  • 1 day ago

Area of Interest: Behavioral Health Services FTE/Hours per pay period: 0.01 Department: Mobile Crisis Shift: PRN Job ID: 160026 Overview MCRT On-Call Counselors are prn staff who provide on-site support...

Counselor - Olmsted Elementary [2025-26 School Year]

  • Urbandale, IA (1 mile from Des Moines, IA)
  • 7 days ago
  • Urbandale, IA (1 mile from Des Moines, IA)
  • 7 days ago

Consult with educational specialists such as school psychologists, learning disabilities specialists, AEA specialists, social service and mental health specialists....

Youth Treatment Counselor - May Start Dates

  • Des Moines, IA
  • 10 days ago
  • Des Moines, IA
  • 10 days ago

Preferred Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in psychology, sociology, social work or a related human service field preferred. Exceptional leadership skills....

At Risk Counselor - Sugar Creek

  • Waukee, IA (13 miles from Des Moines, IA)
  • 13 days ago
  • Waukee, IA (13 miles from Des Moines, IA)
  • 13 days ago

Successful demonstration of and experience as an at-risk counselor and ability to demonstrate knowledge and skills associated with at-risk programming, mental health services and community resources...

Therapist

  • Des Moines, IA
  • 18 days ago
  • Des Moines, IA
  • 18 days ago

Demonstrates effective verbal crisis intervention and de-escalation, involving other staff as needed....

Therapist (Licensed)

  • Clive, IA (8 miles from Des Moines, IA)
  • 90+ days ago
  • Clive, IA (8 miles from Des Moines, IA)
  • 90+ days ago

Website: Responsibilities Complete psychosocial assessments Provide group therapy or co-lead groups Provide individual/family therapy sessions and crisis intervention Augment Inpatient Services as needed...

Demographic Data for Des Moines, IA

Moving to Des Moines, IA? Find some basic demographic data about Des Moines, IA below.


Local
National
221,891
5,491
Large

Social Work Counselor Online Courses and Training Opportunities

iHireSocialServices curates thousands of courses in order to recommend the best ones to help further your career. If you register for a course using the links on our site, we may receive a small commission.
Introduction to Social Work
Examine the historical development of social work and learn the knowledge, values, and skills that characterize the social worker. Take the next step to make a difference in the lives of...
Areas of Social Work Practice
This course will orient the learner to the context for social work, including the diversity of human needs, human services, social policy, and legislation. Learners will also gain information...
Mental Health in Social Work
Deepen your understanding of mental health in social work through a focus on history and treatment, within a culturally-grounded and trauma-informed approach to mental health and client recovery....

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Salary for Social Work Counselor Jobs in Des Moines, IA

Estimated salary range based on data from US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and iHireSocialServices research efforts.


Highest Education Level

Social Work Counselors in Des Moines, IA offer the following education background
Master's Degree
52.8%
Bachelor's Degree
31.6%
Doctorate Degree
5.0%
Associate's Degree
4.5%
High School or GED
3.0%
Vocational Degree or Certification
2.5%
Some College
0.4%
Some High School
0.1%

Average Work Experience
Here's a breakdown of the number of years' experience offered by Social Work Counselors in Des Moines, IA
2-4 years
39.3%
Less than 1 year
27.4%
None
17.4%
1-2 years
8.4%
8-10 years
7.6%



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