Walden University : MS in School Counseling (CACREP Accredited, five specializations to choose from) Walden University : MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP Accredited, six specializations to choose from)
Grand Canyon University : Master's Degree in Counseling (Affordable Program with No Out of State Tuition)
Capella University : Bachelor of Science in Psychology (Capella University is HLC accredited) Capella University : BS in Psychology - Applied Behavior Analysis ((Online))
Liberty University : MA: Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP Accredited) (Online with required intensives)
Northwestern University : Online MA in Counseling (CACREP Accredited) Capella University : Counseling & Therapy (CACREP Accreditation. Master's and PhD options available. )
Pepperdine University : Master’s Clinical Psychology (Licensed Professional Counselor) (No GRE required)How much do Online Counseling Degrees Cost?
Bachelor's Degrees in Counseling
Overview: Bachelor's degrees in counseling lay the groundwork for entry-level positions or further academic pursuits in counseling. Typically, these programs require the completion of around 120 credit hours.
Cost Factors and Estimates:
- Public vs. Private Institutions: Tuition rates can vary greatly, with public universities often providing lower tuition rates to in-state students compared to out-of-state and private institutions.
- Per Credit Hour Cost: $300 to $600 at public institutions; more than $1,000 at private institutions.
- Estimated Total Cost Range: $36,000 to $72,000 at public universities; could exceed $120,000 at private institutions.
- Additional Fees: Additional expenses may include technology fees, course materials, and registration fees.
Master's Degrees in Counseling
Overview: Master's degrees are crucial for those aiming to become licensed professional counselors, generally requiring 48 to 60 credit hours of coursework.
Cost Factors and Estimates:
- Program Length and Structure: The duration and structure of the program can impact the overall cost, based on either per-semester or per-credit tuition rates.
- Per Credit Hour Cost: $500 to $800 at public institutions; more than $1,000 at private institutions.
- Estimated Total Cost Range: $30,000 to $48,000 at public institutions; can exceed $60,000, potentially nearing $100,000 at private colleges, depending on the program and additional fees.
- Licensure Preparation: Programs that include licensure exam preparation may affect the total cost.
- Support in Finding Practicum/Internship: Essential for meeting licensure requirements, with some programs offering assistance in finding suitable placements.
Doctorate Degrees in Counseling
Overview: Aimed at advanced practice, research, or teaching, these programs often require 60 to 120 credit hours beyond a master's degree.
Cost Factors and Estimates:
- Research and Dissertation: The requirement for significant research and a dissertation can extend the time to completion, thereby affecting the total cost.
- Per Credit Hour Cost: $600 to $1,200, with variations based on the institution's status as public or private and the specific focus of the program.
- Estimated Total Cost Range: $36,000 to over $144,000, with the possibility of reduction through various funding opportunities.
- Funding Opportunities: Many doctoral students offset costs through assistantships, scholarships, or grants.
General Considerations Across Degrees
- Financial Aid and Scholarships: Investigating all forms of financial aid can significantly lower out-of-pocket costs.
- Cost vs. Value: When selecting a program, consider the overall value it offers in terms of accreditation, faculty expertise, career support, and alignment with professional goals, in addition to the cost.
Consider a Featured Online Counseling Program
ADSchool and Program Information Online Program?
