Online Counselor Jobs And Other Careers In Mental Health Careers
Are you considering working as a therapist, looking for online counselor jobs, or wondering what a typical salary is? Whether you're just beginning to explore careers in therapy or you’re a seasoned counselor, we're here to help.
Many options are available in the field of psychology, whether in person or virtually, and you can maintain a good salary by pursuing a career in psychotherapy or other related careers in psychology. If being a psychotherapist interests you, our article How to Become a Psychotherapist goes into more detail. Counseling is another avenue you might be interested in learning if you are interested in learning about how to become a therapist or dedicate your life to helping people improve their mental health through various techniques. BetterHelp is the world's leading mental health provider for online therapy and consistently looks for dedicated counselors to join the team. Working with a remote team of experienced professionals can provide valuable insight and support as you grow in your career.
A way to start your therapy career in mental health care
There are a variety of credentials that a mental health professional can obtain to become a licensed therapist.
Consider what you want out of a therapist or counseling credential
Before diving into a therapy career, it may be beneficial to get a mountain view of how you envision your mission and the type of therapy on which you would like to focus. Depending on what specialty you choose, your needed therapist requirements and credentials may differ slightly. Having the right qualifications will also determine the type of clients you can serve and the settings in which you can practice. Understanding the benefits of different credentials can help you make an informed decision about your career path. Seeking professional support can also be valuable as you navigate this journey.
For example, if you work with families or have an interest in working with married couples, you might pursue an LMFT (licensed marriage and family therapist) credential. But if you want to work one-on-one with patients who have one or more mental health conditions, you may choose to pursue an LPCC (licensed professional clinical counselor) credential or graduate degree in clinical psychology instead.
Regardless of what population you have a passion to serve, at some point, you will need to earn at least a master’s degree. You’ll also probably need to complete an internship and/or supervised hours of therapy to develop the clinical skills and licensure required to administer counseling on your own. The process of completing these requirements can be challenging but ultimately rewarding. Additionally, networking and referrals from experienced professionals can help you build a successful practice. To effectively respond to the needs of your future clients, it's essential to stay informed about best practices in therapy.
Online counselor jobs: Working as a BetterHelp therapist
To work as a remote therapist with BetterHelp, you can be located anywhere in the United States, but you must have completed 2,000 hours of clinical supervision and must be fully licensed by the state board to provide therapy. Examples of credentials acceptable for an online position at BetterHelp are state-issued licenses such as LCSW, LMFT, LPC, and Psy.D.
Online therapy: An emerging field
In recent years, remote (also called virtual or online therapy) has been a burgeoning field, and it’s only expected to grow. The New York Times wrote about the explosion of virtual therapy as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, including the fact that many therapists have grown comfortable with this new way of doing business.
Working as an online counselor offers flexibility and support for professionals seeking to help clients while maintaining a balanced schedule. Many online therapy platforms allow counselor to set their own hour, making staying active in their practice easier without the hassle of commuting. Whether based in California or elsewhere, therapists can work remote positions while efficiently handling client referrals and processing claims. A strong team of mental health professionals ensures that clients receive timely care, and counselors can respond to inquiries at their own pace. Each week, counselors can focus on providing quality care while taking note of the progress to enhance treatment plans.
Virtual mental health therapy can be as effective
While the pandemic might have encouraged a lot of growth in online mental health services, peer-reviewed studies have already shown that online therapy is just as effective as face-to-face therapy when it comes to treating common mental health conditions, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety.
More and more people are seeing the practical draws and benefits of virtual therapy as well. For adults with busy lives and schedules or those who live in remote places, it saves time to not have to commute to an office. For others, being able to remain in the comfort of their own home may alleviate some of the anxiety of getting started on with or continuing therapy. Additionally, many therapists enjoy the flexibility that comes with working remote jobs, allowing them to take on clients at their own pace.
Looking to be a social worker in education or other specialties? Be specific in your search for online counselor jobs
When you search for online therapy jobs, consider being specific about your search to avoid searching through thousands of unrelated job listings. For example, if you browse “therapy jobs online,” you’ll likely receive results for all therapy jobs online, including job titles like school counselor or therapist, hospital counselor, admissions counselor, enrollment counselor, or any other types of therapists that aren’t what you’re seeking to practice as.
Therefore, it’s important to tailor your “therapists needed” job search to find the best job postings that match your skills and abilities. For instance, you wouldn't want your search to return results for an occupational therapist, physical therapist, or respiratory therapist since those are different fields of work. Similarly, if you search for information on “counselor jobs,” you may find yourself sifting through non-mental health-related fields, like genetic counseling.
Take note that roles like “patient financial counselor” often don’t actually include a therapy component, so it's important to make sure you're applying for a job that aligns with your goals, even in clinical settings. Some referrals for therapy positions may also require specific credentials, so double-check the job posting requirements.
