Sports Performance Therapists in Johnston County, NC

My areas of expertise include Depression, Grief, Social Anxiety, Sports Performance Anxiety Coaching, Relationship & Family Counseling, Child Therapy, Trauma-informed care, Parental education support groups, and youth mentorship.
I am passionate about helping my clients discover their best true selves while overcoming barriers. I offer a wide range of 1:1 in-person and remote therapy sessions and support group services.
My areas of expertise include Depression, Grief, Social Anxiety, Sports Performance Anxiety Coaching, Relationship & Family Counseling, Child Therapy, Trauma-informed care, Parental education support groups, and youth mentorship.
I am passionate about helping my clients discover their best true selves while overcoming barriers. I offer a wide range of 1:1 in-person and remote therapy sessions and support group services.

Is the hurt of a traumatic past still weighing on you? Or maybe you’re struggling with a toxic relationship or can’t find the confidence to stand up for yourself. I can help you learn to let go of the past. Even if it’s been months, years or even decades, there is hope. The idea of rebuilding our life is daunting, but not impossible. Above all, I help people cope with anxiety, depression and substance abuse to get back to living life to the fullest and being the best version of themselves.
Is the hurt of a traumatic past still weighing on you? Or maybe you’re struggling with a toxic relationship or can’t find the confidence to stand up for yourself. I can help you learn to let go of the past. Even if it’s been months, years or even decades, there is hope. The idea of rebuilding our life is daunting, but not impossible. Above all, I help people cope with anxiety, depression and substance abuse to get back to living life to the fullest and being the best version of themselves.

Beacon Therapeutic and Wellness Services, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Serves Area
In-Office appts available in Chapel Hill and Cary! We are currently accepting children and teens.
Are you feeling stuck or overwhelmed? Is anxiety, stress, or trouble focusing making it hard to get through your day? Has life taken a toll on your self-esteem? Maybe you’ve been relying on coping strategies that no longer work, and you’re ready to try something new. Or perhaps you’re simply feeling “meh” and want to prioritize your overall well-being.
Now imagine your life with increased focus, less anxiety or depression, improved self-confidence and emotion regulation. We got you! Whatever your goals may be.
In-Office appts available in Chapel Hill and Cary! We are currently accepting children and teens.
Are you feeling stuck or overwhelmed? Is anxiety, stress, or trouble focusing making it hard to get through your day? Has life taken a toll on your self-esteem? Maybe you’ve been relying on coping strategies that no longer work, and you’re ready to try something new. Or perhaps you’re simply feeling “meh” and want to prioritize your overall well-being.
Now imagine your life with increased focus, less anxiety or depression, improved self-confidence and emotion regulation. We got you! Whatever your goals may be.

Maurice Edward Fairley
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, NCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Maurice Fairley is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) for the state of North Carolina and National Certified Counselor (NCC). Maurice’s experience includes working with adolescents and adults treating symptoms of trauma, depression, anger and anxiety. Maurice also has over 20 years working with the juvenile justice population at Wake Juvenile Detention Center.
Maurice Fairley is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) for the state of North Carolina and National Certified Counselor (NCC). Maurice’s experience includes working with adolescents and adults treating symptoms of trauma, depression, anger and anxiety. Maurice also has over 20 years working with the juvenile justice population at Wake Juvenile Detention Center.
Online Therapists

Joseph Murray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Carrboro, NC 27510
Waitlist for new clients
Personal interests in art and music, mindfulness practices, fitness, exercise, sports, athletics & coaching are often woven into my work.
MOTIVATE Counseling & Coaching, a mental health & personal improvement practice, helps you get where you want to be. We often view growth & learning positively but stress & discomfort negatively. The reality is they are inherently connected. You are the expert of your life & no one is better able to determine what is best for you than you. Whether past traumas, current stressors, future worries, inability to follow through, or reluctance to take that “next step”…MOTIVATE will help process & develop a healthier understanding of what has occurred in your life, clarify what you want, understand barriers & overcome them.
Personal interests in art and music, mindfulness practices, fitness, exercise, sports, athletics & coaching are often woven into my work.
MOTIVATE Counseling & Coaching, a mental health & personal improvement practice, helps you get where you want to be. We often view growth & learning positively but stress & discomfort negatively. The reality is they are inherently connected. You are the expert of your life & no one is better able to determine what is best for you than you. Whether past traumas, current stressors, future worries, inability to follow through, or reluctance to take that “next step”…MOTIVATE will help process & develop a healthier understanding of what has occurred in your life, clarify what you want, understand barriers & overcome them.

