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SOC 2225 Health professionals

Clinical psychologists Salary

Median salary £45,954 per year (2025). Based on ONS ASHE data.

About this role

Clinical psychologists assess, diagnose and treat psychological and emotional difficulties, helping individuals and groups manage mental health conditions, behavioural challenges and life transitions. They use evidence-based therapeutic approaches tailored to client needs.

Key responsibilities

  • Conducting psychological assessments and formulations
  • Delivering evidence-based therapeutic interventions
  • Developing treatment plans in collaboration with clients
  • Maintaining detailed clinical records and case notes
  • Contributing to multidisciplinary team care and supervision

Qualifications and entry routes

Psychologists typically require a BPS-accredited degree plus doctoral-level training. Counsellors require BACP or equivalent accreditation. Therapists require relevant professional registration (HCPC, UKCP, BACP).

Career outlook

Significant demand driven by growing awareness of mental health and NHS Talking Therapies expansion. Waiting list pressures create opportunities in private practice.

Key skills

Therapeutic techniques Active listening Clinical assessment Empathy Ethical practice

Common industries

  • NHS
  • Private practice
  • Education
  • Occupational health
  • Social services

Data coverage

SOC code 2225
Data source ONS ASHE
Years available 2021–2025
Estimated jobs 16,000

Median Salary

£45,954

Mean Salary

£49,160

Jobs (000s)

16k

Data Years

5 years

Salary Range (2025)

Median: £45,954P75: £61,251
P10: £29kP25: --Median: £46kP75: £61kP90: --

Estimated Career Progression

Based on salary percentile distribution for this occupation

Entry Level

£29,064

0-2 years

Mid Level

£45,954

3-7 years

Senior

£61,251

8-15 years

Potential career growth: +111% from entry to leadership

Salary Trend (2021-2025)

Nominal growth: +16.1%Real growth: -5.8%

Gender Pay Comparison (2025)

Gender pay gap: 21.0%

Full-time vs All Employees (2025)

All Employees

£45,954

Full-time Only

£58,366

Full-time premium: +£12,412