Entry RequirementsCourse Information Walden University MS in School Counseling
CACREP Accredited✔ OnlineGRE scores not requiredSchool counselors help students overcome obstacles and shape successful futures. Walden’s online MS in School Counseling program will give you a solid foundation in school counseling theories, approaches, and best practices while enabling you to gain hands-on experience.Learn MoreWalden University MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling CACREP Accredited✔ OnlineGRE scores not requiredMental health counselors play a valuable role in helping people cope with life’s challenges. Walden’s online MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program can help you become the competent, compassionate counselor you know you can be.Learn MoreGrand Canyon University Master's Degree in CounselingHLC and NASAC Accredited✔ 100% OnlineOver 14 Specializations AvailableAffordable with No Out of State TuitionLearn MoreCapella University Bachelor of Science in Psychology✔ OnlineChoose from General Psychology, Applied Behavior Analysis or Pre-Counseling specializationsLearn MoreCapella University BS in Psychology - Applied Behavior Analysis✔ OnlineNo GMAT or GRE requiredGain skills and knowledge to help transform the lives of people living with autism and other intellectual disabilities. Study with confidence in a program that meets the educational requirements for eligibility to take the Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst® (BCaBA) examination. Applicants must meet additional requirements to qualify.Learn MoreLiberty University MA: Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP Accredited) CACREP Accredited✔ OnlineOnline with required intensivesOur CACREP-accredited master’s in counseling degree online can help you become an ethical, well-trained mental health counselor with the knowledge, values, and skills you need to empower others to make positive changes in their lives. Online and on campus. Training Champions for Christ since 1971.Learn MoreNorthwestern University Online MA in Counseling CACREP Accredited✔ OnlineGRE Not Required
Bachelor's RequiredPrepare to pursue licensure in as few as 18 monthsLearn More
Full-time, part-time, and accelerated track options availableCapella University Counseling & Therapy CACREP Accredited✔ OnlineGRE Not RequiredOffering master’s degree programs in clinical mental health counseling and school counseling. Doctoral degree program available in counselor education & supervision. No GRE required.Learn MorePepperdine University Master’s Clinical Psychology (Licensed Professional Counselor)✔ OnlineNo GRE Required
Bachelor's Degree RequiredBachelor's holders can prepare to become a licensed professional counselor online. With no GRE scores required to apply, the 24 month online MA in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine allows you to advance your career and be a catalyst of change.Learn More*Sponsored Counseling Programs
☰ For detailed degree information, view the guides to:
Online CACREP Accredited programs | Online MPCAC Accredited programs2023-2024 Most Affordable Online Counseling Degrees
Many entry-level counseling jobs require you to have a bachelor’s degree. The good news is that there are many universities that offer this degree online for an annual tuition of $13,000 or less. Here are five colleges that offer affordable online counseling degrees.
Fort Hays State University
If you want to specialize in addiction counseling after college, look into Fort Hays State University. Considered among the most affordable online colleges for counseling degrees, this school makes it possible to complete your degree online via videos, labs, tests, discussion boards, and more.
Annual Tuition: $7,080
Degrees Available:
- Bachelor of Arts in Sociology – Addictions Counseling
- Bachelor of Science in Sociology – Addictions Counseling
Courses You’ll Take:
- Introduction to addictions
- Individual counseling for addictions
- Families and addictions
- Group counseling for people with addictions
- Ethics in counseling
- Pharmacology
Aspen University
If your career goal is to help people who are battling addiction, attending Aspen University may be right for you. It’s one of the most affordable online colleges for counseling degrees, allowing you to get an understanding of addiction theory, psychology, and sociology via online courses.
Annual Tuition: $4,900
Degrees Available:
- Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Addiction Studies
Courses You’ll Take:
- Addiction theories
- Medical terminology
- Pharmacology
- Substance abuse
- Psychology of addiction
- Crisis intervention
The University of Maine at Augusta
Another of the most affordable online counseling degrees to consider is the one you can earn from the University of Maine at Augusta. In fact, this school offers five counseling degrees you can choose from if you’re planning to attend college remotely for your counseling career.
Annual Tuition: $9,200
Degrees Available:
- Bachelor of Science in Mental Health and Human Services
- Bachelor of Science in Mental Health and Human Services – Addiction Counseling
- Bachelor of Science in Mental Health and Human Services – Child & Family Services
- Bachelor of Science in Mental Health and Human Services – Adult Mental Health Rehabilitation
- Post-Baccalaureate of Science in Mental Health and Human Services
Courses You’ll Take:
- Introduction to human services
- Case management
- Introduction to substance use disorder
- Counseling in human services
- Community mental health
Lindsey Wilson College
Another one of the most affordable online counseling degrees is the BA in Human Services and Counseling that you can get from Lindsey Wilson College. With a teaching staff of experts with a diverse array of degrees, you can expect to learn the basics of counseling by the time you graduate.
Annual tuition: $12,800
Degrees Available:
- Bachelor of Arts in Human Services and Counseling
Courses You’ll Take:
- Counseling theory
- Human services
- Substance abuse
- Lifespan development
- Group counseling
- Case management and intake
Southern Wesleyan University
If your goal is to provide counseling services to families and married couples, Southern Wesleyan University is worth checking out. You can choose one of two counseling-related degrees to complete online.
