Sports Performance Therapists in New York, NY

Photo of Dr. James Macchia, PhD, LCP, Psychologist
Dr. James Macchia
Psychologist, PhD, LCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10018
I carry a specialty in performance psychology developed during my time with Rutgers athletics, where I worked with NCAA Division I athletes and coaches across different sports.
As a licensed clinical psychologist, I am committed to serving adults from all walks of life. I have experience treating a wide array of presenting concerns including but not limited to anxiety, depression, interpersonal conflict, stressful life transitions, work-related stress, relationship and dating difficulty, trauma, grief and loss, identity concerns, and chronic pain/illness. My approach to therapy is integrative and incorporates relational, cognitive, and behavioral techniques. I work collaboratively with my clients to help them increase self-awareness and work toward their goals, no matter how specific or broad they may be.
I carry a specialty in performance psychology developed during my time with Rutgers athletics, where I worked with NCAA Division I athletes and coaches across different sports.
As a licensed clinical psychologist, I am committed to serving adults from all walks of life. I have experience treating a wide array of presenting concerns including but not limited to anxiety, depression, interpersonal conflict, stressful life transitions, work-related stress, relationship and dating difficulty, trauma, grief and loss, identity concerns, and chronic pain/illness. My approach to therapy is integrative and incorporates relational, cognitive, and behavioral techniques. I work collaboratively with my clients to help them increase self-awareness and work toward their goals, no matter how specific or broad they may be.
(646) 437-8859 View (646) 437-8859
Photo of Lauren D'Ambrosio, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren D'Ambrosio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10010
A former celebrated varsity college athlete, I use that experience to better understand individuals under performance-based pressures; sports, actors, performers, artists, entrepreneurs and more.
I understand and honor the courage needed to take the first step towards change in your life. Navigating the human condition can often be immensely painful and this is why I believe so strongly in compassionate and supportive therapeutic engagement.  The beauty and growth in life that we are all seeking is often discovered amidst pain and discomfort. My training and experience allow me to comprehend the human experience, which can include trauma, life stressors, and circumstances from the past and/or present that leave people feeling stuck and confused. I especially enjoy working with the LGBTQIA community.
A former celebrated varsity college athlete, I use that experience to better understand individuals under performance-based pressures; sports, actors, performers, artists, entrepreneurs and more.
I understand and honor the courage needed to take the first step towards change in your life. Navigating the human condition can often be immensely painful and this is why I believe so strongly in compassionate and supportive therapeutic engagement.  The beauty and growth in life that we are all seeking is often discovered amidst pain and discomfort. My training and experience allow me to comprehend the human experience, which can include trauma, life stressors, and circumstances from the past and/or present that leave people feeling stuck and confused. I especially enjoy working with the LGBTQIA community.
(917) 983-0406 View (917) 983-0406
Photo of Kamila Zapytowska Usuki, LCSW, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kamila Zapytowska Usuki
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10019  (Online Only)
My background in performing arts and sports (including Broadway and Olympics) makes me additionally aware of various pressures that can hinder personal and professional growth.
Overcoming obstacles in your life doesn't have to be a lonely process. Difficulties in personal or professional life can make anyone feel overwhelmed, confused or hopeless. Relationship problems, health issues, loss, pain or traumatic past can add to the distress. In a supportive and confidential atmosphere, we can discuss your challenges, thoughts and feelings, and together, make sense of your unique life's circumstances, whether you are in crisis, caught up in relationship conflicts, facing identity questions or repeating patterns that don't bring positive outcomes.
My background in performing arts and sports (including Broadway and Olympics) makes me additionally aware of various pressures that can hinder personal and professional growth.
Overcoming obstacles in your life doesn't have to be a lonely process. Difficulties in personal or professional life can make anyone feel overwhelmed, confused or hopeless. Relationship problems, health issues, loss, pain or traumatic past can add to the distress. In a supportive and confidential atmosphere, we can discuss your challenges, thoughts and feelings, and together, make sense of your unique life's circumstances, whether you are in crisis, caught up in relationship conflicts, facing identity questions or repeating patterns that don't bring positive outcomes.
