How much does a Licensed Therapist make?
Licensed therapists play a crucial role in helping people improve their mental and emotional health. The average yearly salary for a licensed therapist is $83,916. This figure varies based on experience, location, and specialization.
Therapists often earn more as they gain more experience. According to the data, the top 10% of therapists earn over $158,182 annually. Locations with higher costs of living, like urban areas, typically pay higher salaries. Specializations such as clinical psychology, counseling, and marriage and family therapy can also command higher rates.
What are the highest paying cities for a Licensed Therapist?

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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $131,399
In San Jose, therapists have a strong demand due to its tech-driven economy and diverse population. Many therapists work with prominent mental health companies, allowing for diverse caseloads and professional growth.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $119,655
Santa Rosa offers a more relaxed pace while still providing many opportunities to help others. Local nonprofits and private practices look for compassionate therapists to join their teams.
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Columbus, GA
Average Salary: $116,495
Therapists in Columbus find a mix of urban and suburban settings. They can work with various clients in community health centers and private practices, offering flexibility and a welcoming environment.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $112,897
San Francisco's vibrant community seeks skilled therapists to address mental health needs. Many professionals work in high-end clinics or with tech companies, focusing on innovative mental health solutions.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $110,985
Los Angeles offers a diverse and dynamic environment for therapists. The city's large population means a variety of client needs. Therapists can find work in clinics, schools, or entertainment industry settings.
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Anchorage, AK
Average Salary: $105,804
Anchorage provides a unique setting for therapists who enjoy a mix of outdoor activities and professional growth. Local hospitals and private practices value therapists who can adapt to a range of environments.
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Salem, OR
Average Salary: $105,322
In Salem, therapists enjoy a supportive community. They work in government agencies, private practices, and community health centers, providing essential mental health services to the local population.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $105,075
Sacramento offers many opportunities for therapists to work with diverse populations. They can find positions in government programs, private practices, and non-profits, focusing on community health.
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Visalia, CA
Average Salary: $104,714
Visalia provides a smaller-city feel with a strong community focus. Therapists work in local clinics and schools, offering personalized care in a supportive environment.
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Eugene, OR
Average Salary: $103,383
Eugene's vibrant college town atmosphere offers unique opportunities for therapists. They can work with university students, families, and the general population, all while enjoying a high quality of life.
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What are the best companies a Licensed Therapist can work for?

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Valor Healthcare
Average Salary: $162,000
Valor Healthcare offers rewarding Licensed Therapist positions. They operate in various states, including California, Florida, and Texas. They focus on providing excellent patient care.
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Family Therapy & Consultation Services
Average Salary: $151,358
At Family Therapy & Consultation Services, Licensed Therapists work with families in need. They operate in Maryland and Virginia. They offer a supportive environment for growth.
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Caring Family Community Services
Average Salary: $113,409
Caring Family Community Services provides diverse opportunities for Licensed Therapists. They serve clients in New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. They value teamwork and client care.
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Family Health Centers of San Diego
Average Salary: $112,994
Family Health Centers of San Diego offers comprehensive healthcare services. They employ Licensed Therapists in San Diego, California. They focus on community health and wellness.
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Boomerang Healthcare
Average Salary: $112,500
Boomerang Healthcare is known for its dynamic work environment. They have positions in California, Texas, and Florida. They prioritize employee development and satisfaction.
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Blue Rose Consulting Group, Inc.
Average Salary: $111,688
Blue Rose Consulting Group, Inc. provides mental health services. They operate in Washington and Oregon. They focus on personalized care and professional growth.
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Ensign Services
Average Salary: $104,511
Ensign Services offers various opportunities for Licensed Therapists. They work in multiple states, including Ohio and Indiana. They aim to support clients with quality care.
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Naphcare, Inc.
Average Salary: $99,659
Naphcare, Inc. provides mental health services in correctional facilities. They operate nationwide. They focus on the well-being of inmates and staff.
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CVS Health
Average Salary: $98,186
CVS Health offers diverse healthcare services. They employ Licensed Therapists across the country. They focus on patient care and innovation in healthcare.
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La Clínica
Average Salary: $96,041
La Clínica provides healthcare services to underserved communities. They operate in California. They focus on cultural competence and community outreach.
How to earn more as a Licensed Therapist?
Becoming a licensed therapist can be a rewarding career. It offers opportunities to help others and grow personally. If you want to earn more, there are strategies you can use. These strategies can help you increase your earnings. Understanding these factors can make a big difference in your income.
One key factor to consider is specialization. Focusing on a specific area of therapy can make you more valuable. For example, working with children, teens, or the elderly can command higher rates. Gaining expertise in areas like trauma, addiction, or couples therapy can also lead to more opportunities. Specialization allows you to stand out in the job market.
Another factor is location. Where you work can affect how much you earn. Urban areas often have higher demand for therapists. This demand can lead to higher pay. Rural areas may offer lower pay but often have fewer therapists. Finding a balance between location and pay is important. It ensures you can meet your financial needs while still providing valuable services.
- Specialization: Focus on specific areas like children, addiction, or couples therapy.
- Location: Urban areas often offer higher pay due to higher demand.
- Continuing Education: Keep learning and updating skills to stay competitive.
- Networking: Build relationships with other professionals to find more job opportunities.
- Marketing: Use social media and a professional website to attract more clients.



