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How to Become a Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors in Michigan

Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors in Michigan earn a median salary of $61,690/year, which is 4% above the national average. Michigan has a state income tax of ~4.3%. After taxes and rent, a substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors takes home approximately $2,467/month. Most positions require Master's degree.

$62K
Median salary in Michigan
+4%
vs. national average
4.3%
State income tax
10,100
Employed in Michigan

What a substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors can afford in Michigan

Gross annual salary$61,690
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 4.3% state tax)$4,082/mo
Median 2BR rent (Michigan)-$1,615/mo
Rent as % of take-home39.6% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$61,690/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$2,467/mo

Becoming a substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors in Michigan

1

Meet education requirements

Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors positions in Michigan typically require Master's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Michigan. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors positions in Michigan require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.

3

Obtain Michigan licensure or certification

Michigan may require specific licensing or professional certification for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselorss. Requirements vary by state, contact the Michigan Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in Michigan

Michigan employs 10,100 substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors. The highest concentrations are in Midland and Niles.

Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors salary by metro area in Michigan

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Midland$73K$35.31/hr130
Niles$73K$35.19/hr80
Muskegon-Norton Shores$69K$33.22/hr170
Battle Creek$68K$32.87/hr140
Lansing-East Lansing$68K$32.46/hr790
Kalamazoo-Portage$67K$32.09/hr370
Ann Arbor$65K$31.46/hr320
Grand Rapids-Wyoming-Kentwood$64K$30.82/hr1,130
Traverse City$62K$29.8/hr130
Detroit-Warren-Dearborn$61K$29.27/hr4,290
Monroe$60K$28.93/hr110
Flint$58K$28/hr360
Saginaw$56K$26.9/hr370
Jackson$54K$25.88/hr70
Bay City$38K$18.09/hr350

Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors salary range in Michigan

10th percentile (entry)
$38K
25th percentile
$48K
Median (50th)
$62K
75th percentile
$78K
90th percentile (senior)
$94K
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors make in Michigan?

The median substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors salary in Michigan is $61,690 per year ($29.66/hr). This is 4% above the national median of $59,350. Salaries range from $38,490 to $94,400.

What are the requirements to become a substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors in Michigan?

Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors positions in Michigan typically require Master's degree. Michigan may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Michigan licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors afford to live in Michigan?

At the median salary of $61,690, a substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors in Michigan would take home approximately $4,082/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,615/month, that's 39.6% 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 Michigan?

The highest paying metro areas for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors in Michigan are Midland ($73,450), Niles ($73,200), Muskegon-Norton Shores ($69,090). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros, a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Michigan have state income tax for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors?

Yes, Michigan has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.3%. On a $61,690 salary, this means roughly $2,622/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.