Integrated healthcare has emerged as a key approach to addressing the complex and varied needs of patients across Europe. Within psychology, integration with primary care, psychiatry, social services, and community-based supports offers opportunities to improve both access to mental health services and the quality of care provided. This presentation explores the current state of integrated healthcare in European psychology, with a focus on models of collaboration, barriers to implementation, and emerging best practices.


Drawing on recent policy initiatives and empirical findings, the paper examines how integrated psychological services have been embedded in diverse healthcare systems, from countries with long-established national health services to those that remain fragmented. Particular attention is given to the role of social determinants, interdisciplinary teamwork, digitalisation, and the importance of culturally sensitive approaches in diverse populations. Challenges such as funding constraints, workforce shortages, and varying levels of professional recognition for psychologists are considered in relation to their impact on sustainability and scalability.


The presentation also highlights projects that demonstrate how psychologists contribute to integrated care pathways for chronic illness, preventive health, and early intervention in mental health. These case studies illustrate the added value of psychological expertise in improving population health, reducing hospitalisations, and supporting resilience within communities.


It is argued that fully realising the potential of integrated healthcare in psychology requires stronger cross-border collaboration, harmonised training standards, and systematic evaluation frameworks at the European level. By addressing these priorities, integrated healthcare can become a cornerstone of equitable, patient-centred care across Europe, ensuring that psychological services are not peripheral but central to health and well-being.