How to Become a Geriatric Counselor: Education, Salary, and Job Outlook for 2026

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

A career as a geriatric counselor offers a meaningful opportunity to support the aging population through specialized mental health care. These professionals address issues such as depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline in older adults, improving overall quality of life. With the U.S. population aged 65 and older expected to reach 77 million by 2034, demand for skilled counselors is rising steadily.

Geriatric counselors combine psychological theories with practical strategies tailored to seniors, fostering mental and emotional well-being. Their work often includes individual therapy, family counseling, and crisis intervention. Readers will gain insights into the educational requirements, salary expectations, and employment trends that define this growing profession.

What are the benefits of becoming a geriatric counselor?

The geriatric counseling field projects an 18% job growth from 2023 to 2033, reflecting increased demand due to the aging U.S. population.
Average annual salary for geriatric counselors ranges between $45,000 and $65,000, depending on location and experience.
Career benefits include meaningful work, strong employment stability, and opportunities in healthcare, social services, and mental health sectors.

What credentials do you need to become a geriatric counselor?

Becoming a geriatric counselor in the United States requires specific educational and licensure steps. These credentials ensure that counselors have the skills necessary to support the mental health needs of older adults.

The following outlines the key requirements typically involved.

Master's degree in counseling, psychology, or social work: An accredited master's program, usually from CACREP-accredited institutions, is essential. These programs require at least 60 semester credits including coursework and supervised clinical experience. This degree forms the foundation for geriatric counselor licensure requirements.
Supervised clinical training: After graduation, candidates must complete roughly 3,000 hours of supervised experience over approximately two years. This stage provides hands-on training under a licensed professional counselor and is mandatory for licensure.
Licensure: All states require licensure to practice with typical credentials including Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) or Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). Candidates must pass standardized exams such as the National Counselor Examination (NCE). Specific rules vary by state.
Specialized graduate certificates: Additional credentials in geriatric or gerontological counseling help focus expertise on aging-related mental health challenges and support ongoing professional development.
Continuing education: Counselors maintain licensure by completing continuing education courses, keeping skills current and compliant with state regulations.
Consideration of state and industry variations: Licensing rules and preferred qualifications can differ, so researching local requirements is essential. Some professionals pursue further online accelerated bachelor's programs as a foundation before advancing to master's degrees tailored to geriatric counseling.

Meeting these components ensures eligibility for licensure and prepares counselors for the complex needs of older adult populations. Prospective professionals should strategically plan education and training to align with geriatric counselor licensure requirements and the master's degree in geriatric counseling pathways best suited to their career goals.

What skills do you need to have as a geriatric counselor?

Developing a strong skill set is crucial for success in geriatric counseling, a field focused on addressing the mental health needs of the elderly. Effective counselors must blend technical expertise with empathetic communication to navigate the complexities of aging.

The following skills are fundamental to delivering impactful care and fostering positive client outcomes.

Active Listening and Empathy: Essential for creating trust and fully understanding each client's unique experiences and concerns.
Strong Communication Skills: Necessary for conveying ideas clearly to clients and collaborating effectively with healthcare providers.
Cultural Sensitivity: Enables the provision of respectful, appropriate support tailored to diverse cultural backgrounds.
Patience and Compassion: Important for managing emotionally sensitive situations and assisting clients through difficult life adjustments.
Observation and Non-Verbal Communication: Skills to identify subtle cues and adjust interventions accordingly, enhancing assessment accuracy.
Trauma-Informed Care: Understanding the long-term effects of trauma in elderly populations supports more effective and sensitive treatment planning.
Familiarity with Diagnostic Tools and Electronic Health Records: Competence in using technical resources ensures accurate documentation and informed care decisions.

What is the typical career progression for a geriatric counselor?

The career trajectory for a geriatric counselor typically involves progressive responsibility aligned with experience and education. Entry, mid, and senior-level roles each demand different qualifications and skill sets.

This structured path supports the delivery of specialized mental health services to older adults.

