Sports Performance Therapists in Tucson, AZ
I am excited to help you meet your personal goals. I have been in the counseling field for 12 years and for the last three years I have been studying Somatic Experiencing. I would like to pass on the benefits of SE to you. I have specialized training working with teens and young adults. Somatic Experiencing helps a person obtain optimal body and mind functioning. Psychological disorders, injuries from surgeries and car accidents, chronic pain, depression, abuse, athletic injuries, performance anxiety, stress reduction, and PTSD are healed by using Somatic Experiencing techniques.
I am excited to help you meet your personal goals. I have been in the counseling field for 12 years and for the last three years I have been studying Somatic Experiencing. I would like to pass on the benefits of SE to you. I have specialized training working with teens and young adults. Somatic Experiencing helps a person obtain optimal body and mind functioning. Psychological disorders, injuries from surgeries and car accidents, chronic pain, depression, abuse, athletic injuries, performance anxiety, stress reduction, and PTSD are healed by using Somatic Experiencing techniques.
I incorporate my experience in sports and mental health to help work towards your goals.
I provide specialized support in depression, anxiety, substance abuse, relationships, self-esteem, child behavior, and parenting. Explore emotions, gain insights, develop coping strategies. Together, we'll improve well-being, relationships, confidence, and behaviors. I utilize CBT, solution focus therapy, life coaching, motivation, and play therapy.
I incorporate my experience in sports and mental health to help work towards your goals.
I provide specialized support in depression, anxiety, substance abuse, relationships, self-esteem, child behavior, and parenting. Explore emotions, gain insights, develop coping strategies. Together, we'll improve well-being, relationships, confidence, and behaviors. I utilize CBT, solution focus therapy, life coaching, motivation, and play therapy.
Are you an adult or teen feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or stuck in unhelpful patterns? Maybe stress feels constant, emotions feel heavy, or it’s hard to know where to start. Therapy can be a space to slow down, feel understood, and make sense of what’s going on. Together, we’ll explore what’s contributing to your distress and work toward greater clarity, balance, and emotional well-being at a pace that feels supportive and manageable.
Are you an adult or teen feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or stuck in unhelpful patterns? Maybe stress feels constant, emotions feel heavy, or it’s hard to know where to start. Therapy can be a space to slow down, feel understood, and make sense of what’s going on. Together, we’ll explore what’s contributing to your distress and work toward greater clarity, balance, and emotional well-being at a pace that feels supportive and manageable.
Athletes/performers, dealing with anxiety, injury recovery, burnout, or life after sports.
I work with couples and throuples, juggling relationships and big emotions which can be a challenge for either monogamy or polyamory. My experience is assisting Neurodivergent minds with ADHD and functioning Adult Autism. I have a passion for helping athletes work though performance pressure. If you think you look “high‑functioning” from the outside but feel chaotic, disconnected, or stuck inside. Together we use evidence‑based tools, a bit of humor, and a lot of honesty to help you feel more grounded, connected, and confident.
Athletes/performers, dealing with anxiety, injury recovery, burnout, or life after sports.
I work with couples and throuples, juggling relationships and big emotions which can be a challenge for either monogamy or polyamory. My experience is assisting Neurodivergent minds with ADHD and functioning Adult Autism. I have a passion for helping athletes work though performance pressure. If you think you look “high‑functioning” from the outside but feel chaotic, disconnected, or stuck inside. Together we use evidence‑based tools, a bit of humor, and a lot of honesty to help you feel more grounded, connected, and confident.
Headcoach Dan Pastor, LLC Sport Psychotherapist
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85712
CLINICAL, SPORT & PERFORMANCE PSYCHOLOGY:
Mental Game Coach certified by the
International Golf Psychology Association.
My practice includes working with athletes, performers, and the like-minded. That "thing" of yours (pre-performance anxiety, choking, feeling like a fraud, self-sabotage, etc.) has created enough problems. Enough already. What would you be doing if that "thing" was not in your way? Imagine making that putt, rocking that assignment, nailing that performance, or enjoying the one you are with.
CLINICAL, SPORT & PERFORMANCE PSYCHOLOGY:
Mental Game Coach certified by the
International Golf Psychology Association.
My practice includes working with athletes, performers, and the like-minded. That "thing" of yours (pre-performance anxiety, choking, feeling like a fraud, self-sabotage, etc.) has created enough problems. Enough already. What would you be doing if that "thing" was not in your way? Imagine making that putt, rocking that assignment, nailing that performance, or enjoying the one you are with.
