Mental Health Therapist Job Description That Attracts Talent

The demand for skilled mental health therapists has surged significantly. These professionals play a vital role in supporting individuals through some of the most challenging times in their lives. Organizations seeking to hire mental health therapists need to understand the key responsibilities and attributes that define this role. Creating a detailed and accurate job description for a mental health therapist is your first step in ensuring you bring on board someone who can truly make a difference.

What Is a Mental Health Therapist?

A mental health therapist is a clinician who works with individuals, groups, or families to address psychological, emotional, and behavioral issues. They perform assessments, diagnoses, and treatment planning using therapeutic modalities (e.g., CBT, DBT, psychodynamic therapy, and trauma-informed approaches). They often coordinate care with psychiatrists, medical providers, social workers, or other support systems. Therapists work in a variety of settings, including community mental health centers, outpatient clinics, inpatient facilities, schools, private practices, nonprofit organizations, employee assistance programs, and telehealth platforms.

Where to Find a Mental Health Therapist?

• Professional networks/associations, such as national or regional counseling or psychology associations
• Licensing boards/registries often list licensed therapists in your jurisdiction
• Academic programs/universities: graduates from master’s or doctoral mental health programs
• Job boards specialized in healthcare/mental health (for instance, PsychologyJobs.com, ClinicalTherapistJobs, etc.)
• LinkedIn / social media / professional forums: where clinicians post or network
• Referral/word-of-mouth: ask existing staff, faculty, or clinical supervisors for recommendations
• Conferences, workshops, and continuing education events: therapists attend for professional growth
• Telehealth/online therapy platforms: many licensed therapists work (or seek) remote roles

Mental Health Therapist Job Description Template

We are seeking a professional, personable, and empathetic mental health therapist to join our team. The ideal candidate will have a wealth of experience working within the mental health sector and be adept with industry standards and best practices in providing therapy and treatment to aid people in recovery. The role's key focus will be to assess, plan, and execute effective therapy for each patient based on a thorough diagnosis and care plans. ‍

Mental Health Therapist Responsibilities

• Conduct psychological assessments, intake, and diagnostic interviews
• Design and implement evidence-based treatment plans (CBT, DBT, trauma therapy, etc.)
• Provide one-on-one, group, or family therapy sessions
• Track client progress, document sessions, and maintain records in compliance with confidentiality and legal requirements
• Collaborate with psychiatrists, social workers, primary care, or other professionals
• Crisis intervention, safety planning, and referrals when needed
• Participate in supervision, case reviews, and continuing professional development
• Engage in outreach or community programs as required

Required Qualifications

• Master’s degree in psychology, counseling, social work, or related field
• Relevant licensure or certification in mental health (e.g., LPC, LMFT, LCSW, clinical psychologist license)
• Clinical experience (e.g., internships, supervised practice)
• (Optional) Experience in special populations (e.g., trauma, substance use, children)

Required Skills

• Strong assessment, diagnostic, therapeutic, and documentation skills
• Excellent communication, empathy, and interpersonal abilities
• Knowledge of evidence-based therapies and mental health interventions
• Ability to manage caseload, adhere to ethical guidelines, and work under supervision
• Commitment to continuing education and professional growth

Challenges in Hiring a Mental Health Therapist

• Many therapists expect benefits beyond salary: professional development funding, flexible scheduling, supervision, mental health wellness perks, etc.
• High emotional demands, heavy caseloads, administrative burden, and limited support contribute to burnout.
• Turnover rates in behavioral health sectors are high; many clinicians leave the field for better pay, working conditions, or alternative careers.
• Licensing reciprocity, credential differences, regulatory hurdles, and telehealth licensure issues may limit candidate pools.
• Some regions (rural, underserved) have very few or no licensed mental health providers.

How Much Does It Cost to Hire?

• In 2025, the average base salary for a mental health therapist in the U.S. is about USD 57,179 (range roughly 44,000 to 77,000)
• In some posted roles, the average hourly rate is about $36.65/hr, equivalent to ~$76,241/year, depending on region and experience.
• Employers may budget 20–30% on top of base salary for benefits (health insurance, retirement, paid leave, malpractice coverage, continuing education)
• In regions or specializations (telehealth, child therapy, trauma), salaries may be higher, so budget accordingly
• Advertising on job boards, professional association sites, and social media
• Time and labor for resume screening, interviews, and onboarding
• Background checks, credential verification, licensure checks
• Possible recruitment agency/headhunter fees (which might be 20–30% of first-year salary in some markets)
• Relocation or sign-on bonuses, if needed to attract top candidates

Conclusion

Recruiting a high-quality mental health therapist demands careful planning, clarity in role expectations, and a competitive value proposition. A well-crafted mental health therapist job description helps you stand out, set clear expectations, and attract candidates who align with your mission. Given the workforce shortage, high demand, and competitive landscape, organizations that offer meaningful support, flexibility, professional growth, and transparent compensation will have better success in hiring and retaining top clinicians.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What should a mental health therapist's job description include?

A: A good mental health therapist job description should outline the role summary, responsibilities, required qualifications/licensure, desired attributes, compensation, benefits, and how to apply.

Q: How can I tailor a mental health therapist job description for telehealth roles?

A: Include requirements/expectations for remote work (secure technology, licensing across states/countries, virtual session protocols) and highlight flexibility.

Q: How often should I update the mental health therapist job description?

A: At least annually, or whenever there are changes in regulation, scope of service, technology, or organizational strategy, to keep the description accurate and competitive.

Q: How much weight should I put on non-monetary benefits in the mental health therapist job description?

A: Significant weight; mental health professionals often value professional development, flexible scheduling, supervision, wellness leave, etc.