The Primary Therapist conducts individual and group therapy (adults, children and adolescents) on topics such as mood, anxiety, stress and eating disorders; conducts family therapy and/or family ...
The Primary Therapist conducts individual and group therapy (adults, children and adolescents) on topics such as mood, anxiety, stress and eating disorders; conducts family therapy and/or family ...
Primary Therapist
Edwards, CO · On-site
$100K - $110K/yr
The Primary Therapist at All Points North is responsible for providing the highest levels of Trauma and Addiction treatment services in an inpatient residential treatment facility. Primary Therapists ...
Quick apply
Primary Therapist
Edwards, CO · On-site
$100K - $110K/yr
The Primary Therapist at All Points North is responsible for providing the highest levels of Trauma and Addiction treatment services in an inpatient residential treatment facility. Primary Therapists ...
The Primary Therapist conducts individual and group therapy (adults, children and adolescents) on topics such as mood, anxiety, stress and eating disorders; conducts family therapy and/or family ...
The Primary Therapist conducts individual and group therapy (adults, children and adolescents) on topics such as mood, anxiety, stress and eating disorders; conducts family therapy and/or family ...
The Primary Therapist conducts individual and group therapy (adults, children and adolescents) on topics such as mood, anxiety, stress and eating disorders; conducts family therapy and/or family ...
The Primary Therapist conducts individual and group therapy (adults, children and adolescents) on topics such as mood, anxiety, stress and eating disorders; conducts family therapy and/or family ...
The Primary Therapist conducts individual and group therapy (adults, children and adolescents) on topics such as mood, anxiety, stress and eating disorders; conducts family therapy and/or family ...
The Primary Therapist conducts individual and group therapy (adults, children and adolescents) on topics such as mood, anxiety, stress and eating disorders; conducts family therapy and/or family ...
The Primary Therapist conducts individual, family, and group therapy (adults, children and adolescents) on topics such as mood, anxiety, stress and eating disorders; conducts individual and family ...
The Primary Therapist conducts individual, family, and group therapy (adults, children and adolescents) on topics such as mood, anxiety, stress and eating disorders; conducts individual and family ...
Primary Therapist
Edwards, CO · On-site
$100K - $110K/yr
The Primary Therapist at All Points North is responsible for providing the highest levels of Trauma and Addiction treatment services in an inpatient residential treatment facility. Primary Therapists ...
Quick apply
Primary Therapist
Edwards, CO · On-site
$100K - $110K/yr
The Primary Therapist at All Points North is responsible for providing the highest levels of Trauma and Addiction treatment services in an inpatient residential treatment facility. Primary Therapists ...
The Primary Therapist conducts individual, family, and group therapy (adults, children and adolescents) on topics such as mood, anxiety, stress and eating disorders; conducts individual and family ...
The Primary Therapist conducts individual, family, and group therapy (adults, children and adolescents) on topics such as mood, anxiety, stress and eating disorders; conducts individual and family ...
The Primary Therapist conducts individual, family, and group therapy (adults, children and adolescents) on topics such as mood, anxiety, stress and eating disorders; conducts individual and family ...
The Primary Therapist conducts individual, family, and group therapy (adults, children and adolescents) on topics such as mood, anxiety, stress and eating disorders; conducts individual and family ...
Primary Therapist
Irvine, CA · On-site
The Primary Therapist conducts individual and group therapy (adults, children and adolescents) on topics such as mood, anxiety, stress and eating disorders; conducts family therapy and/or family ...
Primary Therapist
Irvine, CA · On-site
The Primary Therapist conducts individual and group therapy (adults, children and adolescents) on topics such as mood, anxiety, stress and eating disorders; conducts family therapy and/or family ...
Primary Therapist
Edwards, CO · On-site
$100K - $110K/yr
The Primary Therapist at All Points North is responsible for providing the highest levels of Trauma and Addiction treatment services in an inpatient residential treatment facility. Primary Therapists ...
Primary Therapist
Edwards, CO · On-site
$100K - $110K/yr
The Primary Therapist at All Points North is responsible for providing the highest levels of Trauma and Addiction treatment services in an inpatient residential treatment facility. Primary Therapists ...
Primary Therapist
Edwards, CO · On-site
$100K - $110K/yr
The Primary Therapist at All Points North is responsible for providing the highest levels of Trauma and Addiction treatment services in an inpatient residential treatment facility. Primary Therapists ...
Quick apply
Primary Therapist
Edwards, CO · On-site
$100K - $110K/yr
The Primary Therapist at All Points North is responsible for providing the highest levels of Trauma and Addiction treatment services in an inpatient residential treatment facility. Primary Therapists ...
The Primary Therapist conducts individual, family, and group therapy (adults, children and adolescents) on topics such as mood, anxiety, stress and eating disorders; conducts individual and family ...
The Primary Therapist conducts individual, family, and group therapy (adults, children and adolescents) on topics such as mood, anxiety, stress and eating disorders; conducts individual and family ...
