Sports Performance Therapists in Charlotte, NC

Photo of Emilee Barnett, Counselor, LCMHCA
Emilee Barnett
Counselor, LCMHCA
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262
Life can feel overwhelming and unpredictable at times. Whether you're feeling scared, excited, and/or somewhere in between, I invite you to take a deep breath and know that you don’t have to navigate this alone. I support a variety of individuals, focusing primarily on life transitions, stress, difficulty staying present, relationship concerns, self-esteem, anxiety, grief, emotional overwhelm, perfectionism, and athlete mental health - something I’m especially passionate about, having played soccer all my life.
Life can feel overwhelming and unpredictable at times. Whether you're feeling scared, excited, and/or somewhere in between, I invite you to take a deep breath and know that you don’t have to navigate this alone. I support a variety of individuals, focusing primarily on life transitions, stress, difficulty staying present, relationship concerns, self-esteem, anxiety, grief, emotional overwhelm, perfectionism, and athlete mental health - something I’m especially passionate about, having played soccer all my life.
(980) 443-6147 View (980) 443-6147
Photo of Leon Matthews, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, NC LMFT, SC, LMFT
Leon Matthews
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, NC LMFT, SC, LMFT
Charlotte, NC 28210
At Lakeside we work with individuals, couples, and athletes navigating conflict, grief, and the emotional weight of unresolved experiences. Clients come to us when patterns repeat, communication breaks down, or loss disrupts their sense of stability. We help people understand what’s underneath the struggle, build emotional capacity, and move forward with clarity and confidence. We offer a steady, grounded presence so clients can heal, repair, and grow.
At Lakeside we work with individuals, couples, and athletes navigating conflict, grief, and the emotional weight of unresolved experiences. Clients come to us when patterns repeat, communication breaks down, or loss disrupts their sense of stability. We help people understand what’s underneath the struggle, build emotional capacity, and move forward with clarity and confidence. We offer a steady, grounded presence so clients can heal, repair, and grow.
(704) 286-2449 View (704) 286-2449
Photo of Jonathan P Williams, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Jonathan P Williams
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28270
Life can be incredibly challenging at times. It often leaves us asking questions like: "why me", or "am I good enough"? It is just as easy to make the assumptions that "I'm always going to be this way", or "maybe this is what I deserve". Those questions and assumptions become louder when we wrestle with them in isolation.
Life can be incredibly challenging at times. It often leaves us asking questions like: "why me", or "am I good enough"? It is just as easy to make the assumptions that "I'm always going to be this way", or "maybe this is what I deserve". Those questions and assumptions become louder when we wrestle with them in isolation.
(704) 387-5722 View (704) 387-5722
Photo of Christopher Love, Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CADC
Christopher Love
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CADC
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28277
Welcome! Are you ready to make real change? Do you want to break free from the cycles holding you back? I am a North Carolina board certified addictions counselor with a wide variety of clinical experience. I help give direction to individuals and families negatively impacted by mental health. My clinical journey started in Intensive outpatient care and going on to eventually help create North Carolina's first Recovery High School in 2019. My practice connects best with individuals 14-30 years old and strives to make a lasting impact in my hometown and each of my clients and families life's. Look forward to meeting you!
Welcome! Are you ready to make real change? Do you want to break free from the cycles holding you back? I am a North Carolina board certified addictions counselor with a wide variety of clinical experience. I help give direction to individuals and families negatively impacted by mental health. My clinical journey started in Intensive outpatient care and going on to eventually help create North Carolina's first Recovery High School in 2019. My practice connects best with individuals 14-30 years old and strives to make a lasting impact in my hometown and each of my clients and families life's. Look forward to meeting you!
