Sport & Performance Psychology

Sport & Performance Psychology Q & A

What is sport and performance psychology?

Sport and performance psychology helps you achieve more at work or when competing, training, or simply exercising.

Mental and emotional skills are often equally important as technique and physical fitness in helping you do your best. Sport and performance psychology addresses any needs you have in this area, boosting your performance to a higher level and enhancing your overall well-being.

Sport and performance psychology is now a vital aspect in all executive professionals and professional sports, from track and field and swimming to baseball and tennis. But regardless of the level you’re at or goals you’re aiming for, Dr. Shelton at Choulet Wellness can help.

What problems can sport and performance psychology address?

Sport and performance psychology can address many common issues, including:

Lack of confidence

If you don’t feel confident that you can perform at your best, chances are that you won’t achieve your goals when the time comes.

Lack of motivation

It’s not uncommon to feel tired and unmotivated occasionally when you’re training or exercising regularly. However, if you’re having difficulties with energy and motivation repeatedly, there could be an underlying issue that needs addressing.

Motivational difficulties often have their roots in physical or mental stresses. Dr. Shelton can help you identify the cause and find ways to overcome the problem.

Injuries and setbacks

If you’ve been injured or suffered a major performance setback, the emotional stress can lead to depression, further affecting your confidence.

Lack of focus

Attentional focus is the ability to ignore distractions like the spectators and concentrate on what you’re doing. However, tuning out the noise and awareness of being watched is quite a challenge for some people.

What techniques are used in sport and performance psychology?

Dr. Shelton uses a variety of sport and performance psychology techniques when helping clients. These include:

Visualization and mental rehearsal

Visualization is a kind of self-hypnosis, where you imagine yourself performing at your best. This improves your confidence and enhances your abilities.

Self-talk and positive mental attitude

It’s not always easy to guide your mind to positive thoughts. However, with regular mental skills training, Dr. Shelton can help you reduce anxiety and stress, minimize distractions, and focus on positive outcomes.

Mental and emotional resilience training

Dr. Shelton shows you how to use mental skills to cope with an injury or other setback.

Some of the approaches Dr. Shelton uses include deep breathing, body awareness, mindfulness, performance enhancement, behavioral treatment for body-focused repetitive behaviors, stress management, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and team building.
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To find out how sport and performance psychology could benefit you, call Choulet Wellness: Scottsdale Concierge Psychiatry & Therapy today or book an appointment online.