Health Psychologist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In an era of increasing focus on mental health, the role of a health psychologist is becoming more crucial than ever.

As the importance of mental well-being continues to rise, so does the need for professionals who can understand, analyze, and enhance our psychological health.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a health psychologist?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the intricacies of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply intrigued by the realm of health psychology,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable health psychologist job description template, created for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Health Psychologist Duties and Responsibilities

Health Psychologists focus on how biological, social and psychological factors influence health and illness.

They study how patients handle illness, why some people don’t follow medical advice and the most effective ways to control pain or change poor health habits.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Conducting scientific research to understand how people’s mental and emotional state affects their physical health
• Designing and implementing health education programs to promote wellness and prevent illness
• Working with individuals and groups to help them make healthier lifestyle choices
• Helping people manage chronic illness and deal with related psychological and physical issues
• Teaching other healthcare providers about psychological approaches to health and disease
• Assessing and providing therapeutic interventions for a range of psychological issues related to health problems
• Assisting patients to cope with and manage stress and psychological trauma related to diagnosis and illness
• Evaluating and treating co-occurring psychological disorders that may be impacting a patient’s health and wellness
• Providing consultation to other healthcare professionals about the psychological aspects of health and illness
• Using behavioral interventions to assist patients in disease prevention and health promotion

 

Health Psychologist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a skilled and empathetic Health Psychologist to join our healthcare team.

You will be responsible for studying how biological, social, and psychological factors influence health and illness.

The Health Psychologist’s responsibilities include conducting research, providing psychological assessments, and designing and implementing therapeutic strategies.

You should also be comfortable working closely with other healthcare professionals to provide holistic healthcare services.

Our ideal candidate is someone with a deep understanding of health psychology, excellent communication skills, and a strong commitment to patient care.

 

Responsibilities

• Conducting thorough psychological assessments of patients.
• Designing and implementing therapeutic strategies.
• Collaborating with healthcare professionals to develop treatment plans and monitor progress.
• Carrying out research to enhance understanding of how psychological factors influence health and wellness.
• Assisting patients in managing and coping with chronic illnesses.
• Providing support and guidance to patients dealing with issues such as stress, addiction, or anxiety.
• Advising on lifestyle changes and behavior modification to promote overall wellness.
• Documenting and maintaining detailed patient records.

 

Qualifications

• Doctorate in Psychology, with a specialization in Health Psychology.
• State licensure to practice Psychology.
• Proven experience as a Health Psychologist.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Strong therapeutic and counseling skills.
• Proficiency with the necessary tools and software for conducting research and assessments.
• Empathy and sensitivity to patients’ emotions and experiences.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Health Psychologist
• Work Environment: Clinical or hospital setting with possible remote consultations.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Clinical Director or Senior Health Psychologist.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $70,000 minimum to $110,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume, a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience, and a list of three professional references to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Health Psychologist Do?

Health Psychologists work primarily in healthcare and academic settings, although they can also function in government agencies, corporations, and private consultation.

They specialize in understanding how biological, psychological, and social factors affect health and illness.

They are often involved in public health programs, studying how individuals react, understand, and handle health and illness.

Health Psychologists conduct clinical interviews and behavioral assessments to understand the impact of psychological factors on health.

They provide interventions to assist individuals in managing stress, quitting smoking, losing weight, reducing alcohol consumption, and improving sleep and diet.

They also work with other healthcare professionals to develop treatment plans for patients with chronic diseases like diabetes, cancer, and cardiovascular disease.

Health Psychologists may conduct research on health behavior and health care, develop and implement public health campaigns, and influence public health policy.

Their work can also include educating healthcare professionals about psychological factors in health and disease.

They need to stay updated with the latest research in their field and apply this knowledge in their practice to provide the best care for their patients.

 

Health Psychologist Qualifications and Skills

A proficient health psychologist should possess certain skills and qualifications to carry out their tasks effectively, such as:

• Excellent interpersonal skills to establish a good rapport with patients, families, and healthcare staff
• Strong knowledge of psychological principles and practices, with a specific focus on health psychology
• Ability to use psychological assessments and therapeutic interventions to assist patients in managing health issues
• Strong communication skills to effectively explain psychological concepts and processes to patients and their families
• Good problem-solving skills to help patients understand and overcome health-related behaviors and beliefs that are detrimental to their health
• High degree of empathy and understanding to provide psychological support to patients dealing with chronic illness, terminal disease, or other health challenges
• Research skills to stay up-to-date with the latest developments in health psychology and apply these findings to patient care
• A master’s degree or doctorate in psychology, with a specialization in health psychology, and necessary licensure or certification

 

Health Psychologist Experience Requirements

Health Psychologists must begin their careers with a bachelor’s degree in psychology, followed by a master’s degree or a doctoral degree in health psychology or a closely related field.

