How to Become a Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors in New York
Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors in New York earn a median salary of $62,070/year, which is 5% above the national average. New York has a state income tax of ~4.5%. After taxes and rent, a substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors takes home approximately $2,680/month. Most positions require Master's degree.
What a substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors can afford in New York
Becoming a substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors in New York
Meet education requirements
Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors positions in New York typically require Master's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across New York. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors positions in New York require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain New York licensure or certification
New York may require specific licensing or professional certification for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselorss. Requirements vary by state — contact the New York Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in New York
New York employs 22,450 substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors. The highest concentrations are in New York-Newark-Jersey City and Ithaca.
Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors salary by metro area in New York
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| New York-Newark-Jersey City | $65K | $31.2/hr | 23,790 |
| Ithaca | $64K | $31/hr | 170 |
| Syracuse | $63K | $30.37/hr | 620 |
| Kingston | $61K | $29.5/hr | 240 |
| Elmira | $61K | $29.4/hr | 90 |
| Kiryas Joel-Poughkeepsie-Newburgh | $61K | $29.33/hr | 720 |
| Rochester | $59K | $28.5/hr | 1,050 |
| Watertown-Fort Drum | $57K | $27.4/hr | 120 |
| Utica-Rome | $57K | $27.4/hr | 320 |
| Buffalo-Cheektowaga | $57K | $27.26/hr | 1,360 |
| Albany-Schenectady-Troy | $57K | $27.16/hr | 1,060 |
| Binghamton | $56K | $26.83/hr | 200 |
| Glens Falls | $54K | $26.09/hr | 120 |
Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors salary range in New York
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 New York?▼
The median substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors salary in New York is $62,070 per year ($29.84/hr). This is 5% above the national median of $59,190. Salaries range from $43,160 to $101,910.
What are the requirements to become a substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors in New York?▼
Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors positions in New York typically require Master's degree. New York may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the New York licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors afford to live in New York?▼
At the median salary of $62,070, a substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors in New York would take home approximately $4,092/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 34.5% 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 New York?▼
The highest paying metro areas for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors in New York are New York-Newark-Jersey City ($64,900), Ithaca ($64,480), Syracuse ($63,170). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does New York have state income tax for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors?▼
Yes, New York has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.5%. On a $62,070 salary, this means roughly $2,809/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.