Career Outlook for Mental Health Counselors (LMHC)
Mental Health Counselors work in a wide range of settings. Among these are community mental health centers; hospitals and clinics; residential treatment centers; substance abuse treatment facilities; correctional centers; college and university counseling centers; employee assistance programs; managed behavioral health care organizations; government agencies; elder care facilities; and faith communities.
There are many employment opportunities in the Boston area and throughout the United States for qualified counselors. Once they have completed their post-master's work experience requirements and have passed the national licensing examination (known as the NCMHE), mental health counselors can also pursue independent practice. In Massachusetts, licensed mental health counselors are known as LMHCs.
Mental Health Counselors held about 120,010 jobs in 2014
Advantages of a Graduate School Education at William James College
| Job Outlook: Percent (%) Change in Employment for 2014-2024 |  |
|
| Marriage and Family Therapist | Up 19% | |
| Mental Health Counselor | Up 19% | |
| Substance Abuse & Behavioral Disorder Counselor | Up 22% | |
| Clinical, Counseling & School Psychologists | Up 19% | |
| US News & World Report | Best Social Service Jobs |  |
| School Psychologist | No. 2 | |
| Marriage and Family Therapist | No. 4 | |
| Substance Abuse & Behavioral Disorder Counselor | No. 10 | |
| Mental Health Counselor | No. 8 |
|
Median Salaries* |
 |
|
| Clinical Psychologist | $94,590 | |
| School Psychologist | $70,580 | |
| Mental Health Counselor | $41,880 | |
| * Licensed mental health professionals have the opportunity for additional income through private practice. | ||
Additional Resources about Counseling Careers and Employment Opportunities
For more information about getting a job in counseling, please visit the American Counseling Association Career Center page.
