Integrating Physical Activity Promotion into Psychological Practice: Clinical and Ethical Considerations

Indi Dissanayake; Darren Haywood; Andrew Allen; Kristin L Szuhany; David Castle; Daniel B Fassnacht; Kathina Ali; Brendon Stubbs; Susan L Rossell; Jasper A J Smits; Florence Kinnafick; Mark Stoutenberg; Oscar Lederman

doi:10.1016/j.psychsport.2026.103097

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Integrating Physical Activity Promotion into Psychological Practice: Clinical and Ethical Considerations

Journal article

Peer reviewed

Integrating Physical Activity Promotion into Psychological Practice: Clinical and Ethical Considerations

Indi Dissanayake, Darren Haywood, Andrew Allen, Kristin L Szuhany, David Castle, Daniel B Fassnacht, Kathina Ali, Brendon Stubbs, Susan L Rossell, Jasper A J Smits, …

Psychology of Sport and Exercise, Vol.85, pp.1-6

2026

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.psychsport.2026.103097

PMID: 41759948

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Abstract

behaviour change

exercise

intervention

psychologist

mental health

physical activity

Physical activity is a well-established intervention for improving mental health outcomes, yet its integration into psychological practice remains under-researched. Psychologists, as mental health professionals, are well-positioned to promote physical activity. This Short Communication describes the case for physical activity promotion within psychological practice. We explore both clinical and ethical considerations for incorporating physical activity promotion into psychological practice, practical strategies using the '5As model' and a case study to guide psychologists, addressing barriers to change and enhancing client motivation. Importantly, we discuss the need for further training and development for psychologists to ensure safe, impactful physical activity promotion is implemented in practice. By providing actionable recommendations, we aim to support psychologists in integrating physical activity promotion into their clinical practice, ultimately enhancing mental health care.

Details

Title: Integrating Physical Activity Promotion into Psychological Practice: Clinical and Ethical Considerations
Authors: Indi Dissanayake (Corresponding Author) - University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, School of Health - Psychology
Darren Haywood - Swinburne University of Technology
Andrew Allen - University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, School of Health - Psychology
Kristin L Szuhany - New York University
David Castle - University of Tasmania
Daniel B Fassnacht - University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, School of Health - Psychology
Kathina Ali - University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, School of Health - Psychology
Brendon Stubbs - University of Vienna
Susan L Rossell - Swinburne University of Technology
Jasper A J Smits - The University of Texas at Austin
Florence Kinnafick - Loughborough University
Mark Stoutenberg - Durham University
Oscar Lederman - University of Technology Sydney
Publication details: Psychology of Sport and Exercise, Vol.85, pp.1-6
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date published: 2026
DOI: 10.1016/j.psychsport.2026.103097
ISSN: 1878-5476
PMID: 41759948
Data Availability: No data was used for the research described in the article.
Organisation Unit: Healthy Ageing Research Cluster; School of Health - Psychology; School of Health - Sports & Exercise Science; Sexual Violence Research and Prevention Unit
Language: English
Record Identifier: 991209460902621
Output Type: Journal article

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Collaboration types: Domestic collaboration; International collaboration
Web Of Science research areas: Hospitality, Leisure, Sport & Tourism; Psychology; Psychology, Applied; Sport Sciences

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