(704) 285-2835 View (704) 285-2835
Photo of Leah Marone, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Leah Marone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Charlotte, NC 28210
You show up for everyone. You give generously and pour yourself into others. And somehow you end up exhausted, resentful, and wondering why nobody shows up for you the same way. I specialize in anxiety and work with high achievers, athletes, and emotionally intelligent people tired of carrying everyone else. My clients battle a loud inner critic, feel stuck in internal conflicts, and can't understand why doing everything right still feels so wrong. I call this serial fixing and I literally wrote the book on it. (Serial Fixer) Ready to stop fixing everyone else and finally focus on you? And yes, even the parts you don't like.
You show up for everyone. You give generously and pour yourself into others. And somehow you end up exhausted, resentful, and wondering why nobody shows up for you the same way. I specialize in anxiety and work with high achievers, athletes, and emotionally intelligent people tired of carrying everyone else. My clients battle a loud inner critic, feel stuck in internal conflicts, and can't understand why doing everything right still feels so wrong. I call this serial fixing and I literally wrote the book on it. (Serial Fixer) Ready to stop fixing everyone else and finally focus on you? And yes, even the parts you don't like.
(704) 879-3817 View (704) 879-3817
Photo of Dr. Ben Oliva, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PsyD, LCMHC, CMPC
Dr. Ben Oliva
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PsyD, LCMHC, CMPC
Charlotte, NC 28211
Ben specializes in working with athletes, performers, and professionals in high-stress industries on the topics of sport performance, anxiety, and stress management as well as helping parents to navigate the youth sports environment.
Ben is a certified mental performance consultant and works with multiple NCAA teams, Roush Fenway Keselowski Racing (RFK Racing) and Spire Motorsports (both NASCAR teams), and the New York City Fire Department (FDNY) Mental Performance Initiative. He delivers mental performance workshops for business organizations across the country.
Ben specializes in working with athletes, performers, and professionals in high-stress industries on the topics of sport performance, anxiety, and stress management as well as helping parents to navigate the youth sports environment.
Ben is a certified mental performance consultant and works with multiple NCAA teams, Roush Fenway Keselowski Racing (RFK Racing) and Spire Motorsports (both NASCAR teams), and the New York City Fire Department (FDNY) Mental Performance Initiative. He delivers mental performance workshops for business organizations across the country.
(704) 327-6171 View (704) 327-6171
Photo of Christopher Bordelon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Christopher Bordelon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210
Waitlist for new clients
You don’t need to have it all figured out to begin therapy. Many of my clients feel anxious, stuck, or unsure, wanting change but uncertain where to start. I create a warm, welcoming space where all parts of you are invited. We’ll explore what’s going on beneath the surface, at your own pace. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, emotional blocks, or simply feeling off, I’m here to help you feel safe, seen, and supported.
You don’t need to have it all figured out to begin therapy. Many of my clients feel anxious, stuck, or unsure, wanting change but uncertain where to start. I create a warm, welcoming space where all parts of you are invited. We’ll explore what’s going on beneath the surface, at your own pace. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, emotional blocks, or simply feeling off, I’m here to help you feel safe, seen, and supported.
(704) 762-1361 View (704) 762-1361
Photo of Cameron Butler-Davis, Counselor, MA, LCMHC-A, HCA
Cameron Butler-Davis
Counselor, MA, LCMHC-A, HCA
Charlotte, NC 28209
I also specialize in sports mental health, helping athletes strengthen focus, confidence and resilience both on and off the field.
As a male therapist specializing in men’s mental health, I’m here to challenge the myth that seeking help is a weakness. My approach is straightforward, supportive, and judgment-free, helping you navigate stress, anxiety, identity, and life transitions with real talk and practical tools. Together, we’ll uncover the roots of what’s weighing you down, rebuild confidence, and create actionable steps to move forward. This isn’t about “fixing” you, it’s about partnering to reclaim control, clarity, and connection.
I also specialize in sports mental health, helping athletes strengthen focus, confidence and resilience both on and off the field.
As a male therapist specializing in men’s mental health, I’m here to challenge the myth that seeking help is a weakness. My approach is straightforward, supportive, and judgment-free, helping you navigate stress, anxiety, identity, and life transitions with real talk and practical tools. Together, we’ll uncover the roots of what’s weighing you down, rebuild confidence, and create actionable steps to move forward. This isn’t about “fixing” you, it’s about partnering to reclaim control, clarity, and connection.
