WHO
The course is open to people who are interested in developing knowledge on health psychology aspects of psychosocial care. The course is either ten days full-time or ten weeks one day part-time. Each course has a group of 15 participants facilitated by 2 professionally qualified trainers. The use of the internet is an integral part of the course and participants will be provided with their own web space.

CONTENT & METHODOLOGY
This course is both theoretical and practical.

The theoretical aspects exposes the participants to salient knowledge and theories of Health Psychology. The course explores the role of health psychology in modern medicine and health care services. It explores the role of diet and exercises in health. Other topics covered include: stress and illness; pain and its management; illness cognitions; drugs and health (tobacco, alcohol and other common drugs); Chronic illness (HIV/AIDS, Cancer, diabetes, Alzheimer’s, asthma) Preventing and promoting health; issues in health (dieting, weight management)

Theoretical aspects are explored and then related to the personal experiences of the participants. These personal experiences then serve as the basis for developing a knowledge base for counselling. The practical aspects focus on self-exploration and reflections on aspects on health psychology in participants and clients lives. Participants reflect upon their life experiences in order to gain a better understanding of ‘who they are’.

The practical skills and awareness sessions are conducted in small groups where the participants are allowed  to observe, analyse and improve their helping skills. During the course the participants are encouraged to actively contribute to the learning environment. At the end of the course participants write a case study describing how the theories of health psychology contribute to counselling and psychosocial services.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

• Minimum KCSE C-
• Work experience in a helping field
• Interest to learn and understand health psychology
• Counselling work experience is an added advantage

Participants who successfully satisfy the course objectives are awarded the Association’s Certificate of participation in this health psychology course.