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How much does a Counselor make in Ames, IA?

The average salary for a Counselor is $67,013 per year in Ames, IA.

In Ames, IA, counselors enjoy a rewarding career with a competitive salary. The average yearly salary for counselors stands at about $67,013. This figure provides a solid financial foundation for those who dedicate their careers to helping others.


The salary range for counselors in Ames can vary based on several factors. These factors include years of experience, specific areas of expertise, and the type of institution where the counselor works. A counselor with more experience or in a specialized area might earn more. For instance, those with a few years in the field can expect salaries starting around $56,500, while more experienced professionals can earn up to $100,000 annually. This range offers opportunities for growth and advancement in the counseling profession.

Counselor jobs in Ames, IA

What are the highest paying cities for a Counselor near Ames, IA?

Counselors near Ames, IA, have good opportunities in nearby cities. Urbandale, IA, offers the highest salary at $91,932. Des Moines and West Des Moines also provide attractive pay rates, with average salaries of $88,496 and $82,030, respectively. Other cities like Ankeny and Clive show promising earnings as well.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Counselor jobs near Ames, IA, highlighting Urbandale, IA with the highest at $91,932 and Waterloo, IA with the lowest at $65,264.
  1. Urbandale, IA
    Average Salary: $91,932
    Urbandale offers a thriving community with many opportunities in mental health and wellness. Professionals find roles in local clinics and educational institutions. Leading employers include MercyOne and UnityPoint Health.
    Find Counselor jobs in Urbandale, IA


  2. Des Moines, IA
    Average Salary: $88,496
    Des Moines presents a dynamic environment for those in the counseling field. The city is home to major healthcare providers like Broadlawns Medical Center and Iowa Lutheran Hospital. Counselors can work in schools, hospitals, or private practices here.
    Find Counselor jobs in Des Moines, IA


  3. West Des Moines, IA
    Average Salary: $82,030
    West Des Moines provides a high quality of life with numerous career opportunities. Local companies such as AEA and Des Moines Area Community College seek skilled counselors. The community environment supports a healthy work-life balance.
    Find Counselor jobs in West Des Moines, IA


  4. Ankeny, IA
    Average Salary: $81,854
    Ankeny's growing population creates demand for counselors in mental health and education. Working here offers stability with organizations like the Ankeny Community School District and local nonprofits. The city values mental health professionals.
    Find Counselor jobs in Ankeny, IA


  5. Clive, IA
    Average Salary: $81,172
    Clive offers a supportive community for counseling careers. The city's schools and local clinics need qualified professionals. Employers include the Clive Community School District and various private practices.
    Find Counselor jobs in Clive, IA


  6. Cedar Falls, IA
    Average Salary: $80,446
    Cedar Falls provides a welcoming environment for mental health professionals. The University of Northern Iowa and local schools are key employers. Counselors can find fulfilling work with a strong community focus here.
    Find Counselor jobs in Cedar Falls, IA


  7. Johnston, IA
    Average Salary: $76,156
    Johnston has many opportunities for those in counseling. The city's educational institutions and healthcare providers need dedicated professionals. Employers include the Johnston Community School District and local clinics.
    Find Counselor jobs in Johnston, IA


  8. Ames, IA
    Average Salary: $67,686
    Ames offers a vibrant community for counseling careers. The presence of Iowa State University and local schools creates many job openings. Professionals here work in diverse settings, from universities to community health centers.
    Find Counselor jobs in Ames, IA


  9. Waukee, IA
    Average Salary: $67,214
    Waukee provides a stable environment with opportunities in counseling. Local schools and healthcare facilities are prominent employers. The community's focus on wellness supports a rewarding career in mental health.
    Find Counselor jobs in Waukee, IA


  10. Waterloo, IA
    Average Salary: $65,264
    Waterloo offers a range of opportunities for counseling professionals. Local colleges and community health centers are key employers. The city values mental health and supports a rewarding career path.
    Find Counselor jobs in Waterloo, IA

What are the best paying companies for a Counselor in Ames, IA?

Heart and Solutions and Optimae LifeServices are top choices for counselors seeking a good salary in Ames, IA. These companies offer competitive salaries, with Heart and Solutions paying an average of $64,719 and Optimae LifeServices paying $63,750. Both companies provide a stable environment and opportunities for professional growth. Counselors can expect a rewarding career at these firms, with benefits that support work-life balance. These organizations value their employees and offer a supportive workplace.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Counselor jobs in Ames, IA, highlighting Heart and Solutions with the highest at $64,719 and Optimae LifeServices with the lowest at $63,750.
  1. Heart and Solutions
    Average Salary: $64,719
    Heart and Solutions is a prominent mental health care provider located in Ames, IA. The company offers a variety of counseling services, supporting individuals and families with different needs. Counselors here play a key role in providing therapy and support, helping people improve their mental well-being. Heart and Solutions also offers remote counseling options, making it accessible to a wider audience.


  2. Optimae LifeServices
    Average Salary: $63,750
    Optimae LifeServices is a leading agency providing comprehensive behavioral health services in Ames, IA. They offer various counseling services, including individual, family, and group therapy. The company focuses on creating a supportive environment where counselors can make a real difference. Optimae LifeServices operates in multiple locations, ensuring they can reach and help a diverse community.

Currently 2,791 Counselor job openings, nationwide.

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Counselor
2,791 Job Openings