Clinical Psychology career : Paths, Opportunities & Earnings
Parul ThapaSenior Executive Content
A Clinical Psychology career in India offers a fulfilling path for those interested in understanding and addressing mental health issues. A Clinical Psychology career provides various job opportunities such as Rehabilitation Psychologists, Counsellors, Clinical Psychologists, Child and Adolescent Psychologists, Forensic Psychologists, etc. The Clinical Psychology salary offered at entry-level positions ranges between INR 3 - 5 LPA, for mid-level profiles INR 5 - 8 LPA and senior-level profiles INR 8 - 12 LPA.
Clinical Psychology graduates can either go for jobs or choose to pursue further options such as PhD in Clinical Psychology, Forensic Science, Forensic Medical Science, or Rehabilitation courses. Candidates who are interested in the Management field can further pursue Public Health Management or Hospital Management courses. The top recruiters where candidates can kickstart their Clinical Psychology career are Fortis Healthcare, Apollo Hospitals, VIMHANS, NIMHANS, Schizophrenia Research Foundation, National Institute of Rehabilitation Training and Research, etc.
The popular colleges that offer Clinical Psychology courses are JMI, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Amity University, KMC, SRIHER, etc.
Relevant Links for Clinical Psychology Course:
- Clinical Psychology Career: Quick Facts
- Top Career Profiles in Clinical Psychology Career
- Emerging Trends in Clinical Psychology
- Clinical Psychology Scope in India: Jobs, Salary and Further Education
- 4.1 Courses after Clinical Psychology
- 4.2 Clinical Psychology Top Recruiters
- Best Clinical Psychology Colleges for Placements
- Clinical Psychology Career FAQs
Clinical Psychology Career: Quick Facts
- India had only 9,000 psychiatrists for 1.3 billion people and only 7 counsellors per 10 million. This indicates a huge demand for psychology professionals.
- WHO states that in India per 1 lakh population, there are 0.07 psychologists while the desired numbers are anything above at least 3 psychologists per 1 lakh of population.
- There are a large number of mental health and wellness startups in India which has garnered over US $ 28.24, with the decade's highest investment in 2021 and that will increase in the future.
- The existing training infrastructure produces about 320 psychiatrists, 50 clinical psychologists and 185 mental health nurses annually.
Helpful Links for Clinical Psychology Course:
Top Career Profiles in Clinical Psychology Career
Clinical psychologists diagnose and treat a range of psychological disorders, providing therapy and counselling to individuals, families, and groups. A Clinical Psychology career offers a variety of specialized and rewarding roles.
Here are some of the top career profiles that candidates can pursue after Clinical Psychology:
| Job Profiles |
Description |
Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Rehabilitation Psychologists |
Rehabilitation psychologists work with individuals who have disabilities or injuries to help them regain independence and improve their quality of life. |
INR 3 LPA |
| Counsellors |
Counselling psychologists focus on helping individuals deal with everyday life challenges, such as relationship issues, stress, and career decisions. |
INR 3.9 LPA |
| Clinical Psychologists |
Clinical psychologists provide assessment, diagnosis, and treatment services to individuals with various mental health issues. |
INR 4 LPA |
| Child and Adolescent Psychologists |
These psychologists specialize in working with children and adolescents, addressing issues such as behavioural problems, developmental disorders, academic challenges, and emotional difficulties. |
INR 3.4 LPA |
| Forensic Psychologists |
Forensic psychologists apply their expertise in psychology to legal and criminal justice settings. |
INR 5 LPA |
Suggested Clinical Psychology Course readings:
Emerging Trends in Clinical Psychology
Clinical Psychology in India is evolving with several emerging trends shaping the field. These trends reflect advancements in technology, changes in societal attitudes, and a growing recognition of the importance of mental health.
Candidates can check below the emerging trends that candidates can witness in the future:
- Telepsychology and Online Therapy: Increased use of digital platforms for providing psychological services.
- Integration of Mental Health in Primary Care: Collaboration between mental health professionals and primary care providers.
- Focus on Preventive Mental Health: Emphasis on early identification and intervention.
- Cultural Sensitivity and Diversity: Increased awareness and training on culturally competent care.
- Use of Artificial Intelligence and Data Analytics: Application of AI in mental health assessments and personalised treatment plans.
