How much does a Counselor make?
Counselors work in many different settings, helping people with personal, social, and career challenges. They earn a good salary for their important work. The average yearly salary for a counselor is around $88,988. This means that most counselors make between $43,035 and $217,000 each year. The exact salary can change based on experience, location, and the type of counseling they do.
Counselors can work in schools, hospitals, private practices, and community centers. Each of these places may offer different pay rates. Some counselors also choose to specialize in areas like marriage and family therapy or substance abuse. These specialties can lead to higher pay. Counselors who work in big cities or areas with a high cost of living often earn more than those in smaller towns. Experience also plays a big role. New counselors start at the lower end of the salary range, but they can earn more as they gain more experience and skills.
What are the highest paying cities for a Counselor?

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Stamford, CT
Average Salary: $174,278
Stamford offers a vibrant environment for those in the helping professions. With top employers like Stamford Hospital and the Stamford Public Schools, professionals can find rewarding opportunities. The city's commitment to mental health and education makes it a great place to make a difference.
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Fayetteville, AR
Average Salary: $148,016
In Fayetteville, counseling roles are in high demand. The presence of institutions like the University of Arkansas and local health care providers offers diverse opportunities. The community's focus on education and well-being creates a supportive setting for counselors.
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Honolulu, HI
Average Salary: $146,638
Honolulu provides a unique setting for counseling professionals. The city's diverse culture and strong community support make it an ideal place to work. With employers like Hawaii Pacific Health, counselors can help a wide range of clients.
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Mobile, AL
Average Salary: $136,992
Mobile offers a welcoming environment for those in counseling. The city's healthcare facilities and schools provide many opportunities. The community's emphasis on family and support makes it a fulfilling place to work.
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Little Rock, AR
Average Salary: $135,501
Little Rock is a great place for counseling careers. With major employers like Arkansas Children's Hospital, professionals can find rewarding work. The city's focus on community health and education creates a supportive environment for counselors.
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Charleston, SC
Average Salary: $131,427
Charleston offers a vibrant setting for counseling professionals. The city's healthcare institutions and schools provide many opportunities. The community's emphasis on mental health and education makes it a fulfilling place to work.
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Evansville, IN
Average Salary: $130,704
Evansville provides a supportive environment for counseling careers. With employers like Deaconess Hospital and local schools, professionals can find rewarding opportunities. The city's focus on community health and education creates a positive setting for counselors.
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Billings, MT
Average Salary: $127,374
Billings offers a unique environment for counseling professionals. The city's healthcare facilities and schools provide many opportunities. The community's emphasis on mental health and support makes it a fulfilling place to work.
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Knoxville, TN
Average Salary: $127,305
Knoxville provides a vibrant setting for counseling careers. With major employers like the University of Tennessee and local health care providers, professionals can find rewarding work. The city's focus on education and well-being creates a supportive environment for counselors.
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Allentown, PA
Average Salary: $126,735
Allentown offers a supportive environment for counseling professionals. The city's healthcare institutions and schools provide many opportunities. The community's emphasis on mental health and education makes it a fulfilling place to work.
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What are the best companies a Counselor can work for?

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Headway
Average Salary: $223,333
Headway offers rewarding Counselor jobs with a focus on mental health. They operate in multiple locations, providing flexible work options. Their commitment to quality care makes it a top choice for professionals.
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SonderMind
Average Salary: $184,429
SonderMind provides Counselor positions with competitive pay. They serve clients across various states, ensuring diverse experiences. Their innovative approach to mental health care is highly regarded.
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Empower U, Inc.
Average Salary: $169,999
Empower U, Inc. offers Counselor jobs with a strong emphasis on community support. They operate in several locations, offering a chance to make a meaningful impact. Their supportive environment is ideal for career growth.
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Zeel
Average Salary: $165,000
Zeel provides Counselor positions with attractive salaries. They serve clients in multiple regions, offering flexibility and growth opportunities. Their focus on client care creates a positive work atmosphere.
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Brightside Health
Average Salary: $159,911
Brightside Health offers Counselor jobs with a focus on mental health innovation. They operate in various locations, providing a chance to work with cutting-edge technology. Their supportive culture is great for professional development.
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Mindful Therapy Group
Average Salary: $158,828
Mindful Therapy Group provides Counselor positions with a strong emphasis on client care. They serve clients in multiple areas, offering diverse experiences. Their commitment to quality care makes it a top choice for professionals.
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Dreamchasers Community Services LLC.
Average Salary: $157,615
Dreamchasers Community Services LLC. offers Counselor jobs with a focus on community support. They operate in several locations, providing a chance to make a meaningful impact. Their supportive environment is ideal for career growth.
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Talkspace
Average Salary: $146,163
Talkspace provides Counselor positions with a strong emphasis on flexibility. They serve clients across various regions, offering diverse experiences. Their innovative approach to mental health care is highly regarded.
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El Camino Health
Average Salary: $132,887
El Camino Health offers Counselor jobs with a focus on comprehensive care. They operate in multiple locations, providing a chance to work in a supportive environment. Their commitment to quality care makes it a top choice for professionals.
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Crossover Health
Average Salary: $131,469
Crossover Health provides Counselor positions with a strong emphasis on holistic care. They serve clients in multiple areas, offering diverse experiences. Their supportive culture is great for professional development.
How to earn more as a Counselor?
Counselors can find several ways to increase their earnings. By focusing on these areas, professionals can enhance their skills and marketability. This leads to higher pay and more job satisfaction.
First, gaining more certifications can open new doors. Specializations in areas like marriage and family therapy or substance abuse can lead to higher-paying positions. Second, gaining experience in different settings, such as schools or private practices, can make a counselor more versatile. Third, pursuing a master's or doctoral degree can lead to higher-level positions. Fourth, taking on leadership roles, such as managing a team of counselors, can increase earnings. Finally, networking with other professionals and attending conferences can lead to new job opportunities and higher salaries.
Here are five factors to consider for earning more as a counselor:
- Obtain additional certifications.
- Gain experience in various settings.
- Pursue advanced degrees.
- Take on leadership roles.
- Network with other professionals.



