Sports Performance Therapists in Chicago, IL

Photo of Bridget Montgomery, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Bridget Montgomery
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60605  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating individuals with anxiety, sports performance, perfectionism, over-control, body image, disordered eating, grief, relationships, and general life stressors.
I love the saying that therapy is not just "recovering from" something, but also "recovering toward" something. Maybe part of your journey is figuring out the "toward" and gaining a clearer understanding of your purpose, passion, and path. In order to gain that clarity, we often need to explore what's working, what's not working, and how to take the next step. I'm here to guide you on this journey and to co-create a map so that you can live your most meaningful life. Whether you are struggling to get a personal best on the track, overcome anxiety, manage perfectionism, or adapt to new life situations, I can help.
I specialize in treating individuals with anxiety, sports performance, perfectionism, over-control, body image, disordered eating, grief, relationships, and general life stressors.
I love the saying that therapy is not just "recovering from" something, but also "recovering toward" something. Maybe part of your journey is figuring out the "toward" and gaining a clearer understanding of your purpose, passion, and path. In order to gain that clarity, we often need to explore what's working, what's not working, and how to take the next step. I'm here to guide you on this journey and to co-create a map so that you can live your most meaningful life. Whether you are struggling to get a personal best on the track, overcome anxiety, manage perfectionism, or adapt to new life situations, I can help.
(773) 985-4314 View (773) 985-4314
Photo of Dr. Richard Trammel in Chicago, IL
Dr. Richard Trammel
EdD, MS, L3S-CT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60605
My credentials are Singularly Unique in the business of Sports Psychology.
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. Being a competitive athlete helps me relate to other competitive people in sports or business. My primary focus is on confidence building and the elimination of performance anxiety. I use a 3 tiered approach to training: Perspective Training, Mental Skills Training, and Applied Settings (if applicable at a sporting location). I am the only professional to offer that kind of travel service. We also offer Coaching Certification Programs for those who are interested in teaching.
My credentials are Singularly Unique in the business of Sports Psychology.
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. Being a competitive athlete helps me relate to other competitive people in sports or business. My primary focus is on confidence building and the elimination of performance anxiety. I use a 3 tiered approach to training: Perspective Training, Mental Skills Training, and Applied Settings (if applicable at a sporting location). I am the only professional to offer that kind of travel service. We also offer Coaching Certification Programs for those who are interested in teaching.
(312) 300-2842 View (312) 300-2842
Photo of Melanie Jambrosic, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Melanie Jambrosic
Psychologist, PsyD, MA, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60630
Dr. Melanie Jambrosic is a clinical and sports psychologistt at New Insights Behavioral Services. She has years of experience providing therapy and neuropsychological assessment. She also founded Sport Psych Studio, a sports psychology consulting practice, and published the "Mindfulness Journaling Workbook" to help clients improve their mental health and performance. You can find details at www.sportpsychstudio.com. As a child, Dr. Jambrosic played sports to cope with stress and bond with her family. She quickly realized that the mental side was crucial to performance and well-being.
Dr. Melanie Jambrosic is a clinical and sports psychologistt at New Insights Behavioral Services. She has years of experience providing therapy and neuropsychological assessment. She also founded Sport Psych Studio, a sports psychology consulting practice, and published the "Mindfulness Journaling Workbook" to help clients improve their mental health and performance. You can find details at www.sportpsychstudio.com. As a child, Dr. Jambrosic played sports to cope with stress and bond with her family. She quickly realized that the mental side was crucial to performance and well-being.
(708) 766-7199 View (708) 766-7199
Photo of Julia Tehovnik, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Julia Tehovnik
Counselor, LCPC, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60661  (Online Only)
Trained in health and sports psychology, I've seen how people experience anxiety, depression, & shame when they feel like they're not living up to their potential.
Accepting New Clients, Telehealth Appointments Only: Do you feel anxious or have doubts that hold you back from achieving more in life? Perhaps you feel like a failure for not having met high expectations, those of yourself or of others. Maybe you have met those expectations and are doing all the "right" things, but still feel unfulfilled. Or maybe you've accomplished a goal and don't know what to do next, but feel like you're supposed to figure it out quickly so you don't fall behind.
Trained in health and sports psychology, I've seen how people experience anxiety, depression, & shame when they feel like they're not living up to their potential.