Relevant Links for Clinical Psychology Courses:
Clinical Psychology Scope in India: Jobs, Salary and Further Education
The demand for Clinical Psychology graduates is growing in India due to increasing awareness of mental health issues and the need for professional intervention.
Candidates can check the table below to learn about
| Sectors |
Description |
|---|---|
| Hospitals |
Provide mental health services and therapy in both private and government hospitals. |
| Mental Health Clinics |
Offer specialized outpatient services for various psychological conditions. |
| Rehabilitation Centres |
Assist in the recovery of patients dealing with addiction or trauma. |
| Independent Counseling and Therapy Services |
Offer one-on-one or group therapy sessions. |
| Public Health Departments |
Integrate mental health services into public health initiatives. |
Clinical Psychology Course Links you may be interested in:
Courses after Clinical Psychology
Graduates in Clinical Psychology can pursue various advanced courses and specializations to enhance their expertise and career prospects.
Here are some of the courses they can consider:
| Courses |
Description |
|---|---|
| PhD in Clinical Psychology |
Doctoral program focusing on research and academic contributions to the field. |
| Forensic Science |
Applies psychological principles within legal and criminal contexts. |
| Advanced training in the application of medical knowledge to legal investigations. |
|
| Rehabilitation |
Focuses on training professionals to help individuals recover and regain function after injury, illness, or disability. |
| Involves overseeing and improving public health programs and policies, managing health services, and ensuring effective disease prevention and health promotion strategies. |
|
| Hospital Management |
Encompasses the administration and operation of healthcare facilities, including overseeing clinical services, financial management, staff coordination, and ensuring quality patient care. |
Recommended Links for Clinical Psychology Courses:
Clinical Psychology Top Recruiters
Professionals in this field work in diverse settings, including hospitals, mental health clinics, private practice, academic institutions, and research centres.
With dedication and the right qualifications, a career in clinical psychology in India can be both financially rewarding and personally gratifying.
Here are some top recruiters for Clinical Psychology professionals in India:
| Clinical Psychology Top Recruiters |
|
|---|---|
| Fortis Healthcare |
Apollo Hospitals |
| VIMHANS |
NIMHANS |
| Schizophrenia Research Foundation |
National Institute of Rehabilitation Training and Research |
Best Clinical Psychology Colleges for Placements
The top colleges in India provide quality education in Clinical Psychology with a focus on industry connections and placement support in various healthcare and counselling settings.
Candidates can check some of the best Clinical Psychology colleges in India known for their strong placement records:
| Clinical Psychology Colleges |
Median Salary |
|---|---|
| 11.68 LPA |
|
| 11.68 LPA |
|
| 7.5 LPA |
|
| 7.26 LPA |
|
| 7 LPA |
|
| 7 LPA |
|
| 6.03 LPA |
|
| 5.91 LPA |
|
| 5.4 LPA |
Suggested Links for Clinical Psychology Courses:
Medical Courses after the 12th without NEET
High Salary Career Options in Medical without NEET in India
Clinical Psychology Career FAQs
Q. Is Clinical Psychology a good career?
A. Yes, Clinical Psychology is considered a highly rewarding career for those passionate about mental health and helping others. Clinical Psychology offers the opportunity to make a significant impact by diagnosing and treating various psychological disorders, providing therapy, and supporting individuals through challenging times.
The Clinical Psychology field is growing in demand due to increased awareness of mental health issues and the need for professional intervention. Moreover, the profession is intellectually stimulating and offers the satisfaction of contributing to improved mental well-being.
Q. What field of Clinical Psychology makes the most money?
A. Psychiatrists make the most money.
Psychiatrists are medical doctors specializing in diagnosing, treating, and preventing mental health disorders who have completed medical school and residency training in psychiatry, which equips them to understand the biological, psychological, and social components of mental health issues.
The average salary for a psychiatrist is INR 1.1 per month in India.
Q. Is Clinical Psychology a stressful career?
A. Yes, Clinical Psychology can be a demanding and stressful career due to several factors:
- Emotional Strain: Clinical psychologists often work with individuals facing severe mental health issues, trauma, and distress, which can be emotionally taxing and require strong coping skills.
- High Responsibility: They carry significant responsibility for diagnosing and treating complex psychological conditions, which can contribute to stress, especially when dealing with high-risk cases.
- Caseload Management: Balancing a large caseload and managing diverse client needs can lead to workload pressure and potential burnout.