Consider whether you want full-time, part-time, or contracted work
Keep in mind that some platforms or employers hire therapists on an employee basis as a full-time job. In other cases, a company may post online therapist jobs for independent providers only. As an independent provider or contractor, you’ll receive a 1099 or 1099-MISC form instead of a W2, as you would at a full-time job, to report your income and file taxes. As an independent contractor, you’ll also provide your own healthcare and life insurance. Some companies offer healthcare packages for therapists who work a minimum number of hours per week.
Practice your craft and further your education: Online counselor jobs
If you’re already a therapist, you can find online therapy clients to expand your practice without having to spend thousands of dollars on advertising to grow your business. There are online therapy and teletherapy jobs available on automated platforms like BetterHelp that may make the process of expanding easier and more affordable. Online therapy can become a lucrative career where you practice your craft and help people improve their mental health in a remote setting.
What topics do people often discuss in therapy?
*If you are facing or witnessing abuse of any kind, the National Domestic Violence Hotline is available. Call 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or text "START" to 88788. You can also use the online chat.
The nature of a therapist's job can depend on whether they work for a larger practice or manage their own business. Depending on how their business is structured, a therapist’s daily work may involve other non-therapy-related tasks, such as answering patient billing questions, collating outstanding balances, coordinating payment for sessions, efficiently handling incoming requests and inquiries, and providing informational services to potential patients.
A therapist’s day-to-day work can also vary based on the type of therapy they administer. For example, note that a school therapist might spend a large portion of their day speaking in person to new students and other school personnel. An online therapist, on the other hand, might spend more of their time conducting sessions on multiple channels, such as voice calls, messaging, or video calls.
Part-time careers for online employees: Taking human resources into your own hands
One advantage of being an online therapist is the flexibility of the position. You can work the hours that are convenient and make sense for your schedule without having to worry about commutes or business trips, which makes for a winning combination. Online therapy allows you to take appointments from a variety of locations, with no need to spend time in a busy office or call center environment.
When you work independently, you don’t have to worry about the challenges of managing a regular full-time job, and you can accept clients at your discretion. You can meet with clients during daytime or evening hours—whatever works best for you.
What makes BetterHelp a leader in therapy and mental health care?
BetterHelp has been a pioneer in the world of online therapy. As the world’s largest online therapy platform, it has an impressive network of more than 25,000 therapists. With over 500,000 text messages and over 100 million chats, voice calls, and video therapy sessions to date, BetterHelp is using thousands of talented therapists to provide outstanding customer service to clients every day.
What is the typical salary for an online counselor?
An online therapist can make a sustainable income and support themselves and their family by getting paid independently.
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for a therapist in the US is just under $50,000 a year. This differs depending on other factors as well, like the location of the therapist and their education or experience level. Some therapists may also file claims with insurance companies to receive compensation for their services.
For example, clinical psychologists require a higher level of education (a doctorate degree) than counselors and therapists, so their average base salary is considerably higher than that of other health practitioners. However, the location of the therapist and their clinical practice can impact earning potential as well. For example, the median salary for a therapist working in California is just under $70,000 a year.
The mental health professionals in the online division at BetterHelp can earn as much as $8,500 per month, depending on the time commitment of the therapist and their caseload.
How do I apply to be a therapist at BetterHelp?
You can apply for a therapy job through BetterHelp Careers online. On BetterHelp’s website, you first select your license type, whether as a marriage and family therapist, a professional counselor, a social worker, or a psychologist.
Is BetterHelp still filling therapist positions?
Yes, BetterHelp is still filling therapist positions. Online therapy is increasing in popularity, and BetterHelp is responding to the demand for therapists by increasing its roster of licensed therapists. There are many outstanding people out there who are facing challenging life situations, and you can help them by working remotely.
Takeaway
Can you make money with BetterHelp?
Yes, mental health professionals working for BetterHelp make money; however, the company doesn’t share payment details with professionals until they are ready to initiate the onboarding process. Rather than an hourly rate, the therapy jobs at BetterHelp operate on an engagement-based payment structure, meaning that mental health professionals working for the company are compensated according to their amount of engagement with their clients. This might include live video chat sessions, live phone sessions, direct chats, asynchronous chats, and supplemental “homework” assignments that clients complete between sessions, such as journaling and workbooks. The benefits of working with BetterHelp include a flexible schedule and the ability to reach a wide range of clients in need of support. Many professionals choose BetterHelp as a part-time opportunity while maintaining other counseling roles.
Are BetterHelp employees considered self-employed by human resources departments?
Yes, the mental health professionals working for BetterHelp are independent contractors considered to be self-employed mental health therapists. BetterHelp professionals must meet licensing qualifications to provide therapy services legally. Since they are independent contractors, they handle their own claims and tax obligations without direct oversight from the company’s management.
