How to Become a Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors in North Carolina
Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors in North Carolina earn a median salary of $56,470/year, which is 5% below the national average. North Carolina has a state income tax of ~4.5%. After taxes and rent, a substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors takes home approximately $2,327/month. Most positions require Master's degree.
What a substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors can afford in North Carolina
Becoming a substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors in North Carolina
Meet education requirements
Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors positions in North Carolina typically require Master's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across North Carolina. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors positions in North Carolina require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain North Carolina licensure or certification
North Carolina may require specific licensing or professional certification for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselorss. Requirements vary by state — contact the North Carolina Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in North Carolina
North Carolina employs 8,930 substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors. The highest concentrations are in Raleigh-Cary and Durham-Chapel Hill.
Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors salary by metro area in North Carolina
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Raleigh-Cary | $60K | $29.01/hr | 1,200 |
| Durham-Chapel Hill | $59K | $28.17/hr | 660 |
| Fayetteville | $57K | $27.61/hr | 330 |
| Asheville | $57K | $27.56/hr | 630 |
| Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia | $56K | $27.14/hr | 2,610 |
| Greenville | $55K | $26.52/hr | 160 |
| Greensboro-High Point | $54K | $25.97/hr | 470 |
| Winston-Salem | $54K | $25.87/hr | 400 |
| Pinehurst-Southern Pines | $54K | $25.8/hr | 90 |
| Goldsboro | $54K | $25.76/hr | 90 |
| Burlington | $51K | $24.32/hr | 90 |
| Hickory-Lenoir-Morganton | $50K | $24.26/hr | 280 |
| Jacksonville | $50K | $24.2/hr | 110 |
| Wilmington | $49K | $23.76/hr | 560 |
| Rocky Mount | $48K | $22.97/hr | 100 |
Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors salary range in North Carolina
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 North Carolina?▼
The median substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors salary in North Carolina is $56,470 per year ($27.15/hr). This is 5% below the national median of $59,190. Salaries range from $38,440 to $83,790.
What are the requirements to become a substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors in North Carolina?▼
Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors positions in North Carolina typically require Master's degree. North Carolina may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the North Carolina licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors afford to live in North Carolina?▼
At the median salary of $56,470, a substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors in North Carolina would take home approximately $3,739/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 37.8% 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 North Carolina?▼
The highest paying metro areas for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors in North Carolina are Raleigh-Cary ($60,350), Durham-Chapel Hill ($58,590), Fayetteville ($57,420). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does North Carolina have state income tax for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors?▼
Yes, North Carolina has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.5%. On a $56,470 salary, this means roughly $2,541/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.