Entry-level positions: Titles such as "Geriatric Counselor," "Mental Health Counselor," or "Behavioral Health Specialist" are common. These roles require a master's degree in counseling or a related discipline, state licensure, and completion of supervised clinical hours. Professionals usually spend 2 to 5 years providing direct therapeutic care in environments like nursing homes, hospitals, or community organizations, focusing on assessments, individual or group therapy, and teamwork with multidisciplinary professionals.
Mid-level roles: After 5 to 8 years of experience, many counselors advance to roles including "Senior Geriatric Counselor," "Clinical Supervisor," or "Program Coordinator." Advancement depends on proven clinical skills, often supplemented by further certifications. Responsibilities expand to supervising junior staff, coordinating clinical services, and developing treatment protocols.
Senior and leadership positions: Roles such as "Director of Geriatric Services," "Clinical Manager," or "Lead Counselor" require at least 8 to 12 years of experience. These positions demand advanced credentials and leadership capabilities in program development and administration. Individuals in these roles influence policy, manage team operations, and lead strategic clinical initiatives.
Specializations and alternative paths: Common focus areas include geriatric substance abuse counseling, end-of-life or palliative care, and cognitive rehabilitation. Career shifts may include research, academic roles, or private practice, catering to niche eldercare populations or policy advocacy.

How much can you earn as a geriatric counselor?

Geriatric counseling is a specialized field within the broader counseling profession focused on supporting older adults. Understanding the average geriatric counselor salary in the United States provides valuable insight for those pursuing this career path. Earnings are influenced by various factors, including experience, education, and geographic location.

How much can you earn as a geriatric counselor? On average, these professionals earn about $53,000 annually, with typical salaries ranging from $44,500 to $68,000 per year. Hourly wages tend to hover around a median of $25.47 but can vary widely from approximately $14 to $36 depending on location and expertise.

For comparison, substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors generally earn a higher mean salary near $65,100. Salaries for "all other" counselor categories-which often include geriatric counselors-average $58,070 annually. Since specific data for geriatric counselors is limited, these figures are drawn from related occupational statistics and industry surveys.

Geriatric counselor pay rates by experience level demonstrate significant growth potential. Entry-level counselors typically earn near the lower spectrum of the salary range, while those with advanced degrees, specialized certifications, or supervisory roles command higher salaries.

Location is a notable factor; for instance, wages in New York surpass the national average, reaching about $28 hourly. Specializing in areas like dementia or end-of-life counseling may boost earning potential further.

Prospective geriatric counselors considering educational routes may find value in programs identified as the easiest master degree to get that still offer strong credentials to enhance career prospects.

What internships can you apply for to gain experience as a geriatric counselor?

Gaining practical experience through internships is crucial for those seeking careers in geriatric counseling. Students can choose from a variety of settings, each providing essential skills relevant to the diverse needs of older adults.

The following options represent some of the best internships for future geriatric counselors aimed at developing expertise in clinical practice, advocacy, and policy.

Psychiatric Medical Care's Senior Life Solutions division: Offers hands-on experience with intake assessments, crisis intervention, group therapy facilitation, and care coordination focused on older adults. Interns also learn about compliance regulations and clinical documentation.
Mozaic Senior Life: Provides community outreach and elder abuse prevention internships. Participants develop advocacy strategies and contribute to educational programming targeting elder health.
Gerontological Society of America (GSA): This eight-week paid summer internship in Washington, D.C., immerses interns in aging policy development, enhancing skills in research, policy analysis, and program evaluation, a valuable component of geriatric counseling internships for graduate students.
Private psychotherapy practices: Interns conduct intake assessments, provide counseling, and engage in case management, cultivating proficiency in evidence-based therapies and ethical clinical decision-making.

The range of these internships equips aspiring counselors with interdisciplinary teamwork abilities and program development knowledge. Interested students are also advised to explore data on the best paying majors as an additional resource when planning their educational pathways in counseling professions.

How can you advance your career as a geriatric counselor?

The geriatric counseling field is poised for significant expansion as the U.S. senior population is expected to reach 92 million by 2060, more than doubling since 2012. This growth creates increased demand for specialized mental health services addressing the unique needs of older adults.

Professionals in this area can enhance their careers through multiple focused strategies.

