(Quick heads-up: These posts were written back when I was still training and figuring things out. You can tell because, well, I’ve definitely grown since then! (If you spot me sounding a bit like a rookie, just remember: even pros start somewhere 😉)
Starting Out
My applied work began with a short presentation to the team, introducing sport psychology, what it is and how it can elevate their performance. I explained how consultation sessions work, ethical practice, and clients’ rights.
I made it almost ‘mandatory’ for every player to have at least one intake session, not asking if they wanted to, but when they were available. A few players were reluctant, saying they didn’t think it was for them or that it’d be a waste of time. But most of the team had at least one session, and about 10 became regulars during my time there.
After the intake, I usually scheduled the next session about four weeks later, at this time there wasn’t any evidenced-based rationale behind that, just enough time for both of us to reflect and for me to plan the next steps.
Navigating the Work
To prepare for the next session, I’d review my notes carefully, recalling the conversation and highlighting anything worth diving deeper into. For example, if a player mentioned anxiety before games, I wouldn’t explore it much in the intake session since I like to keep it light at first. But I’d bring it up next time to see how much it actually affects their performance or life.
This way, anxiety might become a focused topic for session two. I used the same process to uncover other important issues based on what the player shared.
The sessions varied. Some players were quiet or less self-aware, giving short answers that required me to gently probe for more. Others were great conversationalists, and those sessions flowed naturally, feeling more like mutual conversations than interviews, which I loved.
Intervention
One of the hardest parts was deciding when to introduce an intervention or technique. For example, after four 45-60 minute sessions and lots of observations, I suggested a player with pre-performance anxiety try a pre-performance routine.
Was this the right time? Was it enough info? I wasn’t sure. But I based my decision on facts, research, and the player’s best interest.
I made sure they understood why I suggested it, felt comfortable trying it, and encouraged them to ask questions. Follow-ups reviewed how the intervention worked and adjusted the approach based on their feedback.
Coming To An End
My placement ended with the season as the club couldn’t or didn’t want to fund my further qualifications. Despite that, it was an invaluable experience where I learned a lot and developed my own style.
What worked at this club may not work at the next—and that’s okay. You’ll develop your own way too. The flow of observation to intervention might look different for you, and that’s part of the growth.
Do your research, trust your judgement, and keep adapting to best support the athlete.
Written by Natasha Bains
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