How to Become a Clinical and Counseling Psychologists in California
Clinical and Counseling Psychologists in California earn a median salary of $114,520/year, which is 20% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~5.9%. After taxes and rent, a clinical and counseling psychologists takes home approximately $5,435/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a clinical and counseling psychologists can afford in California
Becoming a clinical and counseling psychologists in California
Meet education requirements
Clinical and Counseling Psychologists positions in California typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many clinical and counseling psychologists positions in California require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain California licensure or certification
California may require specific licensing or professional certification for clinical and counseling psychologistss. Requirements vary by state — contact the California Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in California
California employs 11,900 clinical and counseling psychologists. The highest concentrations are in San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont and Vallejo.
Clinical and Counseling Psychologists salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $160K | $77.02/hr | 2,220 |
| Vallejo | $143K | $68.93/hr | 170 |
| Hanford-Corcoran | $139K | $67.04/hr | 40 |
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles | $134K | $64.34/hr | 100 |
| Fresno | $123K | $59.36/hr | 300 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $119K | $57.1/hr | 620 |
| Salinas | $119K | $57.1/hr | 80 |
| Stockton-Lodi | $119K | $57.1/hr | 100 |
| Bakersfield-Delano | $118K | $56.78/hr | 230 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $110K | $53.03/hr | 190 |
| Visalia | $108K | $51.86/hr | 50 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $106K | $50.84/hr | 210 |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $102K | $48.81/hr | 560 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $100K | $48.24/hr | 3,760 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $100K | $48.07/hr | 1,510 |
Clinical and Counseling Psychologists salary range in California
Clinical and Counseling Psychologists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a clinical and counseling psychologists make in California?▼
The median clinical and counseling psychologists salary in California is $114,520 per year ($55.06/hr). This is 20% above the national median of $95,830. Salaries range from $59,990 to $189,540.
What are the requirements to become a clinical and counseling psychologists in California?▼
Clinical and Counseling Psychologists positions in California typically require Bachelor's degree. California may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the California licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a clinical and counseling psychologists afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $114,520, a clinical and counseling psychologists in California would take home approximately $6,847/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 20.6% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for clinical and counseling psychologists in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for clinical and counseling psychologists in California are San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($160,210), Vallejo ($143,370), Hanford-Corcoran ($139,440). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for clinical and counseling psychologists?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.9%. On a $114,520 salary, this means roughly $6,788/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.