Dr Paula Watson
CPsychol, HCPC-registered

I’m a Chartered Psychologist with the British Psychological Society and a Registered Sport and Exercise Psychologist with the Health and Care Professions Council. From 2005 I worked at Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU), spending the first 8 years leading a family-based health behaviour change programme for children with overweight and obesity (GOALS).  During this time I completed my PhD, before becoming a lecturer in Exercise and Health Psychology in 2012.   

I have published over 40 peer-reviewed journal articles about changing physical activity behaviour and worked with many individuals, families and health practitioners to promote healthy approaches to physical activity and diet. 

In August 2022, I left LJMU so I could pursue my passion for helping others lead physically active lives.

View my publications

Me, sport and movement

I wasn’t a sporty youngster (in fact, I distinctly remember coming last in the cross-country at school!) but I always found joy in movement and learned from my dad at an early age how important being active is for our mental health.

Throughout my adult life I have developed a passion for physical activity, be it football, circuit training, cycling or Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (which I started in 2016 at the ripe age of 39 years!).   

Alongside these activities – I find great joy in the freedom of running, it is an activity that keeps me fit and keeps me smiling.