Psychologist
A psychologist works with clients at a doctor’s office or performs expert tasks that require knowledge of the human mind, behaviour and emotions. The purpose of the work is to support people’s well-being. The psychologist profession requires good interaction skills and the ability to get along with different kinds of people. Psychologists work in health care, at schools and in various research and development tasks, to name a few options.
In health care and social services, at schools, employment offices, companies specialising in psychological services, elite sports, public administration and as entrepreneurs.
A psychologist has to apply vast theoretical knowledge to practical problems, understand the basics of psychology and be familiar with the methods of scientific research. Psychologists often perform various assessments and tests, for example to understand the state of patients’ mental health, so the profession requires assessment skills and analytical thinking. Creative thinking and problem-solving skills are essential, as treatments are decided individually.
Good interaction skills are of great importance to a psychologist because communication with clients is at the centre of their work. The ability to listen to others is essential. Empathy is also necessary, as a psychologist has to be able to put themselves in their clients’ place and understand their emotions and experiences. The work requires a long-term approach.
A psychologist has to act ethically and professionally, protecting clients’ privacy and confidentiality. Since psychology is a constantly evolving field, a psychologist has to be prepared to keep learning and developing their professional skills throughout their career.
Universities offer bachelor’s and master’s degrees in psychology. A licentiate or doctoral degree can be pursued at a university after completing a master’s degree.
A psychologist is a licensed health care professional, and the work of a psychologist can only be performed by a licensed psychologist. The right to use the professional title of a psychologist is controlled by the National Supervisory Authority for Welfare and Health Valvira, who will grant the permission to act as a psychologist to an applicant who has completed a master’s degree in psychology. Provisions on self-employed health care practitioners are laid down in the Act on Health Care Professionals and the Decree on Health Care Professionals.
Median salary
3941 €/mo
Private sector
4148 €/mo
Public sector
3898 €/mo
The data is based on the median income, meaning the amount of salary which is the middle of the salary amounts arranged in order of magnitude.
Source: Statistics Finland's structural statistics on wages and salaries