A spectrum of applied Health Psychology

Abstract

This chapter outlines Dr Newson’s career to date, showcasing her development in training to becoming an HCPC registered practitioner psychologist, and outlining her clinical practice and academic profile as a reader in applied health psychology. This chapter explores the application of Health Psychology across the spectrum, adding value and enhancing public health, integrating Health Psychology knowledge, skills and competencies into health improvement strategy, policy and interventions, through to clinical application in healthcare prevention and treatment services, primarily improving services and intervention for patients living with heart disease, diabetes and obesity services. The latter part of the chapter offers examples of how Health Psychology is a leading profession within behavioural science; specifically highlighting how Health Psychologists have been instrumental in supporting the immediate and ongoing national response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The chapter calls for recognition of Health Psychologists to be eligible for Public Health Specialist Registration status, and welcomes the developments within the British Psychological Society and NHS England to increase jobs across the spectrum for ‘applied psychologists’ (i.e. practitioner psychologists- inclusive of health, counselling and clinical specialisms).