Mental Health Counselors

Median salary, education path, job outlook, and related careers — based on U.S. labor data.

What a Mental Health Counselors does

You provide therapy and support to clients dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, and other mental health challenges. You work in private practice, clinics, or community settings to help people improve their emotional well-being and coping skills.

Education & path

The typical entry point is a master's degree. About 6 years (bachelor's + ~2-year master's).

Estimated cost of that path: ~$70,000. Estimated payback: ~7 years. Estimates only — actual cost varies widely by school and financial aid; payback assumes ~20% of income applied.

Related careers

• Social and Human Service Assistants — $45,930/yr
• Child, Family, and School Social Workers — $59,550/yr
• Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors — $64,330/yr
• Healthcare Social Workers — $67,880/yr
• Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers — $60,280/yr