Continuing education: Obtaining a master's degree is essential for licensure, but advancing often requires additional coursework or graduate certificates in gerontology or geriatric mental health. Employers may incentivize further education with higher pay or promotions, and some cover tuition costs. APA guidance encourages selecting specialized niches such as dementia or end-of-life counseling to boost marketability and salary potential.
Certification and specialization: Credentials from associations like the National Board for Certified Counselors or the American Mental Health Counselors Association demonstrate professional competence. Concentrating on growth areas like substance abuse (projected 19% growth by 2033) or rehabilitation counseling (2% growth) can expand job prospects.
Networking and mentorship: Engagement in professional groups, participation in conferences, and mentoring relationships help access job openings, collaborative efforts, and new industry knowledge. Though over half of geriatric counselors operate independently, early-career networking is critical for career development.
Leadership and advocacy: Experienced counselors may pursue roles overseeing clinical teams, training newcomers, or championing policy changes to support older adults. These positions require a blend of clinical expertise, ongoing education, and proven leadership abilities.

Where can you work as a geriatric counselor?

Geriatric counselors have diverse job opportunities across multiple healthcare settings in the United States, addressing the mental health needs of older adults. Understanding where geriatric counselors work can inform career decisions and clarify the scope of their professional roles.

Below are common employers and roles that characterize geriatric counselor job opportunities in healthcare settings.

Hospitals: Large healthcare systems such as Kaiser Permanente and HCA Healthcare employ geriatric counselors to support patients coping with chronic illness, transitions in care, and cognitive decline.
Long-term care and assisted living facilities: Organizations like Brookdale Senior Living and Sunrise Senior Living hire counselors to provide psychological support addressing loss of independence, health challenges, and end-of-life concerns.
Private practice: Many geriatric counselors work independently or within group practices specializing in geriatric mental health; over half of counselors and therapists operate in this setting, according to the American Psychological Association.
Outpatient clinics and community mental health centers: Facilities such as Lake Behavioral Health and Holistic Medical Services United deliver counseling, group therapy, and work in partnership with local senior services agencies.
Government agencies: Employers include the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and local health departments providing mental health services to aging veterans and community members.
Nonprofit organizations: Groups like the Alzheimer's Association and AARP offer counseling, support groups, and resource coordination for seniors and their families.
Remote and telehealth services: Expanding opportunities allow licensed counselors to provide virtual care, increasing access for older adults in rural or underserved areas.

For those interested in how to become a geriatric counselor with strong credentials, exploring educational pathways at top non profit accredited online colleges can provide flexible and reputable options to enter this growing field.

What challenges will you encounter as a geriatric counselor?

The population of Americans aged 65 and older is expected to reach 82 million by 2050, marking a 47% growth from 2022. This demographic shift will escalate the demand for mental health services tailored to older adults, increasing pressure on the workforce.

Prospective geriatric counselors must anticipate specific professional challenges tied to this evolving landscape.

Increased workload: The rising number of elderly clients will strain available mental health resources, as service demand grows faster than the supply of qualified counselors.
Emotional strain: Geriatric counselors often work with clients struggling with chronic illnesses, cognitive impairments, social isolation, and grief, requiring expertise in managing depression, anxiety, and crisis situations; this emotionally taxing work can lead to burnout and compassion fatigue.
Regulatory and industry complexity: Professionals must keep pace with changing best practices and navigate intricate insurance policies and confidentiality laws, often complicated by cognitive decline or guardianship concerns.
Cultural competence and advocacy: Working with diverse elderly populations demands sensitivity to systemic barriers and health disparities, alongside skills in cultural awareness and client advocacy.
Job market competition: Although more graduates are entering geriatric counseling, limited growth in some settings and funding restrictions mean competition for positions can be stiff, necessitating continuous learning and adaptability to new care methods.

What tips do you need to know to excel as a geriatric counselor?

Success in geriatric counseling relies heavily on specialized skills tailored to the aging population and a long-term commitment to professional development. Practical exposure to elderly care settings is highly recommended, as it provides crucial insights into the specific issues faced by older adults.

Building expertise through advanced credentials and staying updated with evolving therapeutic methods also play vital roles in career advancement.

