Expert Mental Performance Resources
Evidence-based techniques and professional support for volleyball athletes. Scientifically validated tools to optimize your mental game.
Your Wellness Insights
Interactive Breathing Coach
Box breathing technique used by Navy SEALs and elite athletes to control arousal state.
Inhale
Ma et al. (2017) - Reduces cortisol by 50%
5-4-3-2-1 Grounding
Anxiety grounding technique to stop panic spirals and return to present moment.
- ✅ 5 things you SEE – Look around, name objects
- ✅ 4 things you FEEL – Floor, clothes, ball texture
- ✅ 3 things you HEAR – Squeaks, whistles, breathing
- ✅ 2 things you SMELL – Gym floor, air
- ✅ 1 thing you TASTE – Gum, water, or neutral
Thompson et al. (2011) - Reduces anxiety 41%
Evidence-Based Techniques
Click any card for detailed protocol
Driskell, Copper & Moran (1994)
Kaufman et al. (2009)
Carlson & Hoyle (1993)
Moran (1996)
Nideffer (1993)
Tod et al. (2011)
Certified Sports Psychologists
Mental performance consultants specializing in volleyball and adolescent athletes.
Dr. Sarah Chen, PsyD, CMPC
Board Certified Sports Psychologist
Specialties: Performance Anxiety, Team Dynamics
Location: Virtual & CA | schen@sportspsych.example
AASP Certified; 15+ years with Division I volleyball
Dr. Marcus Rodriguez, PhD
Clinical Sports Psychologist
Specialties: Adolescent Athletes, Injury Recovery
Location: TX, FL (Virtual) | mrodriguez@athletemind.example
Former collegiate coach; trauma-informed care
Jennifer Walsh, MS, LCPC, CMPC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor
Specialties: Eating Disorders, Body Image
Location: Nationwide Virtual | jwalsh@peakperformance.example
Specialized training in athlete mental health
💡 How to choose: Look for CMPC (Certified Mental Performance Consultant) certification from AASP or licensure in your state. Always verify credentials through the AASP Directory.
Mental Health Crisis Resources
Immediate help is available 24/7. You are not alone.
Crisis Text Line
Text-based crisis support
Text HOME to 741741
NAMI Helpline
Mental health information and referrals
1-800-950-NAMI
SafeSport Helpline
24/7 support for abuse in sports
1-866-200-0796
⚠️ Warning Signs to Watch For:
Scientific Resources & Reading
Essential Reading
Foundations of Sport Psychology (Weinberg & Gould)
The definitive textbook on sport psychology research and application
The Psychology of Concentration in Sport (Moran)
Attention control and focus mechanisms for athletes
Mindful Sport Performance Enhancement (Kaufman)
Mindfulness-based interventions for athletic performance
Peer-Reviewed Journals
Journal of Applied Sport Psychology
Research on psychological interventions in sport
Psychology of Sport and Exercise
Behavioral and cognitive aspects of physical activity
Journal of Clinical Sport Psychology
Mental health issues specific to athletic populations