Accepting New Clients, Telehealth Appointments Only: Do you feel anxious or have doubts that hold you back from achieving more in life? Perhaps you feel like a failure for not having met high expectations, those of yourself or of others. Maybe you have met those expectations and are doing all the "right" things, but still feel unfulfilled. Or maybe you've accomplished a goal and don't know what to do next, but feel like you're supposed to figure it out quickly so you don't fall behind.
(312) 625-6634 View (312) 625-6634
Photo of Ashley Green, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Ashley Green
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60612  (Online Only)
My specialties include counseling for athletes because my research, interest, and life experiences relate to sports.
Welcome! Whether you have been in counseling before, or if this is your first time, I am glad you are here. I am a PhD student with desires to help you continue, or begin, your therapeutic journey. I work with an approach to therapy that doesn't have a "one size fits all," but is holistic, evidence-based, and inclusive. If you are ready to begin, go ahead and give me a call or send an email. I will be there to meet you halfway! We can address any issues you bring to the table and set goals together. If you have any questions along the way, I will work to provide appropriate psychoeducation, resources, and interventions.
My specialties include counseling for athletes because my research, interest, and life experiences relate to sports.
Welcome! Whether you have been in counseling before, or if this is your first time, I am glad you are here. I am a PhD student with desires to help you continue, or begin, your therapeutic journey. I work with an approach to therapy that doesn't have a "one size fits all," but is holistic, evidence-based, and inclusive. If you are ready to begin, go ahead and give me a call or send an email. I will be there to meet you halfway! We can address any issues you bring to the table and set goals together. If you have any questions along the way, I will work to provide appropriate psychoeducation, resources, and interventions.
(815) 281-5379 View (815) 281-5379
Photo of Sarah Forsythe - Mental Performance Coach, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Sarah Forsythe - Mental Performance Coach
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, CMPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60614
Sarah (she/her) is a Certified Mental Performance Consultant (CMPC) through the Association of Applied Sport Psychology (AASP) and a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC). As a health and wellness enthusiast, Sarah harnesses her passion to help each person reach their full potential in their craft and life. Sarah works with clients with a wide variety of needs, including anxiety, life transitions, and sports performance concerns. She utilizes a non-judgmental perspective in both clinical and performance consulting. While exuding warmth and compassion, she helps clients persevere through adversities and celebrate triumphs.
Sarah (she/her) is a Certified Mental Performance Consultant (CMPC) through the Association of Applied Sport Psychology (AASP) and a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC). As a health and wellness enthusiast, Sarah harnesses her passion to help each person reach their full potential in their craft and life. Sarah works with clients with a wide variety of needs, including anxiety, life transitions, and sports performance concerns. She utilizes a non-judgmental perspective in both clinical and performance consulting. While exuding warmth and compassion, she helps clients persevere through adversities and celebrate triumphs.
(773) 825-5129 View (773) 825-5129
Photo of Natalie Graves' Athletic Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Natalie Graves' Athletic Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AM, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
In sports, it is 90% mental and 10% physical.
An athlete's life is different from other people. Does the stress of being an athlete sometimes makes you feel overwhelmed and alone? Are you expected to be almost perfect and fear you won't measure up and will get ridiculed? Are you afraid of not being "good enough" and coaches losing confidence in you? Does worrying about your performance leave you feeling overanxious? Do you have moments of overwhelming sadness but are afraid to let anyone know because you're an athlete and athletes can't show any signs of weakness, all the while feeling stressed out with no one to go to?
In sports, it is 90% mental and 10% physical.
An athlete's life is different from other people. Does the stress of being an athlete sometimes makes you feel overwhelmed and alone? Are you expected to be almost perfect and fear you won't measure up and will get ridiculed? Are you afraid of not being "good enough" and coaches losing confidence in you? Does worrying about your performance leave you feeling overanxious? Do you have moments of overwhelming sadness but are afraid to let anyone know because you're an athlete and athletes can't show any signs of weakness, all the while feeling stressed out with no one to go to?
(312) 564-5312 View (312) 564-5312
Photo of Brittany Taylor, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chicago, IL
Brittany Taylor
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60647
While I have worked with individuals who experienced a wide range of difficulties, I come to you with an expertise in sports performance, anxiety, and depression.
It’s easy for our inner critic to increase feelings of uncertainty, fear, and disconnection from ourselves. These creeping thoughts we have can create self-doubt, mental anguish, and even impact our physical health. Our thoughts are constantly telling us stories that can be hard to believe, and we experience this spectrum of emotions that can be tricky to navigate. Rather than internalizing, reacting, or avoiding these negative thoughts and emotions, developing self-compassion and leaning into the pain of discomfort can help you to embrace all of your experiences and begin to shift your life in a way that is meaningful to you.
