This Spring issue is jam-packed with a variety of remarkable articles to start off the first issue of the new year!
What’s Inside
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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.
Careers in Health Psych Spotlight: An Interview with Dr. John Ruiz, Editor of the Health Psychologist
Dr. John Ruiz provided insights into his experience as a growing professional and gave advice on how to navigate finding one’s own way into becoming an accomplished psychologist.
False Peaks
Dr. Andrew Dunkle shared his voice as an early career psychologist in the exploration of expanding one’s career from the beginning in order to attain the broader professional life one hopes for.
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.
The GRACE Model: A Practical Framework for Implementing Positive Psychology Interventions in Medical Settings
In the article written by George Scott and colleagues, they describe the GRACE Model and how this transdiagnostic framework uses positive psychology techniques in assisting patients in a medical setting.
Evidence and Application of Health Psychology Interventions to Improve Management of Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Drs. Brooke Palmer and Megan Petrik describe the nature of irritable bowel syndrome and how this disorder is a connection between the brain and gut. They provide an overview of multiple evidenced based practices that aid in the management of this gastrointestinal issue including, cognitive behavioral therapy and hypnotherapy.
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.
Enriching and Expanding Advancements in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Across the Society
Our president, Dr. Barbara Ward-Zimmerman, showcased how our Division is taking steps to amplify the advancements of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. She provides a detailed plan of actions to be taken and what tasks are being completed to achieve this goal.
On Sleep Health and Research: An Interview with Jessee Dietch, PhD, DBSM
How many times does a patient come to your office on the weekly basis reporting difficulties with sleep, especially this past year? Research is suggesting that the prevalence of insomnia has increased this past year due to the pandemic. Thankfully our very own sleep expert Dr. Jessee Dietch provides timely resources on assessment, treatment, and consultation for sleep disorders.
Meet the Editor in Chief
Kourtney Schroeder, Psy.D., is the Editor in Chief for the Health Psychologist E-zine (2022-2025). She received her doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology from Nova Southeastern University. Dr. Schroeder graduated from the University of Florida with a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a minor in Women’s Studies. She completed her pre-doctoral internship at Community Healthlink Youth and Family Services. Dr. Schroeder is currently a licensed Clinical Psychologist at Ascension St. Vincent’s Family Medicine Center Residency Program.