- Documentation and Administrative Tasks: Extensive documentation and administrative responsibilities can add to the stress, particularly in settings with high demands and limited support.
Q. What is the richest psychology field?
A. In Psychology, some fields are known for higher earning potential due to their specialized nature, demand, and the type of work involved.
The richest fields in Psychology typically include:
| Job Profiles |
Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Psychiatrist |
INR 10 LPA |
| Forensic Psychiatrist |
INR 10 LPA |
| Neuropsychologist |
INR 7.3 LPA |
| Clinical Psychologist |
INR 4.7 LPA |
| Counselling Psychologist |
INR 4.1 LPA |
Note: The average salary has been taken from Ambitionbox.com.
Q. Which country pays Clinical Psychology graduates the most?
A. Clinical Psychology graduates often find the highest salaries in countries with advanced healthcare systems and high demand for mental health professionals.
Some of the top-paying countries include:
| Country |
Average Salary |
|---|---|
| USA |
$216,384 |
| Denmark |
124,000 DKK |
| Switzerland |
408,000 CHF |
| Canada |
$108,433 |
| Ireland |
€78,395 |
| Australia |
$113591 |
| Germany |
11,400 EUR |
Q. Can a Clinical Psychology graduate work in a hospital?
A. Yes, Clinical Psychology graduates can work in hospital settings, where they play a crucial role in providing comprehensive mental health care. In hospitals, clinical psychologists conduct psychological assessments to diagnose and evaluate mental health conditions, provide therapy and counselling to patients facing emotional or psychological challenges and offer crisis intervention during acute situations.
They collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams, including psychiatrists, social workers, and medical professionals, to develop and implement effective treatment plans.
Q. What is the difference between a Clinical Psychologist and a Psychologist?
A. Clinical Psychologist specializes in diagnosing, treating, and preventing mental health disorders and emotional issues. They often work with patients experiencing severe psychological conditions, trauma, or chronic mental health issues. Clinical psychologists are trained to provide psychotherapy, and psychological assessments, and develop treatment plans.
Psychologist is a broader term that encompasses various fields within psychology, including clinical psychology, counselling psychology, industrial-organizational psychology, educational psychology, and more. Psychologists may work in diverse settings such as schools, businesses, or research institutions, and their roles can vary widely based on their specialization.
Q. What are the problems faced by Clinical Psychologist in India?
A. Clinical psychologists in India face several challenges that can impact their practice and effectiveness.
Some of the key problems include:
- Stigma and Awareness: Mental health stigma remains prevalent, which can discourage individuals from seeking help and can hinder the acceptance and understanding of psychological services.
- Limited Access to Services: There is often a shortage of mental health professionals in rural and underserved areas, leading to limited access to psychological care for those in need.
- Underfunded Mental Health Services: Mental health services and facilities are frequently underfunded and lack adequate resources, impacting the quality and availability of care.
- Lack of Standardization: Inconsistent standards and practices across different institutions can affect the quality of care provided.
- Inadequate Training and Supervision: There may be a lack of comprehensive training and ongoing supervision opportunities, impacting the professional development and clinical skills of psychologists.
- Regulatory and Licensing Issues: The process for obtaining licenses and certifications can be cumbersome, and there may be variability in regulations across states and institutions.
Q. How can I become a successful Clinical Psychologist in India?
A. Becoming a successful Clinical Psychologist in India involves a combination of education, practical experience, and professional development. Here are key steps to guide you:
- Obtain Relevant Education: Consider pursuing a PhD in Clinical Psychology for advanced training and specialization.
- Gain Practical Experience: Participate in internships during your Master’s and Doctoral programs to gain hands-on experience in clinical settings.
- Obtain Licensure and Certification: Obtain the necessary licenses to practice as a clinical psychologist in your region.
- Certification: Consider additional certifications in specialized areas to enhance your qualifications and expertise.
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Popular Clinical Psychology UG Courses
UG Courses
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- M.Sc.