As a Sports and Performance Enhancement psychologist I help clients develop their mental skills to progress from good to great.
Suffering from anxiety, depression, anger, fear, or worry? Problems with relationships? Seeking relief from chronic health issues? With over 40 years of clinical experience with hundreds of clients and advanced training with some of the world's top leaders in Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Hypnosis and EMDR, I can provide you with tools and skills you can use NOW to overcome life's toughest challenges so you can lead a healthier, happier and more satisfying life. Call Dr. Robert Heller at 561-251-9768 for a FREE 15 minute phone consultation, email drrobertheller at gmail.com or visit www.cognitivetherapyfl.com. Licensed in FL, MA, NC
As a Sports and Performance Enhancement psychologist I help clients develop their mental skills to progress from good to great.
Suffering from anxiety, depression, anger, fear, or worry? Problems with relationships? Seeking relief from chronic health issues? With over 40 years of clinical experience with hundreds of clients and advanced training with some of the world's top leaders in Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Hypnosis and EMDR, I can provide you with tools and skills you can use NOW to overcome life's toughest challenges so you can lead a healthier, happier and more satisfying life. Call Dr. Robert Heller at 561-251-9768 for a FREE 15 minute phone consultation, email drrobertheller at gmail.com or visit www.cognitivetherapyfl.com. Licensed in FL, MA, NC

I have two years of experience working with young adults in sports and working with adults.
I serve all populations and I specialize in serving athletes. I provide a warm & safe environment for individuals to authentically express & explore their feelings & concerns. My goal is to create an open & safe space for individuals in a non-judgmental environment to freely express themselves. I am passionate about Mental Health in Sport & helping athletes of all ages with their unique needs & challenges. I aim to help any individual effectively manage life’s inevitable challenges & empower them to live to their fullest potential. If you are interested please reach out to Horizon's Patient Care Team to be added to my schedule!
I have two years of experience working with young adults in sports and working with adults.
I serve all populations and I specialize in serving athletes. I provide a warm & safe environment for individuals to authentically express & explore their feelings & concerns. My goal is to create an open & safe space for individuals in a non-judgmental environment to freely express themselves. I am passionate about Mental Health in Sport & helping athletes of all ages with their unique needs & challenges. I aim to help any individual effectively manage life’s inevitable challenges & empower them to live to their fullest potential. If you are interested please reach out to Horizon's Patient Care Team to be added to my schedule!

Whether it is trauma or sports performance, therapy is a safe space to do your work and ultimately rewire your brain (and body).
I work with a multitude of clients that may be feeling stuck in life, whether it be anxiety or depression, performance issues (athletes), trauma, developmental trauma (that which happens in childhood that one may or may not be aware of specifically). Our brains have been designed to heal. We are able to create new neuropaths for the entirety of our lives. In our work together, we can dismantle current maladaptive patterns and rewire our brains to process in healthy and meaningful ways. I have a history in Christian ministry and I understand the importance of faith; therefore, I am happy to integrate aspects of faith into our work.
Whether it is trauma or sports performance, therapy is a safe space to do your work and ultimately rewire your brain (and body).
I work with a multitude of clients that may be feeling stuck in life, whether it be anxiety or depression, performance issues (athletes), trauma, developmental trauma (that which happens in childhood that one may or may not be aware of specifically). Our brains have been designed to heal. We are able to create new neuropaths for the entirety of our lives. In our work together, we can dismantle current maladaptive patterns and rewire our brains to process in healthy and meaningful ways. I have a history in Christian ministry and I understand the importance of faith; therefore, I am happy to integrate aspects of faith into our work.

