Sports Performance Therapists in Frederick, MD

Photo of Chris Burgenson, Counselor, MS, LGPC
Chris Burgenson
Counselor, MS, LGPC
4 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21701
I use brainspotting to help athletes process anxiety, sports traumas, as well as personal traumas that can interfere with their performance on the field.
Are you or your child an athlete who excels in practice but struggles during games? Did you have a catastrophic injury and need to regain confidence to get back onto the field? Have you been dealing with performance anxiety, slumps, or mental blocks? It can be challenging to navigate these issues alone. Let me be the one who can help you find the solutions that you need. I have worked with athletes from the middle school, high school, college, semi-professional, and professional levels.
I use brainspotting to help athletes process anxiety, sports traumas, as well as personal traumas that can interfere with their performance on the field.
Are you or your child an athlete who excels in practice but struggles during games? Did you have a catastrophic injury and need to regain confidence to get back onto the field? Have you been dealing with performance anxiety, slumps, or mental blocks? It can be challenging to navigate these issues alone. Let me be the one who can help you find the solutions that you need. I have worked with athletes from the middle school, high school, college, semi-professional, and professional levels.
(240) 301-1090 View (240) 301-1090
Photo of Matthew Sims, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, MPM, LCSWC
Matthew Sims
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, MPM, LCSWC
4 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21701
Life is complex, beautiful, and demanding. Whether you are navigating anxiety, relationship hurdles, or the pressure to perform at your peak, you deserve support that meets you where you are. I work with young adults and athletes who are ready to move beyond "getting by." As a Mental Performance Mastery (MPM) Certified Coach, I specialize in helping clients integrate mental health with mental toughness. Whether we are untangling internal struggles or refining your competitive mindset, my goal is to help you build resilience in life and in the arena. Based in Leesburg, I offer in-person and telehealth sessions for those in VA & MD.
Life is complex, beautiful, and demanding. Whether you are navigating anxiety, relationship hurdles, or the pressure to perform at your peak, you deserve support that meets you where you are. I work with young adults and athletes who are ready to move beyond "getting by." As a Mental Performance Mastery (MPM) Certified Coach, I specialize in helping clients integrate mental health with mental toughness. Whether we are untangling internal struggles or refining your competitive mindset, my goal is to help you build resilience in life and in the arena. Based in Leesburg, I offer in-person and telehealth sessions for those in VA & MD.
(540) 405-6967 View (540) 405-6967
Photo of Shana Jones, Counselor, LCPC
Shana Jones
Counselor, LCPC
Online Only
In my practice I work to provide performance enhancement and mental health services to athletes, performers, and first responders. Although your daily routine may already include physical training, I believe it is just as important to train mental skills for holistic wellness and performance. In efforts to support my clients common topics discussed in session include: confidence, anxiety, injury and return to play, stress management, communication, recruiting, relationship dynamics, relaxation, focus, performing with pressure, and self-talk.
In my practice I work to provide performance enhancement and mental health services to athletes, performers, and first responders. Although your daily routine may already include physical training, I believe it is just as important to train mental skills for holistic wellness and performance. In efforts to support my clients common topics discussed in session include: confidence, anxiety, injury and return to play, stress management, communication, recruiting, relationship dynamics, relaxation, focus, performing with pressure, and self-talk.
(301) 750-1653 View (301) 750-1653
Photo of Ryan Defibaugh, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Ryan Defibaugh
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Do stress, anxiety, and fear impede your son or daughter in their sport performance? Do they perform well in practice, but struggle when it comes to games? I specialize in working with athletes (professional, college, high school and middle school) to help them build internal skills to manage external stressors. We work together to discover their purpose, to build optimism, resilience and grit, to identify their performance obstacles and to create their daily performance plan.
Do stress, anxiety, and fear impede your son or daughter in their sport performance? Do they perform well in practice, but struggle when it comes to games? I specialize in working with athletes (professional, college, high school and middle school) to help them build internal skills to manage external stressors. We work together to discover their purpose, to build optimism, resilience and grit, to identify their performance obstacles and to create their daily performance plan.
