BH Provider Compensation Models 2026 — Salary vs Productivity

BH Provider Compensation Models — 2026 Guide

Model 1: Straight Salary

  • Fixed annual salary regardless of production
  • W2 typical
  • Predictable for both parties
  • Doctors often prefer for lifestyle
  • Practice bears productivity risk

Model 2: Straight Productivity (Fee-Split)

  • Provider paid percentage of collections (typically 55-70%)
  • W2 or 1099 (1099 more common)
  • Aligned incentives
  • Provider bears productivity risk
  • Common for new practice growth

Model 3: Base + Bonus (Hybrid)

  • Guaranteed base ($120-180K)
  • Bonus above production threshold (typically 40-50% above threshold)
  • Best of both models
  • Complex to model

Model 4: RVU-Based

  • Compensation per Relative Value Unit produced
  • Common in psychiatric medication management
  • Aligns with Medicare methodology
  • Requires RVU tracking system

W2 vs 1099 Considerations

  • W2: Practice controls schedule + methodology + tools
  • 1099: Independent contractor status + own their patients technically
  • DOL scrutiny increasing on misclassification
  • State-specific rules vary

Common Compensation Ranges (2026)

  • Psychiatrist: $220-400K
  • PMHNP: $130-200K
  • Psychologist PhD/PsyD: $110-180K
  • LCSW/LMFT/LPC: $70-120K
  • BCBA: $80-140K
  • RBT: $18-30/hr

Revenant Care Practice Advisory

– KD, Revenant Care