Performance Psychology for Competitive Athletes

As a former elite hockey player and licensed therapist, I know firsthand the pressures young athletes face. Youth sports should be an incredible opportunity for growth, learning, and joy—but too often, they come with stress, self-doubt, or even burnout. That’s where performance psychology can help.

A Winning Mindset is Trainable

The mental side of sports is just as important as the physical. In fact, it's often what separates good athletes from great ones. I work with youth athletes to build mental skills that improve their performance and confidence, helping them thrive in the game—and in life.

Here’s what we focus on:

  • Confidence Building: Breaking free from self-doubt and stepping into belief in their abilities.
  • Resiliency: Handling setbacks with strength and a mindset to grow.
  • Focus: Staying present under pressure, whether it's in competition or practice.
  • Team Dynamics: Navigating the highs and lows of working with teammates and coaches.
  • Managing Performance Anxiety: Learning to calm nerves and perform at their best.

I help athletes improve their mental fitness.

I'm a licensed therapist with OHL and NHL experience. I also run Headspace Hockey, which blends on-ice training with mental fitness.

I’ve been an entrepreneur, an aid worker, an advertising executive, and a professional athlete. I’ve moved 15 times, broken 16 bones, had two kids, and failed spectacularly on multiple occasions.

Here’s what I’ve learned: change is inevitable, yet unexpected. If you’re considering a change, in the midst of one, or in need of one, I’m here to help you navigate it with more clarity, joy, and humanity.
Josh Chambers

How I Can Help

How I work with competitive athletes:

  • 1:1 Coaching Sessions tailored to their unique needs.
  • Workshops for Teams or Clubs to build group cohesion and shared mental strength.
  • Parent Support to help you navigate your role in your child’s athletic journey.

Education & Licensure

I have a masters in psychotherapy and counseling andI am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) within the Minnesota Board of Behavioral Health.

The Coaching Process

We'll start with a 15 minute call to see if we're a mutual fit. Then, we begin with four sessions – enough to make great progress, and few enough to keep it simple.

Pre-Session
  • Review and sign coaching agreement. 
Session 1
  • Discover goals and areas of exploration. 
  • Create a plan.
Session 2
  • Explore influences, roadblocks, and environmental context.
  • Revisit the plan and adjust if needed.  
  • Create an achievable strategy.
Sessions 3 - 4
  • Implement strategies between sessions. 
  • Review and assess progress. 
  • Adjust, or continue, with strategy.

Interested?

Let's schedule a 15 minute conversation to see if we'd be a good fit for each other.