Annual Tuition: $13,000
Degrees Available:
- Bachelor of Science in Human Services – Marriage and Family Services
- Bachelor of Science in Human Services – Counseling
Courses you’ll take:
- Introduction to counseling
- Multicultural counseling
- Practical counseling skills
- Child development
- Adult development
- Sex, courtships, and marriage
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Walden University - MS in School Counseling (CACREP Accredited)
Walden University - MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP Accredited)
Grand Canyon University - Master's Degree in Counseling (NASAC Accredited)
Capella University - Bachelor of Science in Psychology (Capella University is HLC Accredited)
Capella University - BS in Psychology - Applied Behavior Analysis (Capella University is HLC Accredited)
Liberty University - MA: Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP Accredited) (CACREP Accredited)
Northwestern University - Online MA in Counseling (CACREP Accredited)
Capella University - Counseling & Therapy (CACREP Accredited)
Pepperdine University - Master’s Clinical Psychology (Licensed Professional Counselor)Most Affordable Online Substance Abuse Counseling Degrees
If you want to specialize in helping people who are addicted to dangerous substances, you’ll need a degree that teaches you the skills for this job. Some of the most affordable online substance abuse counseling degrees cost less than $12,000. Here are some examples of such programs.
East Central University
A degree from this school will prepare you to work with a population of people who have been struggling with addiction and are ready for rehabilitation.
Annual Tuition: $9,800
Degrees Available:
- Bachelor of Arts in Human Services Counseling – Rehabilitation
Courses You’ll Take:
- Fundamentals of counseling
- Case management
- Rehab counseling
- Intervention techniques
University of Central Arkansas
Thanks to its online program, you don’t have to live in Arkansas to attend this school and feel fully prepared to work with people who need addiction treatment.
Annual Tuition: $8,600
Degrees Available:
- Bachelor of Science in Addiction Studies – Treatment
Courses you’ll take:
- Drug education
- Theory of prevention
- Theory of addiction
- Case management
University of Cincinnati
This school offers one of the most affordable online substance abuse counseling degrees you can get without leaving your house for class.
Annual Tuition: $10,500
Degrees Available:
- Bachelor of Science in Substance Abuse Counseling
Courses you’ll take:
- Substance abuse counseling
- Long-term substance abuse counseling
- Counseling for families
- Alcoholism
Liberty University
If you want a degree in psychology with an emphasis on addiction recovery, this school is an affordable option to consider.
Annual Tuition: $11,700
Degrees Available:
- Bachelor of Science in Psychology – Addiction and Recovery
Courses you’ll take:
- Social psychology
- Behavior modification
- Psychology and Christianity
University of South Dakota
If you want to choose from a variety of the most affordable online substance abuse counseling degrees, this school may be right for you, as you can pick from three degrees.
Annual Tuition: $10,643
Degrees Available:
- Bachelor of Science in Addiction Counseling and Prevention
- Bachelor of Science in Addiction Counseling and Prevention – Prevention
- Bachelor of Science in Addiction Counseling and Prevention – Treatment
Courses You’ll Take:
- Study of alcohol abuse
- Study of drug abuse
- Families and drug issues
- Ethical issues in the substance abuse field
Most Affordable Online School Counseling Degrees
If you want to be a counselor in a school, you will likely need a master’s degree. Here are some online school counseling degrees that cost less than $12,000 per year:
University of Cumberlands
If you plan to get the education you need to counsel students from preschool to 12th grade, the University of Cumberlands is a good start. This degree program’s low tuition should fit into nearly any budget for a master’s program in school counseling.
Annual Tuition: $4,800
Degrees Available:
- Master of Arts in Education – School Counseling P-12
Courses You’ll Take:
- Counseling students with diverse needs
- Ethical issues in school counseling
- Group counseling at school
Campbellsville University
This is another school that offers an affordable degree that will teach you the skills you need to counsel kids from preschool to the last year of high school.
Annual Tuition: $5,400
Degrees Available:
- Master of Arts in Education in School Counseling (P-12)
Courses You’ll Take:
- Counseling students affected by substance abuse
- Counseling students affected by abuse
- Developmental basics in elementary school
- Developmental basics in middle and high school
Lamar University
This school offers two of the most affordable online school counseling degrees you can get, preparing you to go into a career where you can confidently counsel kids of all ages.
Annual Tuition: $7,780
Degrees Available:
- Master of Education in School Counseling
- Master of Education in Counseling and Development – Professional School Counseling
Courses You’ll Take:
- Human growth and development
- Foundations of counseling
- Multicultural counseling
- Group counseling techniques
- Individual counseling techniques
Kansas State University
If you want to help advise students on what classes to take and what career goals to consider, you’ll need a degree in academic advising. Kansas State University offers one of the most affordable online school counseling degrees of this kind.
