Clinical and Counseling Psychologists: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 72,190 clinical and counseling psychologists, and they earn a median of $95,830/year. The range runs from $50K to $170K. Oregon pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level clinical and counseling psychologists start around $50K. The gap between that and the median ($96K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $170K, but that's the 90th percentile. Getting there usually takes a decade or more of experience, the right credentials, and being in a high-paying market.
Salary progression
Highest paying states
| State | Median salary | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| Oregon | $133K | 440 |
| Kentucky | $116K | 850 |
| Washington | $115K | 980 |
| California | $115K | 11,900 |
| New Jersey | $110K | 2,850 |
| Delaware | $109K | 190 |
| North Dakota | $109K | 150 |
| Hawaii | $109K | 300 |
| Arizona | $107K | 1,140 |
| Alaska | $106K | 80 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a clinical and counseling psychologists make?▼
The median clinical and counseling psychologists salary in the United States is $95,830 per year ($46/hour). Entry-level positions start around $50,470, while experienced professionals earn up to $170,150.
What education do you need to become a clinical and counseling psychologists?▼
The BLS lists the typical entry-level education as varies by employer. State licensing or certification requirements vary, so check your state's board for specifics.
What is the job outlook for clinical and counseling psychologists?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for clinical and counseling psychologists.
What are the highest paying states for clinical and counseling psychologists?▼
The highest paying states for clinical and counseling psychologists are Oregon ($132,550), Kentucky ($116,480), Washington ($115,050), California ($114,520), New Jersey ($110,190). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.