Why choose psychophysiology?

The key difference between psychophysiology and traditional psychology is a focus on how the physical body (physiology) interacts with the mind while incorporating various other neurosciences. Not to be confused with a physiological psychologist, a psychophysiologist studies the space between psychology and physical stimuli.

For instance, a psychophysiological measure would be heart rate variability when a certain object or person is observed rather than exclusively on the psychological effects of observing the object or person. This kind of stress has layered and complex effects on the body. This approach to mental health has seen the field of psychophysiology grow in the last few decades.

Other physiological processes that will be studied in this field include electrodermal activity/skin conductance, brain activity, and neural activity. The psychological state of patients also plays a part in the understanding psychophysiology, unpacking emotional response and attributing stimuli. Psychophysiology requires students to have a dedication to detail and understanding of the human experience from multiple perspectives with the intention of easing human suffering. These perspectives may include psychological processes, neuroscience, information science and other stimuli related to human behavior.

About our psychophysiological programs

A student interested in this field has several degree options, that will prepare them to help their patients live more balanced lives.

We offer the following graduate degree in psychophysiology:

And we offer the following doctoral degree programs:

We also offer these certificates:

Each of the above programs comprise courses that prepare students for engaging in this field by expanding their knowledge base and clinical practices. Course offerings include:

  • Foundations of Psychophysiology
  • Psychophysiological Recording, Assessment, and Intervention
  • Basic Hypnosis: Optimal Functioning
  • Basic Biofeedback
  • Basic Neurofeedback
  • Psychophysiological Research
  • Basic Bioscience

Because psychophysiological interventions and techniques are applicable across a wide variety of fields, graduates of Saybrook University’s psychophysiology degree programs have the opportunity to affect lives in important and diverse ways.

What can you do with a psychophysiological degree?

Psychophysiology allows you to work in important roles, including:

  • Research and academia faculty
  • Military specialist
  • Government consultancy
  • Occupational therapist
  • Educator
  • Sports psychophysiologist
  • Performing arts consultant
  • Clinical psychophysiology (when appropriately licensed)

Our psychophysiology programs are designed to help students assess the biological basis of behavior, conduct and analyze effective research methods, and promote functional best practices in their fields.

Unbound: Saybrook Insights Podcast

We recommend checking out Unbound: Saybrook Insights Podcast to explore imperative and thoughtful topics to help prospective students explore the field and best practices of psychophysiology. The World of Hypnosis with Dr. Eric Willmarth might be of particular interest. Other podcast topics include social justice, human services, special education, and social science.

Learn more about next steps

For more information on psychophysiology graduate study we encourage you to complete the form below and our admissions counselors will reach out to you.

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