I am passionate about helping teenage and college athletes with sports-related anxiety
I work with clients 8+ to manage anxiety, stress, and trauma. I have experience helping teens, young adults, and professionals build confidence and focus. Using Cognitive Behavior Therapy, EMDR, and trauma-informed therapy, I provide a supportive, action-oriented space to strengthen coping skills, improve resilience, and overcome barriers so you can perform your best in life and work. I also have experience working with client's struggling with substance abuse, depression, ADHD, as well as other issues. I'm also passionate about working with athletes and individuals that work for local professional teams.
I am passionate about helping teenage and college athletes with sports-related anxiety
I work with clients 8+ to manage anxiety, stress, and trauma. I have experience helping teens, young adults, and professionals build confidence and focus. Using Cognitive Behavior Therapy, EMDR, and trauma-informed therapy, I provide a supportive, action-oriented space to strengthen coping skills, improve resilience, and overcome barriers so you can perform your best in life and work. I also have experience working with client's struggling with substance abuse, depression, ADHD, as well as other issues. I'm also passionate about working with athletes and individuals that work for local professional teams.
Gary is a Licensed Master Social Worker in Arizona and the co-founder of Avanzar Wellness. He earned his Master of Social Work from Western New Mexico University. His clinical practice is deeply rooted in his thirty-year career as a firefighter across Arizona and North Carolina. This extensive experience allows Gary to navigate the unique culture, traditions, and high-stakes stressors of the public safety profession with an authenticity that only a peer can provide.
Gary is a Licensed Master Social Worker in Arizona and the co-founder of Avanzar Wellness. He earned his Master of Social Work from Western New Mexico University. His clinical practice is deeply rooted in his thirty-year career as a firefighter across Arizona and North Carolina. This extensive experience allows Gary to navigate the unique culture, traditions, and high-stakes stressors of the public safety profession with an authenticity that only a peer can provide.
I specialize in working with teens, college students, and young adults navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, self-esteem, social media influence, relationships, academic and social pressures, perfectionism, trauma, and the challenges of identity and emerging adulthood. These years can bring significant pressure to succeed, fit in, make decisions, and feel confident while navigating an increasingly connected and demanding world.
I specialize in working with teens, college students, and young adults navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, self-esteem, social media influence, relationships, academic and social pressures, perfectionism, trauma, and the challenges of identity and emerging adulthood. These years can bring significant pressure to succeed, fit in, make decisions, and feel confident while navigating an increasingly connected and demanding world.
We haven’t met yet, but when we do, please know that you are in capable and compassionate hands. It is truly my privilege to support you in your mental health journey. Whether you are just beginning to explore your well-being or have been actively working on personal growth, my mission is to help you cultivate mental clarity, emotional balance, and lasting happiness. Together, we will address all dimensions of your mental, emotional, social, and spiritual health.
We haven’t met yet, but when we do, please know that you are in capable and compassionate hands. It is truly my privilege to support you in your mental health journey. Whether you are just beginning to explore your well-being or have been actively working on personal growth, my mission is to help you cultivate mental clarity, emotional balance, and lasting happiness. Together, we will address all dimensions of your mental, emotional, social, and spiritual health.
Accepting New Clients! ! ! !
Do you find yourself dealing with things that don’t quite make sense — body aches or tension that won’t go away, trouble sleeping, anxiety, low mood, weight changes, or feeling stuck in the same relationship or family patterns?
Often, these experiences aren’t random or a personal failure. They can be signs that your body is still holding onto stress or trauma — sometimes from earlier in life, sometimes passed down through family dynamics, and often outside of conscious awareness. Your body has been doing its best to protect you, even when it feels exhausting or confusing now.
Accepting New Clients! ! ! !
Do you find yourself dealing with things that don’t quite make sense — body aches or tension that won’t go away, trouble sleeping, anxiety, low mood, weight changes, or feeling stuck in the same relationship or family patterns?
Often, these experiences aren’t random or a personal failure. They can be signs that your body is still holding onto stress or trauma — sometimes from earlier in life, sometimes passed down through family dynamics, and often outside of conscious awareness. Your body has been doing its best to protect you, even when it feels exhausting or confusing now.
Are you too fatigued, worried, depressed or unable to fall asleep? Are you grieving or experiencing painful flashbacks and overwhelming emotions? Is mind racing and feel that you don't fit in the world, anymore? Are you feeling hopeless and helpless? Conventional, one-size-fits-all therapeutic models lack authenticity, in stark contrast with the uniqueness of individual life. I'm an Esotherapist(tm) and Australian Level 4 Registered Counselor (LPC equivalent) living in US and specializing in PTSD, depression, anxiety/panic, grief, addictions, relationships, existential and identity crises. I am also a clinical hypnotherapist, NLP practitioner and life-coach.
