Ingela Thuné-Boyle, PhD
International Health Coach
Online Practice
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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 in the UK as an Applied Health Psychologist, with a specialist background in behavioural medicine, chronic illness, and the psychological and behavioural aspects of health.
From 2005 until my transition to coaching, I practiced in the United Kingdom as a Practitioner Health Psychologist, with professional regulation initially through the British Psychological Society (BPS) and, subsequently, through the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). Currently, I operate my practice strictly within a non-clinical health coaching framework. In this coaching capacity, I apply my decades of international training and background in behavioural science to help individuals actively manage and navigate the daily lifestyle challenges of chronic illness, long-term health problems, and pain.
Work Experience
Before transitioning into private health coaching, I worked for many years in private psychology practice, providing psychological support to adults living with chronic illness, chronic pain, life transitions, grief, and other health-related challenges. Prior to establishing my private practice, I held positions within several departments at UCL Medical School, including 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 held honorary contracts within the UK National Health Service (NHS), including Central and North West London NHS Foundation Trust, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, and Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust.
My Areas of Expertise
Within my coaching practice, my focus is on helping people navigate the complex lifestyle challenges associated with chronic illness, long-term health conditions, persistent pain, and other ongoing physical symptoms. I have a particular interest in supporting clients through illness adjustment, health behaviour change, coping with uncertainty, doctor-patient communication, and managing the impact of health challenges on identity, relationships, work, and quality of life.
I also work extensively with people experiencing major life transitions, long-term stress, grief, and loss. My coaching approach draws on health psychology concepts, behavioural medicine, and evidence-informed coaching tools to help people build resilience, develop practical daily skills, and move towards meaningful life goals.
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.
Dr. Ingela Thuné-Boyle is registered as a Health Psychologist with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) in the United Kingdom. She is not licensed as a psychologist by the State of Oklahoma or any US licensing board. All services provided are delivered strictly in the capacity of a Health Coach within an educational and behavioral framework. Coaching services are completely distinct from clinical psychology, psychotherapy, or medical treatment, and do not involve the diagnosis or treatment of any physical or mental health condition.