Sports Performance Therapists in New York

Photo of Sean O'Connor, Counselor in New York
Sean O'Connor
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Scarsdale, NY 10583
My approach includes a combination of several evidence based therapies, including: ​ Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) for emotion regulation, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), EMDR Therapy for Trauma & Sports Performance, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Mindfulness and Meditative Science, Polyvagal Theory for Nervous System Regulation.
Do you sometimes: Have frequent angry outbursts that are impacting your job and relationships? Feel stuck in an endless cycle between dwelling on the past and worrying about the future? Struggle with constant negative thoughts, debilitating anxiety, and poor concentration? Believe depression and anxiety are hindering your potential to perform socially, academically or athletically?
My approach includes a combination of several evidence based therapies, including: ​ Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) for emotion regulation, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), EMDR Therapy for Trauma & Sports Performance, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Mindfulness and Meditative Science, Polyvagal Theory for Nervous System Regulation.
Do you sometimes: Have frequent angry outbursts that are impacting your job and relationships? Feel stuck in an endless cycle between dwelling on the past and worrying about the future? Struggle with constant negative thoughts, debilitating anxiety, and poor concentration? Believe depression and anxiety are hindering your potential to perform socially, academically or athletically?
(914) 246-5714 View (914) 246-5714
Photo of Joan S Ingalls, Counselor in New York
Joan S Ingalls
Counselor, EdD, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10025  (Online Only)
I help people with the emotional and mental challenges of sports, theater and business performance.
People come to me with emotionally painful life issues - anxiety, depression, and troubled or failed relationships. I help them go beyond problem solving to creating richer, fuller lives. With over 30 years experience, I am an actively engaged therapist committed to helping my clients grow emotionally. Please contact me by email. I will respond promptly to email inquiries. If you prefer to text, please do so, but no voice messages please.
I help people with the emotional and mental challenges of sports, theater and business performance.
People come to me with emotionally painful life issues - anxiety, depression, and troubled or failed relationships. I help them go beyond problem solving to creating richer, fuller lives. With over 30 years experience, I am an actively engaged therapist committed to helping my clients grow emotionally. Please contact me by email. I will respond promptly to email inquiries. If you prefer to text, please do so, but no voice messages please.
(646) 351-1868 View (646) 351-1868
Photo of Katie Lembo, Counselor in New York
Katie Lembo
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Penfield, NY 14526  (Online Only)
I primarily work with children and adolescents who struggle with anxiety, depression, ADHD, school avoidance, and sports performance challenges. I also provide parenting strategies and techniques through parent-only sessions. I have 2 years of experience working as a mental health counselor, but I have worked for almost a decade supporting children, adolescents and their caregivers as a sports coach, behavior technician, and nanny. I strive to create a safe and nonjudgmental environment for emotions and thoughts to be explored by children, adolescents and their parents and/or guardians.
I primarily work with children and adolescents who struggle with anxiety, depression, ADHD, school avoidance, and sports performance challenges. I also provide parenting strategies and techniques through parent-only sessions. I have 2 years of experience working as a mental health counselor, but I have worked for almost a decade supporting children, adolescents and their caregivers as a sports coach, behavior technician, and nanny. I strive to create a safe and nonjudgmental environment for emotions and thoughts to be explored by children, adolescents and their parents and/or guardians.
(585) 539-8658 View (585) 539-8658
Photo of Lauren D'Ambrosio, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Lauren D'Ambrosio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10010
A former celebrated varsity college athlete, I use that experience to better understand individuals under performance-based pressures; sports, actors, performers, artists, entrepreneurs and more.
I understand and honor the courage needed to take the first step towards change in your life. Navigating the human condition can often be immensely painful and this is why I believe so strongly in compassionate and supportive therapeutic engagement.  The beauty and growth in life that we are all seeking is often discovered amidst pain and discomfort. My training and experience allow me to comprehend the human experience, which can include trauma, life stressors, and circumstances from the past and/or present that leave people feeling stuck and confused. I especially enjoy working with the LGBTQIA community.
A former celebrated varsity college athlete, I use that experience to better understand individuals under performance-based pressures; sports, actors, performers, artists, entrepreneurs and more.
I understand and honor the courage needed to take the first step towards change in your life. Navigating the human condition can often be immensely painful and this is why I believe so strongly in compassionate and supportive therapeutic engagement.  The beauty and growth in life that we are all seeking is often discovered amidst pain and discomfort. My training and experience allow me to comprehend the human experience, which can include trauma, life stressors, and circumstances from the past and/or present that leave people feeling stuck and confused. I especially enjoy working with the LGBTQIA community.
