ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the relationship between physical health conditions and psychological health. The author highlights the range of roles for counselling psychologists within physical health, outlines competencies required of applied psychologists in physical health settings and describes key features of these roles. The chapter includes an exploration of relevant models and clinical applications, including opportunities for counselling psychologists to expand their skills beyond therapy. Case examples and the author’s personal reflections are used to illustrate typical presentations and interventions. The author discusses the challenges and opportunities for counselling psychologists in medical settings and explores whether the prevailing medical model is in opposition to the philosophy of counselling psychology. Consideration is given to how to cultivate an atmosphere of open, curious enquiry, valuing different perspectives on health and illness; therefore, making the most of both our similarities to and differences from the medical approach. The author suggests that counselling psychologists are uniquely placed to contribute to the evolving model of healthcare for physical conditions.