(301) 900-5597 View (301) 900-5597
Photo of Christine K Wolf, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, E-RYT
Christine K Wolf
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, E-RYT
1 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21701
Waitlist for new clients
I believe that the human spirit is resilient, and with a little support, we all have immense potential to heal from painful life experiences. I specialize in children birth to five, adolescents/young adults, as well as adults, and focus on attachment issues, early development, parenting support and family dynamics, recovery from abuse, anxiety, and trauma.
I believe that the human spirit is resilient, and with a little support, we all have immense potential to heal from painful life experiences. I specialize in children birth to five, adolescents/young adults, as well as adults, and focus on attachment issues, early development, parenting support and family dynamics, recovery from abuse, anxiety, and trauma.
(301) 889-9901 View (301) 889-9901
Photo of Kim Coppola, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, MSW
Kim Coppola
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, MSW
1 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21704
Most people come to me with disordered eating, they diet often, or when they feel insecure in their body. Client may also feel anxious and have difficulty controlling their worries or feel depressed, sad, or "in a funk." It takes tremendous courage to reach out for support and I can work with you each step of the way. Therapy doesn't have to be scary... I guide clients to manage their problems, develop strategies to cope with stress, and cultivate self-awareness. If you're looking for a safe, nonjudgmental place to process your thoughts and feelings... please reach out.
Most people come to me with disordered eating, they diet often, or when they feel insecure in their body. Client may also feel anxious and have difficulty controlling their worries or feel depressed, sad, or "in a funk." It takes tremendous courage to reach out for support and I can work with you each step of the way. Therapy doesn't have to be scary... I guide clients to manage their problems, develop strategies to cope with stress, and cultivate self-awareness. If you're looking for a safe, nonjudgmental place to process your thoughts and feelings... please reach out.
(240) 847-1361 View (240) 847-1361
Photo of Matthew Goodwin, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Matthew Goodwin
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
1 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21702
Very often, our lives can begin to overwhelm what we are able to handle on our own. In these times it can be very easy to begin feeling lost, out of control, or simply out of ideas. I have made it my focus to be able to help people not only identify what is happening in these situations, but helping clients develop skills and personal strength which will help them be able to deal with these struggles in an ongoing fashion.
Very often, our lives can begin to overwhelm what we are able to handle on our own. In these times it can be very easy to begin feeling lost, out of control, or simply out of ideas. I have made it my focus to be able to help people not only identify what is happening in these situations, but helping clients develop skills and personal strength which will help them be able to deal with these struggles in an ongoing fashion.
(301) 945-7214 View (301) 945-7214
Photo of Erica Burns, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Erica Burns
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
5 Endorsed
Online Only
We are currently accepting new patients. Seeking therapy is a brave step toward healing, growth, and creating the life you deserve. Whether you're struggling with past wounds, relationship challenges, self-doubt, or major life transitions, you don’t have to go through it alone. With over 20 years of experience as a licensed social worker and life coach, I specialize in helping individuals navigate emotional healing, build self-worth, and develop healthier , more fulfilling relationships.
We are currently accepting new patients. Seeking therapy is a brave step toward healing, growth, and creating the life you deserve. Whether you're struggling with past wounds, relationship challenges, self-doubt, or major life transitions, you don’t have to go through it alone. With over 20 years of experience as a licensed social worker and life coach, I specialize in helping individuals navigate emotional healing, build self-worth, and develop healthier , more fulfilling relationships.
(301) 298-1903 View (301) 298-1903
Photo of Anne Mader, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LICSW
Anne Mader
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LICSW
Online Only
Reaching out for help takes courage; I know how intimidating that first call or email can be. I want to acknowledge this step you’re taking toward healing—it's not easy, and I’m grateful to be part of your journey. As a trauma-informed therapist, I have advanced training in mindfulness, parts work, and sensorimotor psychology. While my training informs my approach, what truly matters is creating a space where you feel seen, heard, and met with compassion—without judgment. I specialize in working with women navigating anxiety, relationship challenges, grief, and life transitions, including perimenopause and menopause.