(704) 285-2766 View (704) 285-2766
Photo of Dr. Jeff Rocker - Rocker Health LLC, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PH.D, NCC, LPC, LMHC, LCPC
Rocker Health LLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PH.D, NCC, LPC, LMHC, LCPC
Charlotte, NC 28209
At Rocker Health, we believe that mental wellness is a journey that deserves compassion, understanding, and personalized support. Our commitment to breaking the stigma surrounding mental health is at the forefront of everything we do. We understand that each individual's experience with mental health is unique, and we strive to create a welcoming environment where individuals feel safe and empowered to share their stories. Our mission is to provide a rock-solid foundation for our clients, guiding them toward a more fulfilling and balanced life.
At Rocker Health, we believe that mental wellness is a journey that deserves compassion, understanding, and personalized support. Our commitment to breaking the stigma surrounding mental health is at the forefront of everything we do. We understand that each individual's experience with mental health is unique, and we strive to create a welcoming environment where individuals feel safe and empowered to share their stories. Our mission is to provide a rock-solid foundation for our clients, guiding them toward a more fulfilling and balanced life.
(704) 327-2887 View (704) 327-2887
Photo of Caleb Brown, Counselor, MA, LCMHCA
Caleb Brown
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA
1 Endorsed
Online Only
The past couple of years has found a way to show us all that health is wealth. Self-care is the best investment there is. So often as a people, we keep things inside and second guess reaching out. If you are reading this, it’s because you are ready to prioritize self-growth and self-healing. You are ready to unpack your story and let go of the things that no longer serve you. Welcome. I offer a safe place for you to just be you, as we collaborate on how you can become the best version of that. I get it, life comes with its peaks and valleys. I am here to help you find balance and inner peace through the ups and downs.
The past couple of years has found a way to show us all that health is wealth. Self-care is the best investment there is. So often as a people, we keep things inside and second guess reaching out. If you are reading this, it’s because you are ready to prioritize self-growth and self-healing. You are ready to unpack your story and let go of the things that no longer serve you. Welcome. I offer a safe place for you to just be you, as we collaborate on how you can become the best version of that. I get it, life comes with its peaks and valleys. I am here to help you find balance and inner peace through the ups and downs.
(704) 610-4437 View (704) 610-4437
Photo of Ben Foodman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CMPC, CSCS, TSAC-F
Ben Foodman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CMPC, CSCS, TSAC-F
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28277
Ben Foodman is widely regarded as Charlotte's top sports performance therapist.
When athletes work with Ben to improve their metal performance, he uses mental skills training and sports psychology tools such as Brainspotting, EMDR, biofeedback, neurofeedback, exercise psychology, leadership development and tactical coaching. He sees his clients in-person (or virtual) in Charlotte, Mooresville, Cornelius, & Raleigh North Carolina.
Ben Foodman is widely regarded as Charlotte's top sports performance therapist.
When athletes work with Ben to improve their metal performance, he uses mental skills training and sports psychology tools such as Brainspotting, EMDR, biofeedback, neurofeedback, exercise psychology, leadership development and tactical coaching. He sees his clients in-person (or virtual) in Charlotte, Mooresville, Cornelius, & Raleigh North Carolina.
(980) 255-5535 View (980) 255-5535
Photo of Brian Purnell, Counselor, MEd, LCMHCS, ACS, EAS-C, BC-TMH
Brian Purnell
Counselor, MEd, LCMHCS, ACS, EAS-C, BC-TMH
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28277
Journey Through Life, PLLC sees all kinds of families that may be hurting from divorce, grief, blended families, and broken relationships. In addition, the practice specializes in significant and marital relationships. The ideal is for a family that may not have the skills to see past the forest, but will be open to the infinite possibilities. Individual, Group Clinical Supervision, and Parenting Workshops are offered at the practice as well. The practice also works with Professional Athletes in the NFL, NBA, MLB, & MLS. In addition to C-Suite Executives.
