How to Become a Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors in Virginia
Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors in Virginia earn a median salary of $58,410/year, which is 1% below the national average. Virginia has a state income tax of ~4.9%. After taxes and rent, a substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors takes home approximately $2,432/month. Most positions require Master's degree.
What a substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors can afford in Virginia
Becoming a substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors in Virginia
Meet education requirements
Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors positions in Virginia typically require Master's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Virginia. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors positions in Virginia require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Virginia licensure or certification
Virginia may require specific licensing or professional certification for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselorss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Virginia Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Virginia
Virginia employs 16,860 substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors. The highest concentrations are in Staunton-Stuarts Draft and Harrisonburg.
Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors salary by metro area in Virginia
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Staunton-Stuarts Draft | $59K | $28.48/hr | 190 |
| Harrisonburg | $58K | $27.89/hr | 200 |
| Virginia Beach-Chesapeake-Norfolk | $58K | $27.68/hr | 3,710 |
| Richmond | $57K | $27.33/hr | 3,840 |
| Winchester | $55K | $26.22/hr | 390 |
| Charlottesville | $54K | $25.94/hr | 380 |
| Blacksburg-Christiansburg-Radford | $52K | $24.82/hr | 730 |
| Lynchburg | $51K | $24.56/hr | 720 |
| Roanoke | $51K | $24.4/hr | 750 |
Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors salary range in Virginia
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 Virginia?▼
The median substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors salary in Virginia is $58,410 per year ($28.08/hr). This is 1% below the national median of $59,190. Salaries range from $39,150 to $96,230.
What are the requirements to become a substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors in Virginia?▼
Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors positions in Virginia typically require Master's degree. Virginia may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Virginia licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors afford to live in Virginia?▼
At the median salary of $58,410, a substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors in Virginia would take home approximately $3,844/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 36.7% 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 Virginia?▼
The highest paying metro areas for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors in Virginia are Staunton-Stuarts Draft ($59,230), Harrisonburg ($58,020), Virginia Beach-Chesapeake-Norfolk ($57,570). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Virginia have state income tax for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors?▼
Yes, Virginia has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.9%. On a $58,410 salary, this means roughly $2,842/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.