What is Health Psychology and Behavioral Medicine and How are they Used?

Health Psychology is a somewhat isolated branch of the field of psychology. It is the study of psychological and behavioral processes in health, illness, and healthcare. Health Psychologists strive to understand how psychological and even cultural factors contribute to physical health and illness. The affects of stress in daily life on health is a prime example.

The goal of the health psychologist is to apply education, information and prevention to alleviate patient’s physical symptoms and improve the lives of their clients. Thus, the counseling focuses on a mind and body holistic approach and not just the mental health.

As the field of medicine recognizes more of the integral aspects of mind, body, spirit with regards to wellness, the field of health psychology is becoming more mainstream and more recognized as a valuable asset to the field of psychology as a whole.