Introduction

Findings from a study by Maynooth University found that over 40% of Irish adults have a mental health disorder. Clinical psychologists play a significant role in supporting people through these challenges by helping them manage and overcome psychological difficulties.

Psychology is defined as the study of the human mind to understand and improve their thoughts and behaviours. Many people are drawn to the profession based on a personal interest in the brain and a genuine empathy to help others. A career in clinical psychology is rarely linear with people entering from a diverse range of career backgrounds.

Within the HSE there are three main areas of specialism:

To work in clinical practice, psychologists must complete supervised clinical placements which are a key part of their doctoral training programme.

If you’re considering a career in psychology, you might be wondering: what does a clinical psychologist do, how much do they earn in Ireland, and what qualifications do I need to become one? This blog serves as a guide to answer those questions.

What is Clinical Psychology?

Clinical psychology focuses on the assesment, diagnoses and treatment of mental emotional and behavioural disorders.

They work with children, adolescents, and adults in settings such as:

What does a clinical psychologist do daily?

Clinical psychologists take on a wide variety of responsibilities often working in multidisciplinary teams. Their daily tasks are not limited to but can include the following:

Career progression

A career in psychology typically develops step by step with opportunities for advancement at every stage:

Education & Training Requirements

Step 1: Undergraduate Training

Step 2: Doctoral Training

Step 3: Professional Registration

On completion of your studies and placements you can register and practice as qualified clinical psychologists in Ireland.

Career Progression & Opportunities

Once qualified, you can choose from a range of career pathways in the HSE and beyond.

Clinical Pathway

Clinical Management Pathway

Outside of HSE opportunities exist in:

Clinical Psychologists Who Have Studied Abroad

If you are a clinical psychologist who would like to work within the HSE in Ireland, you must have your qualifications recognised. Since the process can take some time, it is recommended you do it as early as possible.

If there is no professional body or official regulator available for your qualification you can use the NARIC Ireland. It lets you download a comparability statement. This statement compares your qualification to the Irish National Framework of Qualifications award types and levels. It helps employers understand the equivalence of your qualification to the Irish system.

Clinical Psychologist Salary Ireland

Your salary depends on your experience, role (clinical vs management), and location as of the most up to date payscales psychologists earn between €61,362 – €105,050. If you choose to undertake a career in the HSE you can access payscales here.

Key Takeaways

Clinical psychologists assess, diagnose and treat a wide range of mental and behavioural difficulties in a range of clients. The journey to qualification typically takes around seven to eight years between academic study and clinical training, leading to rewarding career opportunities in a diverse range of settings. If you are a psychologist at any level of your career you can explore current opportunities available at Medforce.

A Dietitian is a health professional who has a Bachelor’s or a Masters degree specialising in food and nutrition. Many will have completed a period of practical training in a hospital or community setting. If you are interested learning what a career as a Dietitian entails this blog if for you.

What Does a Dietitian Do?

A Dietitian uses the science of nutrition and health to assess, diagnose, and treat dietary and nutritional problems. They play a key role in promoting good health and preventing disease by working with patients to make informed food choices.

Where they work:

How To Become a Dietitian in Ireland

To work as a Dietitian you need a degree in Dietetics or an approved educational qualification. Some examples of these courses include:

Bachelor’s Degree BSc in Human Nutrition and Dietetics: This programme is approved by CORU and recognised by the Irish Nutrition and Dietetic Institute (INDI). It combines the science of nutrition with applying knowledge to practice in both a clinical and community setting.

Graduate Pathway – BSc + MSc:

With a BSc in a related discipline, you can advance to a master’s degree. Relevant fields include health sciences, biology, and food sciences.

Postgraduate courses are typically take two years to complete.

Registration and Professional Standards

After completing an accredited course, you must register with CORU to ensure you adhere to the necessary professional standards for safe and ethical practice. CORU is the regulatory body for health and social care professionals.

Career Progression and Pathways

As a Dietitian your career path is clearly defined and supportive of growth in a number of directions:

1. Clinical Pathway

2. Management Pathway

Difference between a Dietitian and Nutritionist

The term “Nutritionist” is not regulated or protected, meaning anyone can label themselves as a “Nutritionist” in Ireland regardless of their education or expertise.

Dietitian

Nutritionist

Final Thoughts

With structured career progression and opportunities to work in a diverse range environments, the field of Dietetics presents an excellent opportunity for those passionate about nutrition and its impact on our general well-being.

Speech and Language Therapists (SLTs) support people of all ages who have difficulties with communication or swallowing. As Health and Social Care Professionals (HSCPs), SLTs work closely with Doctors, Nurses, and other specialists to deliver coordinated care.

What Does a Speech & Language Therapist Do?

SLTs assess, diagnose, and provide a broad range of interventions for individuals with a variety of concerns related to communication, voice, feeding, eating, drinking, and swallowing. Their work spans the entire lifespan, addressing needs from early childhood through to older adulthood.

Beyond clinical intervention, SLTs advocate for and contribute to the development of services for individuals with communication and swallowing needs. Some SLTs are actively engaged in research, teaching, and advocacy as part of their clinical role or in academic settings.