34 Colleges
- PG Diploma
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Anything you would want to ask experts?Answered Yesterday
Candidates can check the table below to see the best colleges offering good placements to candidates for Clinical Psychology courses:
Clinical Psychology Colleges | Average Package |
|---|---|
14.4 LPA | |
11.75 LPA | |
11.75 LPA | |
Jain Deemed-to-be University, School of Allied Healthcare and Sciences | 8.16 LPA |
8 LPA | |
School of Graduate Studies, Jain Deemed-to-be University, Bangalore | 7.26 LPA |
Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Poonamallee | 6.45 LPA |
Saveetha University - Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences | 6.45 LPA |
6.14 LPA |
Note: This information is sourced from the official website/ media reports/ NIRF website and may vary.
A
Contributor-Level 7
Answered Yesterday
Candidates can check the pointers below to choose the right college for pursuing Clinical Psychology:
Check Accreditation – Ensure the college is recognised by UGC, RCI, or relevant authorities.
Review Course Curriculum – Compare syllabi to see if they align with your career goals.
Faculty Expertise –
L
Contributor-Level 7
Answered Yesterday
Students of Clinical Psychology courses study key areas such as abnormal psychology, which focuses on mental disorders and their symptoms, and psychological assessment, which includes diagnostic tests and evaluation methods.
They also learn counselling and psychotherapy techniques, covering cognitiv
J
Contributor-Level 7
Answered Yesterday
The syllabus for Clinical Psychology courses varies across universities in India based on factors like course structure, specialization, and institutional focus. While core subjects such as abnormal psychology, counselling techniques, and psychological assessments remain common, some universities em
Y
Contributor-Level 7
Answered Yesterday
Candidates can check the pointers below to apply for entrance exams of Clinical Psychology courses in India:
Check Eligibility – Ensure you meet the academic and subject requirements.
Choose the Exam – Identify relevant entrance exams like CUET, DUET, or university-specific tests.
Register Online – Vi
K
Contributor-Level 7
Answered Yesterday
The common entrance exams for Clinical Psychology in India are as follows:
CUET
CUET PG
NEET PG
M
Contributor-Level 7
Answered Yesterday
Candidates can pursue the Clinical Psychology courses as follows:
Choose a Course – Select a suitable Clinical Psychology course (BSc, BA, Diploma, etc.).
Meet Eligibility – Complete 12th grade (preferably with Psychology or Science).
Apply to Colleges – Check admission criteria and apply to universiti
P
Contributor-Level 10
Answered Yesterday
The 5 popular BSc Clinical Psychology colleges in India are as follows:
Clinical Psychology Colleges | Clinical Psychology Course Fees |
|---|---|
| Amity University, Gurugram | 5.2 Lakh |
| MUHS | 8,080 |
| Chinmaya Vishwa Vidyapeeth | 3.81 Lakh |
| Mahatma Gandhi University of Medical Sciences and Technology | 1.95 Lakh |
| Manipal Tata Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education | 5.46 Lakh |
M
Contributor-Level 7
Answered Yesterday
The Clinical Psychology courses after the 12th are as follows:
BSc Clinical Psychology
BA Psychology (Honours)
BA Applied Psychology
BSc Psychology
Diploma in Clinical Psychology
Diploma in Counselling Psychology
N
Contributor-Level 7
Answered Yesterday
BSc Clinical Psychology is a 3-year UG degree that provides students with a foundational understanding of psychological theories, mental health disorders, and therapeutic techniques. BSc Clinical Psychology covers topics like human development, abnormal psychology, counselling, and psychological ass
P
Contributor-Level 7
Answered Yesterday
Candidates can check below the benefits of pursuing Clinical Psychology courses:
- Interest in Understanding the Human Mind: Clinical Psychology courses offer a deep exploration into the complexities of the human mind and behaviour.
Career Opportunities: Clinical psychologists can work in various settin
L
Contributor-Level 7
Answered 3 weeks ago
Clinical Psychology graduates can secure jobs in different places and earn a decent amount of salary, so few leading companies recruit Clinical psychology graduates along with their placement packages:
Colleges | Placement Package | Top Recruiters |
|---|---|---|
| TISS Mumbai Placements | INR 6.5 LPA | Reliance Teach For India BBC Hindi Indian Express Hindustan Times |
| Amity University Mumbai Placements | INR 6.2 - 7.2 LPA | HDFC Bank Zeta HDB Financial IBM WNS GlobalServices |
| ICRI Mumbai Comparison Placements | __ | Novartis Pfizer TATA Consultancy Services max healthcare Novatris |
| ILAM - Institute of Logistics and Aviation Management, Mumbai Placement | ___ | DHL blue dart DTDC TATA Fedex Express Ashok Leyland British Airways |
Disclaimer: This information is sourced from the official website and may vary.
