Psychologist
Use psychology to help people with mental health, behaviour, learning or performance.
This UK 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
- £28,000 - £38,000 (assistant psychologist)
- Mid-career salary
- £45,000 - £65,000 (Band 7-8a)
- Senior salary
- £70,000 - £110,000+ (consultant / private)
- Work environment
- NHS clinic, schools, prisons, private practice
- Time to entry
- 6 - 8 years
- Degree required
- Yes (BPS-accredited degree + doctorate for clinical)
- Category
- Healthcare and Care
What a Psychologist does
Use psychology to help people with mental health, behaviour, learning or performance.
- Clinical Psychologist - Treat mental health conditions in NHS or private practice.
- Educational Psychologist - Support children and young people in education settings.
How to become a Psychologist
- Look up Psychologist roles on LinkedIn or Indeed and read 5 real job ads
- Talk to someone already working as a 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
- Active listening
- Research methods
- CBT or other modalities
- Report writing
- Empathy