Introduction:
There are significant numbers of mental health professionals in the US. This figure will increase significantly in the coming years due to the expansion of jobs in the future. Mental health professionals in the US are more than 1 million including counselors, therapists, psychologists, psychiatrists, and other social workers. Mental health professionals assist people get relief from trauma, stress, and disorders and building healthy relationships. This article will explore how many mental health professionals are in the US.
How many mental health professionals are in the US?
The estimated figure of mental health professionals who are currently employed in the US is more than one million. In this figure of 2021, around 181,600 were psychologists, more than 112,948 were counselors, and more than 552,890 were social workers.
These statistics include 26.2% of women and 73.8% of men in the United States. This estimation is proven against the Census, BLS, and current job openings.
These include 74.2% White people, 7.9% Black and African American, 7.8% Latino and Hispanic, and 6.2% unknown people.
But in Charleston, SC, mental health professionals are most in demand. Women mental health professionals earned 102% more than men in 2022.
Mental health professionals find great opportunities in private companies compared to government institutes.
Mental Health Professionals Statistics in the US:
Mental health professionals are experts who offer assistance and treatment to individuals to help them deal with the difficulties of mental health. These experts are crucial in raising awareness of mental health issues and helping people overcome obstacles.
How many mental health professionals are in the US?
Let’s explore how many mental health professionals are in the US:
How many psychologists in the U.S.?
Doctor-level trained experts who learn human thoughts, behaviors, and emotions are called psychologists. They practice their scholarly information and support people to advance their well-being.
In the United States, there were around 181,600 psychologist jobs in 2021, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
These psychologists contribute in different settings including hospitals, schools, and research institutions. Their duties comprise conducting research, offering therapy, evaluating and diagnosing mental health issues, teaching and training, offering consultation, etc.
This industry is predicted to grow by over 6% in the US. It is also forecast that in each year of the next decade, there will be about 14,100 jobs opening for psychologists.
How many Psychiatrists in the US?
Medical specialists that specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental illness and emotional issues are known as psychiatrists. These specialists have an extensive understanding of both medicine and psychology, so they offer a range of therapy alternatives to their patients.
According to BLS, there were 25,530 psychiatrists in 2019.
They usually assist people by prescribing medications, diagnosing mental health disorders, collaborating with professionals, providing therapy (in some cases), and managing treatment plans.
Psychiatrists can find employment opportunities in hospitals, community health centers, universities and research institutions, government agencies, etc.
It is also important to understand and know the exact figures that how many mental health professionals are in the US?
Statistics of Counselors:
Counselors are professionals who provide guidance, support, and interventions to assist people in developing their skills and offer resources that lead to a healthy and prosperous life.
According to BLS, there were almost 351,000 counselors who helped people with mental health, substance abuse disorders, and behavioral disorders.
This industry is predicted to grow by over 22% in the US. It is also forecast that in each year of the next decade, there will be about 43,600 jobs opening for counselors.
They offer practices in schools, community health centers, rehabilitation centers, and privately.
They perform different tasks including offering guidance and support, providing therapy, developing treatment plans, and referring clients to other services.
Marriage and Family Therapist
Trained professionals who help couples and families improve their relationships and communications are known as marriage and family therapists, simply MFTs. They usually help to resolve conflicts, solve communication problems, and manage life changes.
According to BLS, there were almost 65,300 MFTs in 2021. These jobs are predicted to grow by over 14% in the US over the next decade.
They perform different tasks including offering education and resources, providing therapy, developing treatment plans, conducting assessments to determine the severity of problems, and collaborating with doctors, psychologists, and social workers.
Social Workers
Social workers help people deal with poverty, unemployment, abuse, addiction, and mental health issues. They provide a range of services to help individuals, families, and communities overcome challenges and improve their lives. They place a strong emphasis on building relationships and helping people access resources, resolve problems, and improve their quality of life.
According to BLS, there were almost 708,100 social workers in 2021. 113,810 were specifically worked in mental health and substance abuse. This industry is predicted to grow by over 9% in the US over the next decade.
It is also forecast that in each year of the next decade, there will be about 74,700 jobs opening for social workers.
Bottom Line:
During the next ten years, the majority of mental health professions, such as social workers, therapists, and counselors, are expected to expand at a greater rate than the national average. A greater understanding of the value of mental health treatment, population aging, increased insurance coverage for mental health services, and a decline in the stigma associated with seeking therapy are all contributing factors to the rise in demand for mental health services.
How many mental health professionals are in the US?
According to a study funded by SAMHSA, there were roughly 1.2 million mental health professionals in 2020. Psychiatrist and addiction counselor shortages are anticipated by HRSA for 2030, the final year of its prediction period, based on an estimate of shortages in 2017.
How many licensed therapists are there in the USA?
In the United States, there are more than 81,000 psychologists and 198,811 therapists.
Is there a shortage of mental health professionals in America?
Yes, in the United States, there is a significant shortage of mental health professionals. In 2024, 121 million people live in shortage areas and it is estimated this figure is increased by 31 thousand by 2025.
How big is the mental health industry in the US?
The market for behavioral health services in the United States is expected to grow from $96.9 billion in 2025 to $151.62 billion in 2034, propelled by the use of telemedicine, integrated care models, and increased mental health awareness.
What are the statistics of mental health professionals?
Over a million mental health professionals, such as social workers, psychologists, therapists, and psychiatrists, work in the United States. By 2036, there will likely be severe shortages in several critical positions.
Where does America rank in mental health?
With an estimated 5% of the population, or 15 million Americans, suffering from some type of depression, the US ranks 29th in the world for the prevalence of depressive illnesses. On the list of the 30 nations with the highest rates of depression, it is the biggest.
Which country has most therapists?
According to data from the World Health Organization (WHO), Argentina has by far the highest number of psychologists per capita in the world, with almost 222 per 100,000 people.
Are therapists in demand in USA?
Due to growing mental health requirements and shortages, therapists are in great demand, and employment is expected to increase dramatically over the next ten years.