Are you too fatigued, worried, depressed or unable to fall asleep? Are you grieving or experiencing painful flashbacks and overwhelming emotions? Is mind racing and feel that you don't fit in the world, anymore? Are you feeling hopeless and helpless? Conventional, one-size-fits-all therapeutic models lack authenticity, in stark contrast with the uniqueness of individual life. I'm an Esotherapist(tm) and Australian Level 4 Registered Counselor (LPC equivalent) living in US and specializing in PTSD, depression, anxiety/panic, grief, addictions, relationships, existential and identity crises. I am also a clinical hypnotherapist, NLP practitioner and life-coach.
You may be navigating OCD, anxiety, performance-related stress, body image concerns, or life transitions while trying to understand yourself. Some clients are high performers, athletes, or first responders used to being strong for others, yet feel weighed down by intrusive thoughts, perfectionism, or self-doubt. Others are struggling with distressing mental patterns and want more ease in mind and body. You’re often seeking relief, practical tools for emotional regulation, and a clearer sense of identity beyond roles or appearance. In our work together, we focus on building resilience & meaningful change to align with your values.
You may be navigating OCD, anxiety, performance-related stress, body image concerns, or life transitions while trying to understand yourself. Some clients are high performers, athletes, or first responders used to being strong for others, yet feel weighed down by intrusive thoughts, perfectionism, or self-doubt. Others are struggling with distressing mental patterns and want more ease in mind and body. You’re often seeking relief, practical tools for emotional regulation, and a clearer sense of identity beyond roles or appearance. In our work together, we focus on building resilience & meaningful change to align with your values.
In my 19 years of coaching and teaching I have studied and worked with sports and performance psychology.
I am here to help support you through your mental health journey! I am passionate towards helping others be the best they can be and helping to lead, and guide them towards reaching their mental health goals!
In my 19 years of coaching and teaching I have studied and worked with sports and performance psychology.
I am here to help support you through your mental health journey! I am passionate towards helping others be the best they can be and helping to lead, and guide them towards reaching their mental health goals!
As a psychologist specializing in adult mental health, I am dedicated to supporting individuals through life’s complexities with empathy, insight, and evidence-based care. I work collaboratively with clients to explore their experiences, foster self-awareness, and build practical strategies for growth and resilience. With over 30 years of experience, my approach integrates cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, and mindfulness-based techniques. I believe in the power of a safe, therapeutic space where clients feel heard and empowered.
As a psychologist specializing in adult mental health, I am dedicated to supporting individuals through life’s complexities with empathy, insight, and evidence-based care. I work collaboratively with clients to explore their experiences, foster self-awareness, and build practical strategies for growth and resilience. With over 30 years of experience, my approach integrates cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, and mindfulness-based techniques. I believe in the power of a safe, therapeutic space where clients feel heard and empowered.
My time as a guide in the Alaskan Rainforest taught me many truths: the thrill of wilderness air, the sacred language of native art, and, perhaps most notably, the realization that all life is inseparably interwoven. As a clinician, I believe that each aspect of a person - their spiritual, mental, physical, and social selves - requires nurturing, and that strength in each individual dimensions uplifts the others - just as the neighboring trees in a forest work harmoniously for one another's good.
My time as a guide in the Alaskan Rainforest taught me many truths: the thrill of wilderness air, the sacred language of native art, and, perhaps most notably, the realization that all life is inseparably interwoven. As a clinician, I believe that each aspect of a person - their spiritual, mental, physical, and social selves - requires nurturing, and that strength in each individual dimensions uplifts the others - just as the neighboring trees in a forest work harmoniously for one another's good.
Taking new patients age 16 and older. Virtual appointments available. Feeling more overwhelmed each day? Are you no longer enjoying the things you used to love? If you find yourself farther from your purpose, we provide a supportive and compassionate space to guide you back to the goals that are meaningful to you. We work together to develop skills that enable you to be present for yourself and your loved ones, as well as move forward towards your goals. We will collaborate to gain hope, process your experiences, and heal with a new sense of purpose.
Taking new patients age 16 and older. Virtual appointments available. Feeling more overwhelmed each day? Are you no longer enjoying the things you used to love? If you find yourself farther from your purpose, we provide a supportive and compassionate space to guide you back to the goals that are meaningful to you. We work together to develop skills that enable you to be present for yourself and your loved ones, as well as move forward towards your goals. We will collaborate to gain hope, process your experiences, and heal with a new sense of purpose.
