Dr. Joshua Eyer described how our Division has utilized targeted strategies to implement and amplify research related to DEI from webinars and programming to awards.
The Health Psychologist

The Electronic Magazine (E-Zine) of SfHP
This publication focuses on the dissemination of health psychology related information that is intriguing, pertinent, educational, and practical. The goal is to showcase relevant information in the field of health psychology and highlight works in clinical practice, program development, research, advocacy for the practice of health psychology and equity, diversity and inclusion initiatives. It is also a place where SfHP members can communicate and highlight their passion for the field of Health Psychology.
The Role of Health Psychologists in Treating Chronic Pain and Comorbid Depression
Madeline Foster provides an overview of the intersectionality between chronic pain and depression as well as the role of a health psychologist in the treatment of this comorbidity.
Looking Back to Step Forward: A Reflection on the “Emerging Adulthood” Era of Professional Identity Development
Dr. Grace Kao shares about the experience of many psychologists as they develop in their career, emerging adulthood. She offers normalization of career progression and how she has shaped her professional identity through the differing stages.
Patient-Provider Interactions Lacking in Empathy Can Contribute to Ableism in Health Care and Have Negative Impacts on Patients with Disabilities
Dr. Chandra Char conveys the importance of empathy in serving patients with disabilities and preventing an ableistic approach as well as the negative impact of this interaction between providers and patients.
Addressing the Truth About the Crisis of Youth: Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Mental Health
Dr. Alice Schluger evaluates the impact of COVID-19 on the adolescent population and the crisis that is being faced for these young people.
The Push for Physician Empathy in Healthcare
Danielle Miller describes the need for a shift toward increasing empathy in the patient physician relationship in order to improve not only patient outcomes but also physician outcomes.
What Mental Health Providers Need to Know About Treating Patients Living With HIV
Dr. Erin Miers details information that is helpful in working with patients living with HIV. She explains the stigma associated with this infection and the advancements that have been made for those living with HIV.
Communicating with the Child Dying of Cancer: Professionals’ Attitudes, Practices and Observations
Dr. Debra Newborg created an overview of her dissertation that researched a provider’s experience and comfort in having conversations with children and their families when the child is dying of cancer. She sheds light on some of the beliefs providers have about the risks and benefits of having these incredibly difficult conversations with children.
What Health Psychologists Should Know about Sickle Cell Anemia
Dr. Shawn Bediako discusses sickle cell anemia and broadens our understanding of this disease. He constructed a list of seven key items to know when learning about or working with patients who are living with sickle cell anemia.
Early career lessons in navigating pediatric chronic pain care during the COVID-19 pandemic
Dr. Grace Kao discusses the difficulties and feats of navigating her role in a leadership position as an early career psychologist midst a pandemic.
Implicit Organizational Bias
Dr. Miraj Desai discusses his research on institutional bias and racism that has informed his recent advisory roles with national organizations including the American Hospital Association, the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, and the American Psychological Association.
(Re-)Shaping NIH: A Call to Action to Elevate Behavioral Medicine
This column proposes a vital call to action from new NIH leadership to recognize the impact of the field of behavioral science on understanding burden of chronic disease on both a micro and macro level.
