This is a branch of psychology which focuses on prevention of illness and in helping people to cope with illness when it occurs.  Health psychologists in clinical practice work with individuals and groups in a wide range of issues:

• Coping with major life events such as long-term illness, genetic disorders, or sudden events such as stroke or heart attack
• Helping to prevent or to overcome depression and anxiety related to physical health
• Supporting people to change their behaviour in relation to exercise, diet, using necessary medications, attending rehabilitation sessions, reducing alcohol intake, quitting smoking and other behaviours that are needed to protect health
• Helping people to improve their sleep and reduce fatigue
• Specialist skills in helping people with chronic pain and other challenging conditions to improve their quality of life
• Reducing dependence on medical interventions when alternative approaches are recommended
• Building skills and confidence in coping with work-related stress

Health psychologists use a variety of therapies and techniques to help people to cope with the difficulties life presents and to live a full and meaningful life, in spite of those challenges.