How to Become a Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors in Wisconsin
Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors in Wisconsin earn a median salary of $62,470/year, which is 6% above the national average. Wisconsin has a state income tax of ~3.6%. After taxes and rent, a substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors takes home approximately $2,752/month. Most positions require Master's degree.
What a substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors can afford in Wisconsin
Becoming a substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors in Wisconsin
Meet education requirements
Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors positions in Wisconsin typically require Master's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Wisconsin. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors positions in Wisconsin require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Wisconsin licensure or certification
Wisconsin may require specific licensing or professional certification for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselorss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Wisconsin Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Wisconsin
Wisconsin employs 9,450 substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors. The highest concentrations are in Racine-Mount Pleasant and Oshkosh-Neenah.
Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors salary by metro area in Wisconsin
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Racine-Mount Pleasant | $70K | $33.69/hr | 160 |
| Oshkosh-Neenah | $64K | $30.74/hr | 310 |
| Madison | $63K | $30.48/hr | 1,550 |
| Janesville-Beloit | $63K | $30.37/hr | 210 |
| Milwaukee-Waukesha | $63K | $30.08/hr | 3,060 |
| Eau Claire | $62K | $29.97/hr | 310 |
| La Crosse-Onalaska | $62K | $29.71/hr | 340 |
| Appleton | $62K | $29.67/hr | 470 |
| Wausau | $61K | $29.5/hr | 250 |
| Kenosha | $61K | $29.45/hr | 170 |
| Fond du Lac | $60K | $29.05/hr | 120 |
| Green Bay | $60K | $28.89/hr | 550 |
| Sheboygan | $59K | $28.46/hr | 150 |
Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors salary range in Wisconsin
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 Wisconsin?▼
The median substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors salary in Wisconsin is $62,470 per year ($30.04/hr). This is 6% above the national median of $59,190. Salaries range from $44,660 to $98,290.
What are the requirements to become a substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors in Wisconsin?▼
Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors positions in Wisconsin typically require Master's degree. Wisconsin may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Wisconsin licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors afford to live in Wisconsin?▼
At the median salary of $62,470, a substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors in Wisconsin would take home approximately $4,164/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 33.9% 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 Wisconsin?▼
The highest paying metro areas for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors in Wisconsin are Racine-Mount Pleasant ($70,080), Oshkosh-Neenah ($63,950), Madison ($63,400). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Wisconsin have state income tax for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors?▼
Yes, Wisconsin has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.6%. On a $62,470 salary, this means roughly $2,265/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.