(646) 859-1624 View (646) 859-1624
Photo of Dr. Nick Fernandez, PhD
Dr. Nick Fernandez
PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10016  (Online Only)
I also have experience working with Peak Performance issues, job coaching, and sports psychology.
I believe it is important to always take an individualized approach to therapy based on the specific needs of each of client. I like to take an active approach to therapy that incorporates contemporary clinical research findings with evidence-based therapeutic models. I integrate both psychodynamic psychotherapy and cognitive behavioral therapy to provide a collaborative and supportive therapeutic experience.
I also have experience working with Peak Performance issues, job coaching, and sports psychology.
I believe it is important to always take an individualized approach to therapy based on the specific needs of each of client. I like to take an active approach to therapy that incorporates contemporary clinical research findings with evidence-based therapeutic models. I integrate both psychodynamic psychotherapy and cognitive behavioral therapy to provide a collaborative and supportive therapeutic experience.
(929) 207-8235 View (929) 207-8235
Photo of Lana Krichmar, PhD, Psychologist
Lana Krichmar
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10005
My goal is to provide my clients with skills they can use on their own, to help them identify what is personally meaningful to them and address barriers to life satisfaction and improved relationships, as well as individual performance, specifically as it relates to sports.
Finding a psychologist who is a good fit, especially at the time of emotional crisis can be challenging. To find someone who is empathic, but also direct and firm, who is not afraid to call you out when you most need it, someone who understands the real life challenges of being a parent, teen, or young adult and who approaches challenges with a sense of humor and compassion, someone who has the right training, expertise, and schedule, can be daunting, to say the least. I am a CBT/DBT trained and practicing psychologist who is compassionate and direct.
My goal is to provide my clients with skills they can use on their own, to help them identify what is personally meaningful to them and address barriers to life satisfaction and improved relationships, as well as individual performance, specifically as it relates to sports.
Finding a psychologist who is a good fit, especially at the time of emotional crisis can be challenging. To find someone who is empathic, but also direct and firm, who is not afraid to call you out when you most need it, someone who understands the real life challenges of being a parent, teen, or young adult and who approaches challenges with a sense of humor and compassion, someone who has the right training, expertise, and schedule, can be daunting, to say the least. I am a CBT/DBT trained and practicing psychologist who is compassionate and direct.
(718) 255-9448 View (718) 255-9448
Photo of Daniel Kadish, PhD, Psychologist
Daniel Kadish
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10003
Sport psychology can help athletes address topics including: managing emotions and negative self talk; maintaining focus during practices and competitions; more effectively communicating with coaches and teammates; assessing strengths, areas in need of improvement, and authentic goals; and increasing enjoyment of sports.
As a clinical and sport psychologist, I generally work with clients who are seeking to reach higher levels of professional, athletic and academic achievement, yet are struggling with various types of anxiety. Issues may include fear of public performance, social nervousness, panic, perfectionism, and excessive worry. I frequently support athletes and student-athletes in learning to improve athletic performance with mental skills training while managing social, academic, and work pressures.
Sport psychology can help athletes address topics including: managing emotions and negative self talk; maintaining focus during practices and competitions; more effectively communicating with coaches and teammates; assessing strengths, areas in need of improvement, and authentic goals; and increasing enjoyment of sports.
As a clinical and sport psychologist, I generally work with clients who are seeking to reach higher levels of professional, athletic and academic achievement, yet are struggling with various types of anxiety. Issues may include fear of public performance, social nervousness, panic, perfectionism, and excessive worry. I frequently support athletes and student-athletes in learning to improve athletic performance with mental skills training while managing social, academic, and work pressures.