The Primary Therapist conducts individual and group therapy (adults, children and adolescents) on topics such as mood, anxiety, stress and eating disorders; conducts family therapy and/or family ...
Quick apply
The Primary Therapist conducts individual and group therapy (adults, children and adolescents) on topics such as mood, anxiety, stress and eating disorders; conducts family therapy and/or family ...
Primary Therapist
Conifer, CO · On-site
The Primary Therapist conducts individual and group therapy (adults, children and adolescents) on topics such as mood, anxiety, stress and eating disorders; conducts family therapy and/or family ...
Primary Therapist
Conifer, CO · On-site
The Primary Therapist conducts individual and group therapy (adults, children and adolescents) on topics such as mood, anxiety, stress and eating disorders; conducts family therapy and/or family ...
Primary Therapist
Lafayette, CO · On-site
$75K - $85K/yr
The Primary Therapists are the heart of our unique therapeutic program, responsible for facilitating all group and individual therapy in an intimate and nurturing environment. Are you looking to join ...
Quick apply
Primary Therapist
Lafayette, CO · On-site
$75K - $85K/yr
The Primary Therapists are the heart of our unique therapeutic program, responsible for facilitating all group and individual therapy in an intimate and nurturing environment. Are you looking to join ...
Primary Therapist
Hunt Valley, MD · On-site
The Primary Therapist conducts individual, family, and group therapy (adults, children and adolescents) on topics such as mood, anxiety, stress and eating disorders; conducts individual and family ...
Quick apply
Primary Therapist
Hunt Valley, MD · On-site
The Primary Therapist conducts individual, family, and group therapy (adults, children and adolescents) on topics such as mood, anxiety, stress and eating disorders; conducts individual and family ...
Primary Therapist
Oak Brook, IL · On-site
The Primary Therapist conducts individual, family, and group therapy (adults, children and adolescents) on topics such as mood, anxiety, stress and eating disorders; conducts individual and family ...
Primary Therapist
Oak Brook, IL · On-site
The Primary Therapist conducts individual, family, and group therapy (adults, children and adolescents) on topics such as mood, anxiety, stress and eating disorders; conducts individual and family ...
The Primary Therapist conducts individual, family, and group therapy (adults, children and adolescents) on topics such as mood, anxiety, stress and eating disorders; conducts individual and family ...
Quick apply
The Primary Therapist conducts individual, family, and group therapy (adults, children and adolescents) on topics such as mood, anxiety, stress and eating disorders; conducts individual and family ...
Primary Therapist
Lafayette, CO · On-site
$75K - $85K/yr
The Primary Therapists are the heart of our unique therapeutic program, responsible for facilitating all group and individual therapy in an intimate and nurturing environment. Are you looking to join ...
Quick apply
Primary Therapist
Lafayette, CO · On-site
$75K - $85K/yr
The Primary Therapists are the heart of our unique therapeutic program, responsible for facilitating all group and individual therapy in an intimate and nurturing environment. Are you looking to join ...
Primary Therapist information
See salary details
$39K - $44.2K
3% of jobs
$44.2K - $49.5K
5% of jobs
$49.5K - $54.7K
13% of jobs
$56.1K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$54.7K - $59.9K
14% of jobs
$59.9K - $65.1K
14% of jobs
The median wage is $65.7K / yr.
$65.1K - $70.4K
10% of jobs
$70.4K - $75.6K
14% of jobs
$76.9K is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$75.6K - $80.8K
11% of jobs
$80.8K - $86K
10% of jobs
$86K - $91.3K
4% of jobs
$91.3K - $96.5K
3% of jobs
$39K
$70.1K
$96.5K
How much do primary therapist jobs pay per year?
As of Aug 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for primary therapist in the United States is $70,082.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,000.00 and $79,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Primary Therapist, and why are they important?
To thrive as a Primary Therapist, you typically need a master’s degree in counseling, psychology, social work, or a related field, along with relevant state licensure (such as LPC, LCSW, or LMFT). Familiarity with electronic health records (EHRs), therapeutic modalities (like CBT or DBT), and supervision or certification in evidence-based practices is common. Exceptional listening, empathy, cultural competence, and strong communication skills distinguish top performers in this role. These skills and qualifications are crucial for providing effective client care, accurate documentation, and fostering therapeutic relationships that support client growth.
What are some of the common challenges Primary Therapists face when managing a diverse caseload, and how do they address them?
Primary Therapists often work with clients from various backgrounds, each presenting unique needs and therapeutic goals. Balancing multiple cases requires strong organizational skills and the ability to quickly adapt therapeutic approaches. Therapists typically address these challenges by engaging in regular supervision, collaborating with multidisciplinary teams, and participating in ongoing professional development to stay current with best practices. Effective time management and clear communication with both clients and colleagues are also essential for maintaining high-quality care.
What are primary therapists?
