How much does a Counselor make?
A Counselor can earn a solid income. The average yearly salary for a Counselor is $88,942. This profession offers a range of salaries based on experience, location, and the type of institution where the Counselor works. The range goes from around $43,000 for those starting out to over $217,000 for those at the top.
Most Counselors earn between $58,818 and $137,909. Here is a breakdown of the salary distribution: 13.59% earn between $43,000 and $58,818, 27.01% earn between $58,818 and $74,636, and 22.61% earn between $74,636 and $90,455. As experience grows, so does the salary. Those who reach the top 10% can expect to make between $137,909 and $217,000 a year.
What are the highest paying cities for a Counselor?
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Stamford, CT
Average Salary: $184,997
In Stamford, one can find rewarding roles with prominent companies such as UnitedHealthcare and Synchrony Financial. Opportunities include counseling for mental health and substance abuse, with a focus on community wellbeing. The city's commitment to health services makes it an ideal place for impactful work.
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Honolulu, HI
Average Salary: $151,010
Working in Honolulu offers a chance to help those dealing with the stresses of island life. Key employers in the area include Kaiser Permanente and Hawaii Medical Service Association. Here, one can make a difference in both public and private sectors, supporting individuals and families with compassionate care.
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Fayetteville, AR
Average Salary: $150,526
Fayetteville provides numerous counseling positions within organizations like Walmart and Mercy Health. These roles offer the chance to work on a variety of issues, from mental health to family counseling. The supportive community and diverse opportunities make it a great place for a fulfilling career.
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Little Rock, AR
Average Salary: $142,487
Little Rock presents a vibrant environment for those in counseling, with employers like Baptist Health and Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield. Professionals here can expect to engage with a diverse population, addressing a range of personal and social challenges with empathy and skill.
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Mobile, AL
Average Salary: $136,992
In Mobile, opportunities exist within healthcare giants like Springhill Medical Center and USA Health. Here, counselors can support individuals facing health-related and personal issues. The city's rich history and culture provide a unique backdrop for impactful work.
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Charleston, SC
Average Salary: $135,430
Charleston offers a blend of historic charm and modern opportunities for counselors. With notable employers such as MUSC Health and Bon Secours St. Francis Health System, professionals can work in a supportive environment, addressing mental health and substance abuse issues effectively.
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Allentown, PA
Average Salary: $131,717
Allentown, with its strong community focus, provides numerous counseling jobs at organizations like Lehigh Valley Health Network and St. Luke's University Health Network. Professionals here can help individuals with a wide range of issues, contributing to the community's wellbeing.
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Evansville, IN
Average Salary: $131,253
In Evansville, counselors can find rewarding positions at places like Deaconess Health System and University of Southern Indiana. These roles involve addressing mental health and personal challenges, with a focus on providing quality care and support to the community.
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Knoxville, TN
Average Salary: $130,780
Knoxville offers many opportunities in counseling at institutions like Parkwest Medical Center and the University of Tennessee. Professionals can work on a variety of issues, from addiction to family counseling, in a city known for its strong support networks.
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Jackson, MS
Average Salary: $127,411
In Jackson, counselors can find fulfilling roles at major employers like St. Dominic’s Hospital and The University of Mississippi Medical Center. These positions involve addressing a broad spectrum of personal and health-related challenges, contributing to the area’s health and community care.
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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 roles with competitive salaries. They operate nationwide, providing telehealth services to a wide range of clients. Their focus is on making mental health care accessible and effective.
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SonderMind
Average Salary: $183,843
SonderMind is known for its innovative approach to mental health care. Counselors here enjoy a supportive environment. They work with clients in various locations, aiming to provide high-quality care.
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Zeel
Average Salary: $165,000
Zeel provides a unique platform for Counselors to connect with clients. They focus on flexible hours and personalized care. Zeel operates in many regions, offering diverse opportunities.
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Mindful Therapy Group
Average Salary: $163,530
Mindful Therapy Group is dedicated to comprehensive mental health services. Counselors here benefit from a collaborative environment. They serve clients in various locations, aiming to improve their well-being.
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Brightside Health
Average Salary: $162,827
Brightside Health offers promising Counselor roles with a strong emphasis on client care. They serve clients across multiple locations, ensuring accessible mental health support.
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Dreamchasers Community Services LLC.
Average Salary: $156,742
Dreamchasers Community Services LLC. focuses on community-based mental health care. Counselors here work closely with clients, providing tailored support. They operate in various locations.
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Talkspace
Average Salary: $146,458
Talkspace is a leading online therapy platform. Counselors enjoy flexible hours and a supportive team. They serve clients nationwide, providing convenient access to mental health care.
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Options Counseling and Family Services
Average Salary: $142,048
Options Counseling and Family Services offers diverse Counselor roles. They focus on comprehensive care for families. They operate in multiple regions, providing valuable services.
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El Camino Health
Average Salary: $133,608
El Camino Health provides a rewarding environment for Counselors. They focus on holistic health care. They serve clients in various locations, aiming to enhance well-being.
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Crossover Health
Average Salary: $131,982
Crossover Health offers diverse Counselor roles with a focus on integrated health care. They operate in multiple locations, providing a supportive environment for mental health professionals.
How to earn more as a Counselor?
Counselors can boost their earnings through several strategies. Specializing in a high-demand area, such as addiction counseling or career counseling, often leads to higher salaries. Gaining certifications from recognized boards can also increase earning potential. Experience matters, as seasoned counselors typically command higher wages.
Working in high-cost areas or industries with higher salaries can further improve earnings. Networking and building a strong reputation in the field can open doors to better-paying opportunities. Attending workshops and continuing education courses helps counselors stay updated and competitive. These efforts can lead to more fulfilling and lucrative career paths.
Factors that can lead to higher earnings include:
- Specializing in high-demand areas
- Obtaining recognized certifications
- Gaining experience over time
- Working in high-paying regions or industries
- Continuous professional development
