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 $59,530/year, which is 1% above the national average. Michigan has a state income tax of ~4.2%. After taxes and rent, a substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors takes home approximately $2,533/month. Most positions require Master's degree.
What a substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors can afford in Michigan
Becoming a substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors in Michigan
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.
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.
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.
Find positions in Michigan
Michigan employs 11,090 substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors. The highest concentrations are in Lansing-East Lansing and Muskegon-Norton Shores.
Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors salary by metro area in Michigan
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lansing-East Lansing | $73K | $35.24/hr | 720 |
| Muskegon-Norton Shores | $69K | $32.96/hr | 130 |
| Battle Creek | $68K | $32.6/hr | 150 |
| Monroe | $66K | $31.91/hr | 60 |
| Midland | $66K | $31.77/hr | 120 |
| Kalamazoo-Portage | $65K | $31.01/hr | 330 |
| Niles | $63K | $30.34/hr | 90 |
| Grand Rapids-Wyoming-Kentwood | $62K | $29.94/hr | 1,060 |
| Traverse City | $62K | $29.75/hr | 160 |
| Ann Arbor | $60K | $28.62/hr | 440 |
| Saginaw | $52K | $25.05/hr | 370 |
| Detroit-Warren-Dearborn | $51K | $24.49/hr | 5,170 |
| Flint | $48K | $23.16/hr | 300 |
| Jackson | $45K | $21.52/hr | 110 |
| Bay City | $37K | $17.85/hr | 310 |
Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors salary range in Michigan
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 Michigan?▼
The median substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors salary in Michigan is $59,530 per year ($28.62/hr). This is 1% above the national median of $59,190. Salaries range from $37,200 to $89,170.
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 $59,530, a substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors in Michigan would take home approximately $3,945/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 35.8% 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 Lansing-East Lansing ($73,300), Muskegon-Norton Shores ($68,560), Battle Creek ($67,800). 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 4.2%. On a $59,530 salary, this means roughly $2,530/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.