Premier Sport Psychology

Nothing is neutral in high-level performance training.

You are either enhancing your abilities or detracting from them. Michael Jordan, Jack Nicklaus, Reggie Jackson, Larry Bird, Fran Tarkenton, Tiger Woods and many other world-class athletes have credited great performances to the mental side of the game. In essence, what differentiates physically prepared top level athletes is psychological. Coaches like John Wooden also recognize the importance of mental preparation. “Do not let what you cannot do interfere with what you can do” and “Failing to prepare is preparing to fail.” If the mental side of the game accounts for 80% of performance or 40% or only 20%, doesn’t it make sense to spend at least some time on mental training?

Confidence and Mental Toughness

One of the greatest predictors of success is one’s belief in his or her capabilities to perform. Albert Bandura coined the term “Self-Efficacy” to describe this phenomenon. Much research has been dedicated to this construct and how it impacts performance (see the website dedicated to this theory posted on the University of Emory Website.  Premier Sport Psychology helps athletes and performers strengthen their belief which can lead to higher levels of confidence and mental toughness. Having a strong belief in one’s capabilities can help individuals perform well in stressful situations where doubt, negative self-talk, and poor focus often slip into our minds and inhibit our abilities to perform at our full potential.

Team Chemistry

Often one of the most elusive factors that sets one team above the rest is team chemistry. Premier Sport Psychology has many tools and strategies it can implement to foster an environment that nurtures team trust and healthy communication from which positive chemistry can grow and flourish.

Cognitive Training

Imagery, pre-performance routines, focus, motivation, anxiety management, and self-talk are all fundamental constructs that peak performance is built upon. Premier Sport Psychology will work with you to create a developmental regimen that can enhance your cognitive control and abilities during competition.

Strategic Performance Planning

Goals and aspirations help define what is relevant and what is irrelevant in our training. So often athletes tend to focus on factors they cannot control, and yet are surprised when their performance lacks in the areas over which they do have control. Premier Sport Psychology works with athletes to create a customized plan targeting the essential, relevant aspects of the mental game to enhance performance in an efficient and effective manner, leading to long-term sustainable results.

Anxiety Management

Many athletes struggle to control their emotions before a big competition. Premier Sport Psychology first helps athletes manage their emotions and anxiety by enhancing their emotional intelligence, followed by creating a customized mental strategy to allow the athlete to feel more comfortable and confident before and during competition.

Psychological Well-Being

Athletes, like all other humans, deal with “life” events. Depression, anxiety, substance abuse, transition adjustments, relationship issues, etc., can affect athletes as well as non-athletes. Premier Sport Psychology understands how these factors play a role in overall well-being and performance. We are qualified and experienced in helping athletes get the support they need to overcome these conditions.

Injury Recovery

Recovering from a significant athletic injury can be challenging. It can take a toll both physically as well as emotionally. Premier Sport Psychology can work with athletes to develop confidence and a positive attitude which can enhance recovery.