How to become a Clinical Psychologist
Assesses and treats the full range of mental health problems using psychological theory and therapy — trained to doctoral level (DClinPsy).
Entry routes
- From Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner: Psychology degree + Doctorate (DClinPsy) (~7 yrs)
- From Assistant Psychologist: Doctorate in Clinical Psychology (DClinPsy) (~6 yrs)
What you'll need
Certificates
- Care Certificate (completed)
Registration
- HCPC registration (allied health professional)
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A typical path
£25,272 now → £49,387 in ~8 yrs
- £25,272
Healthcare Assistant
Year 0 · Band 2 · entry
- £25,760
Mental Health Support Worker
Year 0.5 · Band 3 · entry
- £28,392
Assistant Psychologist
Year 1.5 · Band 4 · entry
- £31,157
Assistant Psychologist
Year 4.5 · Band 4 · top
- £49,387
Clinical Psychologist
Year 7.5 · Band 7 · entry
- £51,932
Clinical Psychologist
Year 9.5 · Band 7 · intermediate
Common questions
How long does it take to become a Clinical Psychologist?
6+ years (incl. doctorate) — see the step-by-step timeline above for a typical path.
See what you'd earn as a Clinical Psychologist
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Indicative — England 2026/27 Agenda for Change basic pay, excludes High Cost Area Supplements, unsocial-hours and overtime. Typical timings are national averages, not guarantees. Not financial advice. See data sources.