Sport & Exercise Psychology Services

 

Sport & exercise psychology is the application of psychological concepts and skills in a sport or exercise setting. Many athletes utilize psychological skills training to gain better control over their minds and bodies to optimize their athletic performance. Athletes of all ages and skill levels can benefit from such services. Performance enhancement issues may include:

 

Performance anxiety (“choking”)

Fear of injury/re-injury

Recovering from injury

Difficulties sustaining focus and concentration

Aggression enhancement/reduction

Burnout and motivation enhancement

Career transitions out of sport

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Athletes may also experience mental health concerns that negatively impact their physical performance and require the knowledge and skills of a mental health professional, including:

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Depression

Anxiety

Drug/alcohol abuse/dependence

Domestic violence

Grief

Shoplifting

Relationship difficulties

Sexuality/sexual orientation issues

Sexual addiction

Past sexual trauma

Caretaking for a loved one

General adjustment issues

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Consultation sessions for coaches can assist coaching professionals who want to support an athlete experiencing emotional or performance issues, who want assistance improving their own coaching style from a psychological stand-point, and/or to have support in dealing with their own emotional issues.

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Sport and exercise psychology services are not only for athletes. Everyday exercisers (beginner to advanced/elite) can also benefit from these services to enhance their performance and help them reach their fitness goals. These services can include:

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Motivation enhancement

Body image issues

Goal setting for weight loss/fitness success

Overcoming injury

Controlling problematic eating behaviors

Social anxiety in a group fitness/gym environment

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As a fitness enthusiast and spin instructor, Dr. Hayes also loves applying her knowledge and skills about sport and exercise psychology in non-clinical settings. Check out an article in the Houston Chronicle about her use of sport and exercise psychology principles in a gym setting. 

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