While I have worked with individuals who experienced a wide range of difficulties, I come to you with an expertise in sports performance, anxiety, and depression.
It’s easy for our inner critic to increase feelings of uncertainty, fear, and disconnection from ourselves. These creeping thoughts we have can create self-doubt, mental anguish, and even impact our physical health. Our thoughts are constantly telling us stories that can be hard to believe, and we experience this spectrum of emotions that can be tricky to navigate. Rather than internalizing, reacting, or avoiding these negative thoughts and emotions, developing self-compassion and leaning into the pain of discomfort can help you to embrace all of your experiences and begin to shift your life in a way that is meaningful to you.
(872) 278-2250 View (872) 278-2250
Photo of Akelah Moore, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Akelah Moore
Counselor, MA, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60603  (Online Only)
Offering a client-focused practice style that emphasizes the well-being and autonomy of patients in the areas of anxiety, depression and trauma. Offering Individual, group, and couples sessions, members of the BIPOC and Queer communities. Specializing in sport-focused performance interventions and life transition. As a therapist and mental health professional, I am dedicated to cultivating an inclusive and welcoming space for clients as I work with treating issues related to trauma, sports performance anxiety, crisis care, and family dysfunction that encompasses healing in the mind, body, and spirit.
Offering a client-focused practice style that emphasizes the well-being and autonomy of patients in the areas of anxiety, depression and trauma. Offering Individual, group, and couples sessions, members of the BIPOC and Queer communities. Specializing in sport-focused performance interventions and life transition. As a therapist and mental health professional, I am dedicated to cultivating an inclusive and welcoming space for clients as I work with treating issues related to trauma, sports performance anxiety, crisis care, and family dysfunction that encompasses healing in the mind, body, and spirit.
(312) 313-6435 View (312) 313-6435
Photo of Kali Ulmer in Chicago, IL
Kali Ulmer
LCPC, MA, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60603  (Online Only)
As a therapist, I believe in the importance of a holistic, culturally sensitive, and collaborative approach to therapy. I work with individuals on areas such as trauma, life transitions, personal stressors, anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, grief, relationship issues, and sports performance.
As a therapist, I believe in the importance of a holistic, culturally sensitive, and collaborative approach to therapy. I work with individuals on areas such as trauma, life transitions, personal stressors, anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, grief, relationship issues, and sports performance.
(312) 548-8670 View (312) 548-8670
Photo of Shannon M Duffy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Shannon M Duffy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MFT, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60605  (Online Only)
Specifically, I work with athletes on their relationship with food in relation to sports performance.
Daily stressors are inevitable, and it is essential to build coping strategies for how to manage stress and combat negative thinking patterns. Creating behavior changes is a focal point of psychotherapy and beneficial in wanting a sense of structure and consistency in one's relationships and overall life. My overall goal for each client is to work on obtaining balance within their own healthy lifestyle. Through obtaining balance one's past and present symptoms can lessen and each individual and/or couple can focus on the positive attributes of their life and move forward towards reaching their goals and the life worth living.
Specifically, I work with athletes on their relationship with food in relation to sports performance.
Daily stressors are inevitable, and it is essential to build coping strategies for how to manage stress and combat negative thinking patterns. Creating behavior changes is a focal point of psychotherapy and beneficial in wanting a sense of structure and consistency in one's relationships and overall life. My overall goal for each client is to work on obtaining balance within their own healthy lifestyle. Through obtaining balance one's past and present symptoms can lessen and each individual and/or couple can focus on the positive attributes of their life and move forward towards reaching their goals and the life worth living.
(602) 932-1785 View (602) 932-1785
Photo of Sthefany Alviar, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chicago, IL
Sthefany Alviar
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD, MS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60642  (Online Only)
I specialize in complex trauma, anxiety, depression, behavioral challenges, relationship difficulties, parent-child relationship (PCIT), cultural identity/experiences, sports performance, and neurodivergent issues.
I believe one of the most courageous acts a person can take is to seek therapy and professional support. As your therapist, my goal is to work collaboratively with you to create a space where you feel safe to learn more about yourself and better understand your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Seeking to heal and be whole is a brave undertaking, and I hope to journey alongside you as we work towards your therapeutic goals.
I specialize in complex trauma, anxiety, depression, behavioral challenges, relationship difficulties, parent-child relationship (PCIT), cultural identity/experiences, sports performance, and neurodivergent issues.