(917) 983-0406 View (917) 983-0406
Photo of Rebecca Pistocchi, Licensed Mental Health Counselor in New York
Rebecca Pistocchi
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bellmore, NY 11710  (Online Only)
I am also a Certified Mental Game Coach and Sports Nutrition Coach, working with athletes and coaches.
Are you transitioning to/from college? Whether it's graduating high school and moving on to college or graduating college and moving on to the "real world", we can do this together. Encountering feelings of anxiety, perfectionism, poor self-esteem, and depression are all common. I provide a warm, collaborative environment to help you work through your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors and pursue your values-driven goals. We will create a safe place to allow for the development of self-awareness and finding your place in the world.
I am also a Certified Mental Game Coach and Sports Nutrition Coach, working with athletes and coaches.
Are you transitioning to/from college? Whether it's graduating high school and moving on to college or graduating college and moving on to the "real world", we can do this together. Encountering feelings of anxiety, perfectionism, poor self-esteem, and depression are all common. I provide a warm, collaborative environment to help you work through your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors and pursue your values-driven goals. We will create a safe place to allow for the development of self-awareness and finding your place in the world.
(516) 517-0941 View (516) 517-0941
Photo of Dr. Nick Fernandez in New York
Dr. Nick Fernandez
PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10016  (Online Only)
I also have experience working with Peak Performance issues, job coaching, and sports psychology.
I believe it is important to always take an individualized approach to therapy based on the specific needs of each of client. I like to take an active approach to therapy that incorporates contemporary clinical research findings with evidence-based therapeutic models. I integrate both psychodynamic psychotherapy and cognitive behavioral therapy to provide a collaborative and supportive therapeutic experience.
I also have experience working with Peak Performance issues, job coaching, and sports psychology.
I believe it is important to always take an individualized approach to therapy based on the specific needs of each of client. I like to take an active approach to therapy that incorporates contemporary clinical research findings with evidence-based therapeutic models. I integrate both psychodynamic psychotherapy and cognitive behavioral therapy to provide a collaborative and supportive therapeutic experience.
(929) 207-8235 View (929) 207-8235
Photo of Steven T Parshall, Counselor in New York
Steven T Parshall
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Williamson, NY 14589
I have extensive experience working with clients that are affected by trauma, PTSD, sports performance issues, and relationship challenges.
Life throws many different challenges at us, sometimes we just need to reset and seek some support to help us navigate confidently. Relationship issues, grief and loss, trauma, anxiety, self-esteem, and family challenges are all real issues that need our greatest attention. As a licensed mental health counselor, I will collaborate with my clients to identify their existing strengths, create and/or operationalize coping skills and mechanisms that will help them navigate life's challenging times.
I have extensive experience working with clients that are affected by trauma, PTSD, sports performance issues, and relationship challenges.
Life throws many different challenges at us, sometimes we just need to reset and seek some support to help us navigate confidently. Relationship issues, grief and loss, trauma, anxiety, self-esteem, and family challenges are all real issues that need our greatest attention. As a licensed mental health counselor, I will collaborate with my clients to identify their existing strengths, create and/or operationalize coping skills and mechanisms that will help them navigate life's challenging times.
(315) 915-5753 View (315) 915-5753
Photo of Alex Diaz, Ph.D., LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Alex Diaz, Ph.D., LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tuckahoe, NY 10707
Stress manifests at home, school, work, sports performance and in families. It disrupts our behaviors, relationships, and effectiveness. In my 20-year professional experience, I have helped individuals to not only understand its triggers, but also develop coping skills to help them manage their challenges with confidence and sense of empowerment. I am also a Sports Performance Consultant and Certified in Sports Mental Wellness, registered as a Mental Health provider for USOPC and US Cycling.
Stress manifests at home, school, work, sports performance and in families. It disrupts our behaviors, relationships, and effectiveness. In my 20-year professional experience, I have helped individuals to not only understand its triggers, but also develop coping skills to help them manage their challenges with confidence and sense of empowerment. I am also a Sports Performance Consultant and Certified in Sports Mental Wellness, registered as a Mental Health provider for USOPC and US Cycling.
