Ingela Thuné-Boyle, PhD
Health Psychology
Illness, Pain & Wellness Coach
I see clients online using
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About
About Me
Qualifications
I obtained my postgraduate training (MSc, PhD, CPsychol - Health Psychology) from the Division of Medicine at University College London (UCL), a world-leading university renowned for its excellence in research and healthcare. I am a UK Chartered Psychologist (CPsychol) with over 25 years of experience as an Applied Health Psychologist and a specialist background in behavioural medicine, chronic illness, and the psychological and behavioural aspects of health. I practiced as a Practitioner Health Psychologist since 2005, with professional regulation initially through the British Psychological Society (BPS) and, following changes to UK statutory regulation, through the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). Currently, I work as a health coach, applying these decades of clinical expertise to help individuals actively manage and navigate the challenges of chronic illness, long-term health problems, and pain.
Work Experience
Before going into private practice, I held positions at several departments within the UCL Medical School: the Centre for Behavioural and Social Sciences in Medicine, Division of Medicine; the Department of Mental Health Sciences/Marie Curie Palliative Care Unit; the Department of Primary Care and Population Health, and; Cancer Research UK's Health Behaviour Research Centre, Department of Epidemiology and Public Health. I also had honorary contracts with the Central and North West London NHS Foundation Trust, the University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and the Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust.
My Areas of Expertise
My work has focused on helping people navigate the complex challenges associated with chronic illness, long-term health conditions, persistent pain, and other ongoing physical symptoms. I have a particular interest in illness adjustment, health behaviour change, coping with uncertainty, doctor-patient communication, and the impact of health challenges on identity, relationships, work, and quality of life.
I have also worked extensively with people experiencing major life transitions, long-term stress, grief and loss, and the effects of difficult life experiences on wellbeing. My coaching approach draws on health psychology, behavioural medicine, and evidence-informed approaches to help people build resilience, develop practical skills, and move towards meaningful goals despite life's challenges.
Why This Work Matters
to Me
I also have personal experience of living with chronic illness. I understand the challenges of managing health conditions alongside everyday life, work, relationships, and the uncertainty that illness can bring. I know how difficult it can be to navigate healthcare systems, adapt to changes in identity and expectations, and find a sense of meaning and purpose when life does not unfold as planned.
This lived experience has deepened my appreciation of the importance of compassionate, evidence-informed support and has strengthened my commitment to helping others develop the skills and understanding needed to live as fully as possible alongside health challenges.
Research, Publications and Teaching Experience
Throughout my career, I have conducted extensive health research across primary care, secondary care, and palliative care settings, including research exploring doctor–patient communication and healthcare experiences. I have presented my work at national and international conferences, published research papers and book chapters, lectured postgraduate students in health psychology and psychiatry, and provided training to healthcare professionals including General Practitioners.
More About Me
I write articles and produce YouTube videos about the biological, psychological, social, and existential aspects of chronic illness, chronic pain, and persistent physical symptoms. I also explore topics such as doctor-patient communication, healthcare experiences, grief, trauma, and narcissistic abuse, with the aim of making complex psychological concepts accessible and practical. You can watch my videos here.
I live with my dog Toby; a rather large former street dog and a professional pain in the neck! 😊 I have spent the majority of my life in London, United Kingdom. I currently reside in the USA.