Among the greatest gifts you can give yourself are awareness and acceptance. One of the biggest responsibilities our mind has is to make predictions based on our understanding of the world around us. These predictions can often lead us to repeat the same mistakes, or fail to take hold of things we desperately want. Are you someone who feels the need to make a change, but feels lost or overwhelmed with how? Do you feel out of place in your family, or with your friends? Are you working too hard at school, in your relationship, at work or with your children and feel like you don't have much to show for your efforts?
Among the greatest gifts you can give yourself are awareness and acceptance. One of the biggest responsibilities our mind has is to make predictions based on our understanding of the world around us. These predictions can often lead us to repeat the same mistakes, or fail to take hold of things we desperately want. Are you someone who feels the need to make a change, but feels lost or overwhelmed with how? Do you feel out of place in your family, or with your friends? Are you working too hard at school, in your relationship, at work or with your children and feel like you don't have much to show for your efforts?
I believe one of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story. I want to help you achieve whatever solutions and life changes you are looking for and enjoy the process along the way. It does not have to be all bad. There are reasons why you think a certain way, do not have control over emotions or repeat mistakes. Let us get to the bottom of those reasons.
I believe one of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story. I want to help you achieve whatever solutions and life changes you are looking for and enjoy the process along the way. It does not have to be all bad. There are reasons why you think a certain way, do not have control over emotions or repeat mistakes. Let us get to the bottom of those reasons.
I am licensed in AZ and an approved telehealth provider in FL (Registration number: TPSW4559). Clients are seen in-person and virtually. I am also an AZBBHE-approved Clinical Supervisor.
Do you struggle with trusting others, expressing your emotions/needs to others, have fear/worry that gets in your way of enjoying life, or struggle with a healthy sense of self-worth? If so, you have found your way to me, where I can partner with you to help you feel better and have improved self-esteem, trust, and love for yourself and others. You might be able to get reimbursed for out-of-network therapy! Check here: mentaya.co/b/cccaz
I am licensed in AZ and an approved telehealth provider in FL (Registration number: TPSW4559). Clients are seen in-person and virtually. I am also an AZBBHE-approved Clinical Supervisor.
Do you struggle with trusting others, expressing your emotions/needs to others, have fear/worry that gets in your way of enjoying life, or struggle with a healthy sense of self-worth? If so, you have found your way to me, where I can partner with you to help you feel better and have improved self-esteem, trust, and love for yourself and others. You might be able to get reimbursed for out-of-network therapy! Check here: mentaya.co/b/cccaz
When stress builds from work, family, relationships, life transitions, or the pressure to keep everything together, it can start to impact your confidence, focus, and sense of direction. For many we are taught to keep quiet about our feelings, "Push through it", or, "Suck it up", but you don’t have to figure it out alone. Reaching out for support isn’t a weakness, it’s a way to take control of your life. We also specialize in working with men, men of color, fathers, to help them share their unique challenges and strengths.
When stress builds from work, family, relationships, life transitions, or the pressure to keep everything together, it can start to impact your confidence, focus, and sense of direction. For many we are taught to keep quiet about our feelings, "Push through it", or, "Suck it up", but you don’t have to figure it out alone. Reaching out for support isn’t a weakness, it’s a way to take control of your life. We also specialize in working with men, men of color, fathers, to help them share their unique challenges and strengths.
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How does sports psychology work?
Sports psychology helps athletes identify and overcome challenges, such as perfectionism or a fear of failure, and improve key mental skills, such as confidence or concentration. By applying principles and techniques from psychology, such as goal-setting, visualization, positive self-talk, and emotion regulation, sports psychologists help athletes improve their performance on the field and their well-being overall.
How long does treatment for a sports-related problem take?
The duration of sports psychology treatment depends on the athlete’s individual challenges, goals, the complexity of the interventions used, and even on the length of the season. A performance anxiety issue may be treated with a short-term treatment, like Cognitive behavioural therapy, while issues such as depression, substance abuse, or severe anxiety may require longer-term treatments.
How effective is treatment for sports performance problems?
Sports psychology has been shown to improve performance and help athletes manage their emotions. Sports psychology can be effective in boosting performance, team dynamics, and injury rehabilitation. Over the past decade, nearly every professional sports team in every major sport has added a sports psychologist to its staff. Many colleges have done the same, and even some high school programs have done the same. Olympic hopefuls may consult with sports psychologists starting in elementary school.
What are the limitations of sports psychology?
Sports psychology may have several limitations. Every athlete is unique and may respond differently to sports psychology treatments. Therapy can help an athlete reach their potential; it can help athletes cope with injury and pain, but it cannot change the physical limitations that may be affecting an athlete’s performance.