(917) 746-7681 View (917) 746-7681
Photo of Joan S Ingalls, EdD, LMHC, Counselor
Joan S Ingalls
Counselor, EdD, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10025  (Online Only)
I help people with the emotional and mental challenges of sports, theater and business performance.
People come to me with emotionally painful life issues - anxiety, depression, and troubled or failed relationships. I help them go beyond problem solving to creating richer, fuller lives. With over 30 years experience, I am an actively engaged therapist committed to helping my clients grow emotionally. Please contact me by email. I will respond promptly to email inquiries. If you prefer to text, please do so, but no voice messages please.
I help people with the emotional and mental challenges of sports, theater and business performance.
People come to me with emotionally painful life issues - anxiety, depression, and troubled or failed relationships. I help them go beyond problem solving to creating richer, fuller lives. With over 30 years experience, I am an actively engaged therapist committed to helping my clients grow emotionally. Please contact me by email. I will respond promptly to email inquiries. If you prefer to text, please do so, but no voice messages please.
(646) 351-1868 View (646) 351-1868
Photo of Hannah Greene, LCSW, C-DBT, CYMHS, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hannah Greene
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, C-DBT, CYMHS, CCTP
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10013  (Online Only)
My practice focuses on sports psychology, helping athletes manage performance anxiety and build mental resilience.
As a licensed clinical social worker with years of experience, I am dedicated to helping individuals of all ages navigate the complexities of mental health. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and adults, providing a compassionate and supportive environment for clients to explore their thoughts and feelings.
My practice focuses on sports psychology, helping athletes manage performance anxiety and build mental resilience.
As a licensed clinical social worker with years of experience, I am dedicated to helping individuals of all ages navigate the complexities of mental health. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and adults, providing a compassionate and supportive environment for clients to explore their thoughts and feelings.
(315) 871-5091 View (315) 871-5091
Photo of Kelsey Marinda, MA, LMHC, CPT, Counselor
Kelsey Marinda
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CPT
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10023  (Online Only)
My specialties include anxiety, depression, life transitions, and sports/performance.
Licensed in the state of New York and Washington. Everyone has a unique story that deserves care and support. It brings me immense joy to use my experience and education to serve each client and their specific needs. I am committed to supporting clients as they learn, heal, and grow. My background includes extensive studies in nutrition, physical health, and mental health. I am experienced working with a variety of individuals from industry professionals to adolescents. I am passionate about the importance of mental health as the foundation of a healthy life. Together, we will explore what that may look like for you. ​
My specialties include anxiety, depression, life transitions, and sports/performance.
Licensed in the state of New York and Washington. Everyone has a unique story that deserves care and support. It brings me immense joy to use my experience and education to serve each client and their specific needs. I am committed to supporting clients as they learn, heal, and grow. My background includes extensive studies in nutrition, physical health, and mental health. I am experienced working with a variety of individuals from industry professionals to adolescents. I am passionate about the importance of mental health as the foundation of a healthy life. Together, we will explore what that may look like for you. ​
(425) 307-4551 View (425) 307-4551
Photo of Mike Gross - TriState SportPsych, PsyD, LPC, CMPC, Psychologist
TriState SportPsych
Psychologist, PsyD, LPC, CMPC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10010
coaches, sports medicine personnel, parents).
TriState SportPsych provides sport psychology services for athletes of all ages and levels of competition. At TriState SportPsych we consider it our mission to inspire athletes and those around them to connect, enjoy, and achieve by delivering the newest innovations in the rapidly evolving field of sport psychology. At TriState SportPsych, we deeply enjoy working with athletes (youth to professional) as they take steps towards mastery and wellness both in life and sport. Visit us at www.tristatesportpsych.com
coaches, sports medicine personnel, parents).
