Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors Salary in Atlanta, GA

In Atlanta, GA, the typical Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselor earns a median annual salary of $58,990, with a median hourly rate of $28.36. This median salary is slightly below the national median for this occupation, which stands at $59,190. When compared to the local area's median household income of $86,338, it becomes evident that these counselors earn significantly less than the typical household. Despite earning less on average, these professionals play a critical role in supporting community health and wellness, contributing to an estimated employment pool of 5,510 individuals within the region.

Entry-level workers in this field typically start near the 10th percentile salary range, which is approximately $43,940 annually. As counselors gain experience and advance in their careers, they can earn up to or beyond the 75th percentile, reaching salaries around $73,630, with top earners at the 90th percentile making upwards of $96,320 annually. The difference in earnings between entry-level and experienced workers is driven by factors such as years of experience, level of education, specialization within the field, job responsibilities, and performance. Additionally, geographic location within Atlanta can influence salary variations due to differing cost-of-living considerations and demand for services across various neighborhoods.