Psychotherapist

What does a Psychotherapist do? – Tasks and Work Environment

A Psychotherapist works with treating mental health issues and life crises through conversations and various therapeutic methods. Tasks include meeting individuals, couples, or groups to help them process emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. Common workplaces include clinics within primary care, psychiatry, private practices, or corporate health services. The profession requires a high level of empathy, responsiveness, and the ability to build trust, while also demanding professionalism and ethical conduct. Documentation, supervision, and collaboration with other healthcare professionals are often part of the daily work.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, salaries for Psychotherapists have shown some variation but remain at a relatively high level. In 2022, the average salary was 46,500 SEK, which increased to 50 500 SEK in 2023. Between 2023 and 2024, there was a slight decrease to 49 700 SEK. The percentage increase from 2022 to 2023 was approximately 8.6%, while the latest year saw a decrease of about 1.6%. Variations can partly be explained by market demand, salary negotiations, and changes in working conditions. The high demand for expertise in mental health and increased awareness of the importance of psychotherapy help maintain salary levels, although temporary fluctuations may occur.

Psychotherapist salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 49 700 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 47,000 SEK/month (female, public sector)
• Highest salary: 66,000 SEK/month (female, private sector, research education)
• Hourly wage: 299 SEK
• Women: 48 200 SEK/month
• Men: Reliable data at the average level is lacking, but the highest salary for men is 53,100 SEK/month and the lowest is 48,300 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Specific data is lacking, but generally larger cities and the private sector may have higher salary levels

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a Psychotherapist is long and requires both academic education and several years of professional experience. Admission to the psychotherapy program typically requires a relevant degree in fields such as psychology, social work, or medicine, along with client work experience. The education is at an advanced level, combining theory with supervised practical training. Additionally, licensure from the National Board of Health and Welfare is required after completing the training to work as a Psychotherapist.

• Basic education: Degree in social work, psychology, or medicine (3–5 years)
• Psychotherapy program: Postgraduate advanced training, 3 years part-time
• Licensure: Issued by the National Board of Health and Welfare after approved training
• Practical training: Supervised psychotherapy during training is mandatory
• Prerequisites: At least 2 years of professional experience in client work required for admission

Common benefits and compensations

Psychotherapists are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, flexible hours, and opportunities for professional development. Some employers provide supervision, training days, and further education in new therapy methods. Access to occupational health services and longer vacations are also common.

Competition and challenges

The job market for Psychotherapists is characterized by high demand and good opportunities for employment nationwide. However, recruitment difficulties are reported, mainly because many in the profession work part-time and there is a limited supply of licensed candidates. Challenges include emotional strain, the need for continuous professional development, and staying updated on new treatment methods. Competition for the most attractive positions can be high, especially in larger cities and the private sector. At the same time, increasing societal awareness of mental health creates a growing need for Psychotherapists’ expertise.

Tips for those who want to become a Psychotherapist

To succeed as a Psychotherapist, it is important to develop a high degree of empathy and active listening skills. Patience and perseverance are crucial, as change processes often take time and require long-term engagement. Analytical skills facilitate assessment of clients’ needs and choice of treatment methods, while flexibility is needed to adapt to different individuals and situations. Self-criticism and openness to supervision contribute to professional growth and quality of work. Diligence in documentation and respect for ethical guidelines are essential for maintaining trust with clients. Finally, ongoing personal development is vital to meet the profession's challenges sustainably.

Key facts about Psychotherapists

• Education level: At least a master's or postgraduate qualification is required
• Work environment: Most commonly clinics, private practices, or occupational health services
• Work forms: Individual sessions, couples, or group therapy
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment nationwide, growing need
• Special skills: CBT, PDT, supervision, and clinical experience

Career paths and future prospects

After 3–5 years in the profession, there are opportunities to advance to specialist roles in, for example, CBT or psychodynamic therapy, work as a supervisor for other therapists, or start your own practice. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecasts, the prospects for employment as a Psychotherapist are strong nationwide, and demand is expected to increase further over the next five years. The recruitment situation is characterized by a shortage of licensed candidates, especially since many work part-time. There are good opportunities for further education and specialization within various therapy methods, opening doors to more qualified and specialized positions. For those wishing to broaden their career, there are also options to work in education, research, or development within psychotherapy.

Frequently asked questions about Psychotherapists

• What is the average salary of a Psychotherapist?
  - The average salary for a Psychotherapist is 49 700 SEK per month.
• How does one become a Psychotherapist?
  - A relevant undergraduate degree, professional experience, and postgraduate qualification with licensure are required.
• Are there differences between men and women in the profession?
  - Women earn on average 48 200 SEK, while reliable data for men is not available at the average level.
• What is the job market like for Psychotherapists?
  - The job market is strong with great opportunities for employment and increasing demand nationwide.
• What education is required to work as a Psychotherapist?
  - A postgraduate advanced degree and licensure from the National Board of Health and Welfare are required.
• What are the most common work environments for Psychotherapists?
  - Most commonly clinics within primary care, psychiatry, private practices, or occupational health services.
• What is the salary range for the profession?
  - The salary range is between 47,000 SEK and 66,000 SEK per month depending on experience, sector, and education.