What does a Coach, psychologist do? – Tasks and work environment
A Coach, psychologist works to support, motivate, and guide individuals or groups towards better mental well-being and personal development. Tasks vary but often include talk therapy, supervision, development discussions, and psychological assessments. Traditional psychological methods are often combined with coaching techniques to help clients identify goals, overcome obstacles, and find strategies for change. The work environment can be both public and private, for example within occupational health, education, clinics, or as a self-employed professional, where creating a safe and trusting atmosphere for clients is important.
Salary development over time
The salary for a Coach, psychologist has shown a steady increase in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 43,900 SEK per month, followed by an increase to 45 900 SEK in 2023, and further up to 47 300 SEK in 2024. This corresponds to a total increase of about eight percent over three years, which is a stronger salary development than many other healthcare professions. Factors driving this development include increased demand for psychological expertise and a growing awareness of the importance of mental health in the workplace. Additionally, higher educational requirements and specializations within the profession enable higher salaries.
Coach, psychologist salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 47 300 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 33,300 SEK/month (female, municipal, upper secondary education)
- Highest salary: 55,400 SEK/month (male, government, research education)
- Hourly rate: 284 SEK
- Gender differences: None – women and men earn the same
- Regional differences: No clear data
Education and qualifications
To work as a Coach, psychologist, an academic background in psychology is required, often combined with further training or certification in coaching. The pathway typically begins with a psychology degree, followed by specialized courses in coaching conversation techniques and sometimes internships or supervision. Many also choose to obtain certifications from international coaching organizations to enhance their competence and credibility.
- Psychology degree: 5 years at university
- Further training/certification in coaching: 3–12 months
- Internship or supervision: Usually 6–12 months
- Prerequisites: Basic university eligibility and specific subject requirements
- Recommendation: To choose a program approved by the Swedish Psychological Association and internationally recognized coaching organizations
Many Coach, psychologists also work with organizational development, leadership programs, and crisis management in workplaces. This provides opportunities to contribute both at the individual level and to the development of entire organizations.
Common benefits and compensations
In the profession, benefits such as wellness allowances, flexible working hours, skills development, and sometimes extra vacation days are often offered. Other common benefits include occupational pension, insurances, and options for remote or hybrid work arrangements, especially within the private sector or for self-employed professionals.
Competition and challenges
The competition within the Coach, psychologist profession can vary depending on the labor market and region. Entry requires extensive education and often both licensing and certification, which limits the number of applicants. At the same time, market growth and more providers offering coaching services create a challenge to demonstrate clear competence and quality. Another challenge is balancing clients’ high expectations with the workload, especially in the public sector where resources may be limited. The profession requires continuous learning and updating of methods to meet new needs and research findings.
Tips for those who want to become a Coach, psychologist
To succeed as a Coach, psychologist, it is good to have strong empathy and sensitivity, which facilitates understanding clients’ needs and building trust. Being organized and analytical helps in assessments and goal setting with clients. Flexibility and curiosity are important qualities to adapt to new methods and different client groups. It is also valuable to nurture your network within the industry and participate in ongoing training to stay updated. Finally, patience and perseverance are crucial, as change work often takes time and requires long-term commitment.
Key facts about Coach, psychologist
- Education level: Psychology degree (5 years) + further training in coaching
- Work environment: Varied, both public and private sectors, as well as self-employment
- Equal salary: Women and men have the same average salary
- Demand: 375 available jobs in the profession at the latest measurement
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years in the profession, Coach, psychologists have opportunities to specialize in areas such as organizational psychology, leadership coaching, or clinical psychology. Many choose to start their own business or work as consultants within occupational health or the education sector. Forecasts from the Swedish Public Employment Service indicate a stable demand for psychologists, although no exact assessment can be given for Coach, psychologists due to limited data. With 375 available jobs in the profession, the chances are good for those who are well-educated and flexible. Digitalization and increased focus on work environment and leadership indicate continued good future prospects.
Common questions about Coach, psychologist
- What does a Coach, psychologist earn?
- The average salary is 47 300 SEK per month, with an hourly rate of 284 SEK.
- Are there gender differences in salary?
- No, women and men have exactly the same average salary within the profession.
- What education is required to become a Coach, psychologist?
- A psychology degree (5 years) and further training in coaching are recommended.
- What are the future prospects?
- Demand is stable with 375 available jobs in the profession, but no exact forecast exists for this specific job title.
- What is the highest and lowest salary for the profession?
- The highest salary is 55,400 SEK (male, government, research education), the lowest is 33,300 SEK (female, municipal, upper secondary education).
- What are the most common work environments?
- Coach, psychologists work in everything from public sector and schools to private companies and self-employment.