(914) 295-0288 View (914) 295-0288
Photo of Daniel Kadish, Psychologist in New York
Daniel Kadish
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10003
Sport psychology can help athletes address topics including: managing emotions and negative self talk; maintaining focus during practices and competitions; more effectively communicating with coaches and teammates; assessing strengths, areas in need of improvement, and authentic goals; and increasing enjoyment of sports.
As a clinical and sport psychologist, I generally work with clients who are seeking to reach higher levels of professional, athletic and academic achievement, yet are struggling with various types of anxiety. Issues may include fear of public performance, social nervousness, panic, perfectionism, and excessive worry. I frequently support athletes and student-athletes in learning to improve athletic performance with mental skills training while managing social, academic, and work pressures.
Sport psychology can help athletes address topics including: managing emotions and negative self talk; maintaining focus during practices and competitions; more effectively communicating with coaches and teammates; assessing strengths, areas in need of improvement, and authentic goals; and increasing enjoyment of sports.
As a clinical and sport psychologist, I generally work with clients who are seeking to reach higher levels of professional, athletic and academic achievement, yet are struggling with various types of anxiety. Issues may include fear of public performance, social nervousness, panic, perfectionism, and excessive worry. I frequently support athletes and student-athletes in learning to improve athletic performance with mental skills training while managing social, academic, and work pressures.
(917) 746-7681 View (917) 746-7681
Photo of Julie Wiley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Julie Wiley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Getzville, NY 14068
I specialize in sports performance and am dedicated to helping individuals maximize their potential and cope with any issues they may face both on and off the court, rink, or field.
As an experienced licensed social worker, it is my job to provide a place where you can work on your personal challenges and learn to thrive. Throughout my professional career, I have worked with adults facing mental health and substance use issues, helping them to achieve their personal goals. I use a variety of treatment modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mental skills training, psychotherapy, and mindfulness training to support and help individuals reach their full potential.
I specialize in sports performance and am dedicated to helping individuals maximize their potential and cope with any issues they may face both on and off the court, rink, or field.
As an experienced licensed social worker, it is my job to provide a place where you can work on your personal challenges and learn to thrive. Throughout my professional career, I have worked with adults facing mental health and substance use issues, helping them to achieve their personal goals. I use a variety of treatment modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mental skills training, psychotherapy, and mindfulness training to support and help individuals reach their full potential.
(716) 293-2575 View (716) 293-2575
Photo of Zach Cohen - Mental Performance Coach in New York
Zach Cohen - Mental Performance Coach
MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Zach Cohen is a Mental Performance Coach whom provides mental skills training and counseling to athletes & performers of all ages and levels, sports teams, organizations & governing bodies. He works with collegiate, high school, amateur & youth athletes to improve performance both on & off the field of play. Through a person-centered approach to welling-being & mental health, he works with clients to enhance the whole self and reach for the point in which they are their best self most consistently.
Zach Cohen is a Mental Performance Coach whom provides mental skills training and counseling to athletes & performers of all ages and levels, sports teams, organizations & governing bodies. He works with collegiate, high school, amateur & youth athletes to improve performance both on & off the field of play. Through a person-centered approach to welling-being & mental health, he works with clients to enhance the whole self and reach for the point in which they are their best self most consistently.
(631) 825-8527 View (631) 825-8527
Photo of Lana Krichmar, Psychologist in New York
Lana Krichmar
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10005
My goal is to provide my clients with skills they can use on their own and also help them identify what is personally meaningful to them and address barriers to life satisfaction and improved relationships and individual performance, specifically as it relates to sports.
Finding a psychologist who is a good fit, especially at the time of emotional crisis can be challenging. To find someone who is empathic, but also direct and firm, who is not afraid to call you out when you most need it, someone who understands the real life challenges of being a parent, teen, or young adult and who approaches challenges with a sense of humor and compassion, someone who has the right training, expertise, and schedule, can be daunting, to say the least. I am a CBT/DBT trained and practicing psychologist who is compassionate and direct.
My goal is to provide my clients with skills they can use on their own and also help them identify what is personally meaningful to them and address barriers to life satisfaction and improved relationships and individual performance, specifically as it relates to sports.
Finding a psychologist who is a good fit, especially at the time of emotional crisis can be challenging. To find someone who is empathic, but also direct and firm, who is not afraid to call you out when you most need it, someone who understands the real life challenges of being a parent, teen, or young adult and who approaches challenges with a sense of humor and compassion, someone who has the right training, expertise, and schedule, can be daunting, to say the least. I am a CBT/DBT trained and practicing psychologist who is compassionate and direct.
