Psychologists and therapists' earnings are influenced by a variety of factors, including education, specialty, experience, and workplace. While annual earnings can range from $48,000 to over six figures, the average annual salary for these professionals is approximately $85,330.
Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and PayScale provide insights into the median annual salaries for various psychology professions:
| Occupation | Median Annual Salary | | Clinical Psychologist | $90,000 | | Counseling Psychologist | $85,000 | | School Psychologist | $80,000 | | Marriage and Family Therapist | $72,000 | | Substance Abuse and Mental Health Counselor | $47,000 |
The Occupational Outlook Handbook highlights salary disparities based on work environment and sector:
| Industry | Median Annual Salary | | Outpatient Care Centers | $106,410 | | Individual and Family Services | $91,510 | | Home Health Care Services | $110,570 | | Psychiatric and Substance Abuse Hospitals | $99,750 | | Elementary and Secondary Schools | $81,620 | | Educational Support Services | $108,530 | | Offices of Physicians | $108,440 | | Offices of Other Health Practitioners | $111,750 |
Note that salary alone should not drive career choices. Job satisfaction, work-life balance, and personal fulfillment are essential considerations.
These psychologists focus on treating emotional and behavioral issues, learning disabilities, and mental disorders through individual, group, and family therapies.
Industrial-organizational psychologists apply psychology principles in areas like administration, human resources, and sales.
Salaries vary depending on factors such as location, experience, and employer. Starting salaries may be lower than those of experienced professionals.