How much does a Mental Health Worker make?
A Mental Health Worker helps people with mental health issues. They work in many places, like hospitals, clinics, and community centers. The average salary for a Mental Health Worker is around $41,239 per year. This means most workers earn between $28,000 and $63,960 each year.
The salary can vary based on experience and location. Workers with more experience often earn more. Those in big cities or areas with a high cost of living may also earn higher salaries. Some workers may get extra pay for working overtime or on weekends. This job is important and rewarding, with good pay and the chance to help others. It is a great choice for those who want to make a difference in people's lives.
What are the highest paying cities for a Mental Health Worker?

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Jackson, MS
Average Salary: $60,066
In Jackson, MS, mental health professionals find rewarding work with local healthcare providers. The role involves supporting patients with mental health challenges, offering therapy and counseling services. Key employers include St. Dominic's Hospital and the Mississippi Department of Mental Health.
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Worcester, MA
Average Salary: $56,190
Worcester, MA, offers a dynamic environment for mental health workers. They collaborate with community health centers and hospitals to provide essential services. UMass Memorial Health and Heywood Hospital are prominent employers in the area.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $52,775
Boston, MA, provides a vibrant setting for mental health professionals. They work in diverse settings, including hospitals, clinics, and private practices. Partners HealthCare and Boston Medical Center are notable employers in the city.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $49,875
Portland, OR, is a great place for mental health workers. They support patients through various community health services. Kaiser Permanente and Providence Health & Services are key employers in the region.
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Providence, RI
Average Salary: $49,833
In Providence, RI, mental health professionals play a crucial role in community health. They work in hospitals and outpatient clinics, offering vital services. Lifespan and Care New England are major employers in the area.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $49,378
San Jose, CA, offers a bustling environment for mental health workers. They provide care in hospitals and private practices. Notable employers include Kaiser Permanente and El Camino Health.
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Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $47,581
Minneapolis, MN, is a thriving city for mental health professionals. They work in a variety of settings, including hospitals and community centers. Allina Health and Park Nicollet Health Services are prominent employers.
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Tucson, AZ
Average Salary: $46,599
Tucson, AZ, provides a supportive environment for mental health workers. They offer services in hospitals and community health centers. Banner Health and Carondelet Health Network are key employers in the area.
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Visalia, CA
Average Salary: $44,661
Visalia, CA, offers a community-focused setting for mental health professionals. They work in local clinics and hospitals, providing essential services. Kaweah Delta Health Care District and Adventist Health are notable employers.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $44,532
San Diego, CA, is a vibrant city for mental health workers. They provide care in a variety of settings, including hospitals and private practices. Scripps Health and Sharp HealthCare are major employers in the area.
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What are the best companies a Mental Health Worker can work for?

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Sutter Health
Average Salary: $64,827
Sutter Health offers rewarding Mental Health Worker jobs across California. They provide comprehensive benefits and opportunities for professional growth. Locations include Sacramento, San Francisco, and the Bay Area.
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State of Minnesota
Average Salary: $54,190
The State of Minnesota provides stable Mental Health Worker jobs with competitive salaries. They focus on community health and offer positions in cities like Minneapolis and St. Paul.
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Commonwealth of Massachusetts
Average Salary: $53,989
The Commonwealth of Massachusetts offers Mental Health Worker jobs with a focus on public health. Opportunities are available in Boston, Worcester, and other major cities.
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State of Rhode Island
Average Salary: $53,846
The State of Rhode Island provides Mental Health Worker jobs with a strong emphasis on community care. Positions are available in Providence and other areas.
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Northwell Health
Average Salary: $53,600
Northwell Health offers Mental Health Worker jobs with a focus on patient care and support. They operate in New York, providing opportunities in Long Island and New York City.
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CommonSpirit Health
Average Salary: $52,754
CommonSpirit Health provides Mental Health Worker jobs with a commitment to compassionate care. They operate in multiple states, including Colorado, Texas, and California.
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RWJBarnabas Health
Average Salary: $52,364
RWJBarnabas Health offers Mental Health Worker jobs with a focus on patient-centered care. They operate in New Jersey, providing opportunities in major cities and rural areas.
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Rady Children's Hospital
Average Salary: $52,171
Rady Children's Hospital provides Mental Health Worker jobs with a focus on pediatric care. They operate in San Diego, California, offering positions in various locations.
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Prospect Medical Holdings
Average Salary: $51,985
Prospect Medical Holdings offers Mental Health Worker jobs with a commitment to quality care. They operate in multiple states, including California, Rhode Island, and Massachusetts.
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Boston Medical Center
Average Salary: $50,973
Boston Medical Center provides Mental Health Worker jobs with a focus on urban health care. They operate in Boston, Massachusetts, offering positions in various locations.
How to earn more as a Mental Health Worker?
A career in mental health offers many opportunities for growth and increased earnings. Mental health workers can explore various paths to enhance their income. One effective way is to gain additional certifications. These credentials can open doors to higher-paying positions. For example, becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) or a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) can lead to better job opportunities.
Another way to earn more is to seek positions in high-demand areas. Urban centers or regions with limited mental health services often offer higher salaries. Working in specialized fields, such as addiction treatment or child psychology, can also lead to better pay. Experience plays a significant role as well. Those with more years in the field often command higher wages. Networking with other professionals and attending industry conferences can also lead to better job offers. Finally, pursuing a master's degree in mental health can significantly increase earning potential.
Consider these factors to boost your income as a mental health worker:
- Obtain additional certifications.
- Seek positions in high-demand areas.
- Gain experience in specialized fields.
- Pursue higher education.
- Network with other professionals.