Clinical and Counseling Psychologists Salary Guide 2025: $100,580 Median, Growth and How to Start
Clinical and counseling psychologists earn a median annual salary of $100,580, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The average wage is $112,750, or about $48 per hour. Pay ranges from $55,170 at the 10th percentile to $180,960 at the 90th. Employment across the U.S. stands at 75,990 jobs.
How much Clinical and Counseling Psychologists earn
The median annual wage for clinical and counseling psychologists is $100,580, with a mean of $112,750. Earnings vary widely by experience, location, and employer. The bottom 10% earn less than $55,170, while the top 10% make over $180,960.
The highest-paying states for this occupation are Oregon ($134,350), New Jersey ($127,090), New Mexico ($124,800), Alaska ($124,270), and Arizona ($119,010). Lower-paying states include Louisiana ($71,330), Montana ($68,160), and New Hampshire ($64,270).
- National median: $100,580
- Mean wage: $112,750 ($48/hr)
- Typical range: $55,170 – $180,960
- Highest: Oregon ($134,350)
- Lowest: New Hampshire ($64,270)
Pay by state
Salaries for clinical and counseling psychologists can differ by $70,000 or more depending on the state. Oregon leads at $134,350, followed by New Jersey ($127,090), New Mexico ($124,800), Alaska ($124,270), and Arizona ($119,010). At the other end, New Hampshire averages $64,270, Montana $68,160, and Louisiana $71,330. State cost of living and demand for mental health services play a role in these differences.
How to become a Clinical and Counseling Psychologist
Becoming a clinical or counseling psychologist typically requires a doctoral degree (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) in psychology, though some states allow master's-level practice with restrictions. The path includes earning a bachelor's degree in psychology or a related field, followed by a master's and then a doctoral program. After graduation, you must complete a supervised postdoctoral internship (usually 1–2 years) and pass the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) to obtain state licensure. Licensing requirements vary by state, so check your state board. A license is mandatory for independent practice.
- Earn a bachelor's degree in psychology or related field
- Complete a master's degree (optional but common for competitive doctoral programs)
- Earn a Ph.D. or Psy.D. in clinical or counseling psychology
- Complete 1–2 years of supervised postdoctoral experience
- Pass the EPPP and meet state-specific requirements for licensure
Job outlook
Employment of clinical and counseling psychologists is projected to grow 11.2% from 2024 to 2034, much faster than the average for all occupations. This translates to about 4,800 openings per year. Demand is driven by increased awareness of mental health issues, greater acceptance of therapy, and expanded insurance coverage for psychological services. Most openings will result from the need to replace workers who retire or leave the field.
Frequently asked questions
What is the salary for a Clinical and Counseling Psychologist?
The median annual salary is $100,580. The average (mean) is $112,750, or about $48 per hour. Earnings range from $55,170 (10th percentile) to $180,960 (90th percentile).
How long does it take to become a Clinical and Counseling Psychologist?
It typically takes 8–12 years. This includes 4 years for a bachelor's degree, 2–3 years for a master's (optional), 4–6 years for a doctoral degree, and 1–2 years of supervised postdoctoral experience before licensure.
What is the job growth for Clinical and Counseling Psychologists?
The BLS projects an 11.2% growth from 2024 to 2034, much faster than average. About 4,800 job openings are expected each year.
Which states pay the most for this career?
The highest-paying states are Oregon ($134,350), New Jersey ($127,090), New Mexico ($124,800), Alaska ($124,270), and Arizona ($119,010).
Do you need a license to practice?
Yes, all states require a license to practice independently as a clinical or counseling psychologist. Requirements typically include a doctoral degree, supervised experience, and passing the EPPP.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Clinical and Counseling Psychologists data.