An occupational psychologist is a health and safety specialist with an education in psychology and specialized training in occupational health. Occupational psychologists help restore and improve workers’ abilities and assist in conducting an audit and analysis of the work environment, providing feedback to employers on how to make the work environment healthier. The occupational psychologist is an expert in assessing and balancing psychosocial workloads. If necessary, the occupational psychologist supports the employer by helping them understand the psychosocial burdens and tensions of the work environment.

In the short term, individuals can mobilize themselves better in stressful situations, achieving desired results faster, giving the impression that this is the most efficient working method. Unfortunately, the opposite is true – prolonged stress without adequate recovery creates fertile ground for professional burnout, anxiety disorders, and depression. Burnout, in turn, leads to a long-term decline in company efficiency and productivity.

One aspect of an occupational psychologist’s work also includes individual employee consultations, where clients are referred for consultation with a nurse or occupational physician. One should initially consult an occupational psychologist if there’s a risk of an employee’s work capacity decline or if health checks reveal symptoms of work-related stress, burnout, anxiety disorders, and/or depression.

In addition to the above, an occupational psychologist can assist both employers and employees in resolving crisis situations or mitigating their consequences. Such situations include workplace accidents, where not only the injured individual but also their colleagues might need help. Employees might also need advice and assistance after violence, hazardous situations, or threats. The goal is to prevent workers from becoming disabled or falling ill due to mental health issues.