Psychologist

Psychologists apply the scientific study of the mind and how it affects behaviour to help people deal with real life issues.

Also known as: Chartered psychologist

• Starter salary£49,000 a year
• Experienced£65,000 a year
• Typical hours37 to 40 a week

What you'll do

As a psychologist, your day-to-day tasks will depend on your specialism. For example you could:

• support young people with learning or emotional issues
• work with patients with brain injuries
• use psychological theory to help people who have been in prison
• support people with conditions like anxiety, stress and depression
• help businesses improve employee job satisfaction
• help improve individual or team motivation and performance

Working environment

You could work at a school, in an NHS or private hospital, in a prison, in a therapy clinic, in the community or at a client's business.

Your working environment may be emotionally demanding.

Skills and knowledge you'll need

You'll need:

• knowledge of psychology
• to enjoy working with other people
• counselling skills including active listening and a non-judgemental approach
• active listening skills
• excellent verbal communication skills
• sensitivity and understanding
• the ability to understand people's reactions
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

How to become a psychologist

You can get into this career through a university course.

University

To become a psychologist, you'll need to:

• study for a psychology degree accredited by the The British Psychological Society (BPS) , or do a psychology conversion course
• gain Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership
• complete an accredited postgraduate qualification in your chosen specialism to work as a psychologist

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
• a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study

Volunteering

It can be helpful to get some voluntary experience in health or social care or in education before you apply for a course.

You can also find volunteering opportunities through The National Council for Voluntary Organisations (NCVO) and Do IT .

Restrictions and requirements

You'll need to:

• pass enhanced background checks as you may work with children and vulnerable adults

Career path and progression

With experience, you could.

• move into supervisory or management positions
• work in teaching, academic research, policy or consultancy
• become self employed and run your own private practice

Professional and industry bodies

You can join The British Psychological Society (BPS) for professional development opportunities.

Guides for this industry

• Health & Social Care: pay, interviews and getting started →

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