FAQ’s
What to look for in seeking Sport and Performance Psychology Services? Mental Skills Training (MST)
Please be aware that anybody can state they specialize in this area whether the individual/group are counsellors, social workers, psychologists or even someone with no applicable education/experience at all. However, this area is specialized in nature requiring specific education, supervision, and continuing education to stay abreast of the latest research and practical/applied applications in delivering services. When seeking a professional in this area ask to see their transcripts that prove they have taken courses in Sport and Performance Psychology from a reputable school, they have proof of professional supervision in their education in applying knowledge and skills, have proof of ongoing supervision as a professional and can demonstrate they are continually engaged in continuing education with relevant documentation.
What sports and performers do you work with?
I work with all sports and performers whether it be individual, team based sports, and performers in such areas as music, dance, leadership, business and any area that requires performance.
What age groups do you provide services to?
I work with age groups from 8 years old and up all the way up to seniors level sport teams, individual athletes, and performance needs outside of sport. Please note, I only provide MST services to athletes/performers as they start to specialize in their sport which can commonly be at the age of 12 years old. There can be preliminary work I can do with athletes/performers that are under 12 years old, however it will be modified as I strongly believe that athletes/performers should focus on having fun and/or playing other sports/performing areas outside of their main interest. If you would like to consult further about this please contact me.
What is the length of sessions or presentations that you offer?
Individual sessions typically are one hour in length and most often I share a google doc with athlete/performer and/or parent where a summary of the session is provided, videos to view, and tasks to focus on. Team sessions usually last 1 hour, however I have done sessions that have been 3 hours in length all the way up to a full 8 hour day session.
Do you work with athletes/performers recovering from injury?
Yes, this is a part of my education and training in Sport and Performance Psychology. Mental Skills Training (MST) can be an invaluable part of recovery for athlete. Part of my philosophy is to work collaboratively not only with the athlete, but all their systems of support including family, coaches, and/or professionals such as physiotherapists, massage therapists, etc.
What presentations do you offer for parents?
I offer presentations to parents that focus on the foundations of mental skills training, developmental considerations for athletes/performers, how best to support an athlete/performer along with balancing being athlete/performer and an individual outside of this. I can customize these sessions to the needs of all groups depending on what is most valuable for a group to discuss. This could include discussion on mental health and the intersection with being an athlete.
What presentations and/or mental skills training do you offer for coaches?
I offer presentations, providing skills and knowledge, on the foundations of MST along with direct hand’s on learning to integrate information. Furthermore, team cohesion is an area that I specialize in as well to help prepare and sustain team success over the course of a season/performing season.
Can you provide additional information and/or resources on the topics that you present on?
Following sessions and/or presentations I can provide a short summary of information and applicable resources/websites to review.
Do you provide services outside of Calgary and area?
Yes, I do. I would need advanced notice to do this.
What sports and performers do you work with?
While I am educated and trained in the areas of Sport and Performance Psychology and Mental Health I will not work with an athlete/performer in both areas. Either I can provide services related to Sport and Performance Psychology (Mental Skills Training) or provide services in a Mental Health context. If I am providing MST services and I feel that an athlete/performer could benefit from therapy services I will have this discussion with the athlete/performer, and applicable supports in their life, as required, and provide recommendations to a professional colleague in this area.