Balancing Therapy and Coaching:

Athletics have always been a core part of my life. From playing basketball and volleyball in high school to competing as a collegiate volleyball player, I have firsthand experience with the challenges of being a student-athlete. Over time, I realized that success in sports isn’t just about physical performance—it’s equally about mental resilience. This realization led me to become both a licensed mental health therapist and a DIII men’s volleyball coach, allowing me to support athletes both on and off the court.

In this blog, I’ll share how my dual roles in therapy and coaching help student-athletes navigate mental health challenges, improve performance, and achieve balance in life.

During my time as an athlete, I often noticed that mental health support was lacking in sports. While physical conditioning and game strategy were prioritized, discussions about anxiety, stress management, and emotional well-being were rare. This gap inspired me to pursue a career in sports psychology and mental health counseling.

Now, as a licensed therapist and volleyball coach, I help student-athletes develop coping strategies, resilience, and a strong mental game. My mission is to ensure athletes receive the psychological support they need to thrive in sports and life.

Athletes face immense pressure from coaches, parents, academics, and competition. Ignoring mental health can lead to performance anxiety, burnout, and decreased motivation. That’s why it’s essential to integrate mental wellness strategies into training routines.

Key Mental Health Challenges for Athletes:

As both a coach and therapist, I approach training sessions with a unique perspective. My coaching philosophy incorporates psychological principles to help athletes build confidence, focus, and emotional regulation.

How I Integrate Mental Health into Coaching:

This holistic coaching style fosters not only better athletes but also mentally strong individuals who carry these skills beyond sports.

A strong coach-athlete relationship is built on trust, understanding, and communication. Because I understand the unique mental health struggles of student-athletes, my players feel comfortable coming to me with challenges beyond the game.

How Coaches Can Support Athlete Mental Health:

By creating a mentally supportive team culture, we can ensure athletes feel valued, motivated, and emotionally resilient.

Q: Why is mental health important for athletes?

A: Mental health is just as crucial as physical health in sports. Managing stress, anxiety, and confidence can directly impact performance, motivation, and overall well-being. Athletes who prioritize mental well-being often experience improved focus, resilience, and game-day performance.

Q: How can athletes improve their mental resilience?

A: Family courts may order a psychological evaluation during a custody dispute to gain expert insight into each parent’s ability to provide a stable, supportive environment. Evaluations help identify mental health concerns, parent-child relationships, and potential risks such as parental alienation or emotional abuse.

Q: What are common mental health challenges athletes face?

A: Many athletes struggle with performance anxiety, burnout, depression, and self-doubt. The pressure to succeed, combined with rigorous training schedules, can take a toll on mental well-being. Recognizing and addressing these challenges is key to maintaining a healthy balance.

Q: How does coaching impact an athlete’s mental health?

A: A coach plays a vital role in shaping an athlete’s mindset and emotional well-being. Supportive coaching that prioritizes mental health can improve confidence, reduce stress, and create a more positive sports experience. Coaches who integrate mental health strategies help athletes perform better both on and off the field.