How to Become a Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors in Texas
Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors in Texas earn a median salary of $60,630/year, which is 2% above the national average. Texas has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors takes home approximately $2,818/month. Most positions require Master's degree.
What a substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors can afford in Texas
Becoming a substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors in Texas
Meet education requirements
Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors positions in Texas typically require Master's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Texas. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors positions in Texas require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Texas licensure or certification
Texas may require specific licensing or professional certification for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselorss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Texas Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Texas
Texas employs 19,520 substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors. The highest concentrations are in Brownsville-Harlingen and Amarillo.
Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors salary by metro area in Texas
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brownsville-Harlingen | $74K | $35.65/hr | 540 |
| Amarillo | $67K | $32.18/hr | 190 |
| Laredo | $66K | $31.49/hr | 90 |
| McAllen-Edinburg-Mission | $65K | $31.25/hr | 430 |
| El Paso | $64K | $30.85/hr | 540 |
| Houston-Pasadena-The Woodlands | $64K | $30.84/hr | 4,230 |
| Austin-Round Rock-San Marcos | $62K | $30.02/hr | 2,600 |
| Texarkana | $62K | $29.63/hr | 60 |
| San Angelo | $61K | $29.18/hr | 100 |
| Victoria | $59K | $28.35/hr | 40 |
| Sherman-Denison | $58K | $28.09/hr | 60 |
| San Antonio-New Braunfels | $58K | $28.04/hr | 1,710 |
| Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington | $58K | $27.74/hr | 5,320 |
| Waco | $57K | $27.54/hr | 210 |
| Killeen-Temple | $55K | $26.6/hr | 300 |
Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors salary range in Texas
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 Texas?▼
The median substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors salary in Texas is $60,630 per year ($29.15/hr). This is 2% above the national median of $59,190. Salaries range from $38,720 to $96,260.
What are the requirements to become a substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors in Texas?▼
Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors positions in Texas typically require Master's degree. Texas may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Texas licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors afford to live in Texas?▼
At the median salary of $60,630, a substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors in Texas would take home approximately $4,230/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 33.4% 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 Texas?▼
The highest paying metro areas for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors in Texas are Brownsville-Harlingen ($74,160), Amarillo ($66,930), Laredo ($65,500). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Texas have state income tax for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors?▼
No, Texas does not have a state income tax. This means substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.