How much does a Licensed Therapist make?
Licensed therapists play a vital role in helping individuals improve their mental health. These professionals earn a respectable income. On average, they make around $84,194 per year. This figure includes therapists at different stages in their careers.
Therapists can expect to see their salary change based on experience and specialization. Here is a look at the distribution of salaries: 12.56% of therapists earn about $50,000, while 20.38% make around $60,818. Those with more experience, around 21.26%, earn between $71,636 and $82,455 annually. As therapists gain more years of experience, they can see their income rise further, with some earning over $158,000 a year.
What are the highest paying cities for a Licensed Therapist?

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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $131,072
Therapists in San Jose can expect a vibrant and diverse work environment, often working with tech companies that provide mental health services. Leading firms like Kaiser Permanente and El Camino Health offer numerous opportunities. The city's tech-savvy population brings unique challenges and enriching experiences.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $119,065
Santa Rosa provides a tranquil setting for mental health professionals. This city offers a slower pace, allowing for deep, meaningful work with patients. Companies like Sutter Health and Kaiser Permanente are prominent employers in the area, focusing on comprehensive care for their communities.
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Columbus, GA
Average Salary: $116,495
In Columbus, therapists find a balanced lifestyle with a strong sense of community. Well-established organizations like St. Francis - Emory Healthcare offer extensive support. The area's welcoming environment helps foster strong therapeutic relationships.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $114,631
San Francisco's dynamic atmosphere presents a unique opportunity for therapists to work with diverse populations. Companies like UCSF Health and UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital lead in mental health services. The city's vibrant culture enriches the therapeutic experience.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $111,509
Los Angeles offers a bustling environment for mental health professionals, providing varied experiences with a diverse client base. Major employers such as Kaiser Permanente and UCLA Health offer many opportunities. The city's dynamic nature ensures a constant stream of new challenges and growth.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $105,719
Sacramento provides a stable and supportive environment for therapists, with opportunities to make a significant impact. Employers like Kaiser Permanente and Mercy Medical Center focus on community health. The city's focus on public service creates a fulfilling work atmosphere.
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Salem, OR
Average Salary: $105,322
In Salem, therapists enjoy a close-knit community and a peaceful work environment. Organizations like Oregon State Hospital and PeaceHealth offer robust mental health services. The area's supportive culture enhances therapeutic relationships.
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Anchorage, AK
Average Salary: $105,200
Anchorage offers a unique environment with opportunities to work in both urban and remote settings. Therapists can find positions with companies like Alaska Behavioral Health and Providence Alaska Medical Center. The city's natural beauty provides a calming backdrop to therapeutic work.
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Visalia, CA
Average Salary: $104,714
Visalia provides a friendly and supportive environment for mental health professionals. Companies like Kaweah Health and Adventist Health offer excellent opportunities. The city's community focus creates a nurturing atmosphere for patient care.
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Eugene, OR
Average Salary: $103,756
Eugene offers a vibrant and intellectually stimulating environment for therapists. Organizations such as PeaceHealth and Willamette Valley Medical Center provide various mental health services. The city's progressive nature fosters innovative therapeutic practices.
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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 with a focus on providing mental health services. Locations include facilities in Texas, Florida, and California. They value innovation and offer career growth opportunities.
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Family Therapy & Consultation Services
Average Salary: $148,238
Family Therapy & Consultation Services seeks licensed therapists for work with families and individuals. Operating in New York, they emphasize a supportive environment and professional development.
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Caring Family Community Services
Average Salary: $114,048
Caring Family Community Services has Licensed Therapist positions available in Pennsylvania. They focus on community-based care and offer competitive benefits and growth opportunities.
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Family Health Centers of San Diego
Average Salary: $112,994
Family Health Centers of San Diego provides Licensed Therapist roles with a mission to offer comprehensive health services. They operate in multiple locations across San Diego and value community health.
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Boomerang Healthcare
Average Salary: $112,500
Boomerang Healthcare offers Licensed Therapist positions with a focus on diverse patient care. They work in various locations and emphasize teamwork and innovation.
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Blue Rose Consulting Group, Inc.
Average Salary: $111,688
Blue Rose Consulting Group, Inc. seeks licensed therapists for mental health support roles. They operate in Illinois and value a supportive work culture.
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Newport Healthcare
Average Salary: $110,907
Newport Healthcare provides Licensed Therapist positions in multiple states. They focus on youth and family care and offer a collaborative work environment.
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CleanSlate Centers
Average Salary: $108,750
CleanSlate Centers offers Licensed Therapist positions for addiction treatment. They operate in several states and emphasize patient care and growth.
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Ensign Services
Average Salary: $105,055
Ensign Services provides Licensed Therapist positions in senior care settings. They work in multiple locations and value a supportive and patient-focused environment.
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CommonSpirit Health
Average Salary: $99,195
CommonSpirit Health offers Licensed Therapist roles in a variety of settings. They operate in several states and emphasize compassionate care and professional development.
How to earn more as a Licensed Therapist?
A licensed therapist can increase their earnings through various strategies. Focusing on specialization can lead to higher demand and rates. Therapists who specialize in areas like trauma, anxiety, or addiction often command higher fees due to their expertise. Continuing education and obtaining certifications in these specialized areas can further enhance a therapist's credentials and earning potential.
Expanding client base and marketing efforts also play a critical role. Therapists who actively seek new clients through online platforms, community outreach, and networking can significantly increase their income. Developing a strong online presence with a professional website and active social media can attract more clients. Collaborating with other professionals, such as doctors and social workers, can also lead to referrals and a more robust client base.
Here are some key factors to consider for increasing earnings:
- Specialization: Focus on niche areas with high demand.
- Continuing Education: Obtain certifications and advanced training.
- Marketing: Build a strong online presence and network.
- Client Referrals: Collaborate with other professionals for referrals.
- Diversified Services: Offer additional services like workshops or teletherapy.