Annual Tuition: $8,650
Degrees Available:
- Master of Science in Academic Advising
Courses You’ll Take:
- Research methods in education
- Student development theory
- College students with special needs
- Foundations of academic advising
Creighton University
If you want several master’s degrees to choose from, this school may be a good fit for you. It offers four of the most affordable online school counseling degrees.
Annual Tuition: $10,500
Degrees Available:
- Master of Science in School Counseling and Preventative Mental Health
- Master of Science in School Counseling and Preventative Mental Health – PK-12 Guidance Counseling
- Master of Science in School Counseling and Preventative Mental Health – Elementary School Counseling
- Master of Science in School Counseling and Preventative Mental Health – Secondary School Counseling
Courses You’ll Take:
- Mental health issues in children and teens
- Research in school counseling
- Ethical issues for school counselors
Most Affordable Online Master’s Counseling Degrees
Whether you want to be a family therapist, school counselor, substance abuse counselor, career counselor, or a related title, you will likely need a master’s degree to start. If you’re worried about how you’ll be able to pay for your degree, you should check out some of the most affordable online master’s counseling degrees you can get without having to drive to a college campus every day. All of these programs cost $13,000 or less per year.
North Carolina State University
If you want to study to become a therapist or a related role in clinical mental health, this school offers an affordable degree program that lets you take all courses online.
Annual Tuition: $11,700
Degrees Available:
- Master of Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Courses You’ll Take:
- Career counseling and development
- Theories of counseling
- Group counseling
Clarks Summit University
This school offers two of the most affordable online master’s counseling degrees available, so all you have to do is choose the one you want and then apply.
Annual Tuition: $8,775
Degrees Available:
- Master of Science in Counseling
- Master of Arts in Counseling
Courses You’ll Take:
- Career counseling
- Human development
- Group counseling
- Human sexuality
- Crisis and trauma counseling
Washburn University
This school offers a graduate degree that will prepare you to counsel families and individuals alike, giving you the skills you need for a career in counseling a variety of populations.
Annual Tuition: $10,010
Degrees Available:
Master of Arts in Family and Human Services/Addiction Counseling
Courses You’ll Take:
- Pharmacology
- Diagnosing substance abuse disorders
- Group counseling
- Ethics in counseling
Houston Baptist University
This school has three counseling graduate degrees to choose from, so you should consider it no matter what specialty you’re considering for this career.
Annual Tuition: $10,400
Degrees Available:
Master of Arts in Human Services Counseling
Master of Arts in Human Services Counseling – Professional Life Coaching
Master of Arts in Human Services Counseling – Marriage and Family
Courses You’ll Take:
- Multicultural counseling
- Psychopathology
- Psychotherapy
- Group counseling
Adams State University
This college offers two of the most affordable online master’s counseling degrees you can get. Whether you want to specialize in school counseling or clinical mental health, Adams State University may be right for you.
Annual Tuition: $11,350
Degrees Available:
Master of Arts in Counseling – School Counseling
Master of Arts in Counseling – Clinical Mental Health
Courses You’ll Take:
- Multicultural counseling
- Lifespan development
- Family counseling
- Couples counseling
Discover more affordable counseling degrees online by exploring our cheapest CACREP accredited online counseling programs page.
What to Consider When Looking for Affordable Online Counseling Degrees
Before you can get a job as a counselor, you’ll need the right degree. This might range from a bachelor’s degree to a master’s degree, depending on your counseling specialty and the company that employs you. Here are some key factors to consider as you explore the most affordable online counseling degrees.
Financial Aid Opportunities
Be sure to consider the online counseling degree cost before enrolling in a program. The range of financial aid offered for online degree programs varies considerably. Some programs make financial aid offers that cover the entire cost of tuition, while others offer small scholarships based on academic achievement, need, or other factors. In 2021, the average student received over $10,000 in grant aid, according to CollegeBoard.
Program Outcomes
What are your goals in enrolling in one of the most affordable online counseling degrees? Weigh the pros and cons of a bachelor’s degree or master’s degree, as well as the type of degree you’ll receive. Some programs include hands-on experience, while others focus on classroom time, research projects, or project-based learning approaches.
