Health psychology recognizes the close relationship between the mind and the body.  Basically, Health Psychology includes counselling and psychotherapy for people struggling with health issues.  People with medical conditions may be referred to a psychologist for many reasons, including:

 

· Normal but emotionally painful reactions (such as depression and anxiety) to acute or chronic medical conditions.

· Behavioural or emotional obstacles to making recommended lifestyle changes (such as getting accustomed to new eating patterns for people with diabetes).

· Stress-related medical conditions.

· Losses resulting from medical conditions.

· Preexisting emotional issues that worsen the experience of physical symptoms.