T
Beginner-Level 5
Answered 3 weeks ago
Hey, let me tell you that Clinical psychologists have a wide range of career options. They can work in hospitals to help patients with mental health issues, run their own private practice, or assist students as counselors in schools and universities.
They can also work in rehabilitation centers to su
A
Beginner-Level 5
Answered 3 weeks ago
The difference between clinical psychology and counseling psychology are:
Clinical Psychology focuses on diagnosing and treating serious mental health disorders like depression, anxiety, and schizophrenia.
Counseling Psychology helps people deal with everyday problems like stress, relationships, or pe
N
Beginner-Level 5
Answered 3 weeks ago
Below is a table showcasing a list of the Best Governemnt Psychology Colleges in Mumbai, along with their total tuition fees and entrance exams.
College Name | Tuition Fee | Entrance Exam |
|---|---|---|
| TISS - Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Mumbai Admission | 68000 | CUET-PG |
| Shreemati Nathibai Damodar Thackersey Women's University Admission | 40,510 | Merit-Based |
Disclaimer: This information is sourced from the official website and may vary.
N
Beginner-Level 5
Answered 3 weeks ago
Below is a table showcasing a list of the Best Private Psychology Colleges in Mumbai, along with their total tuition fees and entrance exams.
College Name | Tuition Fee | Entrance Exam |
|---|---|---|
| Amity University, Mumbai Admission | INR 2.08 L - 6.04 L | Merit-Based |
| ICRI - Institute of Clinical Research India, Mumbai Admission | INR 1.41 L | Merit-Based |
| ILAM - Institute of Logistics and Aviation Management, Mumbai Admission | INR 2.7 L | Merit-Based |
Disclaimer: This information is sourced from the official website and may vary.
S
Contributor-Level 9
Answered 3 weeks ago
Clinical psychology is a branch of psychology that helps people understand and deal with mental health problems. It focuses on diagnosing, treating, and preventing issues like anxiety, depression, stress, and other emotional or behavioral difficulties. They try to understand the problem first and t
A
Beginner-Level 5
Answered 3 weeks ago
The eligibility criteria for UG Clinical Psychology courses can differ based on the programme level (e.g., bachelor's, master's, or doctoral) and the specific requirements set by the educational institution.
Undergraduate:
- Candidates should pass the Class 12 Board exam with a minimum percentage of (50
V
Beginner-Level 5
Answered 3 weeks ago
There are 7 colleges in Mumbai, of which, TISS - Tata Institute of Social Sciences is the top college according to popularity basis, it is located in Maharashtra, Mumbai. This college offers different courses to the students at UG, PG, Advanced Masters, Certificate and Doctorate levels, Admission t
P
Beginner-Level 5
Answered 3 weeks ago
In Mumbai, there are 7 best Clinical Psychology colleges, comprising 3 private institutions, and 2 public government-managed colleges. In Mumbai, Clinical Psychology programs are available in Full-time formats. It is a professional practice that provides health care services in both scientific and
R
Beginner-Level 5
Answered 3 weeks ago
In Mumbai, there are 7 best Clinical Psychology colleges, comprising 3 private institutions, and 2 public government-managed colleges. In Mumbai, Clinical Psychology programs are available in Full-time formats. It is a professional practice that provides health care services in both scientific and
N
Beginner-Level 5
Answered a month ago
The top salary for a Clinical Psychologist in India can go up to INR 9 LPA for highly experienced professionals, particularly those working in metropolitan cities or specialised fields.
Clinical psychologists with a strong reputation may earn even more through private practice, consulting for corpor
J
Contributor-Level 7
Answered a month ago
Clinical psychology, a specialised branch of Psychology, focuses specifically on diagnosing, treating, and preventing mental health disorders. While Psychology explores general principles of behaviour and mental functioning, clinical psychology applies this knowledge to address psychological issues
P
Contributor-Level 7
Answered a month ago
Here is a list of some prominent government colleges in India that offer M.Sc. in Clinical Psychology:
1. National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU)
NFSU has campuses across India, including Gujarat, Delhi, and Tripura. The programme is well-structured with foundational, specialization, and skill-b
K
Beginner-Level 5
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What are the job placement opportunities after completing Clinical Psychology courses from top colleges?