Reaching out for help takes courage; I know how intimidating that first call or email can be. I want to acknowledge this step you’re taking toward healing—it's not easy, and I’m grateful to be part of your journey. As a trauma-informed therapist, I have advanced training in mindfulness, parts work, and sensorimotor psychology. While my training informs my approach, what truly matters is creating a space where you feel seen, heard, and met with compassion—without judgment. I specialize in working with women navigating anxiety, relationship challenges, grief, and life transitions, including perimenopause and menopause.
(202) 979-9841 View (202) 979-9841
Photo of Maureen Gaffney, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Maureen Gaffney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21704
That heaviness you feel in your chest? The constant tension in your shoulders, the mental fog, the exhaustion that doesn’t go away with sleep—none of it is something you just have to power through. The version of you who feels overstressed, over-touch, and overwhelmed doesn’t just need to survive another day—you deserve to thrive. I have a passion for working with women experiencing grief, anxiety & burnout—whether from loss or the demands of parenting, career, or caregiving and seek to provide a supportive environment for healing both past and present wounds. Together we will find a path forward to build resilience and thrive.
That heaviness you feel in your chest? The constant tension in your shoulders, the mental fog, the exhaustion that doesn’t go away with sleep—none of it is something you just have to power through. The version of you who feels overstressed, over-touch, and overwhelmed doesn’t just need to survive another day—you deserve to thrive. I have a passion for working with women experiencing grief, anxiety & burnout—whether from loss or the demands of parenting, career, or caregiving and seek to provide a supportive environment for healing both past and present wounds. Together we will find a path forward to build resilience and thrive.
(862) 239-5401 View (862) 239-5401
Photo of Sal Schittino, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LCPC, LPC
Sal Schittino
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LCPC, LPC
Frederick, MD 21701
When an event or situation changes the way we see ourselves and the world around us, it most likely means we have experienced trauma. Trauma takes away our peace of mind, ability to connect with others, adapt to new life happenings, and much more. It can result in anxiety, depression, avoidance, panic attacks, loss of sense of self or grief that does not go away. If you or a loved one struggle with any of the above, then I welcome the opportunity to help create a structured treatment plan to regain back quality of life.
When an event or situation changes the way we see ourselves and the world around us, it most likely means we have experienced trauma. Trauma takes away our peace of mind, ability to connect with others, adapt to new life happenings, and much more. It can result in anxiety, depression, avoidance, panic attacks, loss of sense of self or grief that does not go away. If you or a loved one struggle with any of the above, then I welcome the opportunity to help create a structured treatment plan to regain back quality of life.
(443) 494-2248 View (443) 494-2248
Photo of Andy Ferguson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Andy Ferguson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you overwhelmed with school, work or other major life decisions? Does it feel like you don’t have the focus or confidence to follow through with your goals? Are you struggling to build relationships or feel anxious or withdrawn in social situations? For parents, do you feel like you’re spinning your wheels to motivate and prepare your child for adulthood and it's falling on deaf ears?
Are you overwhelmed with school, work or other major life decisions? Does it feel like you don’t have the focus or confidence to follow through with your goals? Are you struggling to build relationships or feel anxious or withdrawn in social situations? For parents, do you feel like you’re spinning your wheels to motivate and prepare your child for adulthood and it's falling on deaf ears?
(301) 760-4166 View (301) 760-4166
Photo of Kimberly Seicke, Counselor, LCPC, CAC-AD
Kimberly Seicke
Counselor, LCPC, CAC-AD
Frederick, MD 21702
"You don't have to be broken, to be fixed." Life happens and it can leave us feeling overwhelmed, anxious and frustrated with day to day life. Does anxiety or sadness often get in the way accomplishing the goals you have for yourself? I can help you figure out how to get out of your own way and be the best version of yourself possible! I also specialize in substance abuse issues or helping families of loved ones who may have substance abuse related problems. Getting support takes courage and strength and searching for the right therapist is the perfect first step!