Journey Through Life, PLLC sees all kinds of families that may be hurting from divorce, grief, blended families, and broken relationships. In addition, the practice specializes in significant and marital relationships. The ideal is for a family that may not have the skills to see past the forest, but will be open to the infinite possibilities. Individual, Group Clinical Supervision, and Parenting Workshops are offered at the practice as well. The practice also works with Professional Athletes in the NFL, NBA, MLB, & MLS. In addition to C-Suite Executives.
(919) 267-2483 View (919) 267-2483
Photo of Derwin S Isaiah, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, NCC, LCMHC-S
Derwin S Isaiah
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, NCC, LCMHC-S
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28207
Are you working to get two steps ahead but find yourself three steps behind? Are you frustrated with daily responsibilities that few understand, and even fewer acknowledge? Perhaps you, your girlfriend, wife or partner noticed that you're more irritable, less talkative and checked out. Maybe you have made mistakes that you are not proud of but want to get through to the other side, being a better husband, father or person. You don't have to deal with these frustrations alone. You can feel better and still be true to who you are!
Are you working to get two steps ahead but find yourself three steps behind? Are you frustrated with daily responsibilities that few understand, and even fewer acknowledge? Perhaps you, your girlfriend, wife or partner noticed that you're more irritable, less talkative and checked out. Maybe you have made mistakes that you are not proud of but want to get through to the other side, being a better husband, father or person. You don't have to deal with these frustrations alone. You can feel better and still be true to who you are!
(980) 342-6665 View (980) 342-6665
Photo of Brian R Monteleone - Psychological Services of Charlotte, Psychologist, PhD
Psychological Services of Charlotte
Psychologist, PhD
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262
PSC strives to promote individual and family growth through a variety of therapeutic processes in a confidential and caring manner. We believe the collaboration between clients and therapist is paramount to successful achievement of therapeutic goals. Our hope is the partnership will foster growth in your journey towards wellness.
PSC strives to promote individual and family growth through a variety of therapeutic processes in a confidential and caring manner. We believe the collaboration between clients and therapist is paramount to successful achievement of therapeutic goals. Our hope is the partnership will foster growth in your journey towards wellness.
(704) 445-5255 View (704) 445-5255
Photo of Noah Erikson, Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC
Noah Erikson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28211
Noah has worked in the mental health field for over 15 years. He earned a Master of Science Degree in Counseling and Psychological Services at Salem State University in Massachusetts. His degree included additional coursework and training that enhanced his skills in both mental health counseling and marriage and family counseling. Noah's clinical experience includes working with adolescents, adults, couples, and families in many different settings. He also completed a certification in Peak Performance at Harvard Medical School. Noah has worked with many student athletes, division 1 athletes, and professional athletes.
Noah has worked in the mental health field for over 15 years. He earned a Master of Science Degree in Counseling and Psychological Services at Salem State University in Massachusetts. His degree included additional coursework and training that enhanced his skills in both mental health counseling and marriage and family counseling. Noah's clinical experience includes working with adolescents, adults, couples, and families in many different settings. He also completed a certification in Peak Performance at Harvard Medical School. Noah has worked with many student athletes, division 1 athletes, and professional athletes.
(704) 610-0107 View (704) 610-0107
Photo of Patrick R. Young, PhD, CMPC
Patrick R. Young
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Mental skills are the foundation of high performance. They allow individuals to stay composed under pressure, maintain focus, and consistently perform at their best. Whether you’re leading a team, competing on the field, or performing on stage, mastering these skills is essential to achieving excellence and supporting overall well-being.
Mental skills are the foundation of high performance. They allow individuals to stay composed under pressure, maintain focus, and consistently perform at their best. Whether you’re leading a team, competing on the field, or performing on stage, mastering these skills is essential to achieving excellence and supporting overall well-being.
