How much does a School Therapist make?
School therapists play a vital role in supporting students' mental and emotional health. Their work often includes helping children and teenagers with a variety of issues, from anxiety and depression to learning disabilities. On average, a school therapist earns about $62,358 a year. This number can vary based on many factors.
Here are some details about how much school therapists earn at different levels:
- The bottom 10% earn around $39,420 or less.
- The next 20% earn between $45,836 and $52,253.
- The middle 20% earn between $58,669 and $65,085.
- The next 20% earn between $71,502 and $77,918.
- The top 10% earn $97,167 or more.
What are the highest paying cities for a School Therapist?
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $93,893
In San Jose, therapists can work in schools that value mental health services. Companies like Kaiser Permanente and El Camino Health often have openings for school-based therapists. Enjoy a vibrant community and a strong support system for mental health.
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Pittsburgh, PA
Average Salary: $89,364
Pittsburgh offers opportunities with organizations such as UPMC and Allegheny Health Network. School therapists here help students navigate a range of challenges. Enjoy a rich cultural scene and a caring community that values education.
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Santa Maria, CA
Average Salary: $82,520
Santa Maria provides a chance to work with local school districts. Therapists here create a supportive environment for students. Enjoy a laid-back lifestyle and the beauty of the Central Coast.
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Indianapolis, IN
Average Salary: $77,877
Indianapolis has many schools that value mental health. Work with organizations like Eskenazi Health and Marion County Public Schools. The city offers a blend of urban and small-town living, with plenty of opportunities for professional growth.
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Baltimore, MD
Average Salary: $77,404
In Baltimore, therapists can make a difference in schools that prioritize student well-being. Johns Hopkins and other local institutions offer rewarding career paths. Enjoy a vibrant arts scene and a city rich in history and culture.
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Columbia, MO
Average Salary: $73,058
Columbia offers a supportive environment for mental health professionals. Work with the University of Missouri and local schools. Enjoy a tight-knit community and a range of outdoor activities in the beautiful Midwest.
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Philadelphia, PA
Average Salary: $73,050
Philadelphia provides many opportunities for therapists in schools. Companies like Jefferson Health and Children's Hospital of Philadelphia offer diverse roles. Enjoy a rich history and a dynamic, diverse city life.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $70,008
Santa Rosa offers a peaceful environment for therapists working in schools. Enjoy a slower pace of life and the beautiful wine country surroundings. Work with local districts to support student mental health.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $68,691
In Washington, DC, school therapists contribute to the well-being of students in a vibrant city. Organizations like the District of Columbia Public Schools and local clinics offer rewarding positions. Enjoy a wealth of cultural and historical attractions.
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Kansas City, MO
Average Salary: $66,996
Kansas City offers a blend of urban opportunities and a friendly community for therapists. Work with local schools and organizations like the University of Missouri-Kansas City. Enjoy a thriving food scene and a lively arts community.
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What are the best companies a School Therapist can work for?
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Glade Run Lutheran Services
Average Salary: $88,714
Glade Run Lutheran Services provides School Therapist jobs in Pennsylvania. Their team works with students to help them succeed. They have locations in Lancaster, Lebanon, and York.
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KVC Health Systems
Average Salary: $85,889
KVC Health Systems hires School Therapists in multiple states. They focus on children's well-being. Locations include Kansas, Missouri, and Utah.
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CHILDREN'S HEALTH COUNCIL
Average Salary: $85,056
CHILDREN'S HEALTH COUNCIL offers School Therapist positions in California. They aim to improve children's mental health. Their main office is in Palo Alto.
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Seneca Family of Agencies
Average Salary: $80,083
Seneca Family of Agencies has School Therapist jobs in Illinois. They provide services to children and families. Locations include Chicago and suburbs.
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Compass Health Network
Average Salary: $75,580
Compass Health Network offers School Therapist roles in Missouri. They focus on helping kids and teens. Locations include Kansas City and St. Louis.
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Arbour Counseling Services
Average Salary: $72,192
Arbour Counseling Services hires School Therapists in Massachusetts. They support children's mental health. Locations include Boston and its suburbs.
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Washburn Center for Children
Average Salary: $67,857
Washburn Center for Children provides School Therapist jobs in Minnesota. They focus on children's well-being. Their main office is in St. Paul.
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Preferred Family Healthcare, Inc.
Average Salary: $65,159
Preferred Family Healthcare, Inc. offers School Therapist roles in Missouri. They provide mental health services. Locations include Jefferson City and Kansas City.
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Pawnee Mental Health Services
Average Salary: $64,855
Pawnee Mental Health Services has School Therapist jobs in Kansas. They help children and families. Locations include Topeka and Manhattan.
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Burrell Behavioral Health
Average Salary: $63,143
Burrell Behavioral Health offers School Therapist positions in Missouri. They focus on mental health services. Locations include Springfield and Columbia.
How to earn more as a School Therapist?
Becoming a School Therapist is a rewarding career that allows professionals to make a positive impact on students' lives. To maximize earnings in this role, consider these factors that can lead to higher income opportunities.
First, gaining additional certifications can increase earning potential. Certifications in specialized areas such as speech therapy, occupational therapy, or behavioral therapy can make a School Therapist more marketable. Employers often value these specialized skills and are willing to pay a premium for them. Second, pursuing further education, such as a master's degree or a doctorate, can lead to higher-paying positions. Advanced degrees can open doors to administrative roles or lead therapist positions, which come with higher salaries. Third, experience matters. The more years of experience a School Therapist has, the more likely they are to earn a higher salary. Experience allows therapists to refine their skills and become more efficient in their work, which employers appreciate.
Additionally, taking on extra responsibilities can lead to higher pay. This could include leading professional development workshops for colleagues or taking on a mentorship role for new therapists. Lastly, consider working in a school district with higher pay scales. Researching and applying to districts known for offering competitive salaries can make a significant difference. Understanding the factors that influence salary can help School Therapists make informed decisions to increase their earnings.
Here are key factors to consider:
- Obtain additional certifications.
- Pursue advanced degrees.
- Gain more experience.
- Take on extra responsibilities.
- Look for higher-paying school districts.