What is the best compensation for online therapists?
Compensations for online therapists vary depending on several factors, including, but not limited to:
The location in which they practice
How much experience the therapist has
The type of credentials they have
Their area(s) of specialization
How many clients they serve
The overall job market
According to comparably.com, the average 2024 annual salary earned by online mental health therapists in the United States is approximately $96,307. Salaries range from $43,022 to $432,220 per year. Remote therapists enjoy the benefits of flexible scheduling and the ability to provide remote care to clients. Some professionals may choose to work part-time to balance other commitments while still earning a competitive income.
Therapists who work in remote settings may have different earning potentials based on demand and platform rates. Some platforms offer a flexible schedule, allowing therapists to manage their caseloads efficiently while maintaining a steady income. Additionally, being active in professional networks and continuing education can help therapists increase their expertise and earning potential.
What is the highest-paid type of therapist?
Therapists who support specialized client needs or have advanced certifications may earn higher rates. Working with a team of professionals can also open doors to better opportunities, whether through referrals or shared resources. Each hour spent with clients contributes to overall earnings, and keeping a thorough note ensures quality care and long-term client retention. Online therapists can optimize their practice and maximize compensation by maintaining a structured approach.
The highest-paid types of therapists may change with time and economic circumstances. According to research.com, some of the consistently highest-paid open jobs for therapists in 2024 include:
Psychiatrist (estimated yearly salary: $239,514)
Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialize in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of mental health conditions. In many cases, psychiatrists work with patients who require a combination of medication and psychotherapeutic interventions. Some psychiatrists participate in intervention programs for crisis management, helping patients with urgent care needs.
To become a licensed psychiatrist, one must complete a bachelor’s program in a relevant field, earn a medical degree, and complete a set number of hours in residency (depending on the specialization). Once the educational requirements are met, the psychiatrist must obtain a medical license in their practicing state. Many psychiatrists verify their credentials regularly to stay amenable with licensing boards.
Industrial/organizational psychologist (estimated yearly salary: $135,688)
These types of psychologists specialize in using psychological principles to improve workplace productivity and employee performance. They may play a significant role in selecting and training employees and in providing performance assessments. Their responsibilities might also include shaping human resource policies, leadership development, and workforce planning. Some industrial/organizational psychologists participate in company-wide training programs to enhance employee well-being. They also provide support for leadership teams looking to optimize workplace efficiency.
To become an industrial/organizational psychologist, one must complete a bachelor’s program in psychology or a related field and earn a master’s or doctorate degree in industrial/organizational psychology. These types of psychologists must complete fieldwork in which they gain experience through internships or other relevant activities.
Neuropsychologist (estimated yearly salary: $122,298)
Neuropsychologists focus on understanding the relationship between brain structure and functioning and human behavior. These types of professionals often study conditions that affect neurological functioning, such as brain injury and neurodegenerative diseases. Their work in a clinical setting might include assessing patients with neurological conditions and developing treatment plans tailored to their specific needs. Some neuropsychologists work in healthcare institutions, collaborating with medical teams to provide comprehensive care. They often rely on advanced assessment tools to verify cognitive functions and treatment progress.
Like psychiatrists, neuropsychologists must complete a bachelor’s program in a field associated with psychology. They must also earn a doctoral degree in their area of expertise. Neuropsychologists must complete a postdoctoral fellowship focusing on research and clinical training in neuropsychology and complete the requirements for state licensure.
Engineering psychologist (estimated yearly salary: $92,813)
An engineering psychologist applies psychological principles to technological development and machine learning. They may create systems, products, and environments that enhance safety, efficiency, and user experience. This type of psychologist often researches human behavior and cognition to improve or resolve engineering and design problems in numerous industries. Companies often seek engineering psychologists to provide advisors on user experience improvements. These professionals also analyze preferences to ensure technological solutions align with human behaviors.
To become an engineering psychologist, one must earn a bachelor’s degree in a related field, then a master’s or doctoral degree in engineering psychology or related discipline. Practical experience working in internships or research is necessary, as well.
Military psychologist (estimated yearly salary: $92,813)
Military psychologists work closely with military personnel to address the mental health issues they and their families sometimes face. This type of psychologist assesses and evaluates individuals to diagnose disorders and develop treatment plans. They often provide specialized counseling for conditions commonly experienced by military personnel, such as stress, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and depression. In some cases, military psychologists must be trained in crisis intervention techniques. This role also involves research to improve military mental health policies, resilience training, and performance enhancement for soldiers.
Individuals seeking to become a military psychologist must complete a bachelor’s program and a master’s or doctoral program in clinical psychology with a focus on military psychology. Like other counseling psychologists, they must complete a set number of hours working in a residency or internship capacity and obtain a state license. Unlike other psychologists, a military psychologist must also complete military training if they are an active-duty officer and a thorough background check to earn security clearance. They must also pass the military’s physical and medical assessments.