Gain hands-on experience via internships or volunteer positions in nursing homes, hospitals, or senior centers to fully grasp the challenges experienced by seniors and improve employability.
Seek mentorship from seasoned geriatric counselors to enhance clinical competencies and ensure ethical treatment approaches when managing complex cases.
Engage in continuous education, such as state-mandated courses, workshops, and conferences, to maintain licensure and remain current with evidence-based practices.
Pursue certifications like the National Certified Gerontological Counselor (NCGC) credential to validate specialized knowledge and increase competitiveness in a field expected to grow significantly by 2025.
Develop strong interpersonal skills-especially communication, empathy, and patience-as these are essential when addressing sensitive issues like dementia, grief, and family dynamics.
Apply evidence-based therapies such as cognitive behavioral techniques specifically adapted for older adults to improve treatment effectiveness.
Network actively through professional organizations and interdisciplinary teams to exchange knowledge and open pathways for career progression.

How do you know if becoming a geriatric counselor is the right career choice for you?

Deciding whether a career in geriatric counseling fits your goals involves assessing both personal attributes and long-term professional demands. Understanding the qualities needed to be a geriatric counselor and evaluating if geriatric counseling is a good career choice requires careful consideration of education, temperament, and work environment.

Emotional resilience: Effective geriatric counselors show patience, empathy, and a sincere interest in helping older adults manage issues like grief and cognitive decline.
Educational commitment: This career demands a master's degree, about 600 supervised clinical hours during training, plus 2,000 to 4,000 post-master's supervised hours before full licensure.
Work settings: Common environments include nursing homes, hospice centers, memory care facilities, and hospitals, often requiring comfort with end-of-life issues and complex family dynamics.
Cultural competence: Since elderly populations are diverse, counselors must adapt approaches to various cultural backgrounds.
Career outlook and salary: The aging U.S. population drives demand for specialists in this field, offering relatively stable job prospects, though salaries can vary widely by region and workplace.
Work-life balance: While some roles offer predictable hours, crisis intervention and medical settings may demand flexible schedules.
Practical experience: Shadowing or volunteering in senior care can help confirm your interest before pursuing graduate education.

For those weighing financial and time commitments, considering cheap online universities for working students could facilitate the necessary multi-year educational path.

What Professionals Who Work as a Geriatric Counselor Say About Their Careers

Anna: "Becoming a geriatric counselor has been one of the most rewarding decisions of my career. The demand for skilled professionals in this field is consistently strong, providing excellent job stability and a competitive salary. I truly appreciate knowing that my work directly improves the quality of life for seniors, and the financial security it offers is a great bonus. "

Amias: "Working as a geriatric counselor presents unique challenges that require empathy, patience, and adaptability. Every day, I face different situations that enrich my professional growth and deepen my understanding of aging-related issues. These experiences have made me a more compassionate practitioner and have opened doors to specialized training programs I wouldn't have encountered elsewhere. "

Luis: "The career growth potential in geriatric counseling is impressive. Starting from entry-level roles, I have accessed numerous opportunities for continuing education and leadership within senior care facilities. This profession demands ongoing learning, which keeps my skills sharp and my passion alive for advocating on behalf of the elderly community. "

Other Things You Should Know About Becoming a Geriatric Counselor

What type of certification is required for geriatric counselors?

Geriatric counselors typically need state licensure in counseling or social work, which requires completing a master's degree plus supervised clinical hours. While there is no universal geriatric-specific certification mandated nationwide, some professionals pursue certifications like the Certified Clinical Geriatric Specialist (CCGS) to demonstrate expertise in elder care. These additional credentials can enhance job prospects but are not always required for entry-level positions.

What is the work environment like for a geriatric counselor?

Geriatric counselors often work in clinical settings such as hospitals, nursing homes, outpatient facilities, or private practices. Their roles may involve one-on-one client sessions, family consultations, and collaboration with multidisciplinary healthcare teams. The work can be emotionally demanding due to the complexities of aging-related issues, but it also offers the opportunity for meaningful patient interactions.

Are continuing education requirements common for geriatric counselors?

Yes, most states require licensed counselors to complete continuing education units (CEUs) regularly to maintain their licensure. Geriatric counselors often pursue specialized training in aging, dementia, or end-of-life care to stay current with best practices. These ongoing educational efforts ensure that practitioners provide effective, evidence-based support tailored to the elderly population.

How does technology impact the role of a geriatric counselor?

Technology is increasingly integrated into geriatric counseling through telehealth services, electronic health records, and cognitive assessment tools. Teletherapy has expanded access for elderly clients who face mobility or transportation challenges. However, counselors must also address digital literacy gaps among seniors to ensure effective communication and treatment adherence.