Sociotherapist

What does a Socioterapeut do? – Tasks and work environment

A socioterapeut works to support, guide, and motivate individuals in socially vulnerable situations. Their tasks involve helping people with mental health issues, substance abuse problems, or other social difficulties to develop their skills, boost their self-confidence, and find strategies for an independent life. The daily work environment can vary – socioterapeuts are often active in treatment homes, institutions, outpatient clinics, or municipal services, where both individual conversations and group activities are included. The work involves close contact with clients, collaboration with other social work professionals, and often documentation and planning of interventions.

Salary development over time

The salary for socioterapeuts has shown a stable and positive development in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 33,200 SEK per month, which increased to 34 800 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average monthly salary is 36 100 SEK. This increase corresponds to a total salary improvement of approximately 8.7% over three years. The trend indicates that the demand for qualified staff in treatment and social work has increased, while employers need to offer competitive salaries to attract and retain experienced employees. Salary development is also influenced by factors such as education level, experience, and sector, where higher qualifications often lead to higher salaries.

Socioterapeut salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 36 100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,800 SEK/month (woman, public sector)
• Highest salary: 41,500 SEK/month (woman, municipal sector, research education)
• Hourly wage (average): 217 SEK
• Men's average salary: 36 500 SEK/month
• Women's average salary: 35 900 SEK/month (98 % of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on location and sector

Education and qualifications

To work as a socioterapeut, a post-secondary education in social work, treatment pedagogy, or equivalent is usually required. Many employers seek experience from practical treatment work and good knowledge of psychology and social pedagogy. The profession demands high levels of both theoretical competence and personal maturity, as the work often involves close interaction with individuals with complex needs.

• Vocational university education or university degree – typically 2–3 years
• Specialized courses – e.g., in substance abuse treatment, mental health, or conversational methodology
• Internship/trainee placement – often a mandatory part of the education
• Prerequisites – high school diploma, sometimes also work experience in healthcare, care, or social work
• Further education – opportunities for certification or additional courses for advanced competence

Common benefits and compensations

Socioterapeuts are often covered by collective agreements that provide access to occupational pension, sick pay, holiday pay, and sometimes wellness allowances. Many employers also offer professional development, supervision, and opportunities for further training. Benefits may vary depending on whether employment is within municipal, state, or private sector.

Competition and challenges

The job market for socioterapeuts is characterized nationally by a balance between supply and demand. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecast, opportunities for employment are moderate and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. Challenges in the profession include high emotional demands, complex client situations, and sometimes a pressured work environment with many concurrent cases. Competition for positions may be higher in attractive regions, while smaller towns may have greater recruitment needs. Staying updated with new treatment methods and legislation is also an important part of the role.

Tips for those who want to become Socioterapeut

To succeed as a socioterapeut, it is beneficial to combine professional competence with genuine care and responsiveness. Good communication skills facilitate collaboration with clients and colleagues, while patience and perseverance help with long-term change processes. Flexibility and the ability to adapt to different situations are crucial, as well as setting boundaries and showing empathy. It is also wise to actively seek supervision and further education to strengthen your professional role and develop new tools in client meetings. Engagement and structure create security for both yourself and those you work with.

Key facts about Socioterapeut

• Average salary: 36 100 SEK/month
• Salary range: 31,800–41,500 SEK/month
• Education level: Vocational university or university degree (2–3 years)
• Work environment: Treatment homes, institutions, outpatient clinics
• Demand: Moderate opportunities, 237 available jobs nationwide

Career paths and future outlook

After three to five years as a socioterapeut, there are opportunities to advance to roles such as coordinator, supervisor, or specialist in specific treatment methods. Further education can also lead to positions as a organizational developer or trainer for new colleagues. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, demand for socioterapeuts and related professions is expected to remain unchanged over five years, providing stable career opportunities for those with the right qualifications. Particularly sought-after are those with experience in substance abuse treatment and youth work. There are also opportunities to specialize in areas such as criminal justice or psychiatry.

Frequently asked questions about Socioterapeut

• What does a Socioterapeut earn?
  - The average salary for a socioterapeut is 36 100 SEK per month, with a range between 31,800 SEK and 41,500 SEK.
• How has the salary development looked for Socioterapeut?
  - Salaries have increased from 33,200 SEK (2022) to 36 100 SEK (2024), a rise of almost 9% over three years.
• Are there differences between men's and women's salaries?
  - Yes, men earn on average 36 500 SEK and women 35 900 SEK, which means women earn 98% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a Socioterapeut?
  - Vocational university education or university degree in social work or treatment pedagogy is usually required.
• What are the future prospects for Socioterapeuts?
  - The job market has moderate opportunities, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.
• What workplaces are common for Socioterapeuts?
  - Common workplaces include treatment homes, institutions, municipal and government activities, and outpatient care.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Yes, salary levels can vary depending on region and employer, especially between larger cities and smaller towns.