Hospitals and healthcare services rely on a diverse team of clinical professionals to support patients’ physical and mental health. One key role is that of the psychologist, who works with patients to assess, treat, and manage psychological and emotional difficulties associated with illness, injury, or life changes.
This article is the third instalment in our series exploring clinical roles within the allied health professional team.
Psychologists work across a variety of settings, including hospital wards, outpatient clinics, and community services. They focus on promoting wellbeing, managing mental health difficulties, and helping patients and their families cope with the impact of illness or disability.
Contents
What is a Psychologist?
A psychologist is a registered healthcare professional trained to assess, diagnose, and treat psychological and emotional difficulties. They use evidence-based interventions to help patients manage stress, anxiety, depression, coping with chronic conditions, and changes to daily life brought on by illness or injury.
Psychologists may also support families and carers, offering guidance and strategies to help patients navigate treatment and recovery.
Why Patients Might Meet a Psychologist
Patients are often referred to a psychologist to help manage difficulties such as:
- Stress or anxiety related to illness, treatment, or diagnosis
- Depression or low mood
- Sleep disturbances
- Loss of confidence or changes in independence
- Coping with changes to appearance, work, or home life
- Sexual or relationship difficulties
- Coping with chronic pain or complex medical regimes
- Concerns about illness recurrence or mortality
Psychologists work with patients to explore these challenges, identify goals, and develop strategies to improve quality of life and mental wellbeing.
Main Duties and Responsibilities
Psychologists carry out a variety of clinical duties, including:
- Conducting assessments and psychological evaluations to understand patients’ mental health and emotional needs
- Developing and delivering individualised therapy and interventions for patients
- Providing support and guidance to patients, families, and carers
- Assisting patients in coping with complex medical treatments and their impact on daily life
- Facilitating group or individual therapy sessions
- Collecting and analysing patient data to inform treatment planning
- Advising other healthcare professionals on psychological care needs
- Working autonomously within professional guidelines and ethical frameworks
Typical Day in a Hospital Setting
A hospital-based psychologist’s day can vary depending on the specialty and patient caseload. A typical day may include:
- Reviewing patient referrals and records
- Meeting with patients to assess mental health and wellbeing
- Providing therapy sessions tailored to individual needs
- Consulting with families, carers, or other professionals
- Recording assessments and treatment plans in patient records
- Monitoring progress and adjusting interventions accordingly
Psychologists may see patients individually, in groups, or in multidisciplinary meetings, depending on the nature of care required.
Role Within the Healthcare Team
Psychologists work closely with a range of healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care, including:
- Doctors and nurses
- Allied health professionals such as dietitians, physiotherapists, and occupational therapists
- Social workers and care coordinators
- Patients, families, and carers
Their input ensures that patients’ emotional, behavioural, and mental health needs are addressed alongside their physical health care.
Conclusion
Psychologists are clinical professionals who assess, treat, and support patients’ mental health and wellbeing.
Although they do not provide direct medical treatment, their work is essential in helping patients cope with illness, adhere to treatment, and maintain quality of life. By supporting emotional and psychological wellbeing, psychologists play a vital role within the multidisciplinary healthcare team.
Written by Dr A Sidhu (CT2)