TriState SportPsych provides sport psychology services for athletes of all ages and levels of competition. At TriState SportPsych we consider it our mission to inspire athletes and those around them to connect, enjoy, and achieve by delivering the newest innovations in the rapidly evolving field of sport psychology. At TriState SportPsych, we deeply enjoy working with athletes (youth to professional) as they take steps towards mastery and wellness both in life and sport. Visit us at www.tristatesportpsych.com
(908) 386-4488 View (908) 386-4488
Photo of Jesse C. Palermo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jesse C. Palermo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10007
I graduated from Princeton University and completed my clinical education at Columbia University. I have extensive experience in both mental health and substance abuse modalities of treatment, and primarily work with adults and young adults. The most common focuses of therapy are depression, anxiety, difficulties with coping, panic disorders, sports performance, relationships, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and trauma.
I graduated from Princeton University and completed my clinical education at Columbia University. I have extensive experience in both mental health and substance abuse modalities of treatment, and primarily work with adults and young adults. The most common focuses of therapy are depression, anxiety, difficulties with coping, panic disorders, sports performance, relationships, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and trauma.
(315) 386-6596 View (315) 386-6596
Photo of Rebecca Pistocchi, LMHC
Rebecca Pistocchi
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
New York, NY 10011  (Online Only)
I am also a Certified Mental Game Coach and Sports Nutrition Coach, focusing on athletes and coaches.
Are you transitioning to or from college? Do you experience anxiety around sports performance and strategy? Is the need to be perfect ingrained in you? I work with young adults experiencing anxiety, depression, life transitions, and relationship stressors. Whether it's graduating high school and moving on to college or graduating college and moving on to the "real world", we can do this together. Encountering feelings of anxiety, perfectionism, poor self-esteem, and depression are all common. Bringing a consistent space for you to process, I will work through patterns that just aren't working for you anymore.
I am also a Certified Mental Game Coach and Sports Nutrition Coach, focusing on athletes and coaches.
Are you transitioning to or from college? Do you experience anxiety around sports performance and strategy? Is the need to be perfect ingrained in you? I work with young adults experiencing anxiety, depression, life transitions, and relationship stressors. Whether it's graduating high school and moving on to college or graduating college and moving on to the "real world", we can do this together. Encountering feelings of anxiety, perfectionism, poor self-esteem, and depression are all common. Bringing a consistent space for you to process, I will work through patterns that just aren't working for you anymore.
(516) 517-0941 View (516) 517-0941
Photo of Caity Thompson, LMHC, CRC
Caity Thompson
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, CRC
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
New York, NY 10002
I work with adults ages 22-38 looking to develop personally and professionally. I specialize in helping my clients with coping with anxiety and stress, make decisions, make life transitions, improve self-esteem, and achieve personal advancement. I have a sports background that has led me to have a methodical, goal-oriented, results-driven therapy style. My treatment with you will be tailored to your goals and desired outcomes for therapy.
I work with adults ages 22-38 looking to develop personally and professionally. I specialize in helping my clients with coping with anxiety and stress, make decisions, make life transitions, improve self-esteem, and achieve personal advancement. I have a sports background that has led me to have a methodical, goal-oriented, results-driven therapy style. My treatment with you will be tailored to your goals and desired outcomes for therapy.
(971) 224-7378 View (971) 224-7378
Photo of Julie Lilien, LMSW, MS
Julie Lilien
LMSW, MS
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10008
My background in competitive sports gives me the drive and focus to help my clients also break down issues into smaller goals.
My ideal client is a male/female in their late 20's, 30's, 40's or 50's who has a specific life issue they want to resolve. Whether that's an issue with dating, getting into a relationship and maintaining it, wanting to start a family, or challenges in your marriage, I am extremely good at dissecting the life issues and mapping out a plan for moving forward. i am an expert at helping solve parenting issues with divorced or separated couples. I understand relationships at every age and stage.
My background in competitive sports gives me the drive and focus to help my clients also break down issues into smaller goals.
