Clinical psychologists meet with clients to identify problems—emotional, mental and behavioral—in their lives. Through observation, interviews and tests, the psychologist will diagnose any existing or potential disorders. Then, together with the client, they formulate a program of treatment according to the client’s needs. Psychologists monitor the client’s progress on a regular basis to ensure that their needs are met by the course of action, and to adjust it if necessary.
They work in various settings including private chambers, educational institutions, hospital and community settings, etc. May need to travel from one location to other (e.g., school to school). However, research psychologists mostly work in offices, labs, and hospital settings.
Average Hourly
$50.97
Range Hourly
$40.59 – $76.41
Average Yearly
$99,392
Range Yearly
$79,141 – $148,996
Psychologists (4151)
Behavioural modification psychologist; Behavioural psychologist; Behavioural therapist; Behaviourist; Biopsychologist; Chartered psychologist; Child psychologist; Clinical psychologist; Cognitive psychologist; Community psychologist; Counselling psychologist; Developmental psychologist; Educational psychologist; Experimental psychologist; Forensic psychologist; Human development psychologist; Industrial psychologist; Intern psychologist; Neuropsychologist; Organizational psychologist; Physiological psychologist; Psychological associate; Psychologist; Psychologist – counselling; Psychotherapist; Registered psychologist; Research psychologist; School psychologist; Social psychologist; Sports psychologist; Vocational psychologist;
Master’s degree or PhD in Psychology
One year of supervised practice
Successful completion of the written Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) is required in most provinces.
Oral examinations and board interviews are required in some provinces.
Average hourly |
Range hourly |
Average yearly |
Range yearly |
$50.97 |
$40.59 - $76.41 |
$99,392 |
$79,141 - $148,996 |
Medium
Employment outlook is mostly good across provinces. More information is available here.
With experience and further education obtaining positions such as program administrator or academic at post-secondary institution are possible. Psychologists may specialize in applied psychology or experimental research. Sub-specialties include behavioural psychology, child psychology, cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, educational psychology, industrial psychology, neuropsychology, social psychology or sports psychology.
One year of supervised experience upon completion of a Master’s/PhD program
Master’s and PhD programs are available across Canada. Examples include:
Master of Counselling at Athabasca University (3 years, online available)
MSc. or PhD in Clinical Psychology at University of Calgary
MA in Clinical Psychology at Ryerson University
More programs can be available here.
Empathetic; excellent communication skills; reporting skills; interpersonal skills; demonstrate self-awareness, objectivity, a strong desire to help others; thorough knowledge of psychology and treatment options available to patients; ability to collaborate with other medical professionals
There is not a huge difference in salary between holding a Master’s degree or a PhD. With a Master’s degree, one can become a Chartered Psychologist or be a college professor. Requirements to providing psychological services varies from province to province. A Master’s degree or PhD does not guarantee eligibility to practice. An individual needs the required graduate degree, one year of supervised practice, and a pass on the oral and written exam on practice and ethical issues.
A doctoral degree in psychology is required in order to use the designation "Psychologist" in Prince Edward Island, Quebec, Ontario, Manitoba and British Columbia.
A master's degree in psychology is required for the designation "Psychologist" in Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Saskatchewan, Alberta, the Northwest Territories and Nunavut.
A master's degree in psychology is required in order to use the designation "Psychological Associate" in Prince Edward Island, Ontario, Manitoba and British Columbia. More information can be found as follows: NOC profile and Alis Alberta
Hours of work vary depending on many factors such as the needs of clients. Work hours may combine regular office hours with some evenings and weekends.
Obtaining an MSc. degree may or may not be followed by a PhD degree. Finding a supervisor and position to obtain the required supervised experience through the connection and/or practicum made by the program. After that passing the licensing exams (Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology [EPPP]) should make one competitive for the job market.