Average Mental Health Therapist Salary

$59.01/hour

The average salary for a Mental Health Therapist in California is $59.01 per hour. This is 32% higher than the US average of $40.08.

Last updated on October 25, 2026. Based on active jobs on Vivian.com.

Mental Health Therapist salaries in California compared to National Averages

$59.01/hour

California

32% higher than the US average.

$40.08/hour

United States

How does the pay for Mental Health Therapists in California compare to nearby states?

Only Colorado reports pay data for Mental Health Therapists, averaging $41 per hour. Colorado also has the highest ceiling, with max hourly pay reaching $51. For comparison, the California average for Therapists is $59 per hour — Colorado pays 31% less.

Average Hourly SalaryMax Hourly Salary
Colorado$41$51
What are the highest paying Employers and Agencies for Mental Health Therapist jobs in California?

Community Medical Centers pays Mental Health Therapists the most, averaging $72 per hour, followed by Tenet Desert ($47). Community Medical Centers also has the highest ceiling, with max hourly pay reaching $79. For comparison, the California average for Therapists is $59 per hour — Community Medical Centers pays 23% more.

Average Hourly SalaryMax Hourly Salary
Community Medical Centers$72$79
Tenet Desert$47$47

Last updated on October 25, 2026. Information based on active jobs on Vivian.com and pay data from BLS and around the web.

Was this page helpful?

Get alerts about new jobs and salary trends in California

Be the first to know about new jobs for Mental Health Therapists with the salary that suits you.

Featured Blog Posts

Open article Preparing for the Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology Interstate Compact
Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology Interstate Compact
Preparing for the Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology Interstate Compact
We cover how to enroll and what it will mean for therapists in these fields.
Open article The Fastest Growing Allied Health Careers in 2025
Radiology or X-Ray Technologist in allied health
The Fastest Growing Allied Health Careers in 2025
Get the facts you need to plan your healthcare career path in a top-paying, in-demand specialty.
Open article How Can Physical Therapists Earn More Money?
Physical therapist
How Can Physical Therapists Earn More Money?
Try these tips to help maximize your PT career and become a top earner.
See more Blog Posts