My ideal client is a male/female in their late 20's, 30's, 40's or 50's who has a specific life issue they want to resolve. Whether that's an issue with dating, getting into a relationship and maintaining it, wanting to start a family, or challenges in your marriage, I am extremely good at dissecting the life issues and mapping out a plan for moving forward. i am an expert at helping solve parenting issues with divorced or separated couples. I understand relationships at every age and stage.
(917) 708-8816 View (917) 708-8816
Photo of Elise McMullen Bitter, LMHC, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Elise McMullen Bitter
Counselor, LMHC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
New York, NY 10013
I believe that the client and therapist relationship is essential to the therapeutic process, so my approach is supportive and collaborative. My style is warm, empathic, and non-judgmental while also honest and direct. Based on my personal and professional expertise in sports psychology and career/executive coaching, I will help you master the sport of managing your most meaningful relationships, mental health, and goals. I do so by utilizing holistic and evidence-based approaches, and personalize your treatment based on what's most effective for you. We'll balance the seriousness with laughter & no problem is too small to discuss!
I believe that the client and therapist relationship is essential to the therapeutic process, so my approach is supportive and collaborative. My style is warm, empathic, and non-judgmental while also honest and direct. Based on my personal and professional expertise in sports psychology and career/executive coaching, I will help you master the sport of managing your most meaningful relationships, mental health, and goals. I do so by utilizing holistic and evidence-based approaches, and personalize your treatment based on what's most effective for you. We'll balance the seriousness with laughter & no problem is too small to discuss!
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Photo of Elie Dwek, LMSW
Elie Dwek
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
New York, NY 10010
I am experienced and passionate about treating a range of disorders including depression, anxiety, ADHD, learning disorders and individuals with high functioning autism. I am particularly focused on helping individuals improve their self esteem. Whether it be for my passion for changing the stigma on men’s mental health, working performance anxiety in athletes at the highest level of their sports or helping high functioning individuals on the autism spectrum overcome their social anxiety and improve their communication with peers.
I am experienced and passionate about treating a range of disorders including depression, anxiety, ADHD, learning disorders and individuals with high functioning autism. I am particularly focused on helping individuals improve their self esteem. Whether it be for my passion for changing the stigma on men’s mental health, working performance anxiety in athletes at the highest level of their sports or helping high functioning individuals on the autism spectrum overcome their social anxiety and improve their communication with peers.
(332) 239-2538 View (332) 239-2538
Photo of Zachary Alti, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Zachary Alti
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001
Is your relationship stressful? I have helped hundreds of couples with communication issues, infidelity, and emotional detachment. I also specialize in performance enhancement for high achievers in finance, tech, energy, politics, and sports. Set up a free consultation to see if I can be of service to you.
Is your relationship stressful? I have helped hundreds of couples with communication issues, infidelity, and emotional detachment. I also specialize in performance enhancement for high achievers in finance, tech, energy, politics, and sports. Set up a free consultation to see if I can be of service to you.
(516) 400-4619 View (516) 400-4619
Photo of Deborah Yamin Manocchia, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deborah Yamin Manocchia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10023
My specialties are treating anxiety, stress, depression, life transitions, eating issues, sports performance, relational & parenting issues, and trauma.
The foundation of my practice comes from a strong belief in the importance of building a strong and trusting therapeutic relationship. My practice is based on an integrated approach, utilizing clinical models that are best for the client, helping you make positive changes, finding and cultivating your strengths, meeting your goals, and relieving distress. I will actively engage with you in a supportive and non-judgmental manner, and work collaboratively. Working with clients who are open to becoming more self aware and improving their lives, motivates my work.
My specialties are treating anxiety, stress, depression, life transitions, eating issues, sports performance, relational & parenting issues, and trauma.
The foundation of my practice comes from a strong belief in the importance of building a strong and trusting therapeutic relationship. My practice is based on an integrated approach, utilizing clinical models that are best for the client, helping you make positive changes, finding and cultivating your strengths, meeting your goals, and relieving distress. I will actively engage with you in a supportive and non-judgmental manner, and work collaboratively. Working with clients who are open to becoming more self aware and improving their lives, motivates my work.
