Andrew Soundy

Dr. Andrew Soundy is an Associate Professor in the Department of Physiotherapy at the School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Birmingham. With a PhD in Severe Mental Illness and Physical Activity from the University of Exeter, he has been a key academic figure since 2005, contributing significantly to research and education in psychosocial aspects of rehabilitation.

His educational background includes:

• BSc in Sport and Exercise Sciences (2002, University of Exeter)
• PhD in Severe Mental Illness and Physical Activity (2006, University of Exeter)
• PGCE in Education (2012)

Dr. Soundy's research focuses on psychological responses to chronic and palliative illness, particularly in stroke and severe mental illness. He developed the Model of Emotions, Adaptation and Hope (MEAH) and promotes the use of narrative and psychological interventions in physiotherapy. His work emphasizes qualitative methodologies, including meta-ethnography and grounded theory, and he leads qualitative research design in M-level modules. His recent publications highlight themes in illness narratives, shared decision-making, patient journeys after spinal surgery, and psychosocial rehabilitation.

He has received several NHS-related mentorship and facilitation awards and serves as a senior tutor and journal editor. His research is widely published, with over 179 outputs, and is taught across England and within NHS trusts.

Notable scientific contributions and recognitions include:

• Invited member of the WHO peer review group for schizophrenia rehabilitation (2022)
• Facilitator and mentor for NHS graduate internship programmes (2014–2015)
• Senior tutor, School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences
• Editor for international peer-reviewed journals

Dr. Soundy supervises 12 PhD students and multiple master’s students, fostering the next generation of rehabilitation researchers. He also leads innovative teaching in literature reviews and research methodology. His lab and research group focus on psychosocial rehabilitation, narrative medicine, and global training of healthcare professionals in psychological skills.