"You don't have to be broken, to be fixed." Life happens and it can leave us feeling overwhelmed, anxious and frustrated with day to day life. Does anxiety or sadness often get in the way accomplishing the goals you have for yourself? I can help you figure out how to get out of your own way and be the best version of yourself possible! I also specialize in substance abuse issues or helping families of loved ones who may have substance abuse related problems. Getting support takes courage and strength and searching for the right therapist is the perfect first step!
(301) 637-4065 View (301) 637-4065
Photo of Michelle Bavender, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Michelle Bavender
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Currently accepting virtual clients in MD & FL! Whether you're going through a life transition, experiencing something difficult (externally or internally), or want someone you can bounce thoughts, feelings, and ideas off of, I'm here for it. When we take the intentional time to look at how whatever is going on for you is impacting your mental, emotional, physical, and relational health, and how that might be preventing you from reaching your goals, we can not only gain a lot from the therapy process, but also enjoy it. We can work together to talk it through, break down barriers, generate insight, and create positive change.
Currently accepting virtual clients in MD & FL! Whether you're going through a life transition, experiencing something difficult (externally or internally), or want someone you can bounce thoughts, feelings, and ideas off of, I'm here for it. When we take the intentional time to look at how whatever is going on for you is impacting your mental, emotional, physical, and relational health, and how that might be preventing you from reaching your goals, we can not only gain a lot from the therapy process, but also enjoy it. We can work together to talk it through, break down barriers, generate insight, and create positive change.
(240) 384-4293 View (240) 384-4293
Photo of Aleyna Fitz, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LGPC
Aleyna Fitz
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LGPC
Frederick, MD 21701
After school and Saturday morning appointments available! I help children and families create a shared language for expressing needs, exploring feelings, learning how to problem solve and building strong relationships. My work as a school counselor informs my holistic approach to working with children and teens to support mental health and emotional wellbeing. Whether your family has recently experienced a crisis or you are increasingly concerned about your child's behavior or social interactions, therapy can help.
After school and Saturday morning appointments available! I help children and families create a shared language for expressing needs, exploring feelings, learning how to problem solve and building strong relationships. My work as a school counselor informs my holistic approach to working with children and teens to support mental health and emotional wellbeing. Whether your family has recently experienced a crisis or you are increasingly concerned about your child's behavior or social interactions, therapy can help.
(240) 852-1805 View (240) 852-1805
Photo of Chris Burgenson - The Center for Empowerment and Resilience, Counselor, LGPC
Is your teen struggling with anxiety, ADHD, or feeling left out or “different”? The In-Between, held at The Center for Empowerment and Resilience, is a fun, therapist-led support group designed to help teens feel seen, understood, and supported as they navigate the ups and downs of adolescence. Through engaging activities, discussion, and connection, group members build confidence, social skills, and emotional resilience—in a space where they can truly be themselves. This group is ideal for teens who want to connect with peers, gain coping tools, and learn how to thrive even when their brains feel like “too much” or “not enough.”
Is your teen struggling with anxiety, ADHD, or feeling left out or “different”? The In-Between, held at The Center for Empowerment and Resilience, is a fun, therapist-led support group designed to help teens feel seen, understood, and supported as they navigate the ups and downs of adolescence. Through engaging activities, discussion, and connection, group members build confidence, social skills, and emotional resilience—in a space where they can truly be themselves. This group is ideal for teens who want to connect with peers, gain coping tools, and learn how to thrive even when their brains feel like “too much” or “not enough.”
