How to Become a Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors in Washington
Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors in Washington earn a median salary of $64,220/year, which is 8% above the national average. Washington has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors takes home approximately $3,052/month. Most positions require Master's degree.
What a substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors can afford in Washington
Becoming a substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors in Washington
Meet education requirements
Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors positions in Washington typically require Master's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Washington. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors positions in Washington require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Washington licensure or certification
Washington may require specific licensing or professional certification for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselorss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Washington Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Washington
Washington employs 13,150 substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors. The highest concentrations are in Mount Vernon-Anacortes and Bellingham.
Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors salary by metro area in Washington
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mount Vernon-Anacortes | $73K | $34.88/hr | 260 |
| Bellingham | $71K | $34.25/hr | 340 |
| Wenatchee-East Wenatchee | $68K | $32.59/hr | 100 |
| Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue | $65K | $31.39/hr | 7,040 |
| Walla Walla | $64K | $30.95/hr | 80 |
| Kennewick-Richland | $64K | $30.65/hr | 400 |
| Longview-Kelso | $63K | $30.49/hr | 250 |
| Spokane-Spokane Valley | $63K | $30.07/hr | 1,590 |
| Olympia-Lacey-Tumwater | $62K | $29.76/hr | 510 |
| Bremerton-Silverdale-Port Orchard | $60K | $29.03/hr | 410 |
| Yakima | $57K | $27.49/hr | 570 |
Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors salary range in Washington
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 Washington?▼
The median substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors salary in Washington is $64,220 per year ($30.88/hr). This is 8% above the national median of $59,190. Salaries range from $45,450 to $100,210.
What are the requirements to become a substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors in Washington?▼
Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors positions in Washington typically require Master's degree. Washington may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Washington licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors afford to live in Washington?▼
At the median salary of $64,220, a substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors in Washington would take home approximately $4,464/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 31.6% 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 Washington?▼
The highest paying metro areas for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors in Washington are Mount Vernon-Anacortes ($72,550), Bellingham ($71,250), Wenatchee-East Wenatchee ($67,800). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Washington have state income tax for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors?▼
No, Washington 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.