(646) 846-8812 View (646) 846-8812
Photo of Isabella Cuellar, LP-MHC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Isabella Cuellar
Pre-Licensed Professional, LP-MHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016
As a former Division I athlete, Isabella has a particular interest in the intersection of sports and mental health.
Isabella’s experiences as a special education teacher and outpatient psychiatric medical assistant drove her interest in trauma-informed counseling, advocating for client needs, and the importance of a multicultural approach to counseling. As a therapist, she values building trusting relationships with all clients and creating a supportive, non-judgemental therapeutic environment where individuals feel nurtured. Isabella integrates different styles of therapy to cultivate change within her clients, including a psychodynamic approach and evidence-based practices like DBT.
As a former Division I athlete, Isabella has a particular interest in the intersection of sports and mental health.
Isabella’s experiences as a special education teacher and outpatient psychiatric medical assistant drove her interest in trauma-informed counseling, advocating for client needs, and the importance of a multicultural approach to counseling. As a therapist, she values building trusting relationships with all clients and creating a supportive, non-judgemental therapeutic environment where individuals feel nurtured. Isabella integrates different styles of therapy to cultivate change within her clients, including a psychodynamic approach and evidence-based practices like DBT.
(646) 849-2944 View (646) 849-2944
Photo of Kennedy Goss Hixon, LMHC, CMPC, Counselor
Kennedy Goss Hixon
Counselor, LMHC, CMPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10023  (Online Only)
Utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I work with her clients towards internal strength and peak performance - whether this is on the sports field, music stage, college forum, corporate meeting, student presentation, or personal practice areas.
I partner with her clients, focusing on mindfulness, effective communication, performance, negative-self talk, measurement and personal self-care. I open a space for individuals to be their full self, both performance based, and personally. I am a Certified Mental Performance Consultant (CMPC) specializing in working with athletes and individuals in performance-driven domains.
Utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I work with her clients towards internal strength and peak performance - whether this is on the sports field, music stage, college forum, corporate meeting, student presentation, or personal practice areas.
I partner with her clients, focusing on mindfulness, effective communication, performance, negative-self talk, measurement and personal self-care. I open a space for individuals to be their full self, both performance based, and personally. I am a Certified Mental Performance Consultant (CMPC) specializing in working with athletes and individuals in performance-driven domains.
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Sports Performance Therapists

How does sports psychology work?

Sports psychology helps athletes identify and overcome challenges, such as perfectionism or a fear of failure, and improve key mental skills, such as confidence or concentration. By applying principles and techniques from psychology, such as goal-setting, visualization, positive self-talk, and emotion regulation, sports psychologists help athletes improve their performance on the field and their well-being overall.

How long does treatment for a sports-related problem take?

The duration of sports psychology treatment depends on the athlete’s individual challenges, goals, the complexity of the interventions used, and even on the length of the season. A performance anxiety issue may be treated with a short-term treatment, like Cognitive behavioural therapy, while issues such as depression, substance abuse, or severe anxiety may require longer-term treatments.

How effective is treatment for sports performance problems?

Sports psychology has been shown to improve performance and help athletes manage their emotions. Sports psychology can be effective in boosting performance, team dynamics, and injury rehabilitation. Over the past decade, nearly every professional sports team in every major sport has added a sports psychologist to its staff. Many colleges have done the same, and even some high school programs have done the same. Olympic hopefuls may consult with sports psychologists starting in elementary school.

What are the limitations of sports psychology?

Sports psychology may have several limitations. Every athlete is unique and may respond differently to sports psychology treatments. Therapy can help an athlete reach their potential; it can help athletes cope with injury and pain, but it cannot change the physical limitations that may be affecting an athlete’s performance.