Working in Sport Psychology

Incorporating sport and exercise psychology into clinical practice.

“…Because the field of sport and exercise psychology holds considerable appeal both for the public and practitioners, this is a good time for mental health practitioners who wish to transition into this practice (Hays, 2012). Opportunities are available for those who accept the challenge and are willing to add new skills, knowledge, and credentials to their existing ones.…”

Clinical sport psychology.

“…For internationally focused information, the International Journal of Sport and Exercise Psychology and the International Journal of Sport Psychology are of particular value. Psychologists with limited background in sport psychology can find myriad avenues to further learning, whether via reading, coursework, workshops, or mentored experience (Hays, 2012).…”

“…Clinical sport psychology practice provides an opportunity to work with a generally healthy population engaged in future-focused, inspiring pursuits. For psychologists, the development of such a specialty "niche" can add visibility and marketability while offsetting the current practice complexities of declining fees and intensified practice flux (Hays, 2012). Sport psychology techniques and clinical work with athletes can accommodate a variety of theoretical perspectives.…”

“…The practice of sport psychology offers psychologists a number of professional opportunities and benefits. Among these are niche development-a growth or improvementdirected focus that aligns well with positive psychology and mindfulness-and goal-directed clients interested in change (Hays, 2012).…”

“…Applications to other populations. Psychological skills techniques developed initially for athlete populations can be applied, with due knowledge of contextual variables, to other performance populations, including performing artists, business executives, and professionals in high-risk occupations (Hays, 2009(Hays, , 2012Murphy, 2012).…”