Accreditation
The Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) is the leading accreditation option for counseling degrees. While there are many highly rated programs, consider choosing one with CACREP accreditation.
Faculty
Do any of the current faculty members specialize in an area of counseling you’re particularly passionate about? Compare the achievements and areas of focus of faculty members to find the most affordable online counseling programs that fit your career goals.
Additional Costs
Watch out for additional fees as you prepare to enroll in an online degree program. You’ll also need a plan for covering your living expenses as you study.
What to Look for in Affordable Online Counseling Degree Programs
When searching for the most affordable online counseling degrees, cost is a significant factor, but it’s not the only consideration. Prospective students should evaluate several critical aspects to ensure the program provides value, quality, and meets educational and career goals. Here are key factors to consider:
- Accreditation: This is crucial as it ensures the program meets specific standards of quality and is recognized by professional licensing boards.
- Council for Accreditation of Counseling & Related Educational Programs (CACREP): Accreditation by CACREP is often preferred or required for licensure in many states. It signifies that the program meets the rigorous educational and professional standards necessary for the practice of counseling.
- Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA): CHEA oversees regional and national accrediting agencies, ensuring that the accrediting bodies themselves maintain high standards. Programs recognized by CHEA-accredited agencies are generally well-regarded and meet national educational standards.
- Curriculum: The curriculum should cover all necessary areas to prepare students for licensure and professional challenges. Look for programs that include comprehensive coursework in areas like ethics, counseling techniques, and specialized training tailored to specific populations or problems.
- Faculty Expertise: Instructors should not only be qualified academically but also possess real-world experience in counseling. Their expertise can provide invaluable insights and a practical perspective to the theoretical knowledge taught in courses.
- Flexibility and Support Services: Since many students who opt for online degrees might be working professionals or have other commitments, the program should offer flexibility in course timings, asynchronous learning options, and robust support services such as tutoring, career advising, and technical support.
- Student Outcomes: Investigate the program’s success by looking at graduation rates, job placement rates, and licensure exam pass rates. These metrics can give you an idea of how well the program prepares students for a career in counseling.
- Financial Aid and Scholarships: Even if the program is affordable, additional financial aid or scholarships can reduce the cost further. Check if the program offers specific scholarships for counseling students or has agreements with employers to provide tuition reimbursement.
Choosing an affordable online counseling degree program involves more than just looking at the price. Ensuring the program provides a quality education, supports your professional goals, and is recognized by key accreditation bodies will set the foundation for a successful career in counseling.
Is an Online Counseling Degree Worth the Cost?
When considering the investment in an online counseling degree, prospective students often weigh the cost against potential benefits. Here’s an analysis to help determine if an online counseling degree is worth the financial commitment:
- Cost-Effectiveness: Online programs often offer lower tuition rates compared to traditional on-campus programs. Additionally, students can save on commuting, housing, and other campus-related expenses. However, it’s important to consider the full scope of costs, including technology fees and materials.
- Convenience and Flexibility: For many, the ability to study from home and on a flexible schedule makes balancing education with personal and professional responsibilities feasible. This accessibility can enhance the value of the degree, particularly for working professionals or those with family commitments.
- Career Advancement: An online counseling degree can pave the way for licensure and open doors to career advancement in various settings, such as schools, private practices, and healthcare facilities. However, outcomes can vary based on individual effort, geographic location, and the job market.
- Quality of Education: If the program is accredited, especially by CACREP, students can be assured that the education meets a set standard of quality that is recognized by employers and licensure boards. Quality education can significantly improve the returns on investment by better preparing graduates for professional challenges.
- Networking Opportunities: While online programs may seem to offer fewer networking opportunities than traditional programs, many have robust online communities, virtual events, and resources to help students connect with peers, faculty, and professionals in the field.
- Personal Fulfillment: Beyond monetary considerations, obtaining a degree in counseling can offer personal fulfillment by equipping individuals with the skills to make a significant impact on people’s lives. This aspect, while not financially quantifiable, can contribute greatly to the perceived value of the degree.
Each prospective student must evaluate these factors in light of their personal circumstances and professional goals. An online counseling degree can be a valuable investment, provided it aligns with the individual’s career objectives and life situation.