How to Become a Speech & Language Therapist in Ireland

To practice as an SLT in Ireland, you must complete a CORU-approved qualification. There are different pathways, depending on your background:

1. Undergraduate Degrees

Several Irish universities offer accredited Speech & Language Therapy courses in Ireland. These include four-year full-time programmes that combine academic study with clinical placements.

2. Speech & Language Therapy Masters

If you hold a related degree (like Psychology or Linguistics), you can apply for a masters in Speech & Language Therapy. These postgraduate conversion courses typically run for two years.

Understanding CORU: Why It Matters

To practice as an SLT in Ireland, registration with CORU is mandatory. CORU is the regulatory body that ensures Health and Social Care Professionals meet high standards of education, training, and ethical practice. Only graduates of CORU-approved courses are eligible to apply for registration.

If you are studying or planning to study, make sure your course is CORU-accredited. CORU also provides information on approved qualifications that serve as entry routes to these courses this accreditation is crucial for future employment, especially with the HSE.

If you have been qualified outside the EU you can find further information in relation to registration and recognition of your qualifications here.

Private vs. Public Sector: Where Can You Work?

The HSE is the largest employer of SLT’s in Ireland. Jobs span across hospitals, primary care teams and child development services. Working as a Speech and Language Therapist in the HSE’s public sector offers a rewarding, team-based environment where SLTs collaborate with other HSCP’s to deliver essential services. 

The private sector is growing rapidly. Many families seek private Speech & Language Therapy to avoid long wait times or to receive more specialised support. This pathway also allows SLTs to run their own practices, offering greater autonomy and flexible work hours.

Career Progression

Graduate Speech and Language Therapist (Grade 1)

Newly qualified SLTs typically start at this entry-level position, gaining practical clinical experience under supervision in various settings.

Speech and Language Therapist (Grade 2)

After gaining experience and demonstrating competence, SLTs move to this grade, taking on more complex cases and increased responsibility.

Senior Speech and Language Therapist

At this level, SLTs lead specialised clinical work, supervise junior therapists, and may manage caseloads or specific service areas.

Clinical Specialist / Advanced Practitioner

SLTs with additional expertise or qualifications often progress to specialist roles focusing on particular client groups or clinical areas, leading service development and training.

Clinical Manager / Team Lead

In this role, SLTs manage teams, oversee service delivery, coordinate multi-disciplinary collaboration, and handle administrative and strategic responsibilities.

Assistant Principal Speech and Language Therapist

This senior management role involves higher-level operational management, policy implementation, and liaison with other health and education services.

Principal Speech and Language Therapist / Service Manager

Principal SLT’s and Service Managers have the overall responsibility for service planning, budgeting, and strategic development within a region or specialty area.

While you may be awaiting a call for SLT jobs from the HSE panel you can use this time to gain experience and expand your knowledge through contract work.

The main benefits of contract work include:

Summary

From public sector roles in the HSE to private practice and flexible contract work, SLTs in Ireland can build fulfilling careers that make a real difference. With the right qualifications and a clear understanding of the regulatory landscape, you can take confident steps toward a meaningful and impactful profession.

If you’re passionate about helping people stay active and improve their quality of life, a career as a Physiotherapist in Ireland could be a perfect fit. It’s more than just a job, it’s a chance to make a real difference while building a rewarding and meaningful career.

Physiotherapists are part of a clinical workforce called Health & Social Care Professionals. Once qualified you can work in a variety of settings including acute hospital wards, rehabilitation services and community settings in patient homes.

Education & Training

Becoming a Physiotherapist opens the door to a fulfilling career focused on improving people’s mobility and quality of life. Whether you’re starting out or looking to build on previous studies, there are different educational paths to help you qualify.

Where Can You Study Physiotherapy in Ireland

Universities which offer excellent Physiotherapy courses in Ireland include:

These programs mix classes with real-world training to give students the clinical skills they need to succeed.

CORU Registration

All Physiotherapists must register with CORU, the regulatory body for Health and Social Care Professionals in Ireland. This ensures that practitioners meet the professional standards necessary to provide safe and effective care. If you are an internationally trained Physiotherapist, CORU also assesses overseas qualifications, making Ireland an accessible destination for global talent.

If you have been qualified outside Ireland you can find further information on relocation and registration here.

Where Can I Work as a Physiotherapist in Ireland

Physiotherapists work across a number of settings including hospitals, community healthcare organisations and private practices.

Hospitals: In hospitals, they play a crucial role in various wards such as acute care, rehabilitation, orthopedics, and neurology.

Community: Within the community, Physiotherapists may work in local hospitals, health centers, or provide in-home care, directly to patients.

Rehabilitation: Rehabilitation centers offer another avenue, focusing on the recovery of individuals following injury or illness.

Private practice: Many Physiotherapists also choose to establish private practices, offering a wide range of services to the general public.

Additionally, they are integral to sports organisations, where they support both professional and amateur athletes through injury management, rehabilitation, and preventative care. Opportunities also exist in research and academic settings, allowing Physiotherapists to contribute to the advancement of the field.

