What does a psychotherapist earn?
Psychotherapists diagnose and treat mental disorders – in private practices, clinics, counselling centres and outpatient services. The path usually leads via a degree (psychology/medicine or the licensed psychotherapy degree) and a longer practical training phase (e.g. PiA or practical training) to full licensure (Approbation). Gross pay depends on region, employment vs. private practice, collective agreements (e.g. TVöD/TV-Ärzte), therapeutic approach and experience. As a guide, licensed psychotherapists in Germany in 2026 often earn about €4,500–€5,600 gross per month; during the training phase typical ranges are around €1,900–€2,600.
Salary by region (gross/month)
Orientation figures as of 2026. The training column refers to typical pay during the practical training phase (e.g. psychotherapist in training / practical training); qualified means licensed psychotherapists in employment. Income in private practice with a statutory insurance seat can vary widely. Actual pay depends on region, collective agreement, employer, experience and working hours and is not a guarantee.
Further training options
Job and everyday work
Psychotherapists accompany people with mental strain and disorders over longer courses of treatment: diagnostics, treatment planning and regular sessions form the core. Documentation, coordination with payers and often interdisciplinary cooperation complete the day – with high responsibility for crises and professional stance.
- Clarify diagnostics and indication: evaluate history, tests and interviews and set treatment goals together.
- Deliver individual and, where appropriate, group sessions – structured according to the chosen approach (e.g. CBT, psychodynamic, systemic).
- Document the course of therapy, write reports for payers and coordinate interdisciplinarily with doctors, clinics or schools.
- Assess crises and suicidality, agree emergency plans and refer or arrange inpatient care when needed.
- Use supervision and peer consultation; reflect on own strain and boundaries.
- Manage appointments, billing and practice organisation – in employment often plus team meetings and ward work.