My specialties include cultural competence in working with Mormon or LDS clients anywhere on the spectrum of belief/activity, faith transitions, and working with athletes on sports and performance psychology, body image issues, and building positive relationships with coaches and parents.
Hi, I’m Kelly. I currently have a few openings in my schedule! I own a teletherapy practice and see clients in VA, NC, AZ, UT, FL, and ID. I help adults and teens who want to work through relationship issues, perfectionism, life transitions, and grief/loss. Other common presenting problems include anxiety, depression, academic/professional stress, faith crises, gender/sexual identity issues, and a desire to improve athletic performance by improving your mental game. Many of my adult clients generally function well on their own but need help working through a specific issue such as how to set boundaries with a parent.
My specialties include cultural competence in working with Mormon or LDS clients anywhere on the spectrum of belief/activity, faith transitions, and working with athletes on sports and performance psychology, body image issues, and building positive relationships with coaches and parents.
Hi, I’m Kelly. I currently have a few openings in my schedule! I own a teletherapy practice and see clients in VA, NC, AZ, UT, FL, and ID. I help adults and teens who want to work through relationship issues, perfectionism, life transitions, and grief/loss. Other common presenting problems include anxiety, depression, academic/professional stress, faith crises, gender/sexual identity issues, and a desire to improve athletic performance by improving your mental game. Many of my adult clients generally function well on their own but need help working through a specific issue such as how to set boundaries with a parent.

We've all had times in our lives when we need to level up or tackle something hard, in sports or life.
Are you looking for a performance edge, to find your lost edge, or better support someone in pursuit of their goals? Whether you are an athlete, coach, high-performer, or sport parent, my clients are often looking to feel better about their performances, more self-confident, more comfortable with transitions up or down, better at navigating competition and organizational pressures, overcome/manage injury, separate identity from outcome, solidify motivation, and better support their athletes. Whether it is life affecting performance or vice-versa, you can optimize your mindset, overcome challenges, and learn skills for a lifetime.
We've all had times in our lives when we need to level up or tackle something hard, in sports or life.
Are you looking for a performance edge, to find your lost edge, or better support someone in pursuit of their goals? Whether you are an athlete, coach, high-performer, or sport parent, my clients are often looking to feel better about their performances, more self-confident, more comfortable with transitions up or down, better at navigating competition and organizational pressures, overcome/manage injury, separate identity from outcome, solidify motivation, and better support their athletes. Whether it is life affecting performance or vice-versa, you can optimize your mindset, overcome challenges, and learn skills for a lifetime.

I am currently pursuing a certification in Sports Psychology Coaching.
I work primarily with adolescents and adults. I have experience working with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem and codependency issues, boundaries, grief, and phase of life adjustments. I use an integrative and individualized approach aimed at improving the quality of life of my clients by helping them find balance, learn coping skills, rediscover choice, decrease suffering, heal body image issues, increase self-esteem and create a life worth living. I recently became a certified SYMBIS facilitator. My hope is to work with couples before their wedding day helping them prepare for marriage!
I am currently pursuing a certification in Sports Psychology Coaching.
I work primarily with adolescents and adults. I have experience working with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem and codependency issues, boundaries, grief, and phase of life adjustments. I use an integrative and individualized approach aimed at improving the quality of life of my clients by helping them find balance, learn coping skills, rediscover choice, decrease suffering, heal body image issues, increase self-esteem and create a life worth living. I recently became a certified SYMBIS facilitator. My hope is to work with couples before their wedding day helping them prepare for marriage!

Maren Londahl-Smidt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
My specialities include: sports performance, anxiety, attachment trauma, improving self worth, emotional awareness, depression, and transitions.
Do you overthink situations, constantly replay situations in your head or you often feel overwhelmed? Do you constantly worry and don’t know how to turn this off? Do you find that you struggle with confidence and often question yourself? Maybe you're having difficultly managing your emotions? Or you don't know what you are feeling? Lets work together to turn off the negative self talk, figure out how to manage your overwhelming emotions and find your best self.
My specialities include: sports performance, anxiety, attachment trauma, improving self worth, emotional awareness, depression, and transitions.
Do you overthink situations, constantly replay situations in your head or you often feel overwhelmed? Do you constantly worry and don’t know how to turn this off? Do you find that you struggle with confidence and often question yourself? Maybe you're having difficultly managing your emotions? Or you don't know what you are feeling? Lets work together to turn off the negative self talk, figure out how to manage your overwhelming emotions and find your best self.

