Expected Annual Pay (Texas)
$81,830
Average salary range
Job Title
Mental Health Professional (Early Childhood)
Job Outlook (Texas)
+16%
Employment growth
Level of Education Required
Most early childhood mental health professionals hold a master's degree, doctoral degree, or other professional degree in psychology, counseling, social work, marriage and family therapy, or a related behavioral health field. The specific educational requirements vary depending on the type of license and scope of practice.
Minimum requirement
Credentials or Licenses Required
Mental health professionals typically must hold a state-issued professional license appropriate to their field. Examples may include Licensed Psychologist, Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), or Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT).
Licenses / Certificates
Work Experience Typically Required
Most mental health professionals gain experience through supervised clinical training, internships, practicums, or post-graduate supervised practice before becoming independently licensed. Experience working with children, families, educators, or behavioral health systems is often preferred for professionals serving early childhood settings.
Related experience needed
What is this role responsible for day to day?
A mental health professional supporting early childhood settings provides assessment, intervention, and consultation to promote children’s social‑emotional well‑being. Day‑to‑day responsibilities may include:
- Conducting mental health assessments and evaluations
- Providing therapeutic services or interventions for children and families
- Consulting with educators, administrators, and caregivers
- Supporting behavior management and social‑emotional development strategies
- Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and community providers
- Ensuring services align with ethical standards and state regulations
Career Snapshots
Explore different career paths within education and find the one that fits your passion
Nia
Nia first became interested in children’s mental health while volunteering in an afterschool program during college. She earned a doctorate in psychology and completed clinical training focused on young children and families. As an early childhood mental health professional, she enjoys helping educators and caregivers better understand children’s social-emotional development. In the future, she hopes to move into research and policy work that improves access to early childhood mental health services.
Harrison
Harrison began his career as a licensed professional counselor working with children and adolescents in a community mental health agency. Over time, he became interested in prevention and early intervention, which led him to work closely with early childhood programs and educators. He values collaborating with families and teachers to support children’s well-being and would like to eventually become a clinical supervisor or program director.
Elyse
Elyse started her career as a school-based social worker before pursuing additional clinical training and licensure. Through her work, she developed a passion for supporting children during the earliest years of development and helping families navigate challenges before they become more significant concerns. She plans to remain in direct early childhood mental health practice long-term because she enjoys the combination of family partnership, consultation, and clinical support.
What are some skills or personal traits that people in this role typically have?
People in this role are analytical, empathetic, and highly trained in mental health theory and practice. They are skilled at working with young children, families, and professionals across multiple systems.
What are some jobs that people had earlier in their careers?
People in this role often previously worked as:
People in this role often previously worked as:
- Mental Health Intern or Fellow
- Licensed Counselor or Therapist
- Behavioral Health or Social Services Staff
What are some jobs that people in this role have later in their careers?
With experience, people in this role may move into:
With experience, people in this role may move into:
- Clinical Supervisor or Program Director
- Policy, Research, or Systems‑Level Leadership Roles
- Independent or Consulting Practice