During their academic years, health psychologists should strive to gain as much practical experience as possible.

This could include internships, work-study programs or research projects.

These experiences not only provide hands-on practice but also enable students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world situations.

A graduate might begin their professional career as a Psychological Assistant or Research Assistant, providing valuable on-the-job experience.

They can also work in healthcare facilities, rehabilitation centers, or mental health clinics to gain exposure to a variety of patient groups.

After achieving their doctoral degree, health psychologists are usually required to complete a supervised clinical internship, which typically lasts for 1 to 2 years, and provides them with extensive practical experience.

This experience is invaluable and often a requirement for state licensure.

Health Psychologists with more than 3 years of postdoctoral experience may have additional specializations or certifications, such as in clinical health psychology, and are often considered for senior roles.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have the necessary skills and expertise to lead a team, manage a department, or teach at the university level.

Continued professional development and research are highly valued in this field, and contribute to a health psychologist’s overall experience and expertise.

 

Health Psychologist Education and Training Requirements

Health Psychologists usually hold a doctoral degree (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) in psychology, with a specific focus on health psychology.

The journey to becoming a health psychologist typically begins with a bachelor’s degree in psychology, although some students may choose to major in a related field such as biology or health science.

Following their undergraduate studies, prospective health psychologists must pursue a doctoral degree, which generally takes five to seven years of study.

This involves specialized coursework in health psychology, research methods, and various treatment approaches, as well as a significant amount of practical experience gained through internships or supervised practice.

After earning a doctoral degree, health psychologists must then complete a one to two-year supervised internship in a clinical setting to gain hands-on experience.

In most states, health psychologists must also obtain licensure to practice.

This typically involves passing the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP).

Some health psychologists may also choose to become board certified by the American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP), which involves meeting additional training and experience requirements and passing an examination.

Continuing education is important in this field, as it allows health psychologists to stay up-to-date with the latest research and advances in treatment.

This can be achieved through workshops, seminars, or advanced courses.

 

Health Psychologist Salary Expectations

The average salary for a Health Psychologist is approximately $89,290 (USD) per year.

However, the actual income can vary significantly depending on factors such as the level of experience, educational qualifications, geographical location, and the specific sector within which they are employed.

 

Health Psychologist Job Description FAQs

What are the required qualifications for a Health Psychologist?

To become a Health Psychologist, individuals usually need to have a doctoral degree in psychology, preferably with a concentration in health psychology.

Before they can practice, they must also complete an internship and one to two years of supervised professional experience, as well as pass the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology.

 

What skills does a Health Psychologist need?

Health Psychologists should possess strong interpersonal skills, as they work closely with patients and their families.

They should also have a deep understanding of human behavior and the mind, and the ability to apply this knowledge to promote healthy behaviors.

They must also be empathetic, patient, and have excellent communication skills to explain complex concepts in a way that patients understand.

 

What are the daily duties of a Health Psychologist?

A Health Psychologist’s typical day might involve conducting psychological assessments, providing therapy, developing and implementing treatment plans, and evaluating their effectiveness.

They may also spend time on research, teaching, or consulting with other health professionals.

They may provide individual, family, or group psychotherapy, and design behavior modification programs.

 

What qualities make a good Health Psychologist?

A good Health Psychologist is compassionate, understanding, and has excellent listening skills.

They should be able to build rapport with patients, show empathy, and have the ability to encourage and motivate individuals to change unhealthy behaviors.

It’s also important for them to have strong research and analytical skills, as well as a commitment to staying updated with the latest developments in the field.

 

Is a license necessary for a Health Psychologist?

Yes, all practicing psychologists, including Health Psychologists, need to be licensed or certified in the state in which they practice.

The licensing requirements vary by state, but usually include the completion of a doctoral program, an internship, and one to two years of professional experience.

They must also pass a state-licensed examination.

 

Conclusion

And so, we have unveiled the true essence of being a health psychologist.

Surprised?

It’s not just about understanding human behavior.

It’s about shaping healthier lives, one patient at a time.

With our comprehensive health psychologist job description template and realistic examples, you’re fully equipped to make your next career move.

But don’t just stop here.

Go further with our job description generator. It’s your ultimate guide to creating detailed job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every interaction with a patient contributes to their overall wellbeing.

Let’s shape a healthier future. Together.

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