Most Affordable Online Counseling Degrees: 5 Benefits
Not only can you save money when choosing one of the most affordable online counseling programs, but there are several other key benefits to consider. Here are five compelling reasons to pursue an online degree program for your counseling degree:
- Flexible scheduling to fit your lifestyle
- Access to degree programs in other parts of the country without leaving your home
- Self-paced learning for a more personalized educational experience
- Ability to rewatch lectures and review course materials online
- Reduced costs related to campus housing, commuting, and other on-campus fees
Financial Aid Tips and Resources
Cut down on your online counseling degree cost by taking advantage of all the financial aid available to you. Whether you’re a first-time student or returning to earn another degree, use these tips to apply for your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), look for additional assistance, and find available scholarship opportunities.
FAFSA Application Tips
With over $111 billion offered in federal aid for students every year, FAFSA is a major source of assistance. Navigating the FAFSA application can seem daunting, so it’s important to apply as early as you can, typically around October 1. For a convenient process, consider using the online application to retrieve your IRS data and populate many fields automatically.
Where to Look for Additional Assistance
The federal government may be a great source of assistance, but you can find other scholarships to help cover the costs of affordable online counseling programs. Reach out to your chosen program, nearby community organizations, and any other groups you’re affiliated with to see if they offer grants or scholarships.
Scholarship Opportunities
Scholarships are often awarded based on academic achievement. You typically don’t need to pay back this aid, and it can come from a variety of sources. Your high school, the college you’re applying to, and community organizations are great resources for finding scholarship opportunities that help cover the online counseling degree cost.
What Can You Do With an Online Counseling Degree?
An online counseling degree is the next step toward a career as a counselor or a related position. While a bachelor’s or master’s degree opens up many career opportunities, here are a few of the highest paying counselor jobs you may qualify for, with their expected annual salary according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics as of 2024 (2022 data):
- Psychologist: $85,330 – BLS
- School Counselor: $60,140 – BLS
- Family Therapist: $56,570 – BLS
- Social Worker: $55,350 – BLS
- Licensed Counselor: $49,710 – BLS
- Community Health Worker: $46,190 – BLS
- Rehabilitation Counselor: $39,990 – BLS
Some careers may require additional certification or a graduate degree, so review each career path to see which one may be the best fit for your situation.
Top 10% Salary for Psychologists
For psychologists, salary potential varies significantly with specialization and experience. As of May 2022, the highest 10 percent of earners in different psychology sectors demonstrated substantial earning potential:
- Industrial-Organizational Psychologists: Top 10% earn more than $139,280 annually.
- Psychologists, All Other: Top 10% earn more than $106,420 annually.
- Clinical and Counseling Psychologists: Top 10% earn more than $90,130 annually.
- School Psychologists: Top 10% earn more than $81,500 annually.
These figures highlight the lucrative potential within the field of psychology for those who reach the top echelons of their specialization.
Top 10% Salary for School and Career Counselors and Advisors
For school and career counselors and advisors, who play a critical role in guiding educational and career decisions, the salary range can reflect their essential contribution to educational institutions and private sectors. As of May 2022, here are the salary insights:
- Top 10% Earning: More than $98,530 annually.
- Median Annual Wage: $60,140.
- Sector-Specific Median Wages:
- Elementary and Secondary Schools: $65,930.
- Other Educational Services: $52,390.
- Junior Colleges, Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools: $50,370.
- Healthcare and Social Assistance: $39,650.
These figures show that school and career counselors and advisors in elementary and secondary schools tend to earn higher than those in other sectors, with top earners in the profession seeing salaries nearing six figures.
Top 10% Salary for Marriage and Family Therapists
Marriage and family therapists specialize in helping individuals, couples, and families navigate emotional and mental challenges. Their expertise is increasingly recognized and valued, as reflected in their salary distribution. As of May 2022, the salary details are:
- Top 10% Earning: More than $98,700 annually.
- Median Annual Wage: $56,570.
- Sector-Specific Median Wages:
- State Government (excluding education and hospitals): $77,000.
- Outpatient Care Centers: $59,870.
- Offices of Other Health Practitioners: $50,920.
- Individual and Family Services: $50,370.
The earnings potential for marriage and family therapists in state government roles stands out, offering the highest median wage among the sectors listed. This profession’s significant job outlook growth also suggests robust career opportunities moving forward.
Top 10% Salary for Social Workers
Social workers are essential in supporting communities through mental health, substance abuse, child welfare, and healthcare services. Their compensation reflects the critical nature of their roles across various specializations. As of May 2022, here are the salary insights:
- Top 10% Earning: More than $87,300 annually.
