Bridging Psychology, Movement, and Well-Being

Since earning her BSc in Psychology from Sunway University in 2020, Janessa Tan has forged an inspiring and multidisciplinary career at the intersection of digital health, psychological science, and holistic well-being.

Janessa began her journey as a health writer, contributing to mental health platforms such as ThoughtFull and Psychiatry-UK, where she translated psychological research into accessible, engaging content for a wider audience. During this time, she also co-authored a research publication on the impact of an Ultra-Brief Online Mindfulness-Based Intervention on mental health during the COVID-19 outbreak in Malaysia.

Driven by a passion for integrating mind-body practices into health promotion, Janessa became a certified Les Mills RPM instructor and yoga teacher—credentials she continues to use to support physical and emotional well-being.

In 2024, she completed her MSc in Health Psychology at the University of Portsmouth. As part of her clinical training, Janessa served as an Assistant Psychologist at the Isle of Wight Chronic Pain Service, where she worked in a multidisciplinary team to support individuals living with persistent pain. She co-developed a Pain Management Workbook and facilitated well-being groups, gaining valuable insights into applying the biopsychosocial model in chronic care.

Most recently, she co-authored Happiness: Mastering the 5Gs for an Enhanced You with Clinical Psychologist Professor Alvin Ng from the School of Psychology, Sunway University—a practical, evidence-based guide to cultivating well-being and lasting behaviour change.

Now based in Edinburgh, Janessa works as a Wellbeing Support Practitioner in health and social care. She continues to teach yoga and pursue writing projects that blend psychological insights, movement, and communication, championing a biopsychosocial approach to health and healing.

Janessa’s journey is a testament to the versatility of a psychology degree and the transformative power of combining science with creativity, compassion, and movement to make a meaningful impact in people’s lives.

Hui-Chien Tan (Janessa)
BSc (Hons) Psychology
2020