Philosophy

Overall, my Mental Performance Coach (MPC) philosophy is holistic, person-first, strengths-based, and athlete-centered. Building rapport/connection is the most important aspect to have a healthy and successful working relationship. Without rapport, there is no trust. Before I dive deep with clients (you), I assess for your strengths. Mental performance coaching is most successful when using strengths to grow and improve in desired areas. Sometimes you will come to mental performance coaching for specific areas you want to “fix” or “solve,” but the most effective mental performance coaching happens when a “build-it” model is used. Educating clients on skills that can be helpful in sport, other performance areas, and life in general is the best way to make the most impact.

For example, some discussions you can expect will be around intrinsic motivation, focus, concentration, overall well-being, inside-out confidence, quality practice and recovery, resilience, self-talk, diaphragmatic breathing, visualization, emotion regulation/composure, etc. and how to grow/implement these skills. I always see my clients (YOU) as whole-beings.

Yes, athletics or performance means a lot, but you have many other areas of life that impact you. Anything that I teach/coach in the sport setting, I want you to be able to carry over to other areas of life. You are in charge of setting your own short-term and long-term goals; I am here to support and guide when you want it.

What are my Values?

My strongest values are rooted in my Model of Performance Excellence. I deeply value self-determination: autonomy, competence, and relatedness. Living with a disability has shaped how important this value is in both my life and mental performance coaching philosophy.

I also value passion. Everyone has it—it just takes reflection to uncover. I believe in having a positive attitude and assuming positive intent. People are drawn to uplifting energy, not “energy takers.” Resilience is equally important. Life is hard, and resilience helps us grow through adversity.

Communication is crucial in both sport and life. It’s not always easy, but it builds strong relationships. Conflict is natural—we must learn to express ourselves while listening to others. Commitment is key. Intrinsic motivation fuels commitment, which supports goal setting, growth, and purpose.

How do I Coach Diverse Populations

As an MPC, I strive to create a safe, inclusive space for everyone. I regularly reflect on both conscious and unconscious biases. I coach in a gender-responsive way and always treat athletes/performers (you) as individuals. Building rapport with you and the staff/coaches you work with is a top priority of mine. I focus on recognizing and praising each of your strengths, then helping you build on those strengths.

I don’t need to agree with how you act, think, or feel to treat you with dignity and respect. I coach with the mindset that we can agree to disagree, but that never justifies disrespect. I always try my best to avoid stereotypes and prejudice, and I’m always learning. Athletes/performers aren’t the only ones growing—I grow too. I’m open to feedback from athletes/performers and staff and welcome honest conversations. If I make a mistake, please confront me.

Due to my experience being blind and disabled, I believe in avoiding assumptions. Instead, I encourage open dialogue around bias, stereotypes, or any uncertainties. I value evaluations—they help me grow as a professional and as a person.

How Do People Change?

I believe everyone can change—but only if they’re motivated. Without drive, even the best education or strategies won’t lead to lasting improvement. Self-Determination Theory (SDT) states that when people have autonomy, feel competent, and are connected to others, they’re more likely to be intrinsically motivated and experience meaningful change (Ryan & Deci, 2000).

As an MPC, I use an eclectic approach. No single theory fits all. I choose strategies based on the client’s needs, goals, and strengths. This flexibility helps address the complex nature of sport performance.