(704) 765-4452 View (704) 765-4452
Photo of Dr. Lynn Puma, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DHSc, MSW, LCSW
Dr. Lynn Puma
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DHSc, MSW, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Other areas of sports performance, like self-talk, confidence, & making mistakes
Mental health plays a vital role in performance. As a healthcare professional and former collegiate soccer player, I understand the unique pressures and challenges we face in highly stressful professional roles and as competitive athletes. The demands and expectations to succeed, both from ourselves and others, can sometimes drive us to a breaking point. Learning to manage and cope with these demands is my goal at Vital Edge Mental Performance
Other areas of sports performance, like self-talk, confidence, & making mistakes
Mental health plays a vital role in performance. As a healthcare professional and former collegiate soccer player, I understand the unique pressures and challenges we face in highly stressful professional roles and as competitive athletes. The demands and expectations to succeed, both from ourselves and others, can sometimes drive us to a breaking point. Learning to manage and cope with these demands is my goal at Vital Edge Mental Performance
(704) 459-8220 View (704) 459-8220
Photo of Ashlyn Powell, Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Ashlyn Powell
Counselor, MS, LCMHC
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Any number of barriers could impede peak performance. Anxiety, burnout, injury, external pressures, and trauma are but a few of the challenges my clients regularly face. Any one of these factors can lead to feelings of disappointment, dissatisfaction, and/or diminished self-esteem. Sometimes, my clients are unaware of the underlying mechanisms contributing to performance breakdown, distress, or loss of enjoyment in sport/performance or life in general. This can lead to maladaptive behaviors and beliefs that perpetuate a debilitative cycle.
Any number of barriers could impede peak performance. Anxiety, burnout, injury, external pressures, and trauma are but a few of the challenges my clients regularly face. Any one of these factors can lead to feelings of disappointment, dissatisfaction, and/or diminished self-esteem. Sometimes, my clients are unaware of the underlying mechanisms contributing to performance breakdown, distress, or loss of enjoyment in sport/performance or life in general. This can lead to maladaptive behaviors and beliefs that perpetuate a debilitative cycle.
(919) 726-3617 View (919) 726-3617
Photo of De'Erik Bradley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
De'Erik Bradley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Progress in life is a vital journey. To advance, it's crucial to reflect on the past to appreciate how far we've come, while also envisioning the path forward and the progress yet to be made. This journey is rarely smooth marked by challenges and setbacks. I enjoy supporting athletes with navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, recovering from injuries, and the pressure to succeed; this task can be difficult. My goal is to offer tailored, individual support to help you overcome these obstacles and achieve your aspirations.
Progress in life is a vital journey. To advance, it's crucial to reflect on the past to appreciate how far we've come, while also envisioning the path forward and the progress yet to be made. This journey is rarely smooth marked by challenges and setbacks. I enjoy supporting athletes with navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, recovering from injuries, and the pressure to succeed; this task can be difficult. My goal is to offer tailored, individual support to help you overcome these obstacles and achieve your aspirations.
(980) 400-7056 View (980) 400-7056
Photo of Raylene Ross, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, NCC, LPC, LCPC, LCMHC
Raylene Ross
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, NCC, LPC, LCPC, LCMHC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I work with high-achieving individuals, athletes, leaders, and professionals, who appear strong but feel overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected. They're ready to move beyond burnout, perfectionism, or past wounds and want to live and perform with clarity and purpose. I provide a supportive, honest space to unpack what's holding them back and help them align their inner world with their outer goals. My approach blends emotional insight with practical strategies for growth, resilience, and lasting transformation.
I work with high-achieving individuals, athletes, leaders, and professionals, who appear strong but feel overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected. They're ready to move beyond burnout, perfectionism, or past wounds and want to live and perform with clarity and purpose. I provide a supportive, honest space to unpack what's holding them back and help them align their inner world with their outer goals. My approach blends emotional insight with practical strategies for growth, resilience, and lasting transformation.
(803) 680-2344 View (803) 680-2344

See more therapy options for Charlotte

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.