Applied psychology refers to the practical application of psychological principles, theories, and methods to address real-world problems and enhance human well-being in various settings. Unlike theoretical or academic psychology, which focuses on advancing knowledge and understanding of human behavior and mental processes, applied psychology is concerned with using this knowledge to solve practical problems and improve outcomes in areas such as health, education, business, sports, and beyond.

Some key areas of applied psychology include:

1. Clinical Psychology: Clinical psychologists assess, diagnose, and treat mental health disorders in individuals through various therapeutic approaches such as psychotherapy. They work in settings such as hospitals, clinics, private practices, and mental health organizations.
2. Counseling Psychology: Counseling psychologists help individuals deal with everyday problems, improve their mental health, and enhance their well-being. They may work in schools, community centers, rehabilitation facilities, or private practices.
3. Educational Psychology: Educational psychologists study how people learn and develop in educational settings. They apply psychological principles to improve teaching methods, curriculum design, classroom management, and student outcomes.
4. Industrial-Organizational (I-O) Psychology: I-O psychologists apply psychological principles to the workplace to improve employee satisfaction, productivity, and organizational effectiveness. They may work on issues such as employee selection and assessment, training and development, leadership, and organizational change.
5. Health Psychology: Health psychologists study how psychological factors influence health, illness, and healthcare outcomes. They work to promote healthy behaviors, prevent illness, and improve the quality of life for individuals with chronic conditions.
6. Sports Psychology: Sports psychologists work with athletes and coaches to enhance performance, manage stress and anxiety, improve motivation, and promote overall mental well-being in sports and exercise settings.
7. Forensic Psychology: Forensic psychologists apply psychological principles to legal and criminal justice contexts. They may assess and treat individuals involved in legal proceedings, conduct evaluations for competency and risk assessment, and provide expert testimony in court.
8. Environmental Psychology: Environmental psychologists study how people interact with their physical environment and how environmental factors influence behavior, well-being, and sustainability. They may work on issues such as urban planning, environmental design, and conservation.

These are just a few examples of the diverse applications of psychology in various fields. Applied psychologists often work collaboratively with other professionals, such as educators, healthcare providers, managers, and policymakers, to address complex issues and improve outcomes for individuals and communities.