Counselor Counselor Salary in Washington, DC

Counselor Salary in Washington, DC

Updated on Sep 14, 2026
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City
Salary

How much does a Counselor make in Washington, DC?

The average salary for a Counselor is $126,694 per year in Washington, DC.
Yearly
Monthly
Weekly
Hourly
Graph depicting the yearly salary distribution for Counselor jobs in Washington, DC, showing an average salary of $126,694 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the monthly salary distribution for Counselor jobs in Washington, DC, showing an average salary of $10,558 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the weekly salary distribution for Counselor jobs in Washington, DC, showing an average salary of $2,436 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the hourly salary distribution for Counselor jobs in Washington, DC, showing an average salary of $61 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

Counselors in Washington, DC, have a rewarding career with competitive salaries. The average yearly salary for a counselor stands at about $126,694. This figure highlights the value that counselors bring to the community by helping others navigate personal and professional challenges.

Counselors' salaries can vary based on factors such as experience, specialization, and educational background. Some counselors earn around $65,000, while experienced professionals can reach up to $215,000 annually. This range offers opportunities for growth and advancement in the field. The salary distribution provides a clear picture of potential earnings across different experience levels:

  • 15.46% earn between $65,000 and $78,636
  • 19.32% earn between $78,636 and $92,273
  • 3.86% earn between $92,273 and $105,909
  • 4.19% earn between $105,909 and $119,545
  • 7.73% earn between $119,545 and $133,182
  • 13.53% earn between $133,182 and $146,818
  • 8.69% earn between $146,818 and $160,455
  • 3.54% earn between $160,455 and $174,091
  • 7.08% earn between $174,091 and $187,727
  • 4.51% earn between $187,727 and $201,364
  • 7.08% earn between $201,364 and $215,000
Counselor jobs in Washington, DC
View all Counselor jobs in Washington, DC

What are the highest paying cities for a Counselor near Washington, DC?

Counselors near Washington, DC, can find high-paying opportunities in Arlington, VA, where the average salary tops at $138,273. Annapolis, MD, offers a competitive salary of $110,729 for those in counseling roles. Fairfax, VA, stands out with an average salary of $95,246, making it a lucrative choice for professionals in the area. These cities provide attractive salaries for counselors, reflecting the demand and value of mental health services in these regions. Silver Spring, MD, and Bethesda, MD, also offer competitive wages, averaging $97,835 and $93,457 respectively. Job seekers can benefit from these opportunities and consider the location's cost of living when making their decisions.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Counselor jobs near Washington, DC, highlighting Arlington, VA with the highest at $138,273 and Gaithersburg, MD with the lowest at $92,234.

  1. Arlington, VA
    Average Salary: $138,273
    Opportunities in Arlington provide a unique chance to work with military families. With prominent companies like Inova Health System and Northern Virginia Community College, professionals can find meaningful work. The community support and resources make it ideal for those seeking to make a difference.
    Find Counselor jobs in Arlington, VA


  2. Annapolis, MD
    Average Salary: $110,729
    In Annapolis, counselors benefit from a close-knit community. With key employers such as the U.S. Naval Academy and Anne Arundel Medical Center, job seekers can find rewarding positions. Annapolis offers a peaceful environment, perfect for those who want to balance work and life.
    Find Counselor jobs in Annapolis, MD


  3. Silver Spring, MD
    Average Salary: $97,835
    Silver Spring offers a vibrant atmosphere for counselors. The area’s schools and healthcare facilities provide varied opportunities. Companies like Kaiser Permanente and The Institutes offer robust career options. It’s a lively place for those who enjoy a dynamic work environment.
    Find Counselor jobs in Silver Spring, MD


  4. Fairfax, VA
    Average Salary: $95,246
    Working as a counselor in Fairfax allows for diverse experiences. Fairfax County Public Schools and Inova Fairfax Hospital are major employers. The city offers a balanced lifestyle with plenty of cultural and recreational activities. It’s a great place for those looking for growth and community.
    Find Counselor jobs in Fairfax, VA


  5. Alexandria, VA
    Average Salary: $95,137
    Alexandria provides a mix of urban and suburban living for counselors. With employers such as Inova Alexandria Hospital and the city’s school system, professionals can find rewarding work. The historic charm and modern amenities make it an attractive place to live and work.
    Find Counselor jobs in Alexandria, VA


