Substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors
🤍 Save CareerSubstance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors play a vital role in the US economy, with 484K professionals employed nationwide. The median annual salary is $59,190, with projected growth of 17% through 2034 (Much faster than average).
💰 Salary Range
📈 Growth Outlook
🔥 High Growth — 17% projected growth🤖 AI Automation Risk
Some tasks may be automated, but human skills remain essential.
🤖AI Impact Deep Dive: Substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors
🔬 AI Impact Deep Dive: Substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors
AI Collaboration Score
Measures how much AI tools are used as collaborative assistants in this role (0% = no AI involvement, 100% = AI-intensive workflow)
🔮 Future Outlook
This occupation is a mix of high-level knowledge work and intense interpersonal interaction. While AI can significantly assist with digital tasks like documentation, treatment planning, and monitoring progress, the core of the job requires human empathy, crisis intervention, and the navigation of complex emotional and physical environments that AI cannot yet replicate.
Analysis based on Microsoft "Working with AI" research (2025), O*NET task data v30.2, and Bureau of Labor Statistics occupational projections. Updated March 2026.
🌅A Day in the Life
🌟Career Outlook & Getting Started
Why It's Promising
With 17% projected growth and a median salary of $59,190, this career offers strong prospects. While the field is specialized, demand remains consistent.
How to Get Started
Entry typically requires master's degree. Start by exploring relevant AP courses in high school, gaining hands-on experience through internships or volunteering, and connecting with professionals in the field.
Who Is It For
Anyone interested in substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors who wants to build a rewarding career in this field.
🎓Majors & Top Schools
❓Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors make in 2026?▼
The median salary for a Substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors is $59,190 per year. Entry-level positions start around $35,514, while experienced professionals can earn up to $94,704 depending on location, specialization, and industry.
How do I become a Substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors?▼
Entry typically requires master's degree. Start by exploring relevant AP courses in high school, gaining hands-on experience through internships or volunteering, and connecting with professionals in the field. The typical education requirement is master's degree.
What degree do you need to be a Substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors?▼
Most Substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors positions require master's degree. However, some professionals enter the field through alternative paths like bootcamps, certifications, or self-directed learning.
What AP courses should I take to become a Substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors?▼
Check PathLeap for personalized AP course recommendations for Substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors. The right AP courses depend on your target college major and career specialization.
What does a Substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors do on a daily basis?▼
As a substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselor, your day involves a mix of specialized tasks that require both expertise and adaptability. You work with colleagues, clients, or patients depending on the setting, applying your training to solve real-world problems.
Is Substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors a good career in 2026?▼
With 17% projected growth and a median salary of $59,190, this career offers strong prospects. While the field is specialized, demand remains consistent. Job growth is projected at 17%, which is declining. The median salary of $59,190 also positions it competitively in the job market.
Will AI replace Substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselorss?▼
Substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors has an AI automation risk score of 50/100 (Moderate). AI will change how this work is done, but the core skills remain valuable. Professionals who learn to work with AI tools will have a significant advantage.
What kind of person makes a good Substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors?▼
Anyone interested in substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors who wants to build a rewarding career in this field. Success in this role also depends on continuous learning and adaptability, especially as the field evolves with new technology and industry trends.
Is Substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors Right for You?
Take our career quiz to see how Substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors matches your personality. Get personalized AP course recommendations and see what similar students are exploring.
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