SubstanceAbuse,BehavioralDisorder,&MentalHealthCounselors

What Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors Do Substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors provide treatment and advise people who suffer from alcoholism, drug addiction, or other mental or behavioral problems. Work Environment Substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors work in a wide variety of settings, such as mental health centers, community health centers, prisons, and private practice. Most work full time. How to Become a Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, or Mental Health Counselor Most positions require at least a bachelor’s degree. Although educational requirements can vary from a high school diploma and certification to a master’s degree for substance abuse and behavioral disorder counselors, a master’s degree and an internship is typically required to become a mental health counselor. Pay The median annual wage for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors was $44,630 in May 2018. Job Outlook Employment of substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors is projected to grow 22 percent from 2018 to 2028, much faster than the average for all occupations. Employment growth is expected as people continue to seek addiction and mental health counseling.

https://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/substance-abuse-behavioral-disorder-and-mental-health-counselors.htm#tab-1

January 2020

2018 Median Pay

$44,630 per year $21.46 per hour

Typical Entry-Level Education Bachelor's / Master’s degree

Number of Jobs, 2018 304,500

Job Outlook, 2018-2028 22% (Much faster than average)

Employment Change, 2018-2028 +68,500