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Psychiatrists

Job Zone 5 - Extensive preparation needed

Diagnose, treat, and help prevent mental disorders.

Pay & job outlook

Median pay: $281,870/yr (U.S. national, May 2025)

$84,060$446,520

Typical range nationwide (10th–90th percentile). This is a population snapshot, not a personal prediction - actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.

Job outlook: +6.1% projected growth, 20242034 — faster than average.

About 900 openings per year, on average, over the decade.

Typical entry-level education: Doctoral or professional degree.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS and Employment Projections.

Top skills
Active ListeningSocial PerceptivenessCritical ThinkingSpeakingWritingJudgment and Decision MakingReading ComprehensionMonitoringActive LearningScience
Top knowledge areas
Therapy and CounselingPsychologyMedicine and DentistryEnglish LanguageBiologyEducation and TrainingCustomer and Personal ServiceSociology and Anthropology
Core tasks

Prescribe, direct, or administer psychotherapeutic treatments or medications to treat mental, emotional, or behavioral disorders.

Gather and maintain patient information and records, including social or medical history obtained from patients, relatives, or other professionals.

Design individualized care plans, using a variety of treatments.

Collaborate with physicians, psychologists, social workers, psychiatric nurses, or other professionals to discuss treatment plans and progress.

Analyze and evaluate patient data or test findings to diagnose nature or extent of mental disorder.

Examine or conduct laboratory or diagnostic tests on patients to provide information on general physical condition or mental disorder.

Counsel outpatients or other patients during office visits.

Advise or inform guardians, relatives, or significant others of patients' conditions or treatment.

Frequently asked questions

What's the median pay for Psychiatrists?

The median pay for Psychiatrists is $281,870 per year, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

What's the job outlook for Psychiatrists?

Employment for Psychiatrists is projected to change +6.1% from 2024 to 2034 - faster than average.

What education is typically required for Psychiatrists?

Typical entry-level education: Doctoral or professional degree.

How many job openings are there each year for Psychiatrists?

About 900 openings per year, on average, over the decade.