(301) 450-5293 View (301) 450-5293
Photo of Andrea M Cordell-Proper, Counselor, LCPC, Supervi
Andrea M Cordell-Proper
Counselor, LCPC, Supervi
1 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21701
Caring, inclusive, multicultural approach to individual, couple and family needs. Primary focus on treating women across the lifespan seeking integrative and phycological treatment. Counseling and wellness are integral parts of whole health. Through the use of Internal Family Systems and wellness based therapy, supporting people as they heal. I specialize in supporting those with anxiety, life events and trauma. Additional support for perinatal mood disorders (postpartum depression, anxiety, OCD and panic), and those with ADHD. Board approved Supervisor, Resident therapist available as well.
Caring, inclusive, multicultural approach to individual, couple and family needs. Primary focus on treating women across the lifespan seeking integrative and phycological treatment. Counseling and wellness are integral parts of whole health. Through the use of Internal Family Systems and wellness based therapy, supporting people as they heal. I specialize in supporting those with anxiety, life events and trauma. Additional support for perinatal mood disorders (postpartum depression, anxiety, OCD and panic), and those with ADHD. Board approved Supervisor, Resident therapist available as well.
(240) 692-3539 View (240) 692-3539
Photo of Aaron Banas, Psychologist, PsyD
Aaron Banas
Psychologist, PsyD
1 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21701
A question I regularly get is, "What is Therapy?" "What does it do?" If you ask 100 therapists, you may get as many different answers. My take on therapy is that it is a space where you can lay out your problems and difficulties in a way that they begin to feel more manageable, then develop insights and new perspectives on how to address these problems. Essentially, it provides a new way to look at your challenges and the knowledge and insight to overcome them.
A question I regularly get is, "What is Therapy?" "What does it do?" If you ask 100 therapists, you may get as many different answers. My take on therapy is that it is a space where you can lay out your problems and difficulties in a way that they begin to feel more manageable, then develop insights and new perspectives on how to address these problems. Essentially, it provides a new way to look at your challenges and the knowledge and insight to overcome them.
(240) 557-3618 View (240) 557-3618
Photo of Lindsay Guntow - LPP Therapeutic Services, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
LPP Therapeutic Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Frederick, MD 21704
Are you ready to make the changes you have always wanted, and finally focus on your happiness, health, and wellness? I would like to congratulate you on taking the hardest first step in this process. My clients are children, teens, adults, and couples that are looking to make positive changes in their life, and I'm here to assist and be a guide in this process. My approach is using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to assist clients in identifying their triggers, reframing their negative thoughts, and using positive psychology to begin a new way of thinking and living.
Are you ready to make the changes you have always wanted, and finally focus on your happiness, health, and wellness? I would like to congratulate you on taking the hardest first step in this process. My clients are children, teens, adults, and couples that are looking to make positive changes in their life, and I'm here to assist and be a guide in this process. My approach is using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to assist clients in identifying their triggers, reframing their negative thoughts, and using positive psychology to begin a new way of thinking and living.
(240) 349-7342 View (240) 349-7342
Photo of Kristine Boehmer, Counselor, LCPC
Kristine Boehmer
Counselor, LCPC
5 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21701
Every day, we hear that our children are struggling. They’re overwhelmed by worry, sadness, anger, and stress. We see them tumble and spiral down a path of unhealthy choices and disconnection from their families. Parents become paralyzed by the fear of doing something wrong. They’re afraid of causing another door-slamming anger outburst but are tormented by the potential consequences of not doing anything at all. They’re left confused by how upset their teens get when their Snapstreaks get interrupted or a round of Fortnite is lost.
Every day, we hear that our children are struggling. They’re overwhelmed by worry, sadness, anger, and stress. We see them tumble and spiral down a path of unhealthy choices and disconnection from their families. Parents become paralyzed by the fear of doing something wrong. They’re afraid of causing another door-slamming anger outburst but are tormented by the potential consequences of not doing anything at all. They’re left confused by how upset their teens get when their Snapstreaks get interrupted or a round of Fortnite is lost.
(240) 541-5299 View (240) 541-5299

See more therapy options for Frederick

Sports Performance Therapists
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.