(718) 255-9448 View (718) 255-9448
Photo of Carli Brust in New York
Carli Brust
MHC, LP
Verified Verified
Forest Hills, NY 11375  (Online Only)
I have worked extensively with a variety of mental health issues including generalized anxiety, social anxiety, depression, relationship conflicts, couples counseling, and sports psychology! I tailor each session to your individual need(s) to help guide, support, and educate you to reach a greater sense of self.
Therapy is probably one of the hardest and most intimate things that you will do, however, it is also the most rewarding when you start to see the transformation you've been wanting to see. Understanding yourself can contribute to increase self-esteem, improve relationships with others, enhance school/work productivity/performance, and an overall quality of life. I am here to listen, educate, support, and provide a safe and comfortable environment for any discomfort or challenges that may rise.
I have worked extensively with a variety of mental health issues including generalized anxiety, social anxiety, depression, relationship conflicts, couples counseling, and sports psychology! I tailor each session to your individual need(s) to help guide, support, and educate you to reach a greater sense of self.
Therapy is probably one of the hardest and most intimate things that you will do, however, it is also the most rewarding when you start to see the transformation you've been wanting to see. Understanding yourself can contribute to increase self-esteem, improve relationships with others, enhance school/work productivity/performance, and an overall quality of life. I am here to listen, educate, support, and provide a safe and comfortable environment for any discomfort or challenges that may rise.
(516) 613-5463 View (516) 613-5463
Photo of Isaac Zur in New York
Isaac Zur
PhD, CMPC, MHC-LP, BCB
Verified Verified
Roslyn, NY 11576
Using the principles of Applied Sports Psychology, I help athletes build mental toughness and thrive under pressure.
Isaac Zur, Ph.D., MHC-LP, CMPC, is a highly experienced mental performance consultant with over a decade of practice and teaching. He brings a unique perspective to his work, drawing on his experiences as an athlete, teacher, and practitioner to help individuals and athletes build emotional resilience and perform well under pressure. He also serves as an Adjunct Professor at Lehman College, where he teaches in the exercise science program.
Using the principles of Applied Sports Psychology, I help athletes build mental toughness and thrive under pressure.
Isaac Zur, Ph.D., MHC-LP, CMPC, is a highly experienced mental performance consultant with over a decade of practice and teaching. He brings a unique perspective to his work, drawing on his experiences as an athlete, teacher, and practitioner to help individuals and athletes build emotional resilience and perform well under pressure. He also serves as an Adjunct Professor at Lehman College, where he teaches in the exercise science program.
(718) 400-6946 View (718) 400-6946
Photo of Ksenia Pelikan (Makarova), Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Ksenia Pelikan (Makarova)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10003  (Online Only)
As a former professional athlete, I have lived the structured, rigid, demanding sports life. I know what it is like to be challenged, and push yourself through successes and failures without giving up. Therapy helped me and gave me a safe space to say whatever I had on my mind. Let me give you that space to support you through the ups and downs.
As a former professional athlete, I have lived the structured, rigid, demanding sports life. I know what it is like to be challenged, and push yourself through successes and failures without giving up. Therapy helped me and gave me a safe space to say whatever I had on my mind. Let me give you that space to support you through the ups and downs.
(646) 798-7152 View (646) 798-7152
Photo of Jesse C. Palermo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Jesse C. Palermo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Skaneateles, NY 13152  (Online Only)
I graduated from Princeton University and completed my clinical education at Columbia University. I have extensive experience in both mental health and substance abuse modalities of treatment, and primarily work with adults and young adults. The most common focuses of therapy are depression, anxiety, difficulties with coping, panic disorders, sports performance, relationships, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and trauma.
I graduated from Princeton University and completed my clinical education at Columbia University. I have extensive experience in both mental health and substance abuse modalities of treatment, and primarily work with adults and young adults. The most common focuses of therapy are depression, anxiety, difficulties with coping, panic disorders, sports performance, relationships, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and trauma.
(315) 386-6596 View (315) 386-6596
Photo of Patricia Ann Schimmenti At Nassau Psychology Pc, Pre-Licensed Professional in New York
Patricia Ann Schimmenti At Nassau Psychology Pc
Pre-Licensed Professional, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
Book an appointment online through our website www.nassaupsychology.org! Patricia graduated with her masters degree in Psychological Studies with a Concentration in Sports Psychology in May 2014 and her masters degree in Professional Counseling in 2017. She then received her masters degree in mental health counseling at Seton Hall University and has two years of experience providing counseling with young adults and adults. Patricia has gained her experiences training in an outpatient hospital for mental illness, an addiction setting and a college campus setting.
