What does a care counselor do? – tasks and work environment
A care counselor works to support individuals and families in various life situations, often within social services, schools, healthcare, or elder care. Tasks include counseling, advice, crisis management, and coordinating efforts between different agencies and caregivers. Care counselors meet people in vulnerable situations and help find solutions to social, economic, or psychological problems. The work is usually performed in teams alongside other professionals such as psychologists, doctors, and social workers. The work environment often features a fast pace, close contact with clients, and demands high levels of discretion and empathy.
Salary development over time
The salary of a care counselor has shown stable and positive growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 37,500 SEK per month. In 2023, it increased to 38 800 SEK, representing an increase of about 3.5 %. For 2024, the salary continues to rise and now averages 40100 SEK, which is nearly a 3.3 % increase compared to the previous year. This salary trend reflects a growing demand for qualified counselors in healthcare and social work sectors, as well as a general trend toward higher wages in social services. Factors influencing salary levels include education, experience, and employer sector, with specialist skills and work within municipal sectors often resulting in higher pay.
Care counselor salary – complete overview
- Average salary: 40100 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 36,200 SEK/month (woman, government sector, pre-secondary education)
- Highest salary: 49,200 SEK/month (man, municipal sector, research degree)
- Hourly wage (average): 241 SEK
- Women: 40 200 SEK/month
- Men: 40100 SEK/month
- Gender pay gap: Women earn roughly the same as men in this profession
Education and qualifications
To work as a care counselor, a degree in social work or an equivalent university qualification is typically required. Many employers also look for additional courses in counseling methods, psychology, and law. Practical experience in social work, internships during studies, and the ability to handle complex social situations are often important merits.
- Formal degree: Degree in social work (3.5 years)
- Relevant courses: Counseling methods, psychology, social law
- Internships: Mandatory practical training during education
- Prerequisites: Basic eligibility for university studies
- Certifications: Meritorious but rarely required
Care counselors often play a central role in interdisciplinary teams, acting as a link between clients, relatives, and various social institutions. The ability to build trust and collaborate across professional boundaries is crucial for success in the role.
Common benefits and compensation
Common benefits for care counselors include occupational pension, wellness grants, opportunities for professional development, and sometimes extra vacation days. Some employers also offer flexible working hours, subsidized lunches, or remote work options depending on workplace policies.
Competition and challenges
The competition for positions as a care counselor is generally moderate but may vary depending on region and employer. There are about 237 job openings in the profession, indicating some demand. Challenges in the role often include high workload, emotionally demanding situations, and the need to stay updated on legislation and methods. Care counselors frequently meet clients in vulnerable situations, which requires mental strength and professional distance. At the same time, opportunities for development and specialization are good, especially for those investing in further education.
Tips for aspiring care counselors
To succeed as a care counselor, it’s important to combine strong empathy with good analytical skills, as the work requires both compassion and structured problem-solving. Being communicative and attentive is crucial because much of the work involves listening and providing support to clients and relatives. The ability to collaborate and build relationships with colleagues across professions is vital for creating comprehensive solutions. Flexibility and stress tolerance are also beneficial, as the workday can change quickly based on clients’ needs. It’s recommended to seek internships in different settings during studies to broaden experience. Staying updated on laws and new methods in social work gives an advantage, and engaging in professional networks can create valuable contacts. Finally, taking care of one's own recovery is essential, as the tasks can sometimes be emotionally demanding.
Key facts about care counselors
- Educational level: Degree in social work (3.5 years)
- Work environment: Offices, health centers, schools, and social services
- Work form: Usually full-time, daytime
- Demand: Approximately 237 job openings in the profession
- Gender distribution: Equal pay between women and men
Career paths and future prospects
Care counselors have good opportunities to develop within their field after a few years of experience. Common career paths include specialization in areas such as addiction treatment, child and youth issues, or working as a school counselor. After 3–5 years, roles such as supervisor, team leader, or mentor may become relevant. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecast for counselors, it is difficult to give an exact future outlook, as the profession is part of a broader occupational group with limited data. However, the demand for qualified care counselors is expected to remain relatively stable, especially within municipal and healthcare sectors. Opportunities for further education and specialization in psychotherapy or supervision also increase chances for advanced positions.
Frequently asked questions about care counselors
- What is the average salary of a care counselor?
- A care counselor has an average salary of 40100 SEK per month.
- Are there salary differences between men and women?
- Women and men earn roughly the same within this profession.
- What qualifications are required to become a care counselor?
- A degree in social work is the most common educational requirement, often supplemented with practical training and relevant courses.
- What is the job market like for care counselors?
- There are approximately 237 job openings in the profession, indicating some demand.
- What is the highest salary for a care counselor?
- The highest salary is 49,200 SEK and belongs to a man in the municipal sector with a research degree.
- What is the lowest salary for a care counselor?
- The lowest salary is 36,200 SEK and belongs to a woman in the government sector with a pre-secondary education.
- Where do care counselors work?
- They mainly work within social services, schools, health centers, and elder care.
