Clinical Health Psychology is a specialized area of psychology that bridges the gap between psychological science and physical health by focusing on how psychological, behavioral, and social factors influence health and illness. It recognizes that our thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and lifestyle choices play a significant role in our physical health, just as physical health can impact our mental health.

For example, stress can manifest physically as digestive issues, headaches, muscle tightness, or a weakened immune system; it isn’t just “in your head.” Chronic pain can lead to feelings of depression or anxiety, creating a complex interplay. Clinical health psychologists help you understand and navigate these connections, providing strategies to improve both your mental and physical health leading to an improvement in your overall quality of life.

Who Can Benefit from a Health Psychologist?

Health psychology can be helpful for a wide range of concerns, including individuals who are:

• Coping with chronic medical conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, chronic pain, autoimmune disorders, cancer, organ transplant, IBS, and many others. We can help you manage the emotional impact of your illness, adhere to treatment plans, reduce distress, and improve your quality of life

• Managing stress. Life happens, and sometimes we don’t realize how much stress we are carrying around. Stress can manifest physically and take a toll on your body through symptoms like high blood pressure, sleep disturbances, fatigue, and digestive issues, and we can equip you with effective stress management techniques.

• Adopting healthier lifestyle behaviors. Whether you want to improve sleep, increase physical activity, manage weight, or change unhealthy habits like smoking or excessive drinking, we can provide psychological support and strategies to make lasting changes.

• Preparing for or recovering from medical procedures. We can help you manage anxiety before surgery, cope with recovery, and address any psychological challenges that may arise.

• Dealing with health-related anxiety or phobias. This might include fear of medical procedures, hypochondriasis (health anxiety), or specific phobias related to medial settings.

• Improving overall well-being and resilience. Even without a specific medical condition, clinical health psychologists can help you build coping skills, enhance your ability to bounce back from adversity, and foster a more positive relationship with your body.

Evidence-Based Approach to Care

Our practice is rooted in evidence-based practices, meaning the techniques and interventions have been rigorously tested and proven effective through scientific research. This ensures you receive the highest quality of care informed by the latest advancements in the field. We believe in a collaborative approach to your care. You are the expert on your own experiences and our role is to provide guidance, support, and effective tools. We will work together as a team to understand your unique challenges, set realistic goals, and develop strategies that empower you to take an active role in managing your health and enhancing your well-being.

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): A highly effective approach that helps you identify and change unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to health issues or distress.

• Behavioral Interventions for Lifestyle Change: Working together to identify barriers and develop sustainable plans for improving sleep, nutrition, exercise, and other health behaviors.

• Psychoeducation: Providing clear, understandable information about the mind-body connection and how psychological factors impact your health.

• Mindfulness-Based Stress Management and Relaxation Training: Learning and practicing techniques such as mindfulness, progressive muscle relaxation, diaphragmatic breathing, and guided imagery to reduce physical and psychological tension.

• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): Learning to accept difficult thoughts and feelings while committing to actions that align with your values, particularly helpful for chronic pain and illness.

Take the Next Step

At Whole Health Psychology, we specialize in clinical health psychology. If you’re ready to explore how integrating psychological care can enhance your physical health and overall well-being, please contact us for a consultation. We can discuss how our services can help support you on your journey towards a healthier, more fulfilling life.