I believe one of the most courageous acts a person can take is to seek therapy and professional support. As your therapist, my goal is to work collaboratively with you to create a space where you feel safe to learn more about yourself and better understand your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Seeking to heal and be whole is a brave undertaking, and I hope to journey alongside you as we work towards your therapeutic goals.
(312) 964-8838 View (312) 964-8838
Photo of Zachariah (Zach) Seifert, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Zachariah (Zach) Seifert
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60642  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with individuals who may be experiencing complex relationship challenges, faith Integration & spirituality concerns, sexual addiction & urge control difficulties, and emotion management & regulation. I have experience supporting people with with anxiety & depression, family of origin dynamics, military and service member populations, as well as athletes & sports related hurdles. Additionally, I work with couples who are married, interested in pre-marital support, dating, or thinking about starting a romantic relationship.
I specialize in working with individuals who may be experiencing complex relationship challenges, faith Integration & spirituality concerns, sexual addiction & urge control difficulties, and emotion management & regulation. I have experience supporting people with with anxiety & depression, family of origin dynamics, military and service member populations, as well as athletes & sports related hurdles. Additionally, I work with couples who are married, interested in pre-marital support, dating, or thinking about starting a romantic relationship.
(630) 326-8406 View (630) 326-8406
Photo of Private Practice Yoga Therapy, LLC, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Private Practice Yoga Therapy, LLC
Psychologist, PsyD, C-IAYT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60605
I offer an integration of psychotherapy and Yoga Therapy in tandem sessions. I am both a licensed health psychologist and a certified yoga therapist. My clients tend to be high functioning adults seeking private holistic therapy and pain relief. I assist with relationships, stress, back pain, neck pain, sports injuries, physical disabilities and medical conditions. Supported yoga postures, proper alignment, and longer holds facilitate deeper feeling, fuller opening, greater release. Yoga Therapy enhances rehabilitation of injuries naturally using gravity, tensegrity and breath to improve circulation and create more space in tight joints, relieving tension and fatigue, facilitating clarity and insight.
I offer an integration of psychotherapy and Yoga Therapy in tandem sessions. I am both a licensed health psychologist and a certified yoga therapist. My clients tend to be high functioning adults seeking private holistic therapy and pain relief. I assist with relationships, stress, back pain, neck pain, sports injuries, physical disabilities and medical conditions. Supported yoga postures, proper alignment, and longer holds facilitate deeper feeling, fuller opening, greater release. Yoga Therapy enhances rehabilitation of injuries naturally using gravity, tensegrity and breath to improve circulation and create more space in tight joints, relieving tension and fatigue, facilitating clarity and insight.
(312) 248-7204 View (312) 248-7204
Photo of Dr. Eleanor D Laser, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Dr. Eleanor D Laser
Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60611
I also work with people with autoimmune disorders, allergies, sugar addictions, sports related issues and more.
I am a psychotherapist with extensive experience using Hypnosis, NLP, EMDR and EFT for medical procedures, weight loss, anxiety reduction, essential tremor, and other issues. Through hypnosis, I can help you shift into a new way of thinking and being by deleting old messages and old programmed behaviors. We can replace old behaviors that no longer serve you with new thoughts and actions and that will improve the quality of your life and give you the peace and comfort. I am a coauthor of Patient Sedation Without Medication. Please visit my website www.laserhypnosis.com.
I also work with people with autoimmune disorders, allergies, sugar addictions, sports related issues and more.
I am a psychotherapist with extensive experience using Hypnosis, NLP, EMDR and EFT for medical procedures, weight loss, anxiety reduction, essential tremor, and other issues. Through hypnosis, I can help you shift into a new way of thinking and being by deleting old messages and old programmed behaviors. We can replace old behaviors that no longer serve you with new thoughts and actions and that will improve the quality of your life and give you the peace and comfort. I am a coauthor of Patient Sedation Without Medication. Please visit my website www.laserhypnosis.com.
(312) 465-4993 View (312) 465-4993
Photo of Nicholas J Piechotte, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Nicholas J Piechotte
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, CADC, EMDR
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
I enjoy spending time watching movies, listening to music, exploring new restaurants and playing sports.
I approach therapy with positivity, mindfulness, humor and goals. I am a certified substance abuse counselor and an EMDR trained clinician. I also incorporate spirituality to holistically treat my clients mind, body and soul. My clinical skills are rooted in CBT, DBT, Psycho-dynamic and Motivational Interviewing.
I enjoy spending time watching movies, listening to music, exploring new restaurants and playing sports.
