What is psychology?
 Think of any question about why humans do the things they do, and the chances are that a psychologist somewhere is studying it.
Psychology is the scientific study of the human mind and human behaviour. Psychologists work in many areas of society and use scientific methods to understanding people by observing, measuring, testing and using statistics to show that what they find is backed up by reliable evidence.
The knowledge gained from this research is then used by practising psychologists (those dealing with clients and helping other professionals) in a wide variety of settings.
What kinds of work do sport and exercise psychologists do?
 Sport psychologists work with sports participants, teams, coaches and officials across every level of competition. They may assist with psychological aspects of training, competition and personal life such as pre-competition anxiety, self-confidence, leadership styles and team cohesion.
Exercise psychologists are concerned with the application of psychology to encourage people to have a more active lifestyle. This could be with members of the general public or with specialist populations such as people with medical conditions. Some psychologists will work across both areas.
Where can you find a sport and exercise psychologist?
 The British Psychological Society maintains a Directory of Chartered Psychologists, which lists members of the Division of Sport and Exercise Psychology (and the Society’s other divisions) who are available for consultation.
Anyone who wishes to practise under the title of Sport and Exercise Psychologist must be registered with the Health Professions Council (HPC). Individuals who are HPC registered have completed approved training routes and are judged fit to practise.
If you are selecting a sport and exercise psychologist to work with athletes, the public or organisations, we strongly advise you to recruit an individual who is both registered with the HPC and a Chartered Psychologist.
What is a Chartered Psychologist?
 UK law does not protect the title 'psychologist', which in practice means that anyone can call themselves a psychologist. However, the British Psychological Society awards the title 'Chartered Psychologist' to psychologists who have attained high standards of education, training and expertise. All Chartered Psychologists must abide by the British Psychological Society’s Member Conduct Rules.
'Chartered Psychologist' is a legally recognised title under Royal Charter. Chartered Status is the benchmark of professional recognition for psychologists, reflecting the highest standards of experience and expertise. Chartered Psychologists are allowed to use the letters ‘CPsychol’ after their name.
What training does a sport and exercise psychologist need to achieve Chartered Status?
 To achieve Chartered Status an individual must be eligible for Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC), which ensures he or she has studied the core areas of psychology at undergraduate level. Following this, they complete a postgraduate professional training programme in Sport and Exercise Psychology, followed by further practical training to develop the professional skills they need to practise independently and effectively as a sport and exercise psychologist.
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