Rachel Marshall
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Exposure Therapy, Seeking Safety, Play Therapy, and Sand Tray Therapy (children ages 3-12), Anxiety, Depression, and Related Disorders, Systemic Family and Couples Therapy, Co-parenting and Blended Families, Sports and Executive Performance, ADHD/Executive Functioning Training
Rachel has been working with adults, children, couples,and adolescents in a mental health capacity since 2003. She tries to meet people where they are at and maintain a nonjudgmental approach to helping each person she serves in a unique and supportive way. She has been licensed since 2010 and in private practice since 2012. She has had the opportunity to train with world renowned experts in her field. In addition to creating her own personalized approach to treating trauma Rachel is also trained in the following evidence based treatment modalities:
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Exposure Therapy, Seeking Safety, Play Therapy, and Sand Tray Therapy (children ages 3-12), Anxiety, Depression, and Related Disorders, Systemic Family and Couples Therapy, Co-parenting and Blended Families, Sports and Executive Performance, ADHD/Executive Functioning Training
Rachel has been working with adults, children, couples,and adolescents in a mental health capacity since 2003. She tries to meet people where they are at and maintain a nonjudgmental approach to helping each person she serves in a unique and supportive way. She has been licensed since 2010 and in private practice since 2012. She has had the opportunity to train with world renowned experts in her field. In addition to creating her own personalized approach to treating trauma Rachel is also trained in the following evidence based treatment modalities:

Carson Nance
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
I am mental health therapist specializing in children, as well as a sports mental health performance specialist.
Hello, I am Carson Nance, a dedicated and compassionate mental health therapist specializing in children's well-being. With a deep passion for helping young minds navigate their emotional journeys, I am committed to providing a safe and supportive space where children can express themselves freely and discover their inner strength. My journey into the field of child mental health began with a strong desire to make a positive impact on the lives of young individuals. Witnessing the struggles and unique challenges children face inspired me to pursue a career focused on their psychological development and well-being.
I am mental health therapist specializing in children, as well as a sports mental health performance specialist.
Hello, I am Carson Nance, a dedicated and compassionate mental health therapist specializing in children's well-being. With a deep passion for helping young minds navigate their emotional journeys, I am committed to providing a safe and supportive space where children can express themselves freely and discover their inner strength. My journey into the field of child mental health began with a strong desire to make a positive impact on the lives of young individuals. Witnessing the struggles and unique challenges children face inspired me to pursue a career focused on their psychological development and well-being.

Elevate Sport Psychology
Psychologist, PsyD, CMPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
She understands the emotional rollercoaster of competitive sports and wants to make sure you have the resources and skills needed to feel your best.
Dr. Sarnell has extensive experience working with elite athletes at all levels, from youth through professional. She offers individual therapy and sport psych consultation via telehealth (zoom sessions), which allows her to accommodate busy schedules and work with clients in all PSYPACT states.
She understands the emotional rollercoaster of competitive sports and wants to make sure you have the resources and skills needed to feel your best.
Dr. Sarnell has extensive experience working with elite athletes at all levels, from youth through professional. She offers individual therapy and sport psych consultation via telehealth (zoom sessions), which allows her to accommodate busy schedules and work with clients in all PSYPACT states.

Marion Reeves Anderson
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LPC, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
In addition, I have a passion for working with athletes and the intersection of mental health concerns and sports.
Hello! So glad you're here! Asking for help is one of the bravest things someone can do. In a world that tells us to be strong and push through, it can be hard to feel our emotions and say that we need help. Maybe you're struggling with feeling trapped by thoughts about food and your body. Maybe you're struggling with chronic overthinking, feeling down, or a feeling of not measuring up. Whatever it is, I'm here to help! We are not meant to go through life alone - I find it an honor to be trusted to hold so many stories and to walk alongside my clients through whatever is bringing them to my office.
In addition, I have a passion for working with athletes and the intersection of mental health concerns and sports.
Hello! So glad you're here! Asking for help is one of the bravest things someone can do. In a world that tells us to be strong and push through, it can be hard to feel our emotions and say that we need help. Maybe you're struggling with feeling trapped by thoughts about food and your body. Maybe you're struggling with chronic overthinking, feeling down, or a feeling of not measuring up. Whatever it is, I'm here to help! We are not meant to go through life alone - I find it an honor to be trusted to hold so many stories and to walk alongside my clients through whatever is bringing them to my office.

