What does a Child Psychologist do? – Tasks and Work Environment
A child psychologist works to investigate, diagnose, and treat mental health issues in children and adolescents up to 18 years old. Tasks include talk therapy, psychological testing, observations, and collaboration with parents, school staff, and other healthcare professionals. Child psychologists are often employed in child and adolescent psychiatry, school health services, habilitation, or private clinics. The work environment involves close contact with children, youths, and their networks, requiring both empathy and the ability to handle complex situations where the child's best interests always come first.
Salary development over time
The salary for a child psychologist has developed steadily over recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 43,900 SEK per month. In 2023, it increased to 45 900 SEK, representing an increase of approximately 4.6 %. In 2024, the average salary was 47 300 SEK, a further increase of just over 3 % compared to the previous year. This positive salary trend can partly be explained by the increased demand for psychological expertise in child and youth care, along with a growing focus on mental health in society. Salaries are also influenced by education level, experience, and employment type, but overall, the development has been consistent and favorable for the profession.
Many child psychologists collaborate across professions with speech therapists, occupational therapists, and social services. This creates opportunities for broad skill development and varied work content.
Child Psychologist Salary – Complete Overview
- Average salary: 47 300 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 33,300 SEK/month (female, municipal sector, upper secondary education)
- Highest salary: 55,400 SEK/month (male, government sector, research education)
- Hourly wage: 284 SEK
- Gender differences: None – women and men earn equally
- Regional differences: Data varies, but some variation may occur depending on region and sector
Education and Qualifications
To work as a child psychologist, a solid education in psychology is required, followed by licensure as a psychologist. After the basic degree, many choose to further specialize in child and adolescent psychology to broaden their competence and meet the demands of the field. Practical experience and supervision are important parts of entering the profession.
- Psychology program: 5 years, leading to a psychology degree
- Licensure: Issued by the National Board of Health and Welfare after completing PTP internship (1 year of practical training for psychologists)
- Further education: Courses or specialist training in child and adolescent psychology
- Internship: Included in the education and during the PTP period
- Prerequisites: Basic eligibility for higher education, often specific requirements in mathematics and biology
Common Benefits and Compensation
Child psychologists are often offered benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, opportunities for professional development, flexible working hours, and extra vacation days. In some workplaces, supervision and further training may also be part of the employment package.
Competition and Challenges
The profession of child psychologist is in demand, but competition can vary depending on geographic location and workplace. In larger cities and specialized settings, competition for positions may be high, while smaller towns often offer good employment opportunities. Challenges include complex cases, high demands for collaboration, and sometimes a pressured work environment with many simultaneous tasks. There are high requirements for ongoing training, personal maturity, and the ability to handle emotionally demanding situations.
Tips for Aspiring Child Psychologists
To succeed as a child psychologist, it is beneficial to combine analytical skills with a genuine interest in children's development. Practicing patience and being attentive are central, as many situations require listening and adapting to the child's needs. Developing strong teamwork skills is also important, as the work often takes place in teams with other professionals. Good communication skills facilitate interactions with children and their networks. Flexibility and the ability to handle unexpected challenges are additional valuable qualities. Continuous training and supervision are recommended to stay updated in the field. Finally, personal maturity and the ability to set boundaries contribute to a sustainable and successful career.
Key Facts about Child Psychologists
- Education level: Psychology degree (5 years) + PTP internship (1 year)
- Work environment: Clinics, BUP, schools, and private practices
- Typical employment: Full-time, often daytime hours
- Demand: High, 375 job openings in the profession
- Gender distribution: Equal pay between women and men
Career Paths and Future Outlook
After three to five years as a child psychologist, there are opportunities to specialize in areas such as neuropsychiatry, trauma treatment, or move into leadership roles like department head or coordinator. Some choose to work with supervision or research, while others start their own practice. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecasts, it is difficult to give an exact assessment of future prospects for child psychologists, but the entire psychology field has high demand and good employment opportunities. Currently, there are 375 job openings nationwide, indicating a strong labor market for child psychologists as well.
Frequently Asked Questions about Child Psychologists
- What does a Child Psychologist earn?
- The average salary is 47 300 SEK per month.
- Are there salary differences between men and women?
- No, women and men earn equally in the profession.
- What education is required to become a child psychologist?
- Psychology program (5 years) plus licensure after PTP internship (1 year).
- Where do child psychologists most often work?
- Common workplaces include BUP, schools, habilitation services, and private clinics.
- What are the future prospects for child psychologists?
- Demand is high, with over 375 job openings nationwide in the psychology field.
- What is the highest and lowest salary for a child psychologist?
- Highest salary: 55,400 SEK (male, government sector, research education). Lowest salary: 33,300 SEK (female, municipal sector, upper secondary education).
- Is there an opportunity for specialization?
- Yes, within neuropsychiatry, trauma, or supervision.
