Health and therapy

Psychologists working in the area of health aim to improve the mental and associated physical health of individuals, specific groups, and the wider population. This involves devising and delivering therapies to prevent and treat mental disorders, and to promote general wellness. They also play a role in evaluating how therapies improve health and which are the most effective. This influences the way psychological treatments are delivered at both the individual and public level.

Roles of a psychologist

Whether working independently, as part of an interdisciplinary health-care team, or in a research institution, psychologists are concerned with improving mental health and general well-being. Their different roles reflect the varied ways of achieving this goal for individuals or groups.

Health psychologist

What do they specialize in? These specialists look at how people deal with illness and the psychological factors that influence their health. They
may research and deliver strategies to improve health and prevent disease, for example, promoting weight loss or stopping smoking, or may help individuals manage specific illnesses such as cancer or diabetes.

Who would benefit from their help?

❯ Chronically ill patients needing help adjusting to a serious illness or managing pain.

❯ Population groups needing lifestyle advice to prevent disease.

❯ Health-care providers wanting to know how to improve their services.

❯ Patient groups such as diabetics, who need advice to help them manage their condition.

Where would you find them?

Hospitals, community health settings, public health departments, local authorities, research institutions.

Qualifications

Doctoral level of education, followed by practical training, and continuing professional development.

Clinical psychologist

What do they specialize in?

These psychologists help people to deal
with mental and physical health issues such as anxiety, addiction, depression, and relationship issues. After clinically assessing an individual using tests, discussion, or observation, they will provide appropriate therapy.

Who would benefit from their help?

❯ People with anxiety or depression in need of individual or group therapy sessions.

❯ Children with learning difficulties or behavior
problems.

❯ Substance abusers who need help to tackle their addiction.

❯ PTSD sufferers in need of therapy to overcome past traumatic events and experiences.

Where would you find them?

Hospitals, community mental health teams, health centers, social services, schools, private practice.

Qualifications

Doctorate in clinical psychology.

Counseling psychologist

What do they specialize in?

These specialists help people facing
difficult life issues, such as bereavement or domestic violence, as well as those with mental health disorders. They build a strong client relationship to effect change, and may also undergo therapy to inform their practice.

Who would benefit from their help?

❯ Families experiencing relationship difficulties.

❯ Children experiencing social, emotional, or behavioral problems, or who have suffered any type of abuse.

❯ Sufferers of stress who can be helped to address underlying problems.

❯ Bereaved individuals needing emotional support and guidance.

Where would you find them?

Hospitals, community mental health teams, health centers, social services, industry, prisons, schools.

Qualifications

Doctoral level of education, followed by practical training, and continuing professional development.

PSYCHOEDUCATION

Increasing people’s awareness of living with mental health issues has become a key part of the therapeutic process. Whether delivered individually, in groups, or electronically via the Internet, psychoeducation helps those with mental disorders better understand their condition and the treatments, and also helps their families, friends, and caregivers provide more effective support. Having detailed information allows people to take better control of their lives and take positive steps to deal with their symptoms. It also improves a person’s compliance with treatment and can play a role in reducing the stigma often associated with mental health disorders.

WHO CAN PROVIDE TREATMENT?

Many mental health specialists can deliver psychological assessments, therapies, and counseling, but only some can prescribe medications to treat disorders.

Psychologists These professionals perform psychological assessments and deliver a range of talking or behavioral therapies, depending on the needs of the individual or group.

Psychiatrists These are medical doctors who specialize in the treatment of mental disorders. They are licensed to prescribe psychiatric drugs as part of a patient’s treatment.

General medical professionals Doctors (GPs and hospital consultants) and advanced psychiatric nurses can prescribe drugs or other therapies.

Other mental health specialists Social workers, psychiatric nurses, and counselors may deliver therapy alone or as part of a mental health team.

More than 75%
of GP appointments in the US are attributed to issues related to stress and anxiety