- Median Annual Wage: $55,350.
- Specialization-Specific Median Wages:
- Social Workers, All Other: $61,420.
- Healthcare Social Workers: $60,280.
- Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers: $51,240.
- Child, Family, and School Social Workers: $50,820.
These figures demonstrate that social workers in specialized roles, particularly those not directly tied to any specific field (categorized as “all other”), command the highest median salaries. This diverse field offers numerous pathways for those seeking to make an impact on various aspects of public health and welfare.
Top 10% Salary for Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors
Substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors play a pivotal role in addressing complex mental health issues and helping individuals lead healthier lives. Their compensation reflects the significant responsibilities they carry. As of May 2022, here are the salary insights:
- Top 10% Earning: More than $82,710 annually.
- Median Annual Wage: $49,710.
- Specialization-Specific Median Wages:
- Hospitals (State, Local, and Private): $54,740.
- Offices of Other Health Practitioners: $50,260.
- Individual and Family Services: $49,210.
- Outpatient Mental Health and Substance Abuse Centers: $48,640.
- Residential Mental Health and Substance Abuse Facilities: $44,150.
These figures highlight the variability in earnings based on the work setting, with hospital-based counselors generally earning the highest wages among their peers. This specialization’s high job outlook growth also underscores the growing demand for professionals in this vital field.
Top 10% Salary for Community Health Workers
Community health workers are vital in bridging the gap between communities and healthcare services, focusing on outreach and education to improve public health outcomes. Their compensation varies by industry and experience. As of May 2022, here are the salary insights:
- Top 10% Earning: More than $73,730 annually.
- Median Annual Wage: $46,190.
- Specialization-Specific Median Wages:
- Hospitals (State, Local, and Private): $54,390.
- Local Government (excluding education and hospitals): $47,770.
- Religious, Grantmaking, Civic, Professional, and Similar Organizations: $46,150.
- Ambulatory Healthcare Services: $44,230.
- Social Assistance: $40,910.
These figures show that community health workers in hospitals and local government roles tend to earn higher wages compared to those in non-profit or ambulatory healthcare services. The significant job growth projected for this field indicates an increasing recognition of the importance of community-based health initiatives.
Top 10% Salary for Rehabilitation Counselors
Rehabilitation counselors specialize in helping people with disabilities live more independently by providing essential counseling services that focus on personal and career goals. The compensation for this crucial role varies depending on the setting and experience. As of May 2022, here are the salary insights:
- Top 10% Earning: More than $71,270 annually.
- Median Annual Wage: $39,990.
- Specialization-Specific Median Wages:
- State Government (excluding education and hospitals): $54,790.
- Individual and Family Services: $40,260.
- Community and Vocational Rehabilitation Services: $36,400.
- Nursing and Residential Care Facilities: $35,730.
These figures demonstrate the variability in earnings within the field, with state government roles offering the highest median wages. The steady job outlook reflects the ongoing need for services aimed at enhancing the quality of life for individuals with disabilities.
10-Year Job Outlook for Counseling-Related Positions
The demand for counseling professionals is expected to grow over the next decade, reflecting the increasing need for mental health services, educational guidance, and specialized support across various sectors. Here’s the projected job outlook from 2022 to 2032 for each position:
- Psychologists: Projected job growth of 6%, which is faster than average. This growth is attributed to a greater need for psychological services in schools, hospitals, mental health centers, and social services agencies.
- School and Career Counselors and Advisors: Expected to see a job growth of 5%, faster than average, driven by an increasing emphasis on career counseling and student mental health in educational settings.
- Marriage and Family Therapists: Anticipated to experience a job growth of 15%, much faster than average, due to more people looking for help with family and relationship issues.
- Social Workers: Projected job growth of 7%, faster than average, with particular demand in healthcare, child, family, and school social work.
- Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors: Expected to see significant growth at 18%, much faster than average, largely due to the ongoing opioid crisis and increased need for addiction and mental health counseling services.
- Community Health Workers: Forecasted to have a job growth of 14%, much faster than average, highlighting the role of preventive care and health education in community settings.
- Rehabilitation Counselors: Projected to grow by 2%, as fast as the average for all occupations, reflecting stable demand for professionals who help individuals with disabilities.
These projections indicate robust job prospects in various counseling and therapy fields, underlining the importance of these professions in addressing diverse and evolving societal needs.
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List of Programs
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