Wellness therapist

What does a Wellness Therapist do? – tasks and work environment

A Wellness Therapist works to promote health and well-being among individuals and groups. Tasks include designing and leading exercise programs, providing advice on nutrition and lifestyle, and offering various treatments such as massage or relaxation techniques. The work can take place at gyms, wellness centers, health resorts, companies, or in the public sector, with a focus on preventing ill health and supporting clients in making long-term lifestyle changes. The environment is often varied and social, requiring good ability to meet people with different needs and backgrounds.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, the salary for Wellness Therapists has shown stable and positive growth. In 2022, the average salary was 31,926 SEK per month, increasing to 34 700 SEK in 2023, and further rising to 35 000 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 9.6% during the period. The largest salary increase occurred between 2022 and 2023, likely due to increased demand for wellness services and a greater focus on health in society. Salary levels are also influenced by education, experience, and sector, with the public sector often offering slightly higher wages for experienced therapists. Despite some gender wage differences, the overall trend has been positive for the entire profession.

Wellness Therapist salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 35 000 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 29,800 SEK/month (female, private sector, secondary education)
• Highest salary: 44,600 SEK/month (male, public sector, post-secondary education 3+ years)
• Hourly wage (average): 210 SEK/hour
• Men's average salary: 36 500 SEK/month
• Women's average salary: 34 600 SEK/month
• Women earn: 95% of what men do
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on location and employer, with somewhat higher wages in metropolitan areas.

Education and qualifications

To work as a Wellness Therapist, a post-secondary education in wellness, health, or related fields is usually required. Many programs are offered at vocational colleges and include both theoretical and practical components. Certifications in specific treatment methods or training techniques can be advantageous, and internships are often a mandatory part of the education. It is common to combine education with courses in massage, exercise science, or nutrition counseling to meet labor market demands.

• Type of education: Post-secondary vocational training (2–3 years)
• Certifications: For example, massage therapist or nutrition advisor
• Internship: Often a mandatory part of the program
• Prerequisites: High school diploma, sometimes specific qualifications in science or physical education
• Tips: Combining education with courses in stress management or sports psychology can increase employability

Common benefits and compensations

In addition to base salary, benefits such as wellness allowances, subsidized training, staff discounts on treatments, and sometimes flexible working hours are often offered. Some employers provide opportunities for professional development and further education in health and wellness. Vacation pay and pension contributions usually follow collective agreements.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a Wellness Therapist is relatively high, especially since the profession is part of a broad occupational group where many seek similar roles. The national employment agency indicates an oversupply of trained wellness and health professionals, making it difficult to secure a permanent position immediately after graduation. However, demand is expected to increase over the next five years, which may improve opportunities for recent graduates. Challenges in the profession also include staying updated on new methods and trends and adapting to clients' diverse needs. Long-term success requires flexibility and a genuine interest in people's well-being.

Tips for those aspiring to become a Wellness Therapist

To succeed as a Wellness Therapist, it is beneficial to combine a genuine interest in health with strong social skills. Being attentive and empathetic facilitates client interactions and helps build trust, which is essential for providing tailored advice. Diligence and responsibility are important qualities, especially when designing treatment plans or following up on client progress. It is also advantageous to be proactive and seek new knowledge through continued education or networking with other professionals. The ability to work independently is helpful, as many Wellness Therapists work at varied workplaces or run their own businesses. Finally, gaining practical experience during training through internships or summer jobs provides valuable contacts and increases employment chances.

Key facts about Wellness Therapist

• Education level: Post-secondary vocational training (2–3 years)
• Typical work environment: Gyms, wellness centers, corporate health, public sector
• Demand: Expected to increase over five years according to the Swedish Public Employment Service
• Number of job openings: 237 within the profession
• Gender distribution: The majority of the profession are women

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a Wellness Therapist can advance to more specialized roles such as health coach, occupational health coordinator, or trainer within wellness. It is also common for experienced therapists to start their own business or take responsibility for wellness programs within larger organizations. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast, job opportunities within the profession are limited today but are expected to increase over the next five years. Competition is greater in metropolitan areas, but increased awareness of health and preventive measures is likely to create more job opportunities in the future. Those combining wellness skills with expertise in nutrition, exercise, or stress management often have better career prospects.

Frequently asked questions about Wellness Therapist

• What does a Wellness Therapist earn?
  - A Wellness Therapist has an average salary of 35 000 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience, education, and employer.
• What education is required to become a Wellness Therapist?
  - Usually, a post-secondary vocational training in wellness or health lasting two to three years is required.
• Are there gender differences in salary?
  - Yes, women earn an average of 34 600 SEK per month, which is 95% of what men earn, with men earning 36 500 SEK per month.
• What is the job market like for Wellness Therapists?
  - The job market is currently competitive, but demand is expected to increase over the next five years.
• What are the most common workplaces for Wellness Therapists?
  - Gyms, wellness centers, corporate health services, and the public sector.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for the profession?
  - The highest salary is 44,600 SEK per month, and the lowest is 29,800 SEK per month.
• What benefits are common?
  - Benefits include wellness allowances, subsidized training, staff discounts, and flexible hours.