What does a clinical psychologist do? – tasks and work environment
Clinical psychologists work with assessing, diagnosing, and treating mental health issues and illnesses in individuals of all ages. Tasks include talk therapy, psychological assessments, crisis management, and providing advice to patients and relatives. The profession also involves collaborating with other healthcare professionals such as doctors, nurses, and counselors to ensure comprehensive evaluations and effective treatment outcomes. Clinical psychologists often work in hospitals, health centers, psychiatric clinics, or within corporate health services. The work environment is characterized by high variation and demands both empathy and analytical skills.
Salary development over time
The salary for clinical psychologists has shown a steady and positive trend in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 43,900 SEK per month, increasing to 45 900 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary reached 47 300 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 7.8 % over three years. This development reflects an increased demand for psychologists in healthcare and a growing focus on mental health in society. Salaries have risen as employers try to attract and retain qualified staff, despite high educational requirements. The trend indicates that the profession remains attractive and that salary growth is favorable compared to many other academic healthcare careers.
Clinical psychologist salary – complete overview
- Average salary: 47 300 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 33,300 SEK/month (female, municipal sector, high school education)
- Highest salary: 55,400 SEK/month (male, public sector, doctoral degree)
- Hourly wage: 284 SEK
- Gender pay gap: Women and men earn the same
- Regional differences: Data not available
Education and qualifications
To work as a clinical psychologist, a long and thorough education is required, with the formal pathway being through the psychology program at university. After completing the education, practical training (PTP) is necessary before licensure can be obtained. The profession demands high levels of both theoretical knowledge and practical skills in meeting people in vulnerable situations.
- Psychologist degree: 5 years of university studies (300 hp)
- Practical training (PTP): 1 year
- Licensure: Issued by the National Board of Health and Welfare after PTP
- Eligibility requirements: Basic eligibility plus special eligibility in psychology and mathematics
- Further education: Opportunities for specialization or doctoral studies
Few professions offer such great opportunities to combine clinical work with research and development in behavioral science. Many clinical psychologists engage in projects related to prevention, education, or methodological development – making the profession dynamic and socially impactful.
Common benefits and compensations
Clinical psychologists are often offered benefits such as occupational pension, wellness contributions, professional development, flexible working hours, and options for remote work. Some employers also provide supervision, extra vacation days, and support for further education and research, contributing to an attractive work environment and long-term career development within the profession.
Competition and challenges
The demand for clinical psychologists remains high, but competition for attractive positions can be significant, especially in metropolitan areas and popular workplaces. Challenges include high workload, emotional strain, and the need for continuous professional development to keep up with new treatment methods and guidelines. A shortage of psychologists in certain regions may lead to longer waiting times for patients and fast-paced work environments. At the same time, the profession requires managing complex cases and bearing significant responsibility, demanding high standards of ethics and personal maturity.
Tips for aspiring clinical psychologists
To succeed as a clinical psychologist, it is beneficial to have strong empathy and a genuine interest in understanding people, laying the foundation for working with patients in difficult life situations. Being analytical and structured facilitates assessments and diagnoses, where precision is crucial for providing appropriate treatment. Good communication skills are necessary to clearly explain complex psychological concepts to patients and colleagues. Resilience and high stress tolerance are important during periods of high workload, while flexibility is needed to adapt to new research findings and varied tasks. An interest in lifelong learning and development makes it easier to stay updated and grow within the profession. Finally, self-criticism and openness to supervision are valuable for continuously improving clinical skills and judgment.
Key facts about clinical psychologists
- Education level: Psychology degree (5 years) + PTP (1 year)
- Licensure: Issued by the National Board of Health and Welfare
- Typical work environment: Hospitals, health centers, psychiatric clinics
- Demand: High, 375 job openings in the profession
- Gender pay gap: None, women and men earn equally
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years in the profession, there are good opportunities to specialize in areas such as child and adolescent psychiatry, neuropsychology, or supervision. Career paths may also lead to leadership roles such as department head, researcher, or university educator. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, demand for psychologists remains high, although detailed statistics for clinical psychologists are lacking. With 375 job openings, the labor market is favorable, especially for those who are geographically flexible or have specialized skills. The future outlook is considered stable, and the profession offers significant potential for further development and specialization over time.
Frequently asked questions about clinical psychologists
- What is the salary of a clinical psychologist?
- A clinical psychologist has an average salary of 47 300 SEK per month.
- How long is the education to become a clinical psychologist?
- The education includes five years of university studies and one year of practical training (PTP).
- Is there a salary difference between men and women?
- No, women and men earn the same in this profession.
- What are the most common workplaces for clinical psychologists?
- Most work in hospitals, health centers, or psychiatric clinics.
- What are the future prospects for clinical psychologists?
- Demand is high, and there are approximately 375 job openings within the profession.
- What is the highest salary for a clinical psychologist?
- The highest salary is 55,400 SEK per month and belongs to a man in the public sector with a doctoral degree.
- What is the lowest salary for a clinical psychologist?
- The lowest salary is 33,300 SEK per month and belongs to a woman in the municipal sector with a high school education.
