JourneyCareersHealth Psychologist
Global Career Guide (EN)From Psychology β†’

Health Psychologist

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Health Psychologists work in hospitals and clinics helping people look after their physical and mental health better. They use science and talking skills to help people change habits and deal with illness.

The role

What a health psychologist actually does, day to day.

As a Health Psychologist, you help people understand how their thoughts and feelings affect their health. You might work with someone who is trying to quit smoking, or who is struggling to manage a long-term illness like diabetes. You use science-based methods to help them make changes.

Your day involves meeting with patients to understand what is stopping them from getting healthier. You might use questionnaires or just listen carefully to what they tell you. Then you work together on a plan - that might mean talking through their worries, helping them build better habits, or teaching them ways to manage stress. You also work with doctors and nurses to make sure the patient's care is joined up, and you read the latest research to keep your methods up to date.

A typical week

Day to day

1Conduct assessments to evaluate patients' mental and emotional health related to their physical conditions.
2Develop and implement tailored psychological interventions and treatment plans.
3Collaborate with healthcare professionals to provide holistic care and improve patient outcomes.
4Research and analyze health-related behaviours and psychological factors affecting health.
5Facilitate workshops and training sessions for healthcare staff on psychological aspects of patient care.
6Provide support and counselling to patients coping with chronic illness or significant life changes.
7Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of interventions and adjust strategies as needed.