Clinical Psychology Salary- Average, Freshers, Experienced, Skills Required & How to Grow

Shocking but true: In a country where over 200 million people suffer from mental health issues, there are less than 10,000 certified clinical psychologists. And the demand is only growing—fast.

This mental health crisis is opening lucrative and fulfilling career opportunities for psychology graduates. And if you're wondering about the clinical psychology salary in India, you're in the right place.

This blog covers it all—from freshers to experienced professionals, and from B.Sc. to Ph.D. level salaries—plus skills, tips to grow, and the best route to launch your career (spoiler alert: UPES might be your answer.

Who is a Clinical Psychologist?

The clinical psychology salary in India per month significantly increases with qualifications and experience. Those working in private hospitals, corporate mental wellness firms, or setting up their own practice can earn even more.

Clinical Psychology Salary in India – At a Glance

The clinical psychology salary in India per month significantly increases with qualifications and experience. Those working in private hospitals, corporate mental wellness firms, or setting up their own practice can earn even more.

A more detailed analysis of salary ranges based on your educational qualification in psychology follows below.

B.Sc. Clinical Psychology Salary in India

As a fresher with a B.Sc. degree, you'll typically start as:

• Psychology Assistant
• Mental Health Support Staff
• Rehabilitation Assistant
• Starting salary: ₹15,000–₹25,000/month
   
  • Growth Tip: Pursue internships and hands-on training during your B.Sc. to stand out.
  • Pro Tip: Enrol in a program like the UPES B.Sc. in Psychology and Behaviour that offers internships, fieldwork, and project-based learning from the very first year.

M.Sc. Clinical Psychology Salary in India

An M.Sc. allows you to work as a counsellor or junior clinical psychologist in hospitals, wellness centres, or schools.

• Average salary: ₹30,000–₹60,000/month
• Top employers: Fortis Mental Health, VIMHANS, private clinics, NGOs, EdTech startups
• Bonus Tip: Add certifications in CBT, REBT, or trauma therapy to boost your earning potential.

M.Phil Clinical Psychology Salary in India

This is a mandatory qualification if you wish to be a licensed clinical psychologist under RCI (Rehabilitation Council of India).

• Starting salary: ₹60,000–₹80,000/month
• Experienced salary: ₹1 lakh/month and above
• Roles: Consultant Psychologist, Hospital Lead Psychologist, Researcher

Pro Tip: With an M.Phil, you can open your private practice, supervise other psychologists, or work with global health organizations.

Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology Salary in India

With a doctorate, you're at the top tier—eligible for roles in academia, research, international NGOs, and high-end clinical consultancy.

• Starting salary: ₹12–20 LPA
• Higher-end (Govt. + Private): ₹25–35 LPA
• Top recruiters: NIMHANS, AIIMS, WHO, UNICEF, leading hospitals & universities.

Clinical vs. Counselling Psychology Salary in India

Being different domains, the salary range differs too. Have a look below:

Why the gap? Clinical psychologists handle more severe cases (e.g., schizophrenia, OCD, trauma), while counselling psychologists mostly work with everyday emotional and adjustment issues.

Both roles are essential, but clinical psychology offers higher pay due to intensive training and licensing requirements.

Skills That Boost Clinical Psychology Salary

Here are some must-have skills to grow your income:

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
• Psychological Assessment & Diagnosis
• Empathy and Active Listening
• Research and Data Analysis (SPSS, R)
• Case Management and Ethics
• Communication and Cultural Sensitivity

How to Grow in Clinical Psychology

To increase your salary and career growth:

1. Get Licensed – Through an M.Phil or Ph.D. recognized by RCI
2. Specialize – In child psychology, trauma, neuropsychology, etc.
3. Network & Publish – Research papers, webinars, and psychology forums
4. Take Extra Certifications – Online or hybrid programs in CBT, mindfulness, art therapy
5. Start a Private Practice – Once licensed, you can significantly increase earnings

Why Study Psychology at UPES?

The B.Sc. in Psychology and Behaviour at UPES is designed to help you build a rewarding career from Day 1.

• Real-world training and psychological labs
• Fieldwork and internships every semester
• Flexible pathways to Clinical, Counselling, or Organizational Psychology
• Career guidance and hands-on research opportunities

With faculty mentorship and industry exposure, UPES prepares you not just for a degree—but a lifelong career in mental health.

Conclusion

Absolutely. With mental health awareness growing, the demand for skilled psychologists has never been higher. And if you’re looking for both purpose and a strong pay package, clinical psychology is a deeply rewarding path.

From a B.Sc. clinical psychology salary in India of ₹2.5 LPA to a Ph.D. clinical psychologist earning ₹30 LPA and beyond, the road ahead is full of growth.

So, if you’re ready to understand minds, heal lives, and build a future, it’s time to take that first step—with the right education and a curious heart.