Family Therapist
Work with families and couples to understand patterns and improve relationships.
This UK family therapist 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
- £35,000 - £42,000
- Mid-career salary
- £45,000 - £55,000
- Senior salary
- £60,000 - £85,000+
- Work environment
- NHS, charity, private practice
- Time to entry
- 4 - 6 years
- Degree required
- Regulated - AFT-accredited training
- Category
- Mental Health and Therapy
What a Family Therapist does
Work with families and couples to understand patterns and improve relationships.
How to become a Family Therapist
- Look up Family Therapist roles on LinkedIn or Indeed and read 5 real job ads
- Talk to someone already working as a Family Therapist - 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
- Systemic theory
- Reflective practice
- Facilitation
- Cultural sensitivity