Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers
Job Zone 5 - Extensive preparation needed
Assess and treat individuals with mental, emotional, or substance abuse problems, including abuse of alcohol, tobacco, and/or other drugs. Activities may include individual and group therapy, crisis intervention, case management, client advocacy, prevention, and education.
Median pay: $60,280/yr (U.S. national, May 2025)
Typical range nationwide (10th–90th percentile). This is a population snapshot, not a personal prediction - actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.
Job outlook: +9.7% projected growth, 2024–2034 — much faster than average.
About 13,500 openings per year, on average, over the decade.
Typical entry-level education: Master's degree.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS and Employment Projections.
• Counsel clients in individual or group sessions to assist them in dealing with substance abuse, mental or physical illness, poverty, unemployment, or physical abuse.
• Collaborate with counselors, physicians, or nurses to plan or coordinate treatment, drawing on social work experience and patient needs.
• Monitor, evaluate, and record client progress with respect to treatment goals.
• Interview clients, review records, conduct assessments, or confer with other professionals to evaluate the mental or physical condition of clients or patients.
• Supervise or direct other workers who provide services to clients or patients.
• Modify treatment plans according to changes in client status.
• Assist clients in adhering to treatment plans, such as setting up appointments, arranging for transportation to appointments, or providing support.
• Educate clients or community members about mental or physical illness, abuse, medication, or available community resources.
What's the median pay for Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers?
The median pay for Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers is $60,280 per year, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
What's the job outlook for Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers?
Employment for Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers is projected to change +9.7% from 2024 to 2034 - much faster than average.
What education is typically required for Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers?
Typical entry-level education: Master's degree.
How many job openings are there each year for Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers?
About 13,500 openings per year, on average, over the decade.