How much does a Mental Health Worker make?
Mental Health Workers help people with mental health issues. They often work in hospitals, clinics, or community centers. They make an average yearly salary of $41,973. This means they earn a decent wage for their important work.
Salaries can vary based on experience and location. Entry-level workers might start at around $28,000 a year. Experienced workers can earn up to $65,000 or more. Other factors, like where they work and what services they provide, also affect salary. Mental Health Workers play a crucial role in society. Their salaries reflect the value of their work and the need for skilled professionals in this field.
What are the highest paying cities for a Mental Health Worker?

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Jackson, MS
Average Salary: $62,579
In Jackson, mental health workers support patients at local hospitals and clinics. The city's strong healthcare system offers plenty of opportunities. Major employers include the University of Mississippi Medical Center.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $53,538
Boston offers many chances to work in mental health. Workers help at top institutions like Massachusetts General Hospital and McLean Hospital. The city's big healthcare scene provides diverse career paths.
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Providence, RI
Average Salary: $50,835
Providence is home to skilled mental health professionals. Workers aid patients at Lifespan and Butler Hospital. The city’s rich history in healthcare makes it an ideal place for career growth.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $50,369
San Jose offers dynamic roles in mental health. Workers support patients at places like El Camino Health. The tech-heavy environment brings unique challenges and growth opportunities.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $50,027
Portland offers rewarding work in mental health. Workers help at Kaiser Permanente and Portland State University. The city's focus on wellness makes it a great place for professionals.
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Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $49,007
Minneapolis provides many mental health jobs. Workers aid patients at Allina Health and Park Nicollet. The city’s strong community support networks enhance the work environment.
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Tucson, AZ
Average Salary: $47,761
Tucson offers diverse mental health positions. Workers support patients at Banner University Medical Center. The city’s warm climate and community spirit make it a pleasant place to work.
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Stockton, CA
Average Salary: $46,739
Stockton offers stable mental health roles. Workers support patients at Kaiser Permanente. The city’s growing healthcare facilities offer good career prospects.
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Visalia, CA
Average Salary: $46,268
Visalia offers mental health positions with community focus. Workers aid patients at Kaweah Delta Health Care District. The city’s friendly atmosphere supports professional growth.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $46,096
San Diego offers dynamic mental health roles. Workers help at Scripps Health and Rady Children’s Hospital. The city’s vibrant culture and beautiful environment enrich the work experience.
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What are the best companies a Mental Health Worker can work for?

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Management & Training Corporation
Average Salary: $80,976
Management & Training Corporation offers rewarding positions for Mental Health Workers across various locations. They focus on providing quality care in correctional and healthcare facilities. Locations include Utah, Idaho, and Washington.
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McAlister Institute
Average Salary: $67,000
McAlister Institute provides opportunities for Mental Health Workers to make a difference in the community. They operate in Oklahoma and focus on behavioral health services. Their settings include residential and outpatient care.
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Sutter Health
Average Salary: $63,504
Sutter Health employs Mental Health Workers in a variety of settings across Northern California. They offer competitive pay and benefits. Locations include Sacramento, San Francisco, and the Bay Area.
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CommonSpirit Health
Average Salary: $55,722
CommonSpirit Health provides positions for Mental Health Workers in numerous states. They focus on whole-person care and operate in Arizona, Colorado, and California. Their facilities include hospitals and outpatient clinics.
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Commonwealth of Massachusetts
Average Salary: $54,322
The Commonwealth of Massachusetts offers Mental Health Worker roles across the state. They provide services in both urban and rural areas. Locations include Boston, Worcester, and Springfield.
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State of Minnesota
Average Salary: $54,190
The State of Minnesota has positions for Mental Health Workers in various locations. They focus on community-based care and support. Locations include Minneapolis, St. Paul, and Duluth.
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Northwell Health
Average Salary: $54,079
Northwell Health offers Mental Health Worker roles in New York. They provide extensive healthcare services and have locations in Manhattan, Long Island, and Westchester.
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RWJBarnabas Health
Average Salary: $53,728
RWJBarnabas Health provides opportunities for Mental Health Workers in New Jersey. They focus on integrated care and have multiple locations, including Newark, Jersey City, and Toms River.
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Prospect Medical Holdings
Average Salary: $53,109
Prospect Medical Holdings has Mental Health Worker positions in California. They operate several hospitals and outpatient facilities. Locations include Los Angeles, Orange County, and San Diego.
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Rady Children's Hospital
Average Salary: $52,270
Rady Children's Hospital offers roles for Mental Health Workers in San Diego, California. They focus on pediatric care and provide specialized services for children's mental health.
How to earn more as a Mental Health Worker?
Working in mental health can be both rewarding and challenging. Earning a good income while helping others can be an important goal. Here are some steps to increase earnings as a mental health worker.
First, gaining more certifications can lead to higher pay. For instance, becoming a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) or a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) often results in higher salary offers. These credentials show a deeper level of expertise and commitment to the field. Next, consider specializing in a high-demand area. Fields like substance abuse counseling or child psychology can pay more due to their specialized nature. Focus on areas where there is a greater need for qualified professionals.
- Certifications: Obtain advanced certifications such as LCSW or LPC.
- Specialization: Focus on high-demand areas like substance abuse or child psychology.
- Experience: Gain more experience to become more valuable to employers.
- Location: Work in areas with higher costs of living, where salaries are often higher.
- Education: Pursue higher degrees like a master’s or doctorate in mental health fields.



