Sports Psychology

Sports psychology is a specific area of psychology that addresses the mental and psychological factors that influence performance in sports, as well as the mental health and well-being of athletes.

Sports psychologists help young and adult athletes achieve optimal performance through psychological techniques, motivation strategies, and stress and anxiety management. Sports psychology can also include mental training and performance enhancement strategies designed to help athletes improve focus, confidence, motivation, and consistency under pressure.

CBT and related skills (such as mindfulness) have been found to enhance athletic performance and reduce performance anxiety. CBT skills can also be helpful when returning to training and competing after an injury, when it is common to experience anxiety. Both teen and adult athletes may feel nervous about returning to their sport after an injury and working with a therapist may be an important part of their recovery process.

Many of CBT Denver’s therapists, particularly Dr. Keri Johns, have specific training and expertise in Sports Psychology with both teen and adult athletes, whether they are professional athletes or active people.