I approach therapy with positivity, mindfulness, humor and goals. I am a certified substance abuse counselor and an EMDR trained clinician. I also incorporate spirituality to holistically treat my clients mind, body and soul. My clinical skills are rooted in CBT, DBT, Psycho-dynamic and Motivational Interviewing.
(312) 874-5275 View (312) 874-5275
Photo of Jenny H Conviser, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Jenny H Conviser
Psychologist, PsyD, (CEDS)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60611
It often takes courage to come in for the first session, and I am glad that you are making the first step in reaching out for support. My goal is to create a safe place where we can work together towards your individual goals. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and an Assistant Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences in the Feinberg School of Medicine, and on staff at Northwestern Memorial Hospital. I am Certified in both Sport Psychology and Child and Family Therapy. I specialize in eating and weight-related disorders, couples therapy, sports psychology and women's health.
It often takes courage to come in for the first session, and I am glad that you are making the first step in reaching out for support. My goal is to create a safe place where we can work together towards your individual goals. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and an Assistant Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences in the Feinberg School of Medicine, and on staff at Northwestern Memorial Hospital. I am Certified in both Sport Psychology and Child and Family Therapy. I specialize in eating and weight-related disorders, couples therapy, sports psychology and women's health.
(872) 274-3493 View (872) 274-3493
Photo of Konstandinos (Kosta) Papazoglou, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chicago, IL
Konstandinos (Kosta) Papazoglou
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60626
School/Sports/Career Performance.
Kosta graduated from Roosevelt University with a master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and is working towards his LPC. Kosta has experience working with adolescents, adults, and the elderly, treating depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, personality disorders and psychosis using cognitive behavior therapy, mindfulness, solution-focused therapy, along with narrative approach. Kosta develops therapeutic relationships based on trust and non-judgment, developing holistic and non-blaming solutions to problems with clients as the authority in their life.
School/Sports/Career Performance.
Kosta graduated from Roosevelt University with a master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and is working towards his LPC. Kosta has experience working with adolescents, adults, and the elderly, treating depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, personality disorders and psychosis using cognitive behavior therapy, mindfulness, solution-focused therapy, along with narrative approach. Kosta develops therapeutic relationships based on trust and non-judgment, developing holistic and non-blaming solutions to problems with clients as the authority in their life.
(630) 509-0274 View (630) 509-0274
Photo of Sarah Farris, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Sarah Farris
Counselor, MA, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
When anxiety becomes overwhelming, it interferes with relationships, confidence, and the ability to perform your best. Breaking the avoidance, overthinking, checking and self-doubt cycle is possible. I take a warm and enthusiastic approach in guiding the therapeutic process for adults living with OCD, panic attacks, phobias, illness anxiety, sports performance anxiety, skin picking and hair pulling. I have over 11 years of counseling experience and 20 years in the mental health field. My work now focuses on helping adults, athletes, university students, and working professionals overcome obsessive worry and return to valued living.
When anxiety becomes overwhelming, it interferes with relationships, confidence, and the ability to perform your best. Breaking the avoidance, overthinking, checking and self-doubt cycle is possible. I take a warm and enthusiastic approach in guiding the therapeutic process for adults living with OCD, panic attacks, phobias, illness anxiety, sports performance anxiety, skin picking and hair pulling. I have over 11 years of counseling experience and 20 years in the mental health field. My work now focuses on helping adults, athletes, university students, and working professionals overcome obsessive worry and return to valued living.
(773) 492-8532 View (773) 492-8532
Photo of Suzette Jacob, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Suzette Jacob
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60654  (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Suzette Jacob, MSW, LCSW, and I'm here to connect with you – whether you're an adult, a teen, or even an athlete, seeking positive life changes. I firmly believe that addressing concerns directly fosters growth and transformation. I have experience working with people who have issues related to sports performance, depression, anxiety, life transitions, and stress management. I'm committed to unlocking potential and elevating lives. I'm here to create a safe space where you can explore your journey, with a holistic approach that considers your needs, challenges, and aspirations.
Hello, I'm Suzette Jacob, MSW, LCSW, and I'm here to connect with you – whether you're an adult, a teen, or even an athlete, seeking positive life changes. I firmly believe that addressing concerns directly fosters growth and transformation. I have experience working with people who have issues related to sports performance, depression, anxiety, life transitions, and stress management. I'm committed to unlocking potential and elevating lives. I'm here to create a safe space where you can explore your journey, with a holistic approach that considers your needs, challenges, and aspirations.
(815) 662-0746 View (815) 662-0746

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.