Position
Salary

How much does a Mental Health Director make?

The average salary for a Mental Health Director is $104,913 per year in the US.

A Mental Health Director plays a crucial role in overseeing mental health services. They help ensure that care is high quality and meets the needs of their community. The average yearly salary for this position is $104,913. This means, on average, Mental Health Directors make a steady income to support themselves and their families.

The salary for a Mental Health Director can vary based on experience and location. At the lower end, some earn around $64,480 a year. As they gain more experience, salaries can rise to over $190,000 per year. Factors like where they work, the size of the organization, and the region can also affect earnings. Those who work in larger cities or more demanding roles may see higher salaries.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Mental Health Director?

Mental health directors in San Diego, California, often see the highest average salaries, making it a prime location for those in the field. With an average salary of $118,967, San Diego offers top compensation for leadership roles. Washington, D.C., follows closely with an average salary of $114,355 for mental health directors, making it another attractive option.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Mental Health Director jobs, highlighting San Diego, CA with the highest at $118,967 and Chicago, IL with the lowest at $91,457.
  1. San Diego, CA
    Average Salary: $118,967
    In San Diego, leading a mental health program means collaborating with top-tier hospitals and wellness centers. The mild climate and vibrant community make it ideal for encouraging holistic well-being. Local giants like Sharp HealthCare offer great opportunities for career growth.
    Find Mental Health Director jobs in San Diego, CA


  2. Washington, DC
    Average Salary: $114,355
    As a mental health leader in Washington, DC, you'll find a mix of government and private sectors. Working with organizations like MedStar Health provides chances to influence policy and improve services. The city's dynamic environment supports mental health innovation.
    Find Mental Health Director jobs in Washington, DC


  3. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $100,907
    In Los Angeles, guiding mental health initiatives means serving a diverse population. Major employers such as Kaiser Permanente offer extensive resources. The city’s rich cultural scene also supports various outreach programs and community engagement.
    Find Mental Health Director jobs in Los Angeles, CA


  4. Chicago, IL
    Average Salary: $91,457
    Chicago offers a rewarding experience for those managing mental health services. With leaders like Northwestern Memorial Healthcare, the city emphasizes patient-centered care. The vibrant job market supports professional development and community impact.
    Find Mental Health Director jobs in Chicago, IL

What are the best companies a Mental Health Director can work for?

Bay Area Community Services offers the highest salary for Mental Health Director jobs, with an average of $221,800. NYC Health + Hospitals provides the next best compensation, averaging $126,814. Wellpath also offers competitive pay at an average of $100,434, while Psychiatric Medical Care offers $85,669. These figures highlight the financial rewards of working with top companies in the field.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Mental Health Director jobs, highlighting Bay Area Community Services with the highest at $221,800 and Psychiatric Medical Care with the lowest at $85,669.
  1. Bay Area Community Services
    Average Salary: $221,800
    Bay Area Community Services offers a variety of mental health director positions. These roles focus on managing mental health programs in several locations, including Oakland, San Jose, and San Francisco. The company is dedicated to providing comprehensive care to the community.


  2. NYC Health + Hospitals
    Average Salary: $126,814
    NYC Health + Hospitals has many mental health director positions across New York City. These roles aim to lead mental health services in numerous hospitals and clinics. The company offers a chance to make a big impact in one of the largest public health systems.


  3. Wellpath
    Average Salary: $100,434
    Wellpath provides mental health director jobs in multiple locations, such as Atlanta, Chicago, and Los Angeles. This company focuses on delivering health care services in correctional facilities. It is a good fit for those who want to work in a unique and challenging environment.


  4. Psychiatric Medical Care
    Average Salary: $85,669
    Psychiatric Medical Care offers mental health director positions in areas like New York, Florida, and California. These roles involve overseeing mental health programs in clinics and private practices. The company values patient care and professional growth.

How to earn more as a Mental Health Director?

Earning more as a Mental Health Director often depends on a mix of experience, education, and specialized skills. Understanding the key factors can help increase earning potential. Here are some important aspects to consider:

First, gaining more education can lead to higher salaries. Advanced degrees such as a Master's or Doctorate in Mental Health or a related field can make a difference. Second, gaining certifications can improve job prospects and salary. Special certifications in areas like trauma, substance abuse, or child and family therapy can be valuable. Third, having more years of experience can increase earning potential. Directors with several years of experience often command higher salaries. Fourth, working in a high-demand area can also lead to higher pay. Urban areas with limited mental health services often offer higher wages. Finally, managing larger teams or programs can lead to higher earnings. Directors who oversee multiple programs or have larger budgets often earn more.

Becoming a Mental Health Director with a higher salary involves strategic planning and continuous professional development. By focusing on education, certifications, experience, location, and management roles, job seekers can improve their earning potential.

Consider the following factors to boost your salary as a Mental Health Director:

  • Advanced degrees in Mental Health or related fields
  • Special certifications in specific therapy areas
  • Several years of experience in the field
  • Working in high-demand urban areas
  • Managing larger teams or programs

Currently 39 Mental Health Director job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Mental Health Director in the US?

Learn what a Mental Health Director does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Mental Health Director today.
Position
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Mental Health Director
39 Job Openings