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🏅Sport Psychology

Sport Psychology is the study and application of psychological principles to enhance performance, motivation, and well-being among individuals in high-pressure, achievement-focused environments.
While traditionally associated with athletes, this field also supports military personnel, performing artists (e.g., dancers, musicians), medical professionals (e.g., surgeons), business professionals (e.g., traders, CEOs, etc), and tactical professionals (e.g., firefighters, law enforcement) who rely on mental resilience, focus, and emotional regulation to thrive. Sport psychologists help these individuals optimize performance, manage stress and anxiety, recover from setbacks or injury, and build confidence using tailored interventions like goal-setting, visualization, mindfulness, and cognitive-behavioral techniques.

Graduate School Requirements

Option 1:
Master’s, PsyD, or PhD in Sport Psychology
Option 2:
Master’s, PsyD, or PhD in Clinical or Counseling Psychology with a concentration in sport and performance
*See Important Licensing Note below

(See the Types of Degrees page for additional information)

Internship and practicum experiences are commonly required for both options.

Quick Tip: When exploring grad programs, prioritize those with faculty who hold the CMPC credential and can supervise your applied hours during your studies.

 

Common Workplaces: 

  • Professional sports teams
  • Colleges/universities
  • Rehab centers
  • Private practice
  • Military settings

Licenses/Certifications: 

  • CMPC (Certified Mental Performance Consultant)
  • *State licensure as counselor or psychologist

*Important Licensing Note: Choosing the clinical or counseling psychology route allows for state licensure as a psychologist or counselor, enabling practitioners to diagnose and treat mental health disorders. In contrast, a degree specifically in sport psychology may not meet licensure requirements in many states. Without licensure, sport psychologists must refer clients to qualified professionals if clinical treatment is needed.

Important Websites and Additional Resources

License

Graduate School Guide for Careers in Psychology Copyright © by scholze. All Rights Reserved.