Irish Society of Chartered Physiotherapists

The Society of Chartered Physiotherapists is a professional group that supports Physiotherapists in their work. It helps members stay up to date, offers training and resources, and supports quality care in Physiotherapy. Being part of this society can help Physiotherapists grow in their careers and connect with others in the field.

Opportunities for Career Progression

Once you’re qualified, you can work in different places such as hospitals and rehab centers. New graduates and experienced professionals alike can find opportunities to specialise in areas such as orthopedics, neurology, pediatrics, or sports therapy.

Physiotherapy Pay in Ireland: What to Expect

A common question from those starting their career is what to expect in terms of pay. Salaries can vary widely based on factors like experience, location, and the type of employer.

Entry-level Physiotherapists typically earn less than those with more experience, and senior or specialist roles tend to offer higher pay. Working in private practice or areas like sports medicine may also provide opportunities for increased earnings, especially with additional training or expertise. For detailed information on public sector pay, you can refer to the HSE pay scales.

Why Choose Ireland?

In addition to competitive pay and abundant job opportunities, Ireland offers friendly communities, stunning natural landscapes, and an exceptional quality of life. For international candidates, Ireland provides a professional healthcare system and globally respected universities. Moreover, the close-knit healthcare community fosters strong professional networks and ample opportunities for continuous growth and development.

Summary

Working as a Physiotherapist in Ireland means helping others and building your career at the same time. To learn more about Physiotherapy jobs in Ireland you can visit our website.

Your CV acts as your professional passport, and represents you when searching for a new role. Graduates often spend the months following university searching for a new position. This blog provides tips and tricks to help you stand out in the competitive field of healthcare. By following these steps, you can ensure that your CV presents you in the best possible light.

Be clear & concise

Ensure that your CV is clear, concise, and well-structured, with an emphasis on readability. Avoid long paragraphs and use short, strong sentences.

Use headings and bullet points to make your CV easy to read. This hilights your skills and experience quickly to the employer.

Tailor your CV to the role

When applying for a job, demonstrating genuine interest in both the role and the organisation is crucial. Researching the company helps you understand its values, culture and the industry it operates in. This knowledge helps you customise your application for the job. It makes sure your skills and experiences align with the company’s goals and needs.

By customising your CV, you not only highlight your relevant qualifications but also show that you have put thought into how your healthcare background makes you a strong fit for the role. This tailored approach increases your chances of standing out, showing employers that you are serious about contributing to their organisation.

Tips for CV presentation

First impressions matter, and this starts with CV presentation. A simple, clean layout with clear headings is vital. We recommend using a classic font such as Arial or Calibri and keeping the font size between 10-12 points. Avoid using too many colours or fonts, as this can make the CV look cluttered.

Start your CV with the following:

These are essential for employers to be able to contact you and easily learn more about your professional background.

Create a strong personal statement

One of the most powerful sections of your CV is your personal statement. This section provides a snapshot of who you are and why you are the right candidate for the role. You can include your personal statement at the top of your CV as a summary of your skills and professional interests.

Start by reviewing the job description and identifying the key skills and qualities the hiring manager is looking for. Tailor your personal statement to reflect these attributes.

Focus on your main strengths which are relevant to the job. Highlight both hard skills, like clinical expertise, and soft skills, like communication, that relate to the job. In the healthcare industry, employers value a balanced combination of these abilities.

Include education & training

In your education and training, make sure to list all relevant skills and qualifications.

Outline your experience clearly

The experience section is critical to demonstrate that you are qualified for the role. Include detailed descriptions of your previous roles, highlighting key responsibilities and achievements. This section should include:

Also, remember to include any relevant volunteering or training experience. This shows your commitment to your career and your passion for the field.

Include a references section

Make sure to have a list of professional references. These can be former managers, supervisors, or colleagues. They should be able to discuss your skills and work ethic. Always ask for permission before listing someone as a reference.

At the end of your CV, make sure to include a references section. You can note that your references are “available upon request.”

CV tips specific to the role

Health & Social Care Professionals: CORU registration is a key requirement. Make sure to display your CORU registration number clearly on your CV.

Nurses: Nurses who have been qualified in Ireland and outside of the EU must have an NMBI pin. Make sure to prominently highlight your NMBI pin number on your CV.

Doctors: Doctors must register with the IMC to practice in Ireland. Be sure to include your IMC registration details on your CV.

Healthcare Assistants: Make sure to add your QQI Level 5 certification to your job application. This is a required qualification for healthcare assistants.

Summary

Your CV is your first chance to make a great impression on potential employers. You can write an excellent CV by using these cv tips and tricks. In a nutshell, the key takeaways are as follows:

Highlight your strengths, experience, and passion for health and social care to make your CV stand out. Tailor your CV for each role to ensure you highlight the most relevant achievements, skills, and qualifications.

To position yourself as the best fit for a role in healthcare, take the time to carefully craft your CV. With the right approach and attention to detail, you can confidently move forward in your job search.

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