How to Become a Clinical Psychologist
Diagnose and treat mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders through therapy and assessment. It typically requires a doctoral degree (phd or psyd, doctor of psychology), with a median salary of $100,580 per year and much faster than average projected job growth.
Median pay
$100,580/yr
Typical range
$55,170 to $180,960
Job growth
7%
Openings / yr
4,800
Majors that lead here
Key skills
- Psychological Assessment
- Therapy
- Research Methods
- Diagnosis
- Communication
Helpful certifications
- State Licensure
- ABPP Board Certification
Is this career a fit?
Remote-friendly
40/100
Work-life balance
55/100
Stress level
55/100
Satisfaction
78/100
Frequently asked questions
How much does a Clinical Psychologist make?
The median pay for a Clinical Psychologist is $100,580 a year (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). The typical range runs from $55,170 to $180,960, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What degree do you need to become a Clinical Psychologist?
The usual entry point is a doctoral degree (phd or psyd, doctor of psychology). Common majors are Psychology, Clinical Psychology, Behavioral Science, and Neuroscience.
Is Clinical Psychologist a growing field?
The BLS projects much faster than average demand for this role, about 7% over the decade, with roughly 4,800 U.S. openings a year.
What skills does a Clinical Psychologist use most?
Common skills for this role are Psychological Assessment, Therapy, Research Methods, Diagnosis, and Communication.
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Take the major quizSalary and job-growth figures: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and O*NET OnLine (median annual wages May 2025; employment projections 2024-2034). National figures; actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.