Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors Salary in Providence, RI-MA

In Providence, Rhode Island to Massachusetts area, the typical Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselor earns a median annual salary of $49,770, which translates to approximately $23.93 per hour. This income is notably lower than the national median for this occupation, where counselors earn around $59,190 annually. When compared with the local area's median household income of $85,646, the earnings for these professionals fall significantly short, suggesting that a counselor in this region may need to rely on additional financial support from other household members or supplemental income sources to match the standard living expenses encountered by many households.

Entry-level Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors earn around $38,990 annually, which is at the 10th percentile mark. As counselors gain experience and move up within their field, earnings can increase substantially; those in the 25th percentile make approximately $43,020 per year, while individuals in the 75th percentile earn about $63,940 annually. The highest earners, or those at the 90th percentile, receive salaries close to $87,420 per year. This substantial variation is driven by factors such as experience level, specific qualifications, and the type of employer (e.g., private practice versus public institutions), which often provide higher compensation packages that include benefits and bonuses. Additionally, demand for experienced counselors in underserved areas or specialized fields can further drive up salaries.