How can we promote the health and well-being of people and communities? What impacts can adverse situations have on mental and physical health? What is the role of psychologists in creating healthier societies?

Based on a socio-ecological perspective, this master's degree aims to impart knowledge and skills to future psychologists in order to promote health and well-being, facilitate adaptation to physical and mental illnesses and contribute to the improvement of health systems promoting based on interdisciplinary dialogue. To this end, students will learn basic principles to assess and intervene in individuals and their psychological functioning, as well as in their social contexts, from family, networks and social/cultural groups to which they belong, organizations and communities.

Along with a comprehensive theoretical training that integrates knowledge of Social, Community and Clinical Health Psychology, the master's degree focuses on the development of practical skills, ranging from cognitive-behavioral intervention techniques, to psychosocial assessment and intervention methods, such as, methods for changing personal and social determinants of health and well-being, conducting support groups, and designing and evaluating social intervention projects.

It is also intended that students learn cutting-edge research methods, through participation and active collaboration in ongoing projects at the Center for Research and Social Intervention

(rated as Excellent by FCT) and coordinated by professors/researchers. with (inter)national recognition.

This profile of knowledge and skills allows for performance in different work contexts, such as private clinics, hospitals, community associations, schools, (non) governmental organizations, and companies with scope of action in the field of physical, psychological and social health.

Completing this master's degree allows you to enrol as a Junior Psychologist at the Portuguese Psychologists Association (OPP) and practice Psychology after obtaining the professional title of psychologist awarded by the OPP. It should be noted that the course provides knowledge and skills aligned with the profile of the Health Psychologist according to the OPP.