How to Become a Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors in California
Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors in California earn a median salary of $61,310/year, which is 4% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~3.3%. After taxes and rent, a substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors takes home approximately $2,696/month. Most positions require Master's degree.
What a substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors can afford in California
Becoming a substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors in California
Meet education requirements
Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors positions in California typically require Master's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors 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 substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselorss. 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 63,110 substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors. The highest concentrations are in Hanford-Corcoran and San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara.
Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hanford-Corcoran | $76K | $36.65/hr | 190 |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $75K | $35.9/hr | 2,520 |
| Vallejo | $74K | $35.68/hr | 570 |
| Napa | $74K | $35.56/hr | 190 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $73K | $35.07/hr | 8,080 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $72K | $34.8/hr | 800 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $70K | $33.42/hr | 3,570 |
| Stockton-Lodi | $68K | $32.55/hr | 1,050 |
| El Centro | $66K | $31.5/hr | 160 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $63K | $30.41/hr | 1,090 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $63K | $30.35/hr | 690 |
| Visalia | $63K | $30.21/hr | 560 |
| Chico | $62K | $30.01/hr | 380 |
| Modesto | $62K | $29.95/hr | 800 |
| Yuba City | $62K | $29.65/hr | 260 |
Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors salary range in California
Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors make in California?▼
The median substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors salary in California is $61,310 per year ($29.48/hr). This is 4% above the national median of $59,190. Salaries range from $44,190 to $118,970.
What are the requirements to become a substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors in California?▼
Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors positions in California typically require Master'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 substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $61,310, a substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors in California would take home approximately $4,108/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 34.4% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors in California are Hanford-Corcoran ($76,240), San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($74,670), Vallejo ($74,210). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.3%. On a $61,310 salary, this means roughly $2,003/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.