  6. Baltimore, MD
    Average Salary: $94,949
    In Baltimore, counselors enjoy a rich cultural scene. The Johns Hopkins University and the city’s public schools offer numerous opportunities. Baltimore is a city of contrasts, with vibrant neighborhoods and a strong community spirit. It’s ideal for those who thrive in an energetic environment.
    Find Counselor jobs in Baltimore, MD


  7. Bethesda, MD
    Average Salary: $93,457
    Bethesda offers a suburban feel with close proximity to Washington, D.C. Employers like the National Institutes of Health and Walter Reed National Military Medical Center provide excellent career prospects. The area is known for its high quality of life and excellent schools, making it a desirable place for families.
    Find Counselor jobs in Bethesda, MD


  8. Hyattsville, MD
    Average Salary: $93,078
    Hyattsville is a welcoming place for counselors. With the University of Maryland and local healthcare facilities, job opportunities abound. The community is diverse and supportive, offering a good work-life balance. It’s a great area for those who value stability and community involvement.
    Find Counselor jobs in Hyattsville, MD


  9. Falls Church, VA
    Average Salary: $92,722
    Falls Church provides a blend of suburban charm and urban access. Companies like Inova Health System and local schools offer solid career options. The city’s close-knit community and excellent schools make it a great place for families and individuals alike.
    Find Counselor jobs in Falls Church, VA


  10. Gaithersburg, MD
    Average Salary: $92,234
    Gaithersburg offers a mix of suburban living and career opportunities. With major employers such as Montgomery County Public Schools and Inova Schar Heart and Vascular, counselors can find meaningful work. The community is welcoming and family-oriented, making it a great place to live and work.
    Find Counselor jobs in Gaithersburg, MD

What are the best paying companies for a Counselor in Washington, DC?

Headway stands out as the top-paying company for counselors in Washington, DC, with an average salary of $215,000. SonderMind and Grow Therapy follow closely, offering salaries around $204,000 and $167,000 respectively. These companies provide competitive compensation, making them attractive options for professionals in the field.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Counselor jobs in Washington, DC, highlighting Headway with the highest at $215,000 and Therapeutic Links Behavioral Health Services with the lowest at $110,000.

  1. Headway
    Average Salary: $215,000
    Headway offers counseling services in Washington, DC, and beyond. The company focuses on providing quality mental health support through telehealth. Clients can access counselors across various locations in DC.


  2. SonderMind
    Average Salary: $204,000
    SonderMind partners with therapists to offer counseling services in Washington, DC. The company aims to improve access to mental health care. They operate with locations throughout the DC area, providing flexible and convenient care.


  3. Grow Therapy
    Average Salary: $167,444
    Grow Therapy is dedicated to making counseling accessible. They have several locations in Washington, DC, where clients can find highly qualified counselors. The company supports both in-person and virtual sessions.


  4. Brightside Health
    Average Salary: $162,549
    Brightside Health offers mental health services, including counseling, in Washington, DC. The company combines technology with clinical expertise to provide effective care. Their services are available throughout the DC metro area.


  5. MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES, LLC
    Average Salary: $155,000
    MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES, LLC provides professional counseling in Washington, DC. The company emphasizes personalized care and has multiple locations in the city. They offer a wide range of mental health services.


  6. Volunteers of America Chesapeake & Carolinas
    Average Salary: $150,000
    Volunteers of America Chesapeake & Carolinas offers counseling in Washington, DC, focusing on community support. They have several offices in the area, providing accessible mental health services to the public.


  7. Talkspace
    Average Salary: $147,495
    Talkspace provides online counseling in Washington, DC. The company offers flexibility with virtual sessions, allowing clients to access care from anywhere. They have numerous therapists available in the DC region.


  8. TRUEYOU CENTER
    Average Salary: $119,792
    TRUEYOU CENTER offers counseling services in Washington, DC. The company aims to promote mental wellness and has several locations in the city. They focus on providing quality care to meet individual needs.


  9. Included Health
    Average Salary: $112,002
    Included Health provides mental health support in Washington, DC. The company offers comprehensive care, including counseling services, through various locations in the city. They prioritize patient well-being.


  10. Therapeutic Links Behavioral Health Services
    Average Salary: $110,000
    Therapeutic Links Behavioral Health Services offers counseling in Washington, DC. The company focuses on personalized care and has several offices in the area. They provide effective mental health support to clients.

Currently 3,325 Counselor job openings, nationwide.

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