How much does a Mental Health Professional make?
Mental health professionals often earn a rewarding salary. This profession supports people in their emotional and mental well-being. The average yearly salary for a mental health professional is about $77,981. This salary can change based on experience and location.
Different types of mental health professionals earn various amounts. For example:
- Psychiatrists typically earn the highest salaries, often over $200,000 annually.
- Psychologists can make between $60,000 and $100,000 per year.
- Licensed professional counselors usually earn between $30,000 and $60,000 a year.
- Social workers can expect salaries from about $40,000 to $60,000 annually.
These numbers show that the field offers many opportunities for those interested in helping others.
What are the highest paying cities for a Mental Health Professional?

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Stockton, CA
Average Salary: $162,415
In Stockton, mental health professionals find rewarding work in community clinics and hospitals. The city's growing population offers diverse cases and many opportunities to make a difference. Local employers include Kaiser Permanente and Community Health.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $135,175
San Diego offers a vibrant environment for mental health professionals. The city's cultural diversity provides unique experiences and challenges. Rady Children’s Hospital and Veterans Affairs Medical Center are leading employers.
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Columbia, MO
Average Salary: $127,629
Columbia provides a close-knit community for mental health professionals. The University of Missouri offers many opportunities for teaching and research. MU Health Care and local private practices are key employers.
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Providence, RI
Average Salary: $124,413
In Providence, mental health professionals benefit from a strong community focus. The city's rich history and culture add depth to the work. Lifespan and Rhode Island Hospital provide many job opportunities.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $122,092
San Jose offers dynamic work for mental health professionals in tech-driven settings. The city’s fast pace means varied and interesting cases. Local employers include El Camino Health and Valley Medical Center.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $119,699
Sacramento provides a supportive environment for mental health professionals. The state capital offers many opportunities in public health. Kaiser Permanente and County of Sacramento are prominent employers.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $116,106
San Francisco offers a vibrant and diverse setting for mental health professionals. The city’s progressive culture enriches the work. UCSF Health and San Francisco Behavioral Health Services are major employers.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $113,988
Santa Rosa offers a serene environment for mental health professionals. The city's scenic beauty provides a calming backdrop for work. Sutter Health and Santa Rosa Behavioral Healthcare are leading employers.
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Dayton, OH
Average Salary: $113,499
Dayton offers many opportunities for mental health professionals. The city’s strong community spirit enhances the work. Premier Health and Dayton Children’s Hospital are key employers.
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Modesto, CA
Average Salary: $111,583
Modesto offers a supportive environment for mental health professionals. The city’s growing population provides many opportunities. Regional Medical Center and County of Stanislaus are major employers.
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What are the best companies a Mental Health Professional can work for?

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TEEMA
Average Salary: $185,437
TEEMA provides mental health services to schools. The company serves multiple states, including California, Texas, and New York. TEEMA focuses on making a big impact in educational settings.
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Kaiser Permanente
Average Salary: $121,072
Kaiser Permanente offers a range of mental health services. They have locations across the United States, including California, Washington, and Colorado. They focus on comprehensive mental health care for their members.
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P.I.E. Management, L.L.C.
Average Salary: $110,000
P.I.E. Management provides mental health services in various facilities. They operate in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Florida. They offer quality care in a supportive environment.
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Care One, Inc.
Average Salary: $110,000
Care One, Inc. provides mental health services in nursing and rehabilitation centers. They have locations in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and New York. They focus on patient-centered care.
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Healthcare Staffing Professionals, Inc.
Average Salary: $110,000
Healthcare Staffing Professionals offer mental health staffing services. They serve various states, including California and New York. They focus on connecting qualified professionals with the right jobs.
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Allina Health
Average Salary: $105,933
Allina Health provides mental health services through their hospitals and clinics. They serve Minnesota and Wisconsin. They focus on integrated care for better patient outcomes.
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Fairview Health Services
Average Salary: $99,586
Fairview Health Services offers mental health care through their hospitals and clinics. They operate in Minnesota and Wisconsin. They focus on delivering high-quality care across their facilities.
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University of Vermont Health Network
Average Salary: $95,453
The University of Vermont Health Network offers mental health services through their hospitals and clinics. They serve Vermont and New York. They focus on academic and community-based care.
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Advanced Correctional Healthcare
Average Salary: $91,808
Advanced Correctional Healthcare provides mental health services in correctional facilities. They serve multiple states, including Illinois and Texas. They focus on specialized care in unique settings.
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Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation
Average Salary: $91,783
Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation offers mental health and addiction treatment services. They have locations in Minnesota, Florida, and California. They focus on comprehensive care for individuals struggling with addiction and mental health.
How to earn more as a Mental Health Professional?
A mental health professional can find several ways to increase their earnings. Building a successful and rewarding career often requires strategic decisions and continuous learning. Choosing the right path can lead to higher income and job satisfaction. Consider these key factors to improve earnings.
Expanding expertise is one of the most effective ways to increase earnings. Specializing in areas like child psychology, addiction, or trauma can make a professional more valuable. Achieving certifications in these specialties can lead to higher-paying opportunities. Continuing education courses and workshops can help maintain and enhance these skills. A specialized professional often commands a higher salary due to their in-demand skills.
Location plays a significant role in earning potential. Urban areas and regions with a shortage of mental health professionals often offer higher wages. Working in private practices or well-funded institutions can also lead to better compensation. Professionals may consider relocating to areas where their skills are in higher demand. Researching the job market in different areas can guide informed decisions about where to work.
- Gain specialized certifications
- Choose a high-demand location
- Work in private practices or well-funded institutions
- Consider relocation for better opportunities
- Attend continuing education courses