Towson University, Assistant Professor George Washington U, Sheppard Pratt School of Mental Health Studies, Author, Sports Psychologist for UMD Women's Basketball 2008 - 2009.
Dr. Don Hudson has practiced as a solo Licensed Psychologist for over 30 years in Annapolis, MD. Don helps people improve the relationship they overlook; the one they are having with themselves, in order to become finally comfortable.Dr. Hudson specializes in treating a wide range of psychological issues to include : mood disorders, anxiety, life adjustments, career redirection, relationship recovery, retirement design. Adults, couples, and younger populations (at least 18) are served. Do what you love, love who you're with, and love where you live. Choose to do it now!
Towson University, Assistant Professor George Washington U, Sheppard Pratt School of Mental Health Studies, Author, Sports Psychologist for UMD Women's Basketball 2008 - 2009.
Dr. Don Hudson has practiced as a solo Licensed Psychologist for over 30 years in Annapolis, MD. Don helps people improve the relationship they overlook; the one they are having with themselves, in order to become finally comfortable.Dr. Hudson specializes in treating a wide range of psychological issues to include : mood disorders, anxiety, life adjustments, career redirection, relationship recovery, retirement design. Adults, couples, and younger populations (at least 18) are served. Do what you love, love who you're with, and love where you live. Choose to do it now!

As a REAL Sports Psychologist, I have a unique practice in that I specialize in working with athletes who have the desire to take their game to the next level.
My graduate degrees are in Athletic Counseling (M.S.) and Sports Psychology (Doctorate). Athletic Counseling targets issues that aren't necessarily sports-related but can detrimentally affect performance. Mental Skills Training is the fundamentals of SP. All consultations are delivered through the Internet via Zoom or Facetime - 100% Online - 7AM to 9PM M-F
As a REAL Sports Psychologist, I have a unique practice in that I specialize in working with athletes who have the desire to take their game to the next level.
My graduate degrees are in Athletic Counseling (M.S.) and Sports Psychology (Doctorate). Athletic Counseling targets issues that aren't necessarily sports-related but can detrimentally affect performance. Mental Skills Training is the fundamentals of SP. All consultations are delivered through the Internet via Zoom or Facetime - 100% Online - 7AM to 9PM M-F

I was the first Certified First Responder Counselor in North Carolina and also hold a certificate in Sports Counseling and Athlete Mental Wellness.
When you feel like your world is falling apart the last thing you want to do is wait for someone to fit you in. Appointments are available within the week for most clients. Telehealth sessions available anytime, day or night, either by phone or a HIPAA-compliant video platform. In-person visits available in my Spring Lake office during early morning and daytime hours. Your concerns will be addressed in a manner that is friendly and comfortable, and suited specifically to your needs. Call me directly at 919 374-0566 to schedule an intake appointment.
I was the first Certified First Responder Counselor in North Carolina and also hold a certificate in Sports Counseling and Athlete Mental Wellness.
When you feel like your world is falling apart the last thing you want to do is wait for someone to fit you in. Appointments are available within the week for most clients. Telehealth sessions available anytime, day or night, either by phone or a HIPAA-compliant video platform. In-person visits available in my Spring Lake office during early morning and daytime hours. Your concerns will be addressed in a manner that is friendly and comfortable, and suited specifically to your needs. Call me directly at 919 374-0566 to schedule an intake appointment.

I primarily focus on PTSD, burnout, anxiety, depression, and sports performance/ motivation issues, but I see a wide range of other mental health concerns.
Seeking out a new counselor can be an overwhelming process and my hope is to assist you in this endeavor. My name is Lee Davis, LCMHCA, CRC and I am an associate Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and Certified Rehabilitation Counselor in the state of North Carolina. I approach counseling from a person-centered perspective where the client is seen as the expert in their own lives. I use a wide range of evidence-based practices specifically tailored to each client’s needs, goals, and preferences to help facilitate the most desired outcomes. I believe in incorporating the client’s feedback to assist in the therapeutic process.
I primarily focus on PTSD, burnout, anxiety, depression, and sports performance/ motivation issues, but I see a wide range of other mental health concerns.
Seeking out a new counselor can be an overwhelming process and my hope is to assist you in this endeavor. My name is Lee Davis, LCMHCA, CRC and I am an associate Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and Certified Rehabilitation Counselor in the state of North Carolina. I approach counseling from a person-centered perspective where the client is seen as the expert in their own lives. I use a wide range of evidence-based practices specifically tailored to each client’s needs, goals, and preferences to help facilitate the most desired outcomes. I believe in incorporating the client’s feedback to assist in the therapeutic process.
See more therapy options for Johnston County
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.