Prospects

The Department of Health has raised the profile of applied psychologists in addressing the health of the nation. Applied psychologists are cited in a number of the National Service Frameworks as necessary for the effective delivery of services. The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) has published guidance in a number of areas stipulating the need for service users to have access to specific psychological therapies. There is convincing evidence that talking therapies can make a significant difference to people presenting with the widest spectrum of psychological difficulties. Lord Layard has also contributed to the psychological therapy agenda by considering the need for cognitive behavioural therapy to be available for individuals. A significant number of people on benefits have psychological difficulties which prevent them accessing work and its associated benefits. It is anticipated that this psychological intervention will facilitate a significant number back to work.