Counselling Psychologist
Use psychological theory to help adults with mental health and life challenges.
This UK counselling psychologist career guide covers what the role involves day to day, typical salary at each stage, the usual entry route, the skills employers expect, and related careers worth comparing.
Quick facts
- Starting salary
- £40,000 - £50,000
- Mid-career salary
- £55,000 - £70,000
- Senior salary
- £80,000 - £110,000
- Work environment
- Hospital, clinic or community setting
- Time to entry
- 6 - 8 years (DPsych)
- Degree required
- Required (DPsych)
- Category
- Healthcare and Care
What a Counselling Psychologist does
Use psychological theory to help adults with mental health and life challenges.
- NHS Counselling Psychology - Therapy in adult mental health teams.
- Private Practice - Independent therapy practice for self-referred clients.
- Forensic Settings - Counselling psychology in prisons and forensic units.
- Workplace Psychology - EAP and workplace mental health.
How to become a Counselling Psychologist
- Look up Counselling Psychologist roles on LinkedIn or Indeed and read 5 real job ads
- Talk to someone already working as a Counselling Psychologist - even a 15-minute call helps
- Find one beginner course or qualification used by people in this role
- Build one small piece of evidence you've explored this (project, shadowing, short course)
- Apply to one entry-level role or related opportunity within the next month
Key skills
- Therapeutic models
- Empathy
- Reflective practice
- Reporting
- Boundary holding