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Associate Psychotherapist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Associate Therapist

Encinitas, CA ยท On-site

$32 - $34/hr

The Associate Therapist training program provides a unique opportunity for clinicians to gain experience working with teens facing acute mental health issues, as well as understanding residential and ...

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Associate Psychotherapist information

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$15

$27

$47

How much do associate psychotherapist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for associate psychotherapist in the United States is $27.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.67 and $31.97 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an associate psychotherapist?

An Associate Psychotherapist is a mental health professional who is in the process of completing the required supervised clinical hours to become fully licensed. They hold a master's or doctoral degree in psychology, counseling, social work, or a related field, and have passed relevant exams. Under the supervision of a licensed therapist, they provide therapy to clients, gain practical experience, and develop their clinical skills. Associate Psychotherapists cannot practice independently until they fulfill all licensing requirements set by their state or country.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an associate psychotherapist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Associate Psychotherapist, you need a foundational knowledge of psychological theories, assessment techniques, and counseling methods, typically supported by a relevant master's degree and supervised clinical hours toward licensure. Familiarity with case management software, electronic health records (EHRs), and adherence to legal and ethical guidelines is essential. Strong interpersonal communication, empathy, and active listening are key soft skills that help build trust and rapport with clients. These skills and qualifications are vital for providing effective therapeutic support, maintaining client confidentiality, and ensuring ethical, evidence-based practice.

What are some common challenges associate psychotherapists face when building their client caseload?

Associate Psychotherapists often encounter challenges in establishing a steady client caseload, especially early in their careers. Building trust with clients, navigating insurance panels, and differentiating themselves within a competitive market are common hurdles. Additionally, balancing administrative tasks with direct client care requires strong organizational skills. Many associates find that networking with other professionals and seeking supervision can help them overcome these challenges and grow their practice.

What is the difference between Associate Psychotherapist vs Clinical Psychologist?

AspectAssociate PsychotherapistClinical Psychologist
Required CredentialsMaster's degree in psychology or related field, supervised practiceDoctoral degree (PhD or PsyD), licensure required
Work EnvironmentPrivate practices, clinics, mental health centersHospitals, clinics, private practice, research settings
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly employed in mental health services, often in training rolesWidely employed across healthcare, research, and clinical settings
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level roles in therapyUnderstanding advanced clinical roles and qualifications

The Associate Psychotherapist typically holds a master's degree and works under supervision in various mental health settings. In contrast, a Clinical Psychologist has completed a doctoral program and licensure, allowing for independent practice and a broader scope of clinical work. The two roles differ mainly in education level, scope of practice, and career progression within mental health services.

More about Associate Psychotherapist jobs

What cities are hiring for Associate Psychotherapist jobs?

Cities with the most Associate Psychotherapist job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Psychotherapist jobs?

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What states have the most Associate Psychotherapist jobs?

States with the most job openings for Associate Psychotherapist jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Associate Psychotherapist jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Associate Psychotherapist jobs are:

Infographic showing various Associate Psychotherapist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,463 per year, or $27.6 per hour.

Associate Psychotherapist | Psychotherapist | Behavioral Health Observation Unit

St. Cloud Hospital

Saint Cloud, MN โ€ข On-site

$77K - $118K/yr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Come make a difference as an Associate Psychotherapist - Psychotherapist with our Behavioral Health Observation Unit at the St. Cloud Hospital - CentraCare.  Be part of our team providing diagnostic, psychological, or biopsychosocial evaluation and executing therapeutic treatment toward defined goals.  You will make an impact by helping to strengthen motivation and commitment to specific change goals through a collaborative, goal-oriented style of communication using motivation interviewing and evidence-based psychotherapy.


Schedule

  • Full time | 80 hours every two weeks
  • Day & evening shifts | 10-hour shifts
  • Rotating weekends (every fourth Saturday & Sunday) and holidays
  • Additional compensation awarded for evening and weekend hours
  • St. Cloud Hospital | on-site | Behavioral Health Observation Unit


Pay and Benefits

  • Psychotherapist starting pay begins at $87,272.64 per year; exact wage determined by years of related experience.
  • Salary range: $77,563.20 - $118,661.09 per year
    • Salary and salary range are based on a 1.0 FTE, reduced FTE will result in a prorated offer rate
  • $6,000 hiring bonus for those hired into a Psychotherapist role (with current MN license of LP, LICSW, LMFT, or LPCC)!
  • Associate Psychotherapist starting pay begins at $80,664.48 per year; exact wage determined by years of related experience.
  • Salary range:  $71,676.80 - $109,707.94 per year
    • Salary and salary range are based on a 1.0 FTE, reduced FTE will result in a prorated offer rate
  • Full-time benefits: medical, dental, PTO, retirement, employee discounts and more! 


Qualifications (Psychotherapist level)

  • Masterโ€™s Degree in Psychology, Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy or related Human Services field required.
  • State of Minnesota licensure required, need to have one of the following:    
    • The Board of Psychology as a Licensed Psychologist (LP) or the Board of Social Work at Independent Clinical level (LICSW) or the Board of Marriage and Family Therapy as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) or the Board of Behavioral Health & Therapy as a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC).
  • Minimum of one-year experience required.
  • Requires successful compliance with Minnesota Law, Chapter 372 relating to sexual exploitation of patients by staff providing psychotherapy services.   


Qualifications (Associate Psychotherapist level)

  • Masterโ€™s Degree in Psychology, Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy or related Human Services field required.
  • State of Minnesota licensure required, need to have one of the following:
    • The Board of Social Work as a Licensed Graduate Social Worker (LGSW) or Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW) or the Board of Marriage and Family Therapy as a Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (LAMFT) or the Board of Behavioral Health & Therapy as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC).
  • Full MN licensure (LP, LICSW, LMFT or LPCC) for independent practice is required within 5 years.
  • Clinical internship experience relevant to the position is preferred.
  • Requires successful compliance with Minnesota Law, Chapter 372 relating to sexual exploitation of patients by staff providing psychotherapy services.


To be eligible for the hiring bonus you must be an external candidate who is hired into an eligible full or part-time benefited position.  Previous employees qualify if they have not worked for CentraCare for at least 9 months at the date of hire.  CentraCare pay incentives to include but not limited to, hiring bonuses may be discontinued at any time due to business needs

CentraCare has made a commitment to diversity in its workforce. All individuals including, but not limited to, individuals with disabilities, are encouraged to apply. CentraCare is an EEO/AA employer.