What is sport psychology?

• Sport psychology is a type of mental training and counseling that is used by individual athletes, performers, coaches, and teams who want to improve or maintain their performance.

• Athletes typically recognize the importance of physical training and outstanding athletes integrate mental training with the physical component to consistently perform their best.

 

Who uses sport psychology?

• Sport psychology is for those who wish to develop or improve their mind to perform with greater confidence, consistency, and at the upper range of their potential.

 

What does sport psychology look like? 

• Counseling, one-on-one meetings in confidential setting to discuss any number of topics (see below) relating to sport and life.

• Workshops or sessions for teams, coaches, or captains to learn new skills related to their specifc group.

 

Common topics faced by athletes that can be addressed through sport psychology counseling:

• Anxiety

• Athletic identity

• Body image

• Burnout

• Careers outside of sport

• Choking

• Commitment

• Communication

• Concentration

• Confidence

• Depression

• Disordered eating

• Distractions

• Emotion regulation

• Energy management

• Family challenges

• Inconsistent performances

• Injury

• Lack of enjoyment in sport

• Mental skills for sport (i.e. imagery, self-talk, goal setting, relaxation, mindfulness)

• Motivation

• Overcoming adversity

• Performance slumps

• Relationship difficulties

• Recovery

• Self-care 

• Transitions (in and out of sport)