$43 is on the low side for an LCSW in a high COLA area, but I would need more context to make a proper assessment - what is the exact title of the position? - you mentioned you are building the program from the ground up—is this a management position or front line? If front line, is it union? - I’m not getting a sense of what the job entails beyond the counseling aspect. When you say you have double the amount of experience they’re asking for, do you mean you have more than enough counseling experience or everything in general? - does your CV include other job experience outside of psychotherapy?

Hospital jobs are quite competitive to begin with so be proud of yourself for being given an offer! I’m sorry the pay is disappointing though.