Book an appointment online through our website www.nassaupsychology.org! Patricia graduated with her masters degree in Psychological Studies with a Concentration in Sports Psychology in May 2014 and her masters degree in Professional Counseling in 2017. She then received her masters degree in mental health counseling at Seton Hall University and has two years of experience providing counseling with young adults and adults. Patricia has gained her experiences training in an outpatient hospital for mental illness, an addiction setting and a college campus setting.
(516) 591-3936 View (516) 591-3936
Photo of Kamila Zapytowska Usuki, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Kamila Zapytowska Usuki
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10019
My background in performing arts and sports (including Broadway and Olympics) makes me additionally aware of various pressures that can hinder personal and professional growth.
Difficulties in personal or professional life can make anyone feel overwhelmed, confused or hopeless. Relationship problems, health issues, loss, pain or traumatic past can add to the distress. Getting through these obstacles doesn't have to be a lonely process. In a supportive and confidential atmosphere, we can discuss your thoughts and feelings, and together, make sense of your unique life's circumstances, whether you are in crisis, caught up in relationship conflicts, facing identity questions or repeating patterns that don't always bring positive outcomes.
My background in performing arts and sports (including Broadway and Olympics) makes me additionally aware of various pressures that can hinder personal and professional growth.
Difficulties in personal or professional life can make anyone feel overwhelmed, confused or hopeless. Relationship problems, health issues, loss, pain or traumatic past can add to the distress. Getting through these obstacles doesn't have to be a lonely process. In a supportive and confidential atmosphere, we can discuss your thoughts and feelings, and together, make sense of your unique life's circumstances, whether you are in crisis, caught up in relationship conflicts, facing identity questions or repeating patterns that don't always bring positive outcomes.
(646) 859-1624 View (646) 859-1624
Photo of Amy Tardio in New York
Amy Tardio
PCC, MGCP, CPC, NBC-HWC
Verified Verified
Rye, NY 10580
The Sports Psychology aspect of my practice involves assessing key mental skills and challenges, setting appropriate goals and focused coaching sessions.
Feeling a lack of confidence, or pressure from expectations is more common than you imagine. I help top athletes and achievers learn the mental skills to cope with frustration, set backs and self-doubt. My work revolves around building stable confidence, focus and enjoyment in your sport, business, and life. Learn how to engage a growth mindset to fuel long term accomplishment and how to set the right goals. As both a parent and coach of athletes and leaders, I know addressing the mental game is often the the most important next step.
The Sports Psychology aspect of my practice involves assessing key mental skills and challenges, setting appropriate goals and focused coaching sessions.
Feeling a lack of confidence, or pressure from expectations is more common than you imagine. I help top athletes and achievers learn the mental skills to cope with frustration, set backs and self-doubt. My work revolves around building stable confidence, focus and enjoyment in your sport, business, and life. Learn how to engage a growth mindset to fuel long term accomplishment and how to set the right goals. As both a parent and coach of athletes and leaders, I know addressing the mental game is often the the most important next step.
(917) 746-3609 View (917) 746-3609
Photo of TriState SportPsych, Psychologist in New York
TriState SportPsych
Psychologist, PsyD, LPC, CMPC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10010
coaches, sports medicine personnel, parents).
TriState SportPsych provides sport psychology services for athletes of all ages and levels of competition. At TriState SportPsych we consider it our mission to inspire athletes and those around them to connect, enjoy, and achieve by delivering the newest innovations in the rapidly evolving field of sport psychology. At TriState SportPsych, we deeply enjoy working with athletes (youth to professional) as they take steps towards mastery and wellness both in life and sport. Visit us at www.tristatesportpsych.com
coaches, sports medicine personnel, parents).
TriState SportPsych provides sport psychology services for athletes of all ages and levels of competition. At TriState SportPsych we consider it our mission to inspire athletes and those around them to connect, enjoy, and achieve by delivering the newest innovations in the rapidly evolving field of sport psychology. At TriState SportPsych, we deeply enjoy working with athletes (youth to professional) as they take steps towards mastery and wellness both in life and sport. Visit us at www.tristatesportpsych.com
(908) 386-4488 View (908) 386-4488
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.