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How much does a Mental Health Director make?

The average salary for a Mental Health Director is $102,107 per year in the US.

A Mental Health Director plays a crucial role in managing mental health services. They oversee programs, staff, and budgets. This job often comes with a rewarding salary. The average yearly salary for a Mental Health Director is around $102,107. This figure can vary based on experience, location, and the size of the organization.

Mental Health Directors can earn more as they gain more experience. The salary range can be quite broad. At the lower end, some directors earn around $61,500 per year. At the higher end, top earners can make over $200,000 annually. This wide range shows that there are many opportunities for growth and advancement in this field.

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

Mental health directors in Washington, DC, earn the highest average salary at $131,275. This city offers many opportunities for those in the mental health field. San Diego, CA, and Los Angeles, CA, also provide competitive salaries, with averages of $111,658 and $110,347, respectively.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Mental Health Director jobs, highlighting Washington, DC with the highest at $131,275 and Chicago, IL with the lowest at $95,559.
  1. Washington, DC
    Average Salary: $131,275
    In Washington, DC, a leader in healthcare management can find rewarding opportunities. The city is home to prominent institutions like the National Institute of Mental Health. Working here offers a chance to influence public health policies and collaborate with top-tier organizations.
    Find Mental Health Director jobs in Washington, DC


  2. San Diego, CA
    Average Salary: $111,658
    San Diego offers a vibrant environment for mental health professionals. The city's focus on wellness and community support makes it an ideal place to work. With organizations like Sharp HealthCare, professionals can make a significant impact on mental health services.
    Find Mental Health Director jobs in San Diego, CA


  3. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $110,347
    Los Angeles provides a dynamic setting for mental health directors. The city's diverse population and numerous healthcare facilities create a rich landscape for professional growth. Working with leading institutions like Kaiser Permanente can offer valuable experiences.
    Find Mental Health Director jobs in Los Angeles, CA


  4. Baltimore, MD
    Average Salary: $108,598
    Baltimore presents a unique opportunity for those in the mental health field. The city's commitment to community health and its various healthcare providers make it a great place to work. Professionals can contribute to impactful mental health initiatives and programs.
    Find Mental Health Director jobs in Baltimore, MD


  5. Chicago, IL
    Average Salary: $95,559
    Chicago offers a bustling environment for mental health directors. The city's extensive healthcare network and focus on mental health services provide many opportunities. Working with organizations like Rush University Medical Center can lead to significant professional development.
    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 top salaries for Mental Health Directors, with an average of $199,923. NYC Health + Hospitals also provides competitive pay, averaging $113,493. Community Research Foundation pays around $110,578, making it another attractive option.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Mental Health Director jobs, highlighting Bay Area Community Services with the highest at $199,923 and Psychiatric Medical Care with the lowest at $84,802.
  1. Bay Area Community Services
    Average Salary: $199,923
    Bay Area Community Services offers rewarding Mental Health Director positions. They operate in California and provide a range of mental health services. Directors here lead teams that focus on community care and support.


  2. NYC Health + Hospitals
    Average Salary: $113,493
    NYC Health + Hospitals is a leading healthcare provider in New York City. They offer Mental Health Director roles with a focus on urban health challenges. Directors work in various hospitals and clinics across the city.


  3. Community Research Foundation
    Average Salary: $110,578
    Community Research Foundation provides mental health services in Massachusetts. They seek directors who can lead innovative programs. Directors work in multiple locations, including Boston and its suburbs.


  4. Wellpath
    Average Salary: $96,500
    Wellpath offers Mental Health Director positions with a focus on correctional facilities. They operate nationwide, providing mental health services in prisons and jails. Directors here lead teams that support inmates' mental health.


  5. Psychiatric Medical Care
    Average Salary: $84,802
    Psychiatric Medical Care provides mental health services in Florida. They offer director positions with a focus on outpatient care. Directors work in various locations, including Tampa and Miami.

How to earn more as a Mental Health Director?

A Mental Health Director plays a crucial role in managing mental health services. This role requires strong leadership and a deep understanding of mental health issues. Increasing your earning potential in this field involves several key factors. These factors can help you advance your career and achieve higher compensation.

First, gaining experience is key. Directors with more years in the field often earn more. Experience allows you to understand complex issues better and manage teams effectively. Second, obtaining advanced degrees or certifications can boost your salary. Programs like a Master’s in Mental Health Administration or a Certified Mental Health Director (CMHD) credential can be very valuable. Third, specializing in a niche area can also increase your earning potential. Areas like child and adolescent mental health or substance abuse treatment often command higher salaries. Fourth, networking within the industry can open up higher-paying opportunities. Attending conferences and joining professional organizations can help you connect with potential employers. Lastly, taking on additional responsibilities can lead to higher pay. This might include managing larger budgets or overseeing multiple facilities.

By focusing on these factors, a Mental Health Director can work towards earning more. Each step can lead to better job opportunities and higher compensation.

  1. Gain experience in the field.
  2. Obtain advanced degrees or certifications.
  3. Specialize in a niche area.
  4. Network within the industry.
  5. Take on additional responsibilities.

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