Primary therapists are licensed mental health professionals who serve as the main point of contact and care provider for clients in therapeutic settings, such as mental health clinics, addiction treatment centers, or residential facilities. They are responsible for assessing clients' needs, developing individualized treatment plans, conducting therapy sessions, and monitoring progress. Primary therapists also collaborate with other healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive care and support for their clients throughout the treatment process.
What is the difference between Primary Therapist vs Substance Abuse Counselor?
| Aspect | Primary Therapist | Substance Abuse Counselor |
|---|---|---|
| Credentials | Master's degree in psychology, counseling, or social work; licensure often required | High school diploma or associate's degree; certification in substance abuse counseling often preferred |
| Work Environment | Hospitals, mental health clinics, residential treatment centers | Rehabilitation centers, outpatient clinics, community programs |
| Role Focus | Provides comprehensive mental health therapy, including substance abuse issues | Specializes in substance abuse treatment and recovery support |
Primary Therapists typically hold advanced degrees and provide broad mental health services, including substance abuse therapy. Substance Abuse Counselors often have specialized training focused solely on addiction treatment. While both roles work in similar settings, Primary Therapists address a wider range of mental health concerns, whereas Substance Abuse Counselors focus specifically on addiction recovery.
More about Primary Therapist jobs
What cities are hiring for Primary Therapist jobs? Cities with the most Primary Therapist job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Primary Therapist jobs? The top employers for Primary Therapist jobs are:
What states have the most Primary Therapist jobs? States with the most job openings for Primary Therapist jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Primary Therapist jobs? For Primary Therapist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Eating Recovery Center rating
6.4
Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
Job description
Schedule: 11:30a to 7:30p on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays (days where IOP takes place) with flexibility for 8a to 4a on Wednesdays & Fridays or consistent 11:30a to 7:30p schedule.
What you'll be doing:
The Primary Therapist conducts individual and group therapy (adults, children and adolescents) on topics such as mood, anxiety, stress and eating disorders; conducts family therapy and/or family education sessions; develops each patient's individualized treatment plan; and works with interdisciplinary treatment team to implement the plan.
Essential duties and responsibilities:
- Conducts psychotherapy including individual, group and family therapy
- For each patient on case load, completes clinical paperwork including:
- Treatment plans
- Individual and Family Therapy progress notes and group notes
- Wellness plan
- Aftercare plan
- Discharge summary
- Conducts comprehensive assessments and treatment planning for each patient on case load:
- Completes biopsychosocial, self-harm and suicide assessments
- Creates individualized treatment plan with specific and measurable goals in collaboration with treatment team members
- Creates treatment agreements, support plans or behavior plans as needed
- Attends treatment team meetings and treatment team rounds, to coordinate patient's care with interdisciplinary team
- May provide training and guidance to less experienced teammates (Primary Therapist I and II)
Primary Therapist I must haves:
- Graduate degree in Psychology, Counseling, Social Work or related (required)
- Fully licensed with appropriate state licensing board or in an associate/intern phase of licensure or what is required by the state to practice individual therapy (required)
- Collaborative nature and strong communication within multi-disciplinary team (required)
- Experience with individual and/or family therapy (preferred)
- Ability to move from one task to the next w/ease, flexibility (preferred)
Primary Therapist II must haves:
- Graduate degree in Psychology, Counseling, Social Work or related (required)
- Has obtained and maintains an independent mental health license as required by state to practice individual therapy (required)
- Has carried significant individual and/or family caseload for at least 2 years with documented success in treating patients with common diagnoses and expected comorbidities; demonstrated ability to work independently; developing specialty within line of service and broadening expertise with other populations (required)
Sr. Primary Therapist III must haves:
- Graduate degree in Psychology, Counseling, Social Work or related (required)
- Has obtained and maintains a full mental health license as required by state (required)
- At least 3 years post licensure experience working with mood, anxiety, ED and/or trauma related disorders; some experience supervising other clinicians; has carried a significant individual and/or family caseload, with success in treating more complex cases (required)
- Experience with individual and/or family therapy (required)
Required for all Primary Therapists in Colorado:
- Teammates working in a Colorado Residential Child Care facility (RCCF) in a case management role (Care Coordinators and Primary Therapist) must:
- Have a master's degree in social work, psychology, or child development and have a minimum of two (2) years of treatment-oriented or case management experience, or
- Have a bachelor's degree and a minimum of three (3) years of experience working with children/youth
- Teammates working in a Colorado Residential Child Care facility (RCCF) must:
- be at least twenty-one (21) years of age or
- be at least eighteen (18) years of age and work directly under the supervision of a teammate over twenty-one (21) years of age
What Eating Recovery Center employees say
Pay
Benefits
Hours and flexibility
Workplace
Get the full story on Breakroom
About Eating Recovery Center
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Industry
Offices of mental health practitioners
Company size
501 - 1,000 Employees
Headquarters location
Denver, CO, US
Year founded
2008