Clinical psychologist (estimated yearly salary: $91,872)
Clinical psychologists assess, diagnose, and treat patients with mental health issues. They might work in their own practice, in an outpatient program, in a hospital, or in other settings in which clients are treated for mental disorders. Many clinical psychologists manage referrals from primary care doctors to ensure patients receive specialized therapy. They often tailor treatment preferences based on individual client needs to enhance therapy outcomes.
To become a clinical psychologist, individuals must complete a bachelor’s program in psychology or a related field of study and earn a doctoral degree in clinical psychology. These professionals must complete an internship in a clinical setting to graduate and become licensed. They must earn a state license to practice and earn post-doctorate internship or training hours according to state requirements.
Counseling psychologist (estimated yearly salary: $89,359)
These types of mental health professionals typically focus on helping individuals in a more specific, goal-oriented way. For example, they may help individuals set and achieve specific goals or design a strategy for clients to cultivate different kinds of self-improvement. They also treat mental health issues and help clients learn to cope with challenges in daily life or associated with things like the death of a loved one, the loss of a job, or other potentially traumatic events. Counseling psychologists help students and prospective students navigate emotional challenges. They also offer education on coping strategies through workshops and community outreach programs.
Counseling psychologists can work in diverse settings, from their own practice to schools to community centers. They must complete a bachelor’s program in psychology or a related field, earn a master’s or doctorate degree in counseling psychology, and complete a specific amount of supervised clinical internship according to degree requirements. These types of therapists must also complete licensing requirements determined by the state in which they will practice.
Can a therapist from BetterHelp prescribe medication?
BetterHelp therapists aren’t medical doctors and are, therefore, unable to prescribe medications. Therapists can, however, offer support by guiding clients toward resources that may help them discuss medication options with a licensed physician. Clients often rely on online therapy to access mental health care more conveniently
Is a therapist a good job for introverts?
Although it might not be for everyone, becoming a therapist may be a good option for someone with an introverted personality for several reasons:
Therapy often involves working with clients on a one-on-one basis, which might be less overwhelming for introverts who feel uncomfortable in large group settings.
Therapists spend a significant amount of time actively listening to their clients, which may be a strength for introverts who tend to be good listeners and enjoy deep, meaningful conversations.
Many introverts have a strong sense of empathy and understanding, which are critical qualities for a therapist to possess in order to help support their clients effectively.
Therapists may have more control over their work and can set boundaries to ensure they have time to recharge and practice self-care as needed. This can be important for introverts who may need time alone to recharge. A flexible schedule also allows for better time management, reducing hassle while ensuring high-quality care.
Therapists can choose to work in remote settings, offering services online while maintaining a structured schedule. This flexibility allows them to remain active in their profession without feeling drained by excessive social interaction. They can also collaborate with a team of professionals who share the same mission of helping others.
Helping others through therapy can be fulfilling for introverts drawn to meaningful work that allows them to make a positive impact on others’ lives. Each hour spent in therapy contributes to personal and professional growth. Keeping a detailed note ensures continuity of care, helping therapists track progress and refine treatment strategies. With the right balance of active listening and professional support, therapy can be an excellent career choice for introverts.
How do I become an online counselor?
To become an online counselor, you typically need a master's degree in counseling or a related field. Many prospective students pursue education in psychology or social work. If you want to provide emotional support, you should check your state's qualifications and verify licensure requirements. Some platforms offer remote opportunities, allowing professionals to provide crisis intervention services from anywhere.
Gaining experience through supervised practice can help you stay active in developing essential counseling skills. Additionally, joining a team of experienced professionals or networking with peers can offer valuable guidance and mentorship. Many online counseling platforms provide resources to support therapists as they navigate virtual care. With the flexibility of remote work, licensed counselors can connect with clients across different regions while maintaining a fulfilling and balanced career.
How do I start online counseling?
Starting remote counseling involves the process of getting licensed, selecting a company, and setting up a virtual practice. Many platforms let you participate in crisis intervention work and offer flexibility. One advantage of online counseling is that it gives students and adults access to professional help with minimal hassle.
How do therapists get paid on BetterHelp?
Therapists on BetterHelp earn based on client appointments, hour-based billing, and engagement levels. The platform has a system to track referrals, claims, and session preferences. Counselors can work part-time or active schedules, adjusting their week based on their availability. The team also provides support for professionals navigating the process.
What is the difference between a therapist and a counselor?
A school counselor focuses on academic guidance and emotional support for students, while therapists handle mental health concerns. Therapists often require more advanced education and training in crisis intervention and healthcare. Many therapists also work in California and other states with a